Meet the Parents Film Still Analysis

Film still from Meet the Parents(2000)


This still from Meet the Parents is a low angle shot of the protagonist, Greg Focker. The use of the low angle shot connotes a sense of tension and panic, as the character seems to be desperately hanging onto a cat, whilst on top of a roof of a house and with fire starting in the gutter. The facial expressions of the protagonists connote fear and anxiety, as he does not want to let go of the cat, and let him fall.

There is use of high key lighting and under lighting, this along with the low angle shot seem to signify the importance of the character in the frame, the protagonist's hand and features are accentuated and defined through lighting, although shadows are present, which intentionally is used to alleviate the protagonist, that is positioned on the left hand side of the frame. The audience seem to be like observers from a low angle and could identify with the protagonist, this angle shows how the audience are expecting the cat to be safe and for the tension and trouble to be extinguished. Surprisingly, the enigma code can be suggested by the audience, as they are unsure of whether the cat will fall, if the protagonist will get injured , and if the fire will be recognised and eventually extinguished.

The use of costume on the protagonist and the cat as a prop in the frame seem to connote uncertainty, as to if the cat will survive, and in the protagonist's case, normality and trouble , as he could have let the cat out, when he was not supposed to, and was thought be doing things right.

Batman:The Dark Knight Film Still Analysis

Film still from Batman:Dark Knight (2008)


This still, from Batman;The Dark Knight is a high angle shot of the main protagonist, Batman. The protagonist can be identified by the audience, as he has a black cape, which are meant to resemble a bat's wings. The protagonist's costume is a black armoured suit with a belt. The use of the colour black could connote mystery and dormancy, as the costume is meant to resemble the body of a bat, which is black and can fly, as connoted by the extensive wings.

The use of the high angle shot and top lighting could connote a sense of danger, as he seems to be swooping down to the audience, making them feel threatened. The swooping down pose seems to suggest that the protagonist is in action and could be the hero, as he is involved in an action code. The use of top lighting seems to accentuate the features of the protagonist, in order to draw attention to him.

In regards to setting, the protagonist seems to be in a car park setting, the film could be set in a city, as the film could be a typical good vs evil binary opposition based film and could involve the fight between the two rivals in the narrative. The use of high key lighting and filler light could uplift the protagonist and highlight him as being important in the frame, as he is positioned on the centre of the frame,which signifies that he is the hero and alleviates the goodness of the character.

Casino Royale Film Still Analysis

Film Still from Casino Royale (2006)


In this film still, there is a supposed gambling game taking place, in what looks like a casino setting. The use of medium shots of the protagonist on the left hand side of the still is identified by the audience, as his facial expression connotes a sense of composed tension, he is seemingly unfazed by the various tensions faced by the other gamblers. The costumes worn by the characters in the still connote a sense of formality and wealth, as they are wearing suits and have bow ties, which could show that they are involved in a formal event.

Also, the use of high key lighting and filler light, could connote how the characters in the still are the main focal point and are focused in detail. Interestingly, the man behind the gamblers is seemingly insignificant and is conveyed through low key lighting, as being an overseer. The frame only involves the protagonist and the main characters in the game, which connotes their importance. To some extent, the use of low key lighting in the background seems to draw attention to the game and the characters, which could connote that the character's tensions and focus is signified by the audience.The character's focus in the frame is towards the right hand side, which could connote that they are drawn to something.

The use of props, ie the gambling chips and cards in the still connote a sense of chance and uncertainty, as the charcters' facial expressions connote a sense of anxiety and tension. Also, their facial expressions could be an enigma code, as the audience does'nt seem to know which player is going to win the game.

Analysis of film stills

Freddy vs Jason Film Still


This particular film still is a long shot of Jason Voorhees, one of the antagonists from the film Freddy vs Jason. The use of the long shot connotes a sense of power and sincerity, as he is signified as being dangerous, as evident in the shot, where he is holding a prop which is a machete.

