Ninth Circle: Title Sequence Design
Introduction
This motion design project was created for the title sequence of 9th Circle, a short film by a student at Toronto Film School. Inspired by Dante’s nine circles of Hell, the title design introduces the dark, suspenseful atmosphere of the film, which explores the theme of making a deal with the devil. Through dynamic animation, intense color palettes, and symbolic visual elements, the sequence sets a foreboding tone that captivates viewers from the start.
This short film dives into the unsettling theme of making a deal with the devil, inspired by Dante's vision of Hell. The visuals and storyline draw heavily from Dante's nine circles of Hell, portraying a world of temptation and consequence. Key visual influences include The Devil's Advocate, reinforcing the suspenseful and ominous mood that carries throughout the film.
Visual Concept & Moodboard
The moodboard is packed with intense textures of liquid, fire, and organic shapes, conveying violence and volatility. A dramatic color palette—dominated by shades of red, orange, and black—creates a sense of foreboding, building a visceral, immersive experience that amplifies the film’s dark narrative.
Typographic Design
The film title utilizes Benguiat Pro ITC in bold condensed, customized with unique typographic details: the “th” is downsized to match the “I,” while the number 9 is artfully embedded within the capital “C” to form its counter. This integration of the 9 into "Circle" adds depth and intrigue to the title design, aligning with the theme of the nine circles of Hell.
Animation & Transition Effects
The title animation unfolds in two stages: first, the C/9 combination emerges from the center and moves left, followed by the remaining title from left to right. The circles transition with a burn film effect, while a red pause screen holds the viewer's attention before fading with the same effect. These transitions offer visual continuity, enhancing the film’s immersive quality.
Sound Design
The soundtrack, Something Scary Is Behind Us by Paweł Feszczuk, adds suspense with its eerie chimes, evoking a sense of imminent danger. This audio choice heightens the film’s tension, aligning seamlessly with the visuals and completing the immersive experience.
Dynamic Screen Elements
Titles and names are presented in Benguiat Pro ITC, using color to create contrast: titles appear in medium weight yellow, while names are bold orange with a red drop shadow. Each element is placed along a circular path on the screen, creating dynamic motion that mirrors the film’s theme. The concentric background circles symbolize Dante’s nine circles, each with its own color and texture to represent various sins
Closing Credits
The ending credits appear over a black-and-red fluid background, subtly animated to maintain the eerie atmosphere. Names scroll upward in yellow with a double glow, adding a mystical feel to the final moments.