A cold open is a storytelling technique where a video or film begins immediately with a scene or narrative before showing the opening titles or credits. It dives straight into the action to hook the viewer.
By dropping viewers straight into the action (or a joke), a cold open builds intrigue, suspense, or humor before formal introductions. They're widely used in entertainment, marketing, and social content. It’s a staple for thrillers that thrive on tension.
Use a cold open when immediate immersion or tension is needed. Keep it compelling, and follow with branding or credits once you've earned attention.
Hook quickly – Introduce a conflict, mystery, or striking visual within seconds to draw viewers in.
Keep it concise – Limit cold opens to a tight duration so they feel impactful rather than dragging.
Tie back later – Ensure the cold open connects narratively to the rest of the story, avoiding a disjointed feel.