Through the use of low key lighting, Jason is connoted as being quite sinister and lethal, as his pose is rigorous and his clothes seem rugged and informal, which could connote that he has been involved in some sort of action, as the setting also helps to describe what sort of setting the character is involved in.Jason could be an evil character, who goes on a killing spree, this still could develop the narrative, as it could be a point in the narrative where he is introduced. The use of a hockey mask could connote how he is adamant to keep his identity secret from the audience, and could be an enigma code for the audience , as they are unsure of who is and why is he hiding his face.

As well as this, the use of filler light and back lighting could connote that Jason could be a potential hero in the film , as he is positioned in the centre of the frame, which could highlight his significance, and could be identified by the audience, as being the unusual hero. However, this could also be an enigma code, as his pose and costume could be connoting a sense of rebellion and violence, as he is holding a machete weapon. as he is glorified with use of high key lighting, this could be a dominant reading in the film. This still could be an action code, as Jason is introduced with a weapon , which could show how action is about to take place.

Touch of Evil Opening Scene Analysis



The opening scene of Touch of Evil directed by Orson Welles (1958)


1) Discuss how the cinematography contributes to the telling of the story and the build up of suspense

In the introduction of the scene, there is a immediate close up shot of the bomb device. Following this close up, the scene progresses, as the use of the crane shot seems to progress and follow the action in the particular frame of the scene. The cinematography seems to be varied in terms of camera movement and camera angles, giving the sense of suspense within the scene.

The use of a close up shot of a person setting the bomb could connote how something tragic is about to happen and gives an insight into the expectations of the narrative as a whole. After the activation, the use of a tracking shot is evident, as the camera seems to follow the assassin planting the bomb in the car boot, which could be an enigma code, as the audience could wonder why the assassin is planting the bomb and who he intends to assassinate.

Although he is the villain, the audience are encouraged to identify with him in the form of tracking shots, as we are seemingly following him and realise his motives and intentions, ie setting a bomb, planting it in a car boot. Shortly after this, a crane shot is used to show how the car is significant in the result of the scene.

Immediately, the scene cuts to an establishing shot of the town, the use of a high angle shot is used to show how other charters are unaware of what is about to happen, normality is conveyed here. By using these shots, we are encouraged to identify with the villian, as we are seemingly observing the plan in action.

The use of long shots and medium shots are used to show how the car is being positioned intentionally in a public place within the town, in order to target the people to which the bomb was intended for.

Interestingly, the use of the main subject matter of the car, seems to be left out of view and is zoomed out. To a certain extent, enigma is created, however the audience seem to AS Level Media Studies Blogacknowledge the fact that the car is going to be significant, and could know the consequences and result of the narrative, the car will explode, killing the targeted people and will create a spectacle.

2)Consider how the cinematography and the music and sound work together

The use of contrapuntal sound seems to be playing over the beginning scene, which seems to show the audience that the bomb is about to be set. The use of a close up shot is apparent, as the main focus is on the bomb which is iconic in the scene.Whats more, the use of a sound bridge , seems to move the scenes forward, as the scene moves to a different setting which is a busy, lively town, and use of a medium shot immediately cuts to a laughing couple .

At the beginning of the scene, there is use of non digetic sound and normal parallel sound of ticking noises coming from the bomb, excitedly the music seems to slowly rise in tempo, which could signifies how the assassin is joyfully anticipating destruction, to an extent the audience could identify with him, as we share the assassin's mood of sadistic violence, which could arouse certain pleasures from the audience.

However, there is a shift in music , when the couple get into the car, a more lively jazz music plays, this seems to pacify the scene and seems to cut the tension, from the more tense drum sounds. This music could connote a sense of irony, as the couple are unaware of the bomb in the car boot, and are not expecting a bomb to explode. The music could act as the disequilibrium, as it defecates the lively jazz music, and could connote trouble and tragedy.

The use of a crane shot follows the car as it leads away with the couple in the car. The use of digetic sounds of the crowd and police officers seems to distract the jazz music and action that is about to take place, cleverly, Welles seems to cut out the car out of the scene, in order to not capture the visual wreckage of the car, which could have harmful effects on the audience and could result in catharsis from the audience. To an extent, Welles also raises certian enigma codes from this, as the audience wonder whether the couple are still alive or not.

Analysis of Newspapers: The Daily Express

The Daily Express is a conservative, mid market British tabloid newspaper. The Daily Express is a flagship of the Express Newspapers group, which is collectively owned by Richard Desmond. This newspaper has a circulation of 728,296.

