Saul Bass - Title Sequence Designer Research

Research into the title sequence designer: Saul Bass

Saul Bass was a well-known and highly recognizable title sequence designer. He was commonly referred to as a "Commercial artist" as he was a prolific graphic designer who designed some of the best title sequences to date.
For example, some of the most prolific title sequences in which he designed include:

- Carmen Jones (1954)
- The Man With The Golden Arm (1955)
- Around The World In 80 Days (1956)
- Storm Center (1956)
- Attack (1956)
- Psycho (1960)
- Spartacus (1960)
- Ocean's Eleven (1960)
- West Side Story (1960)
- Seconds (1966)

As you can see above, this is the opening title sequence for Ocean's eleven in which Saul Bass designed. The ocean's eleven title sequence turned out to be one of Saul Bass's most prolific title sequences mainly because of all the positive feedback this title sequence received.

In my opinion, I would also say I like this title sequence mainly due to the fact that the title sequence gives an insight into what the film is about. For example, a female is featured throughout the the title sequence. This connotes to us as the audience that a female character must have a huge impact into what the film actually is, and what the film is about. In addition, the sequence is very colourful, a variety of different colours have been used. The majority of the colours are bright and eccentric. This gives me as an audience member the impression that the film must be set in Las vegas, mainly due to the colours used and also the money chips in which appear during the title sequence.

Saul Bass then took a 21 year break from desgining title sequences. The following title sequence he then designed was "Broadcast News" in 1987. Saul Bass decided to take a break on title sequences mainly because he wanted try other projects. For instance during the period of time in which he took out from designing title sequences, he started designing logos and film posters.

Interview with Saul Bass:

During the interview Saul Bass states " I want to make beautiful things, even if nobody cares"

After hearing this quote, I have been given the impression that Saul Bass doesn't necessarily make title sequences for money, but because of his love for his job. This suggests to the audience that he genuinely cares about designing a title sequence.