Title Research: Halloween

Halloween from "Art of the Title"


How many titles are displayed during the open sequences to the film?
   There are 27 titles being displayed in the opening sequence of the film.
What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?
   The opening sequence lacks images. It simply shows the names of the people in the film and the people involved in the film making process. There is also a pumpkin going from rotten to ripe throughout the opening sequence.
What connotations do the images carry?
   The images do not present connotations of any sort. It is a rather meaningless opening sequence for a thriller film. However, the pumpkin must have a significant meaning to the film since it is shown on every title page.
 How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?
   Upon seeing the pumpkin's development, the viewer will assume that the film is a horror or thriller film (which it's both). The viewer would also know that it is a thriller when the actress, Jamie Lee Curtis, appears. She is known for acting in many thriller films and television shows. 
How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?
   The opening sequence establishes an enigma through showing the pumpkin going from rotten to fresh. It creates an enigma because it leaves the viewer wondering why that's happening and what that has to do with the film. 
What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?
   The film lacks appealing strategies to target audiences. But one can conclude that if this film is part of a series, the pumpkin plays an important role to bringing the audience back. It appears that name-dropping is an important strategy, since the names of some actors are listed even before the producers.
How has technology been used effectively? You want to consider camera angles, transitions and editing techniques.
   The opening sequence of this film is completely digital. The technology was the main and most essential instrument. Every angle and transitions are done by putting the scenes together and making them have an impact. The editing is used to tell a story and the parts that are sped up help the audience understand the whole concept of the movie.