As I have previously mentioned, sometimes a minimalist approach to an animated title sequences can be highly effective. For Pierre Salvadori's Priceless, studio Deubal's white on black animations capture the essence of the chic french riviera setting. The elegant yet also slightly haphazard lines and bouncy musical soundtrack suggest the upbeat, mischievous tone of the film, while the considered use of pattern on suit sleeves and umbrellas adds to the air of opulence already established by champagne flutes and diamond rings.
The well chosen style and imagery is so well suited to it's purpose that there is really no need to overwhelm it with excessive amounts of animation. There is just enough movement as there needs to be; the diamond ring dropped into a glass to show our heroine's (?) gold digging ambitions, and a beach parasol is plucked from the sand and transformed into a cocktail umbrella to adorn her hair, echoing a pivotal moment of the film. This well judged simplicity is something I could learn from, as I have a tendency to over complicate, and underestimate the power of subtle movements.
Studio Deubal have form with whimsical and lighthearted titles, applying their understated approach to sequences such as Apres Vous and Crustaces et Coquillages. The former features clumsy penguins (representing a waiter character) going about their duties, although the screen is dominated by bright colours and the credits, rather than the animation. The latter showcases shimmering ribbons (as though they were made of water) entwining to spell the title, while an assortment of similarly shimmering sea creatures frolic within the letters. These pleasantly languorous images are matched by a dreamy soundtrack, on which the lead actress sings softly in french of seafood and the beach; all in all combining to depict an idyllic and tranquil impression of the Cote d'Azur setting, and the film's frivolous nature.
The well chosen style and imagery is so well suited to it's purpose that there is really no need to overwhelm it with excessive amounts of animation. There is just enough movement as there needs to be; the diamond ring dropped into a glass to show our heroine's (?) gold digging ambitions, and a beach parasol is plucked from the sand and transformed into a cocktail umbrella to adorn her hair, echoing a pivotal moment of the film. This well judged simplicity is something I could learn from, as I have a tendency to over complicate, and underestimate the power of subtle movements.
Studio Deubal have form with whimsical and lighthearted titles, applying their understated approach to sequences such as Apres Vous and Crustaces et Coquillages. The former features clumsy penguins (representing a waiter character) going about their duties, although the screen is dominated by bright colours and the credits, rather than the animation. The latter showcases shimmering ribbons (as though they were made of water) entwining to spell the title, while an assortment of similarly shimmering sea creatures frolic within the letters. These pleasantly languorous images are matched by a dreamy soundtrack, on which the lead actress sings softly in french of seafood and the beach; all in all combining to depict an idyllic and tranquil impression of the Cote d'Azur setting, and the film's frivolous nature.
By carefully considering the animation, and not allowing it to become over complicated and draw all of the audience's attention, the credits in Deubal's title's re not overwhelmed, and the cast and crew are given their moment in the spotlight. Yet the balance is just right, as the mood and tone of the films are still effectively set.
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