The recent trend for artily extended title sequences in television has reached its beautiful apex with the 90-second opener to the new series of True Detective. But how long must opening credits be to make an impact? We stack up six of the most memorable from longest to shortest.
Twin Peaks
Almost three minutes in its full incarnation, this languid montage of ostensibly banal logging-town vistas accumulates queasy atmosphere via Angelo Badalamenti’s brooding, bare-bones score.
The Simpsons
After 26 seasons, we know this manic rush-hour race, and Danny Elfman’s sprightly theme tune, by heart, but the ever-changing chalkboard and couch gags mean we never skip past it.
The Sopranos
A minute-and-a-half of grimy snapshots from the New Jersey Turnpike, as viewed from a smoke-filled vehicle: an everyday commute that crisply establishes the separation of Garden State gangsterism from the Big Apple.
Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace
One minute of blissful pastiche that somehow covers both The Twilight Zone and a plethora of 80s procedurals, while also giving us TV’s funniest ever use of self-introductory narration.
EastEnders
Unbeatable for does-what-it-says-on-the-tin economy: a 30-second zoom-out to an aerial view of London’s East End. A light swirl of the camera is its most ostentatious touch.
24
One title, two digits, flashingly revealed in 12 seconds flat. What more breathlessly efficient way to start a show where time is of the essence?
