What are the four different types of film openings?

1. Superimposed title sequences on a blank screen.

These title sequences are the most common type of title sequences which involve different types of face on a black ground. White type faces are usually used on a black background to create a high contrast. These title sequences are fairly cheap to create. They offer a simple way of including institutional information at the beginning of the film.

One example I looked at, of this type of title sequence being used in a film, was Psycho (1960) it was quite basic, the music was very dramatic and the use of the black background with the white font made the title sequence bold and stand out.

Another example is the film pulp fiction it starts of the with the ident then the film name slides up onto the black background. Crew members are introduced as the film name dissipates into the black background.

2.Titles accompanied with still images.

Historically  these title cards were hand drawn boards and other images until it became simple white text on a black background. Its a way to incorporate visuals to hint the tone or genre of a film. Credits are much long which means people were recognized for their contributions to a film.

An example, of this title sequence being used, is the short clip created by Kyle cooper called Wimbledon its based on a black background it has still images which then move into motion images and credits are shown throughout.

3.Titles with moving images.

These title sequences incorporate the credits with moving images behind titles. The moving images used are usually giving a metaphor or narrative thread in relation to the film. It also helps introduce the tone or the story line of the film.

One example, of this type of title sequence being used in a film, was Rear window the film shows a video with credits being given every time something different happens in the video such as someone walking. The font is a bold white with a red outline and the first scene begins with the video being zoomed in to.

Another example, of this type of title sequence being used in a film, was Cidade de dues (City of God) short clips are being shown and disappear each time this happens the credits are given. The music is fast tempo as it matches how the characters are in a rush and moving swiftly.

4.Titles using animation or motion.

This title sequences particularly became popular in the 1990's. Titles are merged with the moving image and are integrated together with the images. This type of title sequence requires a large amount of digital technology and stylized editing.

An example,of a title sequence for this category, is Skyfall (2012) it uses creative, abstract and colourful patterns and includes the main character, James Bond, in it.

Another example is,Catch me if you can it includes motion pictures of a small figure travelling around the world and experiencing different things which may hint what the film is about. The colours used are quiet basic but are used very creatively.

My personal preference:

My favourite title sequence would have to be discrete title sequences as the story line isn't handed straight to the audience which makes them put all hints throughout the movie together like a puzzle. During the title sequence tone is set, an example of a film which uses this type of title sequence is Se7ven the opening is quite intense and mysterious but is full of hints as its very dark, images are shown then credits are given on a black background with handwritten text which makes it seem as if someone wrote it.