Saul Bass

The bfi National Library celebrates the undisputed master of film title design with a special display from 24 September 2004.

The display in our reading room includes books about film poster design and a selection of pressbooks from special collections.

Saul Bass (1920-1996) revolutionised film title and credit sequence design. He had the ability to grasp the very essence of a film and present it in such a way that in an opening sequence lasting just a few minutes he could convey the atmosphere and premise of the film to come. Under his influence the title sequence became an extension of the film, as well as an art form in its own right, with the capacity to symbolise and summarise what the audience was about to experience.

Find out more

About Saul Bass Biographical information about one of the great graphic designers of the 20th century.

Filmography A list of film titles featuring Bass' work

Gallery A selection of poster images designed by Saul Bass