Film Openings

In class we looked at a few different film openings and learnt that there are different types: Discrete, Narrative and Stylized.

Discrete Titles:

In a discrete title sequence, it is as if it is separate from the film. There isn't any introduction to main characters like there is in a narrative opening and no information is given away about the storyline. Examples of a discrete title sequence are Enemy of the State and Se7en. A discrete title sequence uses lots of special effects.

Narrative Opening:

A narrative opening takes us straight into the story and special effects are rarely used. We get introduced to the character and location. Examples of these are The Shining & Panic Room.

Stylized Opening:

A stylized opening is a mix between a narrative opening and a discrete opening. These openings use quite a lot of special effects but we also get a brief intro to the main characters. Taking of Pelham 123 is a good example of this.