This front page of the Daily Express is laid out with large fonts. Notably, the front page seems to be dominated with text, the image is positioned in the bottom right hand corner of the page, which could show how the readership could be formed of intellectuals and could be be laid out to look appealing. Also, there is a caption underneath the image which summarise the image, and shows how the weather conditions are disatrous, as evident through words like rain, foam and snow. Evidently, there is use of the web address at the top of the page, which could show how the readers could access the newspaper's website for news updates and information. In addition, there is use of a dateline in small font to show what date the newspaper is released on. Poignantly, there is use of a pug , on the top of the front page, which could immediately grab the reader's attention, as the price is uplifted and seemingly illuminated with a bold yellow font which could make the reader buy the newspaper as it is relatively cheap and affordable.

Whats more, the newspaper seems to have a reputable slogan stating that the Daily Express is "the world's greatest newspaper", this could connote to the readership that the newspaper is genuine and is useful and spontaneous in its own right and seems to boast of its reputation. As well as this, the front page uses a bold masthead, with a mascot of St George, the patron saint of England, which connotes how the newspaper represents England and its values, traditions etc. As the mascot is in red and white, it could connote how the newspaper is patriotic of England and is therefore significant.

Evidently, there is use of the headline, which is the focal point on the front page of this newspaper, as the use of the serif font in signifies how the content of the newspaper is more formal, yet it is in a large bold, black font which could grab the reader's attention and could be more serious, in comparison to The Sun newspaper which uses mainly sans serif fonts, which connote a sense of informality and boldness. Structurally, the front page uses a bold sans serif font for the strapline, which could imply how the main story is about salmonella and food being imported, it summarises the main headline and is therefore in bold. Interestingly, this particular story might have been chosen as the leader, as it could be an important issue in society; in regards to the scare of diseases such as swine flu and other outbreaks. In accordance, the use of the standfirst is depicted using a serif font and is summarised, effectively, the article could be therefore captivating for the reader as they may choose to read on, as the main headline and strapline and shocking and seem to make a statement, as the revelation of imported food being contaminated could result in moral panic, as people might be cautious to buy or eat imported produce, in this case from Spain. Also, the front page includes a by line highlighting the writer of the article in a smaller font.

Iron Man feature film analysis

Iron Man is about Tony Stark, a wealthy industrialist, who is forced to build an armoured suit after a life-threatening incident, he ultimately decides to use its technology to fight against evil.

The clip begins at 0:07, when the lead protagonist; Tony Stark is being escorted by soldiers to present his latest nuclear weapons to the army in a secret desert surrounding. The main protagonist, can be identified by the audience, as he is wearing a formal suit and glasses, as well as his formal appearance and hairstyle .As well as this, he is surrounded by armed military personnel in an armoured truck, the use of mise en scene is apparent, as the audience can identify with the scene , as the army are stereotypically dressed in camouflage, combats and are wearing protective clothing and are armed with guns. There is use of props such as guns, rockets, iron suit, glasses which connote violence and destruction; rockets seem devastating at 0:15 seconds. The protagonist's facial expression signifies seriousness and dexterity . There is evident use of a tracking shot, as the camera follows Stark, as he is jolted from a bomb during a terrorist attack. The camera uses quick flashes to develop the clip from 0:15 to 0:18 seconds to skip to the main details. There is use of non digetic sound when the characters are talking at 0:08 to 0:25 seconds and 0:30 seconds. There is also use of parallel sound when the bombs explode, dialogue begins.

The lighting within the clip focuses on the characters at the beginning, as there is high key lighting to highlight the weapons at 0:11 to 0:17 seconds, and the army officers. There is use of top lighting combined with high key lighting which gives a bold effect during 0:11-0:17 seconds. The is use of dark colours on clothing, rocket ignition and shadows seem to justify the characters and props. The use of colour and lighting is constant, as there is use of high key lighting which is constantly use, as the film is an action genre based film. Suddenly, there is low key lighting at 0:20 seconds, when the rockets blow up , which creates a quick dusty effect and conveys shocked facial expressions from the army of surprise and unease, as their hats are swept away, which connotes destruction and could be an action code within the film.

