A suite of unique title sequences to head a new series adaptation of The Man Who Fell to Earth
Read MoreInspired by the 1963 Walter Tevis science fiction novel "The Man Who Fell to Earth", this SHOWTIME original production is a sequel to the cult-classic 1976 movie of the same name, famously starring David Bowie.
Territory Studio was commissioned to devise and produce unique title sequences for each episode, gently referencing the content to build intrigue into the forthcoming storyline.
With the mystery still unfolding, the protagonist, Faraday returns to a specific cafe, discovering the origins of fellow Anthean, Newton’s global tech company. We designed the episode title to be displayed on a neon sign, reminiscent of American diners, to represent this pivotal moment.
With the title spinning on an old vinyl record, the text is revealed using a zoetrope-like effect. This sequence signifies the revival of Justin’s father from illness – her father plays Leon Bridges, Keite Young – Like a Ship while thanking Farraday.
Like bees to honey, the world begins to converge upon Faraday to find out his secrets and the FBI gets closer to Newton than ever before — signified by a bee landing on Sister Mary’s hand. We summarised this important plot point by embedding the title within a hive.
With episode ‘Moonage Daydream’ centred around Faraday’s attempt to decode Newton’s machine, as well as his uncovering of hidden truths, we designed this title sequence in the form of detailed scientific formula written by a marker pen on glass boards.
We created a series of vintage, ray-tube-powered, colour televisions displaying Faraday as he delivers an important message – these once radioactive sets were a breakthrough in the transmission of complex information. The title sequence was designed to visually convey Faraday’s struggle to work the quantum fusion machine and discover a means to contact his wife on the planet, Anthea.
Deception and intrigue set the tone for episode Cracked Actor, inspiring a title sequence with foreboding undertones. We crafted this episode’s title within a hand-drawn game of hangman, illustrating Faraday’s uncovering of a deadly message.
With the fate of Faraday in turmoil, we created a vibrant, candle-lit animation sequence leading up to a stained glass window of Jesus on the cross. With the series’ protagonists having to escape the flames of an explosion while battling for survival, they ultimately rely on faith to help reawaken Faraday. The use of light and religious imagery in the title encapsulates this narrative.
We designed and animated a bullet being loaded into a revolver for this episode’s dramatic title sequence. With the violent past of a character revealed and an armed interrogation of the protagonists, Faraday takes an important last chance for their freedom – symbolised by a single shot in the chamber.
For the season finale, the title sequence shows a colourful, alien environment. The text is formed from the arrangement of alien seeds, which reveal the title through illumination before dispersing into the wind. Our approach suggests the endangerment of planet Anthea and the many lives Faraday is attempting to save.
