Title Research: Zodiac

This opening sequence was found on Art of the Titles.

How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?

I counted thirty titles displayed during the opening sequences of the film. Around a quarter of the way
through the opening sequence the main movie title showed up. Directly at the end was the director's
name.

What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

Images of the man's drawing and work are mainly prioritized in the opening sequence though they
show his morning schedule. He is in most of the shots. This emphasizes that he is one of the main
characters.

What connotations do the images carry?

The images carry a lighthearted feel to them, which is a stark contrast to what the genre is like. It may
make viewers wonder what will happen to make things change moods and become possibly darker.

How is the genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

The genre is reinforced through the lighthearted feel of the outset through making the viewers have a
slight sense of unease. The lighting of it helps establish something is darker as well because of it not
being very bright. The thriller genre relies on the feeling of being on edge so this emphasizes that.

How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

It introduces a new thing happening to the main character which leads the viewer to want to understand
what happens next. The main character is told to go somewhere which leaves a bit of mystery.

What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to it's target audience?

The film uses a popular actor in the genre which may appeal to the target audience. They also use
common camera angles in the genre as well. The song choice in the beginning was similar to other
songs used in thriller movies as well, so that also might draw it's target audience in.

How has technology been used effectively?

The lighting of the shots effectively convey the genre and make the mood clear in the opening sequence.
Also, the low angle and medium shots convey the actions being done well. The text used for the titles
also set the genre well. Since the movie is about the zodiac killer, using magazine cutout like letters
makes it appeal more to the theme.