What are words on a movie screen called?

More Than Just Words: Unpacking the Silent Film’s Voice – Intertitles and Title Cards

The flickering image on the screen, the dramatic swell of the orchestra – these are the hallmarks of the cinematic experience we know today. But before synchronized sound revolutionized filmmaking, a different kind of storytelling device held center stage: the intertitle. Far from being mere static text, these words – often displayed on cards, hence the alternative name “title cards” – were integral to the narrative, the very voice of the silent film.

We often overlook the artistry and crucial role of intertitles. They weren’t simply a clumsy workaround for the absence of dialogue; they were carefully crafted elements that shaped the audience’s understanding and emotional response. Think of them not as subtitles, passively translating dialogue, but as active participants in the storytelling process.

Consider the different ways intertitles were used:

• Dialogue Replacement: The most straightforward function was to convey the characters’ speech. These intertitles, often presented in a simple, straightforward font, aimed for clarity and natural-sounding dialogue.

• Narrative Exposition: Intertitles frequently provided essential background information, setting the scene, introducing characters, or advancing the plot. This could be descriptive text, establishing time and place, or even offering a brief summary of events preceding the current scene. The style here could be more evocative, using more poetic language or concise summaries.

• Emotional Connotation: Beyond conveying facts, intertitles could subtly manipulate the audience’s feelings. A simple phrase, presented in a specific font or with carefully chosen visual cues (like a dramatic background color), could amplify the mood of a scene, suggesting fear, joy, or suspense.

• Scene Transitions: Intertitles were often used to bridge gaps in the narrative, indicating a change of location, time, or character perspective. These transitional intertitles could be as simple as “Later that day” or “Meanwhile…”

The design of these intertitles themselves was a craft. Typographers, artists, and filmmakers collaborated to create visually compelling cards that complemented the film’s aesthetic. Font choices, placement on the screen, and background colors were all carefully considered to ensure readability and thematic consistency. Some intertitles were elegantly simple, others dramatically ornate, reflecting the overall tone and style of the individual film.

In conclusion, the words on a movie screen during the silent film era weren’t just “words”; they were intertitles, or title cards – sophisticated narrative devices integral to the story’s success. Understanding their role offers a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and artistry of silent cinema and its unique storytelling methods. They weren’t merely a placeholder for sound; they were the voice, the guide, and a vital part of the cinematic experience.