Research:Title sequence vs

TrailerBy Harry Smith

Title sequence

A title sequence is the opening few minutes of the film. It contains both titles of the actors, directors etc. and also contains video of the film.

Most of the time a title sequence will use continuity editing to make it clear to the audience what is happening. They tend not to use montage editing, as this can make it the opening confusing, and the director would not want the audience to be confused only a few minutes into the film.

The purpose of the title sequence is to introduce the audience into the film, and give them an idea of what is going to happen. E.g. in the film ‘Brick’ the title sequence shows a dead girl, this tells the audience that the film is about death and violence.

Trailer

A trailer is when shots of a film are put together to show off the film to the audience. It shows the audience the genre of the film and tries to get them excited about the film.

A trailer will use montage editing, this is because it will show only show off the interesting parts of the film to make it look the best it can be.

The purpose of a trailer is to show off the best parts of the film. It does this by picking out the best sections of the film and shows it to the audience to get them excited, and want to go and watch it.

Differences

Trailers use montage editing, whereas a title sequence will mainly use continuity editing.

Trailers can be very short and snappy, however title sequences can last up to several minutes.

A trailer isn’t actually part of the film, it’s just a teaser for the audience to persuade them to watch it. A title sequence is the beginning of the film.