I personally don't like the idea of titling a film, although sometimes (as in commercial works) it is pretty much a requirement. I've decided that the series of short films that I'm currently writing won't have titles. I use working titles for them for my own ease or referrence, but as for the viewers, I'd like them to devise their own titles. My motivation here is that the words of a title can unnecessarily constrict the viewer's idea of what a film is really about, or give them undesired, preconcieved notions. I'd rather the viewer be given a raw piece of media, untouched by the filmmaker's typical opening comment, and be forced to create their own ideas entirely.

If titles are given, I prefer the straightforward approach personally. Title sequences with opening credits tend to drive me crazy; I prefer what older movies tend to do, which is, to present the credits upon a blank screen either at the opening or closing of the film, and unconnected to it. To me, it seems silly to integrate behind-the-scenes information into the work itself - this is like painting in the names of the colors used after the painting has been completed. Even presenting the title of a film at the end would be preferrable to me.

-- Matthew Rebholz (matrebholz@yahoo.com), January 27, 2001

Answers

Dogma 95?

-- Matthew Rebholz (matrebholz@yahoo.com), January 28, 2001.

After reading the Dogme 95 manifesto, I don't think I'm getting anywhere near what they seek. It sounds to me like they're almost looking to take all of the fiction out of filmmaking, which I don't agree with at all. Fiction is the strength of filmmaking.

-- Matthew Rebholz (matrebholz@yahoo.com), February 02, 2001.

No offense, but I think you're getting into Dogma 95 territory here. I like opening creds, they give you something to watch, plus you don't forget the names of the actors. It is true that titles can be restrictive (see "The White Album", or Global Communication's "76:14"), but untitled films? I just don't see it. We'd have to go the Cheech & Chong route, calling everything "So-and-so's Next Movie".

-- Snow Dog (gilbreathfamily@worldnet.att.net), January 28, 2001.

Yes, the Danish "cinema verite" cult led by Lars Von Trier. Dedicated to truth, justice and the pursuit of unhappiness.

-- Snow Dog (gilbreathfamily@worldnet.att.net), January 29, 2001.