voorspan

Voorspan is a term used in Dutch media to denote the opening segment of a film, television program, or other audiovisual work that appears before the main narrative. The voorspan typically includes elements such as the production company logo, opening titles, and sometimes a short musical cue or visual motif. In practice, the length and content of a voorspan vary by era, genre, and distribution platform.

Historically, the voorspan served to establish branding and context before audiences became immersed in the story. In older formats, it often comprised a formal sequence of credits and graphical imagery, sometimes with a dedicated musical theme. In contemporary streaming and broadcast, filmmakers may shorten or omit the voorspan in favor of a direct or “cold open” that starts the story immediately; when present, the voorspan may appear as a brief opening with branding, an animated logo, or a short instrumental cue.

The term is used primarily in Dutch-language film and television discourse and is sometimes translated as “opening sequence” or “opening credits” in English-language criticism. While closely related, a straight opening credits section may refer more narrowly to the listed personnel, whereas the voorspan can include branding and mood-setting imagery that precedes the onset of the narrative. See also opening sequence, opening credits, and branding in film and television.