The title of a movie is its first impression, its handshake, its whispered promise. You write a movie title by understanding its multifaceted role: to capture the essence of the story, pique audience curiosity, and ultimately, stand out in a crowded marketplace. It’s a delicate balance of art and marketing, requiring careful consideration of genre, target audience, and the overarching themes of the film.
Understanding the Power of a Movie Title
A great movie title does more than just identify a film. It serves as a mini-advertisement, a search engine optimization (SEO) tool, and a potential conversation starter. Think of titles like Jaws, Pulp Fiction, or The Social Network. Each evokes a distinct feeling and a clear sense of what the movie is about – without revealing too much. The title is the seed from which audience expectations grow. A poorly chosen title, on the other hand, can doom a film before it even hits theaters.
The Key Ingredients of a Killer Title
Several factors contribute to a successful movie title. These include:
- Memorability: Can audiences easily recall the title after hearing or seeing it once? Short, punchy titles are often the most memorable.
- Relevance: Does the title accurately reflect the film’s plot, themes, or tone? A disconnect between the title and the movie can lead to disappointment and negative reviews.
- Intrigue: Does the title spark curiosity and make audiences want to learn more? A good title hints at the story without giving away all the secrets.
- Uniqueness: Does the title stand out from the competition and avoid being too generic or similar to other films? Originality is key in a saturated market.
- Trademark Availability: Is the title legally available for use? This is a crucial step to avoid potential legal battles down the road.
Brainstorming Your Way to Title Perfection
Generating a list of potential titles is a creative process that often involves multiple brainstorming sessions. Here are some techniques to try:
- Identify Key Themes: What are the core themes and messages of your movie? Use these as starting points for title ideas.
- Character Names: Could the name of a main character work as a title? Forrest Gump is a prime example.
- Significant Locations: Is there a key location in the film that could serve as inspiration? Casablanca and Brooklyn illustrate this approach.
- Plot Points: Are there any pivotal moments or events in the story that could be transformed into a title? The Shawshank Redemption is a classic example.
- Use a Thesaurus: Explore synonyms and related words to expand your options and discover unexpected connections.
- Get Feedback: Share your title ideas with trusted friends, colleagues, or potential audience members and gather their input.
Genre Considerations: Tailoring Titles to Expectations
Different genres often have different conventions when it comes to titles. Horror films, for instance, often rely on evocative and suspenseful titles like The Exorcist or A Quiet Place. Comedies, on the other hand, might opt for witty or humorous titles like Bridesmaids or Knocked Up. Consider the expectations of your target audience and tailor your title accordingly.
Action and Adventure
Action titles frequently employ strong, assertive language and emphasize the stakes involved. Think Mission: Impossible or Die Hard.
Drama and Romance
Dramas and romances often use more emotional and evocative language, focusing on relationships and personal journeys. Examples include The Notebook and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
Science Fiction and Fantasy
Sci-fi and fantasy titles often incorporate futuristic or mythical elements, creating a sense of wonder and imagination. Consider titles like Star Wars or The Lord of the Rings.
Legal Considerations: Protecting Your Title
Before settling on a title, it’s essential to conduct a thorough trademark search to ensure its availability. This involves checking databases such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to see if the title is already in use for a similar product or service. Consulting with an entertainment lawyer is highly recommended to navigate the legal complexities and protect your intellectual property. Ignoring this crucial step can lead to costly legal battles and forced title changes down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Movie Titles
FAQ 1: How short is too short for a movie title?
While brevity is often beneficial, going too short can result in a title that is vague or lacks impact. A one-word title like Air might work if the film is high-profile and the word resonates strongly with the plot. However, for less established projects, a slightly longer title can provide more context and intrigue. Aim for a balance between brevity and clarity.
FAQ 2: How long is too long for a movie title?
Generally, avoid titles that are longer than five or six words. Lengthy titles can be difficult to remember and cumbersome to use in marketing materials. Exceptions exist, but prioritize conciseness whenever possible.
FAQ 3: Should I use a subtitle in my movie title?
Subtitles can be useful for clarifying the main title or adding additional context, especially for sequels or franchise films. However, overuse of subtitles can clutter the title and diminish its impact. Use subtitles sparingly and only when necessary.
FAQ 4: Is it okay to use a title that is similar to another movie’s title?
While unintentional similarities can happen, deliberately choosing a title that closely resembles another film’s title is generally discouraged. It can create confusion among audiences and potentially lead to legal challenges. Aim for originality and distinctiveness.
FAQ 5: How important is SEO when choosing a movie title?
In today’s digital age, SEO is increasingly important for movie titles. Consider incorporating keywords that potential viewers might use when searching for films in your genre. However, don’t sacrifice creativity and memorability for the sake of SEO alone.
FAQ 6: Should I test my movie title with a target audience?
Absolutely! Testing your title with a representative sample of your target audience can provide valuable insights into its appeal and effectiveness. Gather feedback on memorability, relevance, and overall impressions.
FAQ 7: What if I can’t come up with a good title?
Don’t despair! Brainstorming can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel stuck. Try different brainstorming techniques, seek inspiration from other sources, and collaborate with others. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need.
FAQ 8: Can I change my movie title after filming has started?
Yes, you can, but it’s generally best to finalize the title before filming begins. Changing the title later in the process can create logistical challenges with marketing materials, distribution agreements, and legal paperwork.
FAQ 9: Are there any online tools to help me generate movie title ideas?
Yes, several online title generators can provide inspiration and spark new ideas. However, these tools should be used as a starting point, not as a substitute for creative thinking.
FAQ 10: What are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a movie title?
Avoid titles that are too generic, too predictable, or too difficult to pronounce or spell. Also, be wary of titles that are offensive or culturally insensitive.
FAQ 11: How do I know if my movie title is legally available?
Conduct a thorough trademark search using the USPTO database and consult with an entertainment lawyer to assess the legal risks. This is a crucial step to protect your intellectual property and avoid potential legal battles.
FAQ 12: What role does a distributor play in choosing a movie title?
Distributors often have valuable experience in marketing and distribution and may offer suggestions for title changes based on their knowledge of the market. While the final decision ultimately rests with the filmmakers, it’s wise to consider the distributor’s input.
Ultimately, writing a movie title is a challenging but rewarding process. By understanding the key ingredients of a killer title, employing effective brainstorming techniques, and considering legal and marketing implications, you can craft a title that captures the essence of your film and helps it stand out in a competitive landscape. It’s an investment in your movie’s future, one that can pay dividends at the box office and beyond.