Title Sequence Visual Review: Big Little Lies

The title sequence I chose to write about is the opening credits for season one of the HBO series “Big Little Lies”. Not only does it have many visual design concepts but also does a really great job of bringing in elements of the show. The first thing I noticed was the way they introduced the main characters in the beginning, the three moms driving their kids in the car. The way the angles of the shots of the mothers are from below and at a lower angle, makes it seem like the camera is the perspective of the child. This is to convey the characters from the child’s point of view and the way they see their moms. The child and parent dynamic is an important aspect of the show. I really liked the way they used very beautiful shots of the pacific ocean and water, which is free-flowing, unlike the lives of these women, and then had overlapping shadows of the secrets the women are keeping. It brings in aspects of the show without giving anything away because you can’t see the character’s faces just innuendos to the affairs, killings, and fights ahead.

I also just love the nature, beach, and water shots they use. The first two opening views are absolutely amazing shots and have very good colors to them. I also liked the way they trucked with the car and had everything outside passing them quickly as they looked through the window. Perhaps an illusion of how their lives are passing them by just as quickly. Using the clips of the ocean, them driving around, and lots of scenery shots helps the viewer also get an idea of where this show takes place.

The choice of music is also perfect for the show. The song “cold little heart” by Michael Kiwanuka has many elements of the show within the lyrics of the song. It discusses failing relationships, cheating, past mistakes, and blood, which are all things that are big themes in the show. It is an effective technique how in the center in a very legible easy-to-read font are the actor’s names so therefore it doesn't take attention away from the impressive graphics but also recognizes the actors.

I also really enjoyed the aspect of consistency throughout the sequence. It was not confusing at all because it always came back to either the mothers, their children, or the beach scenery. I liked the way they switch between the three.

I think this title sequence is very visually pleasing but also gives the director a chance to give the viewers a hint or glimpse of what could happen in the season. This also adds some mystery which makes the show more intriguing and draws people in to watch because they want to know what happens.

There is no CGI or any other computer generated techniques other than the overlapping shots which were all taken with a camera. Although I wish the directors Jean-Marc Vallée and Andrea Arnold had incorporated some 2D elements over a 3D environment (like having online graphics over the real shots of people filmed), I really love this title sequence and have always thought that since it has stood out to me since seeing the show for the first time. This title sequence really sets the tone for the show and the episodes to come.

To watch the "Big Little Lies" title sequence on youtube, click the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rF_1iPFr6Dw