Title Research: Killer Klowns from Outer Space

 For my title design research, I decided to watch the opening sequence of Killer Klowns from Outer Space.

1. How many titles are displayed during the opening sequence of the film? Which ones?

There were 21 titles in total. These titles included

• Production companies

• Actors

• The title of the movie

• Music producers

• Casting directors

• Associate Producers

• Special effects

• Editors

• Art director

• Production designers

• Director of photography

• Writers

• Executive producers

• Director

2. What connotations do the images carry?

The title sequence opened with images of people at a popular dining spot. There are a bunch of teenagers having fun and enjoying themselves. The bright lights and fun colors give the viewers feelings of amusement and youth. The environment then transitions into being more shady and dark. It shows a few teenagers in a secluded area and underage drinking. The mood is more chill and makes the audience feel like they are up to no good. The darkness is also unsettling and adds a bit of suspense. Lastly, an ice cream truck drives by the teenagers. The truck has a creepy clown on top of it. The darkness and the creepy clown image makes the viewers feel like something is about to happen to the teenagers, especially since the movie is named "killer klowns."

3. How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

One thing that stuck out to me was the title of the movie. The title was red, edgy, and sharp. This gave me an image of killing and knives in my head. Additionally, the movie opens with eerie music, which sparks terror in the listener. Having the movie take place at night and in a remote area also reinforces the horror genre. The dark lighting limits the audiences senses and sparks suspense.

4. What conventions are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience? 

I would imagine the target audience for this movie are young adults and people who are into gore and creepy themes in movies. The movies uses young actors so the audience can relate to the characters. The costumes, or clothes, worn by the actors places the audience in their shoes. The image of a creepy clown also appeals to the audience, due to their interest in horror themes.