Title Research: Signs (2002)

 

*opening sequences studied at artofthetitle.com* 

What titles are displayed during the opening sequences? 

The studio and production company's names are displayed first, followed by the lead actors names, Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix. The title of the film, "Signs", is displayed following the two stars' names. Supporting actors, music producers, and visual effects supervisors follow thereafter, in that order. Costume designers, editors, photography director, and producers come next. And finally, M. Night Shyamalan's name is displayed, he is the film's lead writer, director, and producer. 

What images are prioritized in the opening sequence? 

 Throughout the opening sequence there is a blue background which the text is displayed over. The edges of this blue background fade into black, creating a circle around the text. The text is completely black and there is a bit of emboss on them. These themes remain constant throughout the opening sequence.

What connotations do these images carry?

These images give a suspenseful and even eerie feel. The darkness of the images coupled with the fright inducing score truly establish an eerie and uncertain atmosphere.

How does the film establish a feeling of the genre from the outset? 

In the opening scene of the film, it is clear that the lead character is in some sort of distress. The lead actor wakes up from his slumber very abruptly, with a confused look on his face. The audience is not yet aware of what made him suddenly wake up. Then, a series of cries ring out, seemingly the cries of children. The lead actor jerks up and makes his way outside, where he finds that his brother also is in search of the cause of the sounds. A cry for help can then be heard coming from a near by field in which the caller requests the aid of his/her father and uncle. The movie immediately introduces an unknown conflict with which the main characters must attempt to solve. These are the characteristics of a drama film.

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

The film establishes its target audience, PG-13+, by introducing potentially mature themes (children in dangerous situations, potential danger),  and by not utilizing mature language or over saturating the film  with mature themes.

How has technology been used effectively? 

Camera shots such as the close up shot to capture emotions clearly, the wide shot, used here to capture the body language of the lead's brother, as well as the medium shot, among others. Camera movements, specifically truck and pan, and software in the form of video editing programs, were also utilized. The film utilized an alternating paced editing style in the opening sequence; throughout the screaming, the film is fast paced, and in between screams, the film slows down.