Plains of Yonder’s title sequences for Apple TV’s Time Bandits
Plains of Yonder‘s Katrina Crawford and Mark Bashore have created a visually compelling title sequence series for Apple TV’s Time Bandits, a fresh take on family-friendly adventures by acclaimed creators Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement, and Iain Morris. This collaborative effort brings audiences into a uniquely 80’s-inspired visual journey, embracing nostalgic CG animation and iconic visual effects that capture the essence of simpler digital times.
The title sequences themselves are a blend of time-bending visuals and metaphorical storytelling, depicting the twisting strands of time and space through glowing, laser-like strings shaped into a cosmic “Cat’s Cradle”—an intricate weave of cosmic threads manipulated by ethereal, powerful hands.
Each title sequence presents a kaleidoscopic tunnel where an eclectic mix of objects tumbles through, each item representing key characters, events, and storylines set to unfold within each episode. Crawford and Bashore have curated these objects with a particular intent, striving to reflect the perspective of the show’s young protagonist, Kevin.
The selection of objects leans into the whimsy of a young boy’s world: playful, nostalgic, and markedly unsophisticated. From grandiose icons like a Mayan Temple to unremarkable items like a humble ear of corn, the imagery reflects a balance between the magical and the mundane, building an environment that feels both familiar and surreal.
To achieve this visually rich and imaginative effect, Plains of Yonder collaborated with the highly skilled 3D animator Cian McKenna. Together, they embraced a creative process filled with experimentation, inventiveness, and a touch of humor, which led to the creation of visually memorable title sequences.
With dynamic visual components such as tangled strings of 80’s laser light and mesmerizing kaleidoscopic displays of ships, shoes, and sandwiches, this collaborative effort demonstrates an inventive approach to storytelling through motion graphics and CG animation, crafting a time-bending experience that complements the adventurous spirit of Time Bandits.
Studio: Plains Of Yonder
Directors: Katrina Crawford & Mark Bashore
Animation & Visual Effects: Cian McKenna
Editors: Mark Bashore & Katrina Crawford
ExecutiveProducer: Paul Williamson
Music: Mark Mothersbaugh