Furthermore, there is further use of low key lighting, set in the caves at 0:32 seconds, as Stark is taken prisoner by terrorists, the leader of the terrorists is shown through a close up shot, the camera revolves around him and there is use of tilts at 0:34 seconds when Stark is being interrogated and tortured and use of a burst of high key lighting, as the light focuses instantly on Stark’s face. The camera focuses on an extreme close up of Stark’s scarred face, his facial expression signifies hope and escape. The protagonists is shown in a medium close up shot and is identifiable by the audience.

The use of editing is apparent, as there is continuous use of wipes, fades and cuts which immediately lead to the next scene in the clip, e.g. 0:07 to 0:20 seconds when the dialogue transcends to action. Interestingly, there is use of continuity editing, as the scenes are placed in logical orders to create a narrative.

The use of low key lighting is blatant , during 0:43 seconds, when the Iron Man’s first birth is shown, as an action code of the Iron Man knocking on the door and dents on the door signify that action is to follow and mayhem is about to begin at 0:44 seconds in the clip. Gradually, the clip uses montage to show the aftermath of the destruction and equilibrium is seemingly restored, as the protagonist is shown with a relieved grin and other characters are shown to be merry and joyful, during 0:50 seconds when Stark is coming down from the plane; a sling bandage is used as a prop to connote that he has been involved in an accident. High Key lighting is restored at 0:53 seconds. The use of fade is followed and a change of setting is apparent ,as Stark is in his home and low key lighting and use of yellows and blues are used to lighten the mood at 0:59 seconds. The use of contrapuntal sound is used, as drums continuously play in the background at 1:03 seconds, the use of close up shots and medium shots and wipes suggest an enigma code, as the audience are not introduced to the refined Iron Man suit and hero. The use of panning and crane shots seem to follow the action wherever it is , as shown at 0:54 seconds and 1:07 seconds. Also, there is continual use of a steadicam sequence, as the camera follows the action carefully and the action is shown through various stages within the clip. Surprisingly, there is use of a jump cut ,as the audience are fixated on one scene but the scene changes suddenly for example at 1:03 seconds

Non digetic sound plays in the background, as drums continually are beating which could connote that something is about to happen which could be an enigma code, as the audience could be awaiting the arrival of the Iron Man. The use of medium shots and fades, wipes could connote violence and action, and show how the Iron Man is really Tony Stark

There is brief use of a point of view shot, as Stark puts on the mask of the Iron Man at 1:05 seconds, the audience identify with him, as he is the main character in all of the frames . There is use of key lighting in the clip, as the action is sporadic and loud from 0:07 to 1:53 seconds. The antagonists are introduced in the previous desert setting, the use of back lighting and dimmed lighting suggests that evil is emerging at 1:09 seconds, where the terrorists meet the manipulative mentor to Tony Stark. Their organisation in the frame suggest a meeting and their facial expressions suggest sinister, evil intentions .

The use of medium shot and wipe at 1:10 seconds show the terrorists constructing a rival, more powerful Iron Man, as they intend to get their hands on Starks nuclear weapons for their own misuse for world domination. There is swift use of fade outs, wipes and jump cuts, as the audience see the terrorists forming their own Iron Man , whereas Tony Stark is forming a better Iron Man to destroy evil. The use of digetic sound of dialogue and ignition sounds are enigma codes to what will be the equilibrium or result of the film and will Tony Stark’s Iron Man triumph over evil as shown through 1:10 seconds to 1:18 seconds. Stark’s facial expression connotes confidence and assurance, as his latest invention is tested through the frame for example 1:14 seconds to 1:20 seconds as he is testing his suit of Iron. The use of point of view shot and low key lighting connote success, as he manages to test his suit and flies around New York, however, this is short-lived, as use of non digetic sound e.g. shouting , dialogue and ignition failure sounds suggest his suit is still not ready, as his shocked , distraught facial expression denotes how his invention is unexpected to fail as shown at 1:42 seconds

Finally, point of view shots, medium shots and close up shots are used at 1:30 seconds to 1:53 seconds, as the audience gets a chance to see Starks’ blueprints for the suit and we identify with Stark who is building an improved Iron Man suit. However, the use of jump cuts, wipes suggest that audience are briefly deterred from the narrative.

