Title Sequences - Saul Bass

This activity involved researching some of the Title Sequences Saul Base has created.

Firstly, am I going to analyse the Title Sequence of Anatomy Of A Murder (1959).

The first aspect of this Title Sequence I noticed was the use simplicity. This is a major aspect of Bass's work, as shown throughout all of his title sequences which I have studied. The use of very limited colour; black and grey, connotes a feeling of mystery as it's not giving much away. This links with his Title Sequence for Psycho as the same technique is used there. As well as that, the use of a silhouetted body part reflects death or murder. Plus, the use of the title of the film being embedded within the silhouette is again, a hint towards a murder-mystery thriller. This, in my view, makes this Title Sequence a successful one.

This Title Sequence also uses background music, which includes many brass instruments playing high-pitched, disorientating notes. The music is also in free-time, until 50 seconds into the sequence. This suggests the to viewer that there is no pattern, perhaps linking to the mystery and suspicion that will be involved in the film. Therefore the music, in my view, is a good asset to the title sequence as it backs up the idea which is created by the graphics. I am very keen to use this idea within my own Title Sequence.

I am also going to analyse another Title Sequence created by Saul Bass for the film North By Northwest (1959).

Again, the start of this Title Sequence reflects the idea of simplicity as the plain green background doesn't really give anything away, and the introduction of straight lines is an intriguing aspect. In addition, the 3D effect may also create a sense of disorientation, which connotes the confusion which could be created in the film. It also adds depth to the sequence, perhaps reflecting the complexity of the film. Another aspect I found interesting is the transitions of the text - vertical transitions, in my opinion, creates a sense of mystery as you are unsure where the text has gone, and whether it's going to return. There is also huge emphasis on the text, as the plain background offers no other visual outlet. As the sequence progresses, the background begins to fade into a visual match of an urban office block, which brings the viewer back to reality.
As well as that, the second shot (of which involves a lap dissolve) puts the viewer almost within the action of the city. The height of the shot almost provides a POV shot of someone in the scene, as well as setting the scene for the film.

Music plays a huge role in this title sequence. Even from the start; fast, high-pitched motifs are played to connote an exciting yet perhaps sinister feel. Also, a range in dynamics is used in the sequence, as a gradual build up allows the viewer to feel vulnerable, due to an increased tension.

The final Title Sequence I am going to analyse is Bunny Lake Is Missing (1965)

The first thing I can note about this title sequence is the almost soothing tone of it. A quiet melody line is played at a leisurely pace, which connotes no real confusion or danger. However, the sharp ripping sound of the paper really stands out, which contrasts the accompanying music.
Plus, the graphics in this title sequence are really eye catching and intriguing. The ripping and tearing of the paper connotes a feeling of searching for something or that something's missing, which keeps the viewer intrigued as you are unsure of what may lay behind the paper. Also, the use of black connotes mystery, whereas in contrast, the revealed white connotes safety and innocence. This could reflect the character's state of mind as they're trying to tear their way through a dark, mysterious event to reach the security of the place beyond it.