The purpose of opening credits are wide-spanning. Firstly, it must set the tone for the film. The tone of the film must be created through the visuals and sounds of the title sequence. The unique visuals of the director, like that of Wes Anderson or David Fincher, must come across in the title sequence. The genre of the film, like horror or comedy, must be translated into the title sequence. Secondly, it must show, not tell, what the story will involve. The 'Casino Royale' title sequence that I have blogged about follows a spy conning a millionaire in a poker game. The title sequence shows the spy beating up other characters in the backdrop of a playing card, showing us both the setting and the danger or antagonist in the story.
The opening credits of a film are exactly that, a set of credits on the screen. Most common examples include the iconic James Bond title sequences, where there is artwork but the focus is on the credits. However, a title sequence is when action or story is taking place, with credits incorporated into the story. The focus is on the story and not on the credits. A title sequence example is that of 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', which I blogged about.
Showing the characters without showing their faces and only through their actions gives the viewer a sense of mystery, trying to understand this character. It must also express the tone of the film, the themes and what the protagonist is driven towards, not specifically in the movie, but in general. Indiana Jones isn't looking for the Ark of The Covenant in the opening sequence, but we know he is the best at finding artefacts, making him the best bet to find the Ark of The Covenant.
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