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Understanding the variety of roles in a film production

There are many people that work on a film and they are not always credited. Most of the cast and crew are shown in the end credits however the main actors and production companies are shown at the beginning of the film. If the actors or actresses are well known the film will show their names in the opening sequence in a clear bold font to hook the viewer and make them want to watch it. The main production companies logos are included as well. If the film has a well known director, their name is usually noticeable at the beginning as well.

An example of this is the film Fargo. The film begins by showing the iconic sequence of the lion from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayor (MGM) which many people recognise. It is then followed by the logo sequence for one of the main distributors PolyGram Filmed Entertainment. After these are shown the opening sequence to the film begins showing a pale blue background. The credits are shown in a spaced out black font which is eye-catching and rememberable to the audience. Once again PolyGram is shown which shows that they must have had a big part it disturbing the film. Although 3 companies are shown to have distributed Fargo only two of them are show. After this the people starring in the film are shown to the audience. Although the film is written and directed my the Cohen brothers who are well known in the film industry there names are not shown at the beginning which is unusual.

Credits to include: Name of film, main stars, supporting actors, cinematographer, production supervisor, art director, set director, film editor, sound, casting, make-up, music, screen play, producer and director.

(The producer and director are usually in a bigger font)