7 Best TV Show & Web Series Opening Credits

One of the most memorable and iconic parts of any television or web series is its opening title sequence. Usually, this is some sort of montage or animation of text set against key images that represent the show's themes or plot points. With character-centric shows, the images and colors might signify the characters' wants and needs or perhaps their true personas.

On the other hand, genre-driven shows might try to convey the overall mood and tone of the series in the opening sequence. Outstanding Main Title Design is even an award category at the Emmys, which is a testament to how important these short sequences are. Here are sevenev series with the best opening titles.

Stranger Things (2016-)

Stranger Things is currently in production for its fourth season at Netflix, where the nostalgic supernatural horror has consistently ranked as one of the most-viewed programs on the streaming service. The simple but memorable opening credits add to the show's nostalgic, iconic feel.

Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana in 1983, a young boy goes missing under mysterious circumstances. His three friends are determined to find him, even though everyone else is convinced he's dead. When a strange girl known only as Eleven appears, donned only in a hospital gown and a buzzcut, she uses her telekinetic abilities to help the boys track down their friend and uncover the mystery of Hawkins Laboratory.

True Detective (2014-)

True Detective is a drama series about police officers and detectives around the United States who, in their work, are forced to confront their own dark secrets. With an all-star cast of Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Mahershala Ali, Rachel McAdams, and Colin Farrell, the show was an immediate hit.

The opening credits are a simple blend of artistry and mystery, reflecting the show's themes perfectly.

Game Of Thrones (2013-2019)

Game of Thrones, the epic eight-season HBO series, is based on George R. R. Martin's equally epic and long novel series. One of the most popular television programs in the world, the show is set in the fictional land of Westeros, where nine families wage war against each other in an attempt to win control.

These opening credits are a cinematic introduction to the setting and tone viewers can expect to see.

The Shannara Chronicles (2016-2017)

The Shannara Chronicles ran for two seasons, first on MTV, then on Spike, but was ultimately cancelled due to confusion among the networks. Based on Terry Brooks' popular epic fantasy novel series, the story is set thousands of years into the future, after humankind's collapse. An elven princess named Amberle joins forces with Eretria, a human, and Wil, a half-elf, to stop a demon army from bringing about the end of days.

The opening credits are severely underrated, but they are just as epic as the show, thanks to the soaring, impactful music, and gorgeous animation.

The Simpsons (1989-)

Is there a more iconic opening sequence than The Simpsons'? This middle-class American family has been gracing screens around the world since 1989, each episode introducing a new theme of social commentary infused with humor. The credits perfectly supplement the show's themes, and even add a few new elements each time. Bart's lines on the blackboard are always changing, as is the family's entrance to the living room.

Dexter (2006-2013)

Reminscent of American Psycho, Dexter and its opening credits are all about a man living a double life. Dexter Morgan is a forensic technician by day, and a ruthless murderer by night. The opening credits take viewers through his morning routine, much the same way that American Psycho first introduces Patrick Bateman.

Carnival Row (2019-)

Cranival Row is an Amazon Original about mythical creatures who struggle to coexist with humans. They have been forced to leave their homelands, which have been invaded by men, and immigrate to human civilisation. The opening sequence is a beautiful, atmospheric series of illustrations and clever animation.