Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
For the Warner Brothers movie
Altered
States
, the title sequence opens with a wide-
angle image of a researcher in an isolation
tank (Fig.
10-20
). Superimposed over this
image, the two words of the title—transparent,
as if they are windows cut from a black
background—overlap each other as they move
slowly across the screen. The film credits
are superimposed in white typography in
front of this lively pattern of typographic
forms and counterforms. Behind the title the
background slowly darkens while the camera
pulls away from it, causing the letterforms
to become smaller and smaller. Finally, the
title
Altered States
appears in its entirety
before the totally black screen. In the title, set
in Avant Garde Demi, the repetition of this
unusual configuration unifies the two words
and serves to make the title a unique and
memorable signification.
An ominous mood is created in the
title sequence for the Twentieth Century-
Fox production
Alien
(Fig.
10-21
). Deep in
outer space, the dark side of an immense
planet (suggested by a sweeping curved edge)
moves slowly onto the screen. Gradually, it
passes from right to left, engulfs the screen
in blackness, and then continues until it
disappears from sight. As the planet passes,
small white rectangles appear one by one
and then undergo a metamorphosis to form a
five-letter title letterspaced across the screen.
An elevated sense of mystery is achieved by
the harmonious juxtaposition of the passing
planet and the typographical transformation.
The impending arrival of aliens is evoked.
10-21
Title sequence for the film
Alien. (Designer:
Richard Greenberg)
10-20
Title sequence for the film
Altered States.
(Designer: Richard Greenberg)