At 1:36 to 1:40 seconds in the clip there are shift from medium shots to close up and extreme close up shots, as the audience get to see the Iron Man suit and high key lighting and filler lighting is used to draw attention on the important areas of the suit such as the integral blue heart of the suit which glows at 1:41 seconds and fades out to the next scene .At 1:42, Stark’s friend, Rhodey seems to look into awe at Stark's Iron Man suit , as it seems revolutionary and conceptual to him. Iron Man’s mask ‘s eyes seem to glow , which could signify how Stark's creation is animated and alive. Moreover, after the revelation, there is background rock music , which is like the contrapuntal sound, as we see Iron Man flying alongside jet fighters which could connote how Iron Man is the righteous superhero. During the frame at 1:43 there is use of filler and high key lighting which connotes peace and tranquillity, this could be seen to be the new equilibrium of the film and could show the righteous , bold stance of the Iron Man.

The audience get a chance to see the evil rival to Iron Man , a colossal contraption which evokes fear from Stark’s assistant Pepper Potts, who resorts to being fearful and anguished. The use of medium and long shots show the audience how large and overbearing the evil robot suit is. There are quick fades and jump cuts and a mixture of low key and high key lighting , backed with digetic sounds to convey destruction and chaos.

Eventually, the clip ends at 2:00 minutes, where digetic sound is used, as dialogue ensues between Stark and Potts ,an over the shoulder shot is used, which could show how the audience and Potts are shocked at seeing Stark in the Iron Man suit.The use of a long shot which includes Stark in the frame , uses filler light and high key lighting to emphasise the magnitude of detail conveyed on the suit and the intricacy of the suit, he shows an innocent expression and that of guilt , which is backed with the non digetic sound of drills and sounds of working machinery, which are operating on the suit whilst Stark is in it.

Analysis of Lighting: Night at The Museum 2

In this still image text, there is use of key light and back light, which are used to emphasis the protagonist in the still image, as the cameras are fixated on him. Through the use of this lighting, the audience could identify and have negotiated reading with him to be the lead protagonist as he is in an action pose within this frame and appears to be wearing a security guard's outfit and has a torch which could connote that he is therefore important within the film and the audience could identify the image being set in a museum setting, as there are polished floors, banners and fountains which could be stereotypical of museums. The use of back lighting and key light could signify that he is important and could denote he is ready for action, as well as his stern and composed facial expression.

Interestingly, the use of top lighting is implemented within the image, as the light appears to accentuate the features of the character and could make him look more influential and significant.

Most importantly, there is use of high key lighting, as filler lights are used to make the protagonist seem realistic and imposed. However, the use of binary opposition such as light and dark is less pronounced, as shadows are overwhelmed by the substantial amount of light which seems to be dominating the image and which could have been used to signify the importance of the character as being the hero, as high key lighting used on the prop which is the torch could connote how the film could be an adventure based genre and could potentially be voyeuristic

Analysis of Mise en Scene for a still image

This still image text is from the film Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Costume

The main protagonist is identified to the audience as Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford), as he is shining a torch, which could show he is in command and his maturity could make him the lead protagonist. Indiana Jones is wearing his trademark stereotypical cowboy hat. Jones is wearing a beige suede jacket and matching beige trousers which seen to connote adventure, as brown signifies practicality and conservatism.

Also, the teenage character next to Jones is wearing a black leather vintage jacket and blue jeans, this could connote to the audience that stereotypically, he is a rebel, as well as his greased, low cut hair, which is associated with teenage boys.

Lighting

Within the image, there is use of key light, which is intended to focus on the two characters in the frame, in accordance, back light is used to impose the protagonists within the frame and to make the characters seem rounded. Most importantly, top lighting and low key lighting are used to accentuate the features of the two characters in the frame, as well as depicting the characters in a cave setting which tends to be dimly lit. The overall intentions are to convey a binary opposition of light (chiaro) and dark (oscuro), and shadows in balance with light are used to create a dramatic effect. High key lighting is used to convey the fact that torches are shining

Actors

In this image, the main actors are Harrison Ford and Shia LaBeouf

Make up

The actors seem to be wearing make up, as their faces and hands seem to be dirty, as they are on an adventure and are looking at an object or area in the floor which has some significance and could be an enigma code as the audience intend to find out what they are looking at.

