Excerpt from the revamped “Severance” title sequence – image credit: Apple
The creative mind behind the fresh title sequence for season two of Apple TV+’s acclaimed series “Severance,” has shared insights regarding the multitude of symbols embedded within it — although he admits to being in the dark about their intended meanings.
The Evolution of Title Sequences
In the mid-2000s, it appeared that television drama opening sequences were fading into obscurity. A stark contrast can be seen when comparing Aaron Sorkin’s 1999 iconic score and visuals in “The West Wing,” with his later 2006 work, “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,” which featured a much more minimalist approach.
The industry rationale was straightforward: a lengthy opening could mean up to a full minute lost for advertising purposes. Over recent decades, hour-long dramas have been trimmed from approximately 55 minutes down to around 45, maximizing every moment for commercial breaks; hence, opening sequences became prime candidates for elimination.
The Resurgence of Artistic Sequences
However, exceptional title sequences serve vital functions that have led to their resurgence. They not only signal viewers that their program is about to commence but also encapsulate its mood and style effectively.
Historically recognized as artistic expressions in themselves, today’s titles go beyond mere introduction; they have transformed into intricate visual narratives that enhance storytelling — particularly evident on platforms like Apple TV+.
For instance, while “Silo” features an evocative sequence rich with symbolism related to fruit (specifically apples), “Severance” elevates this concept further. The new season’s title design pushes boundaries even more dramatically.
Insights from Designer Oliver Latta
Speaking with outlets such as the Los Angeles Times, Oliver Latta reveals that he has entirely redesigned and updated the narrative content within this latest sequence. Despite embedding numerous images meant to symbolize key themes of this season, Latta confesses he’s still unclear about their precise significance within individual episodes.
Although he visited filming locations and received substantial background information prior to creating any visuals — informed by director Ben Stiller among others — many elements remained vague or unexplained throughout production phases.
‘Let’s include babies,’ Stiller reportedly suggested during conceptual discussions with Latta; however, when asked about its purpose or relevance later on his remark was simply ‘I just like babies,’ leaving room for considerable interpretation.”
A Blend of Artistry and Narrative Depth
Notable Imagery: One striking feature includes a crawling toddler representing Lumon founder Keir Eagan—yet again raising questions without clear answers—prompting Latta himself to state: ‘I have my own ideas about what this symbolizes but ultimately don’t yet know.’ He anticipates revelations once all episodes are unveiled fully where viewers might connect dots themselves directly.”
A Visual Journey Through Designed Nightmares
At its core lies stunning imagery crafted through advanced visualization techniques highlighting actor Adam Scott’s likeness amidst surreal landscapes encompassing psychological depths within drama—the consequences significantly resonate.”””
Latta emphasizes how each transition highlights crucial story elements paramount behind Velasques’ brilliant illustrations paired mesmerizingly alongside tense soundtracks hinging suspenseful orchestrated moments leading smoothly into unfolding narrative-driven experiences.”
“This intro juxtaposes vivid colors ensconced against diverse environmental backdrops,” reflected Lauterback about respecting viewer imagination drawing associations amid subtle contrasts layered seamlessly across visually compelling renderings.”