Title Research: Muse

Hey guys, so after watching the last opening sequence, we decided that we wanted to watch a few more to get a better idea of what a title sequence should look like. The next opening we chose to watch was from the movie "Muse."

 1. What titles are displayed during the opening sequence? 

During the opening sequence the titles displayed were the production companies, the director, actors names, music composed by, editor, art director, director of photography, executive producers, producers, and written by. 

2. What images are prioritized in the opening sequence? 

In the opening sequence, we see the image of cracked glass whenever the titles appear. In between titles, we also see the dark figure of a man walking past, but you only ever see the outline or the extension of his hand. We also see what seems to be a staircase going downwards, possibly to a basement level. 

3. What connotations do these images carry? 

The connotation of the cracked glass is a bad omen, or usually some sign of negativity. Therefore, this hints that something bad is going to happen. The dark, unknown figure also has a negative connotation as the unknown is often linked to fear. The fact that the figure is unidentifiable and in the shadows also hints that they might be a hidden evil that plays a part in some wrongdoing. Lastly, the connotation of a downwards staircase is sinking into the unknown, which creates a sense of panic. 

4. How does the film establish a feeling of the genre from the outset. 

One way the horror genre is established is through the use of non-diegetic sound. Ominous, pounding music is played throughout the whole opening, and this creates a feeling of fearful anticipation that is characteristic of horror films. The colors red, black, and white are used for the words and the background, which hints of violence, harm, mystery, evil, and an innocent victim. Lastly, dim lighting is used for the scenes incorporated, and this helps to create a sense of foreboding fear that is associated with horror films. 

5. What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience? 

The first strategy used was choosing to portray the actor as an unidentifiable shadow that the viewers can't get a proper view of. Pans and low angles capture the man, but never truly show him, which heightens the fear towards this man. This appeals to horror film audiences, as they like to see a villain that they can be afraid of, and the unknown man already creates that fear. Foreboding music is also added on top of the opening sequence to create a sense of suspense that leaves the audience on the edge of their seats. Lastly, the dim lighting and dark color choices signify that something bad will happen, and this darkness creates a sense of fear. All of these strategic decisions helps to set the stage for a scary sequence of events. This creates a sense of suspenseful anticipation within the audience, which is characteristic of horror films and will appeal to the audience. 

6. How has technology been used effectively? You want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques? 

One way technology was effectively used here was when a low angle was used to capture the unidentifiable man. This helped to portray the shadowed male as powerful and in control, creating a feeling of unease towards him. A pan was also used to briefly catch the male walking by, and this pan creates a feeling of suspense, as you can only partially follow the man's movements. For editing, a split screen was often used when showing the tittles, and the titles seemed to be reflected as if by a mirror. This helps to show that what is being depicted is actually a cracked mirror, which once again has a negative connotation. A blur was used at one point, and the titles seemed to go out of focus and then back into focus, creating an easy feeling within the watcher. Non-diegetic sound was edited on top of the film, and this creepy, pounding music helps add to the tension of the film. Lastly, transitions were used like a dissolve from one title card to the next, and then often the words of the title will slowly rise upwards onto the screen. All of these various aspects add to the aesthetic and atmosphere of the film, and the effect that the film has on the watcher.