Props

Both of the protagonists appear to be holding torches, as the image clearly signifies the characters holding torches and are pointing towards the floor as if they have discovered something, this could also be an action code. Most importantly, the props used could be Indiana Jones' hat, as it is stereotypical in all of the Indiana Jones films and in the narrative and could be associated with the genre of adventure and could be a dominant reading.

Setting

Generally, in this image, the protagonists appear to be in a enclosed cave setting, as the image clearly signifies the charcters in a dim light , the setting could relate to the genre of adventure, as it is about discovery and could lead to the pursuit of an object of substantial importance and value.

To a certain extent, by looking at the image, the film could be aimed at an D/E psychographic or socio ecomic group, as they enjoy the adventure genre and could be aimed at budding adventure film fanatics. As well as this, the film could be aimed at explorers or strugglers as they tend to be independent and want to seek escape.

Feature Film Analysis- Planet of the apes

Planet of the Apes Scene


The scene is introduced in a market place 'auction' type setting in a land where apes are superior and humans are inferior. The scene begins with the human slave dealer, the so called protagonist in this scene; who happens to be an articulate monkey, is dressed in a formal suit which defines his status and his ability to talk is fascinating . The use of digetic and non digetic sound is apparent, as dialogue is used by the character and at the same time
the background music plays which produces an effect.

The use of mise en scene is evident, as the protagonist's facial expressions connote how he values his status and by the way he is dressed could also signify to the audience that he is of superior status and therefore the audience could identify with him in this scene, as he seems to generate humour through his vague quips and witty assumptions . Also, the way he smirks and sardonically views the other characters could connote how he looks down on them and is desensitised by them, as he hates humans. Furthermore, as the scene begins, the character is composed , so that he is looking at the screen and possibly at the audience, this position is highlight through low key lighting and a close up shot of him. Also, the use of a soldier is evident , as the soldier seems to be dressed civilly and honourably and responds to the dealer using arrogant and angry tones .

Whats more, the scene progresses thorugh a fade and wipe after 28 seconds, as there is introduction to a girl through a long shot, she is wearing a gown and also seems to speak in a stereotypical childlike fashion. Similarly, the use of panning signifies the progression of the scene after 28 seconds . In addition, other characters such as the general and his fiancee are conveyed through a medium shot, the general appears to be stubborn and insighted by the dealer through his body language which signifies warmth, as he puts his arm over his fiancee's shoulder who seems aggrieved .

Interestingly, within the scene there is use of low key lighting, which raises the contrast of emotions and top lighting which is used to draw focus on the main character that is being signified. There is use of a tracking shot which intends to follow the main characters in the frame within the scene.

However, the general's mood is tensed and angered, as he threatens other characters through his grunt, halfway through the scene, this could signify that the general could be ignorant, stubborn and selfless. As a consequence, the dealer feels shocked and surprised, as his facial expression shows.

The dealer uses props, as he gives the little girl a collar, which could signify that she could keep a human as her pet. Her reluctance at seeing the belt, creates unease for the dealer ,as he is apprehended, as the scene shows though close up and medium shots. The scene uses monatge,as it quickly leads to the following scene.

The general's fiancee is threatened by one of the humans who happens to be the main protagonist in the film, he uses an iron rod and causes tension and panic amongst the primate superiors, the dealer's facial expression is that of anguish and fright, whereas the fiancee is calm but internally frigid, as she looks at him suspiciously, which could connote that he wants to escape as he is being confined by the dealer and resorts to seizing the woman as bait.

The scene fades and immediately leads to the dealer who is captured by the rebellious humans and is threatened with a gun by the human, his inital reaction is that if fright and fear, as his body language denotes he is fearful,as he is apprehensive and tedious. The use of irony is evident , as there is a reversal of fortune, as the humans are in control.

Analysis of Arthouse and Multiplex

Arthouse film- The Good, the Bad and the Weird


What do you think the film is about and what might the story be?

