Digital Kitchen–a creative studio known for its titles for hit series including Showtime’s Yellowjackets and Dexter, Netflix’s Narcos, Epix’s "Godfather of Harlem," and HBO’s True Blood and Six Feet Under–has unveiled its latest main title sequence for the highly anticipated Apple TV+ series Manhunt. Drawing on the tumultuous backdrop of post-Civil War America and the nationwide pursuit of Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, John Wilkes Booth, the sequence immerses viewers in a visually stunning journey through one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
Inspired by the era’s swelling national tensions and the turbulence formed in the wake of Lincoln’s tragic assassination, Digital Kitchen’s title sequence expertly weaves together archival photos, live-action footage, and intricate animations to evoke the essence of the time. Through a careful balance of historical accuracy and artistic interpretation, the sequence captures the spirit of the hunt while delving into the complexities of a nation grappling with loss and division.
“We aimed to encapsulate the essence of this momentous period in American history,” said Digital Kitchen creative director Andrew Julien. ‘“Our team delved deep into archival material, working with historical specialists to restore and colorize century-old photographs, and seamlessly integrating them with live-action footage and animation to create a visually striking narrative.”
The main title sequence for Manhunt presented several technical challenges, including the restoration and colorization of archival photographs sourced from The Library of Congress. Additionally, the team developed a unique “corrosive” effect, inspired by the traditional daguerreotype photographic process from the mid-1800s, to imbue the imagery with a sense of urgency and turmoil, requiring meticulous planning and experimentation during shooting to achieve the desired aesthetic.
Utilizing a combination of software tools and production equipment, Digital Kitchen brought its vision to life over the course of approximately six months. From After Effects, Cinema 4D, and Redshift for animation design and development to Black Magic Cinema cameras for live-action shoots, every aspect of the sequence was meticulously crafted to ensure a seamless viewing experience.
Manhunt is a seven-part true crime limited series based on the bestselling book “Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer” by James L. Swanson. Produced by Apple Studios and co-produced by Lionsgate Television, the series premiered on Friday (3/15), and is streaming globally on Apple TV+.
