Making of the classic 1980s HBO intro

Craft & Design Photography & Video
Making of the classic 1980s HBO intro
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During the time that we were brainstorming ideas internally for DIY Movie Making month, a link to this video gem got circulated. It brought back so many memories of the beginnings of HBO and this amazing opening sequence. I’ve always had a special soft spot in my heart for miniatures and model-making of all sorts. And this opening was sort of a model-maker’s paradise, as this making-of video will attest. Who knew that the flying H-B-O where physical models? [Thanks, Lish Dorset!]

4 thoughts on “Making of the classic 1980s HBO intro

  1. ScottF says:

    I remember seeing this in ’82 or ’83, specifically the part about the “stargate” effect. I’ve actually used a variation of this same effect (digitally) in some of my motion graphics. It was watching these “making of” documentaries as a kid that really inspired me to be a maker!

  2. alex.s.myopenid.com says:

    I figured the letters were physical, but I had no idea that the streaks around the outside were, too. I always figured they were animated in post.

    These ‘making of’ shorts and Discovery’s ‘Movie Magic’ were some of my must-watch favorites.

    One of the bad things that came from DVDs is that shows like this disappeared – they’re now only DVD extras.

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Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.

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