The Good,The Bad, The Wierd could be an Korean spaghetti western spoof/ adventure genre based film, as the poster's font connotes a western theme, for example the bullet holes may connote violence. Evidently, the film is signified as a western, as the Korean protagonists are stereotyped as cowboys, as their poses suggest violence and the audience could identify with them, through the way they are dressed, what object they are showing, ie guns. Interestingly, this could raise the action codes within the film. The film could be about rival bandits fighting each other in a desert setting, from the title of the film we could suggest that three protagonists are identifiable by the audience. The tagline immediately denotes an adventure genre, "Three outlaws.. One map.. No prisoners, this could signify that the film is about a quest to find treasure and could be an enigma code within this film. The use of binary opposition " good vs evil " could be significant with the plot and could be a disequilibrium within the film.

What genre(s) do you think the film belongs to?

The film belongs to an action/adventure genre, as the tagline connotes adventure, as the use of a map could signify a possible adventure and use of binary oppostion of 'good vs evil' could suggest action.

Who do you think is the target audience?

The film's target audience could be adults aged 21 or above, as arthouse films tend to be aimed at an A/B socio economic group and an intellectual psychographic, as the film could be insightful and raise questions. This audience could be seen to be the negotiated reading as the creators intend to focus on this particular group, however it could be oppositional reading, as other audiences may catharsise themselves against the film, as it promotes violence and negative content and could raise moral panic. The film could be aimed at explorers as they seek discovery , but could also be aimed at reformers who seek enlightenment and change

Multiplex film- The Simpsons movie


What do you think the story is about and what might the story be?

The Simpsons movie is a hybrid of genres, as it is an animated comedy adventure, as the poster signifies the Simpson family in a long shot, who are in various action poses, for example Lisa is showing an inquisitive , curious expression, Bart and Marge are also both in action poses. The film could be linked to a scenario, as the film is associated with the television show. The film could be based around a multi strand narrative, as there are multiple protagonists who each have their own characteristics such as Homer, who fits into the typical male stereotype who drinks, eats and likes sports. Therefore, the audience could identify with any of the characters.

What genre(s) do you think the film belongs to?

The film poster connotes adventure,as the protagonists are in various poses. Evidently, the film is an animation, and could be seen to be a zeitgeist, as it could be an 'artificial version of reality'. As it is related to the popular television show, the film is a comedy, as it uses humour and sarcasm and transfers characteristics from the television show to the film itself.

Who do you think is the main target audience?

The film could appeal to a broad audience, with ages from 10 to 40,as the film's storyline and scenarios would be of interest to adults, as well as the humour and other aspects to the film. In terms of socio economic groups, the film would be aimed towards a C1/C2/D/E demographic, as the audiences would understand the plot easier in comparison to other films such s art house films. Also, the film would be aimed at strugglers, as they seek escape from the busy lifestlyle and possibly reformers who seek enlightenment and desire a change

Sin City


Sin City is a film that explores the dark and miserable town Basin City and tells the story of three different people, all caught up in the violent corruption of the city. The film could feature gangster stereotypes and could be a Crime Thriller as it focuses on serious issues such as violence drugs and other explicit issues.

Interestingly, the film's poster uses binary opposition and rough bold red fonts which connotes violence and death and could signify what the film could be about. The various poses seem effective as the characters are looking down, as if they are superior and are expressing strong emotions through their facial expressions. Also, the use of binary opposition:- black and white could relate to the film as being a film noir as it could relate to the setting of the film, which could be set in dingy, dark urban areas.

The film could be aimed at teenagers aged 15 and above and could be predominantly aimed at males ,as they are the key audience who watch action, violent films. However, other audiences such as parents could have oppositional readings to the film, as it could be promoting violence and therefore be too graphic, as a result they could catharsise themselves against the film and could encourage moral panic as the film encourages violent tendencies

Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man's Chest


Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man's Chest revolves around the main protagonist Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), who races to recover the heart of Davy Jones; a renowned, notorious pirate to avoid enslaving his soul to Jones' service, as other friends and foes seek the heart for their own agenda as well.

