credit sequences....

 Within our brief film opening, we are expected to include some sort of a credit sequence. Traditionally, within horror films, credit sequences are meant to begin to introduce or establish a tone within the film. This is usually done by way of graphic imagery (or just overall unsettling), some sort of unconventional font, as seeing a sweet, cursive font doesn't typically align with a horror films aesthetic overall, while a more warped text helps set the tone, typically unsettling music which is made to raise ones heartbeat and prepare for the film, and an overall slow pace as it is meant to raise tension within the viewers. The IT movies font use is a great example of this:

Visually, there is usually dark lighting, used to put emphasis on the "unknown" and create mysety within the film, and even unconventional camera angles (low angle), which can make desired figures appear more unsettling, or just make viewers subconsciously understand that they have power within the film. These credit sequences have to, in some way, introduce key themes within the film by foreshadowing them, and key auditory and visual motifs that many times reappear throughout the film, which can reinforce the atmosphere of the film, and overall mood.

There are 3 key examples of this which i have chosen to highlight and discuss, including that from the movie Psycho, The Exorcist, and Halloween.

In Psycho, the opening of the film features bold lines which slice across the screen, feeling as though it is both forming, and at the same time disassembling the credits. The iconic, high pitched music instantly created goosebumps in the viewers (including me...), and the lines create a sense of unease and disorientation, which successfully foreshadows what is to come within the film. This combined with the sharp lines leaves viewers on edge, all before the film has even begun.

The erratic sequence reflects the films overall themes of psychological instability, and plays a large role in setting the overall tone and atmosphere of the film.

I included both a photo example, and the link to a video of the credit sequence so you can check it out as well (and you should!!!)

https://youtu.be/aj6aBuC1Lb8?si=1AUNVkMhRvXGLOPH 

Within The Exorcists' credit sequence, there is a slow, ominus build up which include eerie music that creeps film watchers out. It takes a simple, yet ominus approach, leaving viewers feeling unsettled. The credit sequence also effectively sets the tone for the films overall plotline and theme of demonic possession. This is a great example of the power which visual (through the font, as there is truly no other visuals) and auditory (through the chilling music) cues can create an atmosphere of fear, and overall unease within an audience. This credit sequence uses deliberately slow pacing in order to create a sense of dead within the audience, which signals to the films supernatural horror.

Lastly, The movie Halloween uses a symbol of what is considered to be an innocent tradition for the halloween (fall) season, a jack o lantern, as a symbol of horror, as it slowly comes closer and closer towards the viewers. The absolutely ICONIC background music reinforces the feeling of suspense within the film. the simple imagery, although forever iconic, establishes an unsettling atmosphere, as well as a feeling of impending doom. The music largely creates the atmosphere as one begins to feel an almost inescapable feeling of just overall dread, which ties into the films slasher themes. the simplicity and effectiveness has made it into one of the most recognizable credit sequences ever. I made sure to include botha a picture and a link to view this tile sequence, which i feel is a must!

https://youtu.be/8_tGvktfjjk?si=cidJtE08wExDO-D6

Overall, I realized throughout my research that some of the most effective and famous credit sequences are very minimalistic, and yet effectively set the tone for the respective films by establishing a sense of horror and suspense throughout the music before the film has even begun. I also realized that the pacing for the credits is essential, as all of these use a slow pace in order to further bring up tensions within the viewers before the film has even begun.