SherlockTitle Sequence Analysis

Shot Types and Camera Angles• The shots used in the sequence are

mainly extreme close ups or establishing shots of London.

• These type of shots are used frequently in title sequences; in the thriller genre the close ups are often focusing on props e.g. guns, drugs, evidence etc.

• The close ups and long shots, although they are used in many scenarios, are reflective of the main character’s view on the world. Sherlock Holmes is a genius detective who solves impossible crimes and the shots used in this sequence try to portray his view to the audience.

Lighting• The sequence is quite neutral in terms of

lighting, there isn’t much that stands out but it does tend to use shots with shallow focus and selective lighting so that one point of the shot is drawing the audiences attention. To complement this the shot composition often follows the rule of thirds, further drawing the attention of the viewer.

• The dark lighting is often used in the thriller genre to reflect the dark storylines and mystery that surrounds a lot of its key protagonists/antagonists.

Mise en Scène & Typography

• The sequence consists of a lot of close ups focusing on props often seen in the thriller genre. A common convention of thriller genre sequences is to include multiple close ups of props emphasizing the role of crime; this usually means the props consist of guns, drugs etc.

• The typography in the sequence is very basic with a slightly worn effect overlaying the font. This type of typography is they type I have tried to use in my own sequence as I feel it looks good while also giving a modern feel.

Editing• A lot of the shots are super imposed, one

of the most notable uses of this is the overlay of the writing over the cityscape. This relates back to the main character’s unique way of viewing things and gives a further insight to the way he sees common situation. It is also interesting that the word “bomber” was placed in front of a shot of London, suggesting that the main character is always aware of danger.

• There are also a few time lapses used throughout the sequence which is another stand out feature. The time lapses used could represent the same value as the super imposed images.

Sound• The soundtrack in the sequence seems

odd in contrast to the visuals. Being a part of the mystery sub-genre you would expect the soundtrack to be more upbeat and intriguing than your average thriller or horror. However in this sequence the soundtrack is surprisingly upbeat and could give connotations to the personality of `Sherlock Holmes.

Summary• Overall I felt the title sequence served its

purpose but personally I thought it could have been better.

• The most effective part of the sequence was the use of time lapses and the super imposed images as they were one of the only interesting things in the sequence.

• Even though I thought it could have been better, I still think the sequence reflected the genre and main character very well; specifically with the soundtrack.