Scriptwriting for TV: Directing the Opening Credits or Letting Professionals Handle It

When creating a script for television, one common question arises: should the writer specify the details of the opening credits sequence, or leave that up to the production company? This article aims to explore the best practices and potential implications of each approach. We will discuss the responsibilities of scriptwriters and production teams, and why it is often beneficial to allow professionals to handle certain aspects of production.

The Role of the Scriptwriter

A scriptwriter’s primary focus is on crafting the narrative and dialogue. The story is where the writer’s creative energies should be directed. This includes developing the plot, characters, and dialogue that captivate and engage the audience. The scriptwriter’s job is to deliver a clear and compelling story through text, not to specify every visual detail including the opening credits.

Production Company’s Responsibility

Once a script is submitted to a production company, it is their responsibility to translate the written word into a visual medium. This involves cinematography, directing, editing, and, in the case of opening credits, determining the best way to integrate them into the overall production. Production companies have the expertise and experience to make the most of the writer’s work and create a seamless, engaging opening credits sequence that complements the series or film.

Why Leave Opening Credits to Professionals?

Allowing the production company to decide on the opening credits has several advantages:

Expertise in Visual Storytelling: Production companies are well-versed in the art of visual storytelling. They understand how to introduce a series or film in a captivating manner, setting the right tone and background for the story that follows. Brand Consistency: Professional production companies can maintain the integrity and consistency of the series or film’s visual identity. They will ensure that the opening credits fit seamlessly with the rest of the production, enhancing the overall experience for the audience. Time and Resource Management: Writing detailed descriptions of credits sequences can be time-consuming and may divert a writer’s focus from more critical aspects of the script. Production companies can handle these tasks efficiently, ensuring that the project moves forward smoothly. Innovation and Creativity: Professional teams often bring innovative ideas to the table, which might not occur to a scriptwriter without a strong background in visual media. Their input can lead to more creative and memorable opening credits sequences. Saves Money and Time: Vas detailed the scriptwriter’s input can often be simplified or omitted, reducing costs and saving time in the pre-production and post-production phases.

It is important to note that while the scriptwriter should not dictate the visuals, they can and should communicate their vision and preferences clearly. For instance, they can provide a general sense of the tone, style, or music they envision for the opening credits. This collaboration can lead to a cohesive and successful final product.

Example of Effective Collaboration

Consider the opening credits of the popular series Breaking Bad. The production team could have easily specified a sequence involving slow-motion shots of chemistry equipment, but the actual sequence deftly balances a mix of visual elements that echo the show’s themes of science and violence. This was a collaborative effort, where the scriptwriter's narrative style and the production team’s visual expertise combined to create a iconic opening sequence.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is within a scriptwriter’s purview to provide general guidelines, it is generally more advantageous to leave specific details like the opening credits to the production company. This approach allows for creative and efficient production, ensuring that the final product meets high standards of quality and professionalism. Collaborating with production teams can result in memorable and seamless storytelling experiences that audiences love.

For more insights on scriptwriting and production, stay tuned to our blog. Whether you are a scriptwriter or a production professional, there is always more to learn about creating engaging and impactful television content.