The Simpsons
For a series that has been on the air for 25 years, it is still lovely to see that The Simpsons’ opening credits have not gone under too much revision since the show’s second season. It does not just give us everything we need to know about the characters for someone who has never watched an episode – Bart is a troublemaker, Homer is lazy, Marge is dependable – but but the opening sequences gives us a dense glimpse of various supporting characters and locations as well.
The sequence is also essential due to how much opportunity the writers get to add comedy to this opening each week. The couch gag, which has had to be re-created more than 500 times, must always have an original set-up for when the members of the Simpsons family run to the couch to watch television. (Some newer title sequences, directed by talents as diverse as Guillermo del Toro and Banksy, are wondrous.)
Meanwhile, Lisa’s saxophone solo and Bart’s writing on the chalkboard can be changed up from episode to episode, adding variety and spots for subtle comedy. Floating into those clouds every Sunday night remains a staple for millions, and until the show’s writers’ room goes through a drought of uninspired couch and chalkboard gags, it will remain one of the finest opening sequences on television.