My analysis of the title sequence from "Westworld".

1. Thriller Title Sequence Analysis
Jonathan Nolan’s “Westworld”
Dimitris P.

2. FontThe font is very simple, either white or black,
resembling the futuristic aesthetic of cutting-edge
technology. All text is in capital letters, and appear for a
quick few seconds before fading away. This gives off a
clean, delicate and pure visual that when juxtaposed
next to contrasting lighting is emphasised despite its
minimalistic approach.

3. Visuals and Symbolism
The contrasting lighting and shades of black and white radiate an eerie
sense of mystery, while also achieving the aforementioned simple yet
futuristic aesthetic. The sequence also involves 3D Printers creating
articles like a horse and artificial humans, in very great detail. This not only
shows some of the literal occurrences in the show, but hints to some of the
show’s existential philosophy: “What is the nature of our reality?”/“What
makes a human ‘human’?”.

4. Visuals and Symbolism
There is also a motif of the piano, which plays even when fingers are not touching the
keys, as seen in the show. This is explained by the shot which shows the written
Synthesia-like code for the piano to process and play automatically. This also
symbolises how in the show, the hosts’ fates are already written by the narratives made
by the workers at Westworld. It may also symbolise more of the show’s philosophy – of
destiny and fate, the possibility that everything is already predetermined, and there is
nothing we can do to change it. There is another recurring motif of the eye, which
prompts viewers to pay close attention to detail. It also hints at symbolism of
individuality and perception which is another key theme in the show.

5. Audio
The sole audio track for this opening sequence is the “Main
Title Theme - Westworld”, composed by Ramin Djawadi.
The piano gives off a great sense of uncanniness
throughout. The track sees a steady pace of piano, exuding
a great sense of uncanniness, and strings, which brings
fluency and tempo, which gradually increases until the apex
unfolds with an intense, orchestral melody that is abruptly
ended by a piano riff and harsh strings and clanging bells.
This once again, adds to the mystery and tension of it all.
The greatest effect of the music is that it is works well with
the beautiful visuals, to display an epic and thrilling
product.