Key Conventions Of A Film Opening Title Sequence

Their are many conventions that a typical movie sequence must have in order for it to be successful...

As shown above is the opening sequence to "Catch Me If You Can" - A 2003 American biographical comedy/ drama, starring Leonardo Dicaprio and Tom Hanks. As you can see, their are many different credits shown throughout the movies introduction, allowing the viewers to appreciate everyone who worked behind the scenes of the movie. These may include;

DIRECTOR             

PRODUCER                                                                    

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

TOP BILLING ACTORS

THE MOVIE TITLE

DISTRIBUTION COMPANY

CAST/CREW

INDICATION OF CHARACTER OR CHARACTER TYPE

INDICATION OF PLACE/ PERIOD

THEME SONG - SCORE & TONE

- The movie opening may also include Mise En Scene CINEMATOGRAPHY. This can be elaborated upon later in the film.

- Also, the movie opening can include various types of information towards the GENRE of the sequence. For example, for "Catch Me If You Can", they have clearly provided the audience with the indication that this movie will involve a continuous chase between the boy (Dicaprio) and the cop (Hanks). This provides the viewers with an early indication of what  the movie is about and subtle insight into how the movie may sequence in terms of the plot - the boy becomes a pilot, nurse...etc.