The film's genre is a fantasy/adventure, as it mentions pirates and clearly, from the poster insinuates that the film has some enigma codes, and action codes, such as the 'Dead Man's chest', as it is an important motif in the film and the audience could speculate on what is actually in the chest. The poster features three main protagonists within the film who are signified to the audience as pirates, as the poster connotes them wearing a buccaneer's hat,use of a vintage gun and shows a ship in the foreground and revolves around a multi strand narrative. Interestingly, as there are multiple protagonists, the audience could identify with each of the characters.

The film could be aimed towards a teenage demographic, aged between 12-30, who could be mostly mixed as it features graphic violence , as well as a captivating storyline which could be of interest to the older audience, as they could identify with the well known characters such as Johnny Depp. However, certain audiences may have oppositional readings to the film, as it could be unsuitable for young children, as there is strong use of gore and violence, and could therefore catharise against the film.

Self Evaluation

(1 = excellent, 2 = good, 3 =good/average, 4 = poor, 5 = very poor)

Attainment(2) Over the past few weeks, I have learned a substantial amount of media terminology such as mise- en- scene, catharsis and other such terminology. As well as this, I have also understood the key concepts of media and have successfully been able to comment on them within my blog and in general.

Effort (1) Generally, I have put a considerable amount of effort so far. In the blog, I have thoroughly analysed certain media that was given to us for analysis such as film trailers and I have used the media terminology in a coherent, sophisticated style

Punctuality (2) I always arrive to lessons on time, occasionally I have been two or three minutes late to lesson

Submission and quality of homework (1) Generally, I finish the homework on time and to a high standard. On the blog, I always submit the homework and post it on time.

Ability to work independently (2) On the blog tasks, as well as other work, I believe I work well independently, as I can extract other relevant information and paraphrase certain information, as well as producing logical argumentative points, as is the case in the blog.

Quality of writing (2) I think my writing style is quite formal, as I use essay style answers in my blog , using a variety of conjunctions, paragraphs and embedding key terminology and key words within the blog. Almost always, I use a high standard regarding presentation and content and usually end up writing critically and consitently.

Organisation of blog (1) On the whole, my blog tends to be organised, as I title my work, use relevant pictures, videos and use a sophisticated presentation style; using paragraphs and other features.

Oral contribution in class (2) In the lessons, I believe I do contribute fully, however, I could take part more in lessons, for example in debates or giving personal ideas to certain areas in the media, answering more questions and engaging in conversation in the class.

Three achievements (www):-
1) I have tried to use most of the media terminolgy in my answers and in the blog
2) I have learnt more about the media in deta il, such as pyschographics/ demographics, Todorov and equilibrium/ disequilibrium and new equilibrium and other media such as newspapers; oppositional/ dominant and negotiated readings and other areas
3) I have organised my blog extensively and used balanced arguments in the blog

Three targets/ areas for improvement (www) :-
1) Refer to certain theorists , namely, Stuart Hall, Roland Barthes, Todorov in the blog work
2) Try to mention all areas in the key concepts and terminology (MIGRAIN) in the blog
3) Participate more in class, such as debates, producing own ideas and iinterpreations

Ace of Spades film Trailer review

Ace of Spades is about gangsters and addiction to gambling, murder, lies and deception.

The trailer revolves around Sundeep, who is the main gangster and who's addiction comes at a cost....

As the trailer is aimed at gang culture, the stereotypes would usually be wearing formal attire ie suits, have classy cars and have a big personality.

The use of close up shots and special effects; when one of the gangsters is flipping the poker chips is very effective, as well as the scattering of the poker chips on the table is very effective. There were various action codes in the film, e.g the card games and use of cards, as gambling would lead to Sundeep's downfall.

Interestingly, the use of mise -en- scene and camera angles and shots, such as long shots, medium and close up shots were very sophisticated and cohesive.

The use of urban setting and rough areas of the city are aimed at an elder teenage audience, as they can identify with the protagonist, as the audience identify with him throughout the film.
Certain areas may link to typical gangster genre films, as there is use of a criminal stereotype which encourages violence and extortion of money

This film would be considered to be aimed at a C2/D/E demographic as they have disposable income and tend to watch more films than other socio ecomic groups such as A B.

To a certain extent, certain audience might catharsise themselves, as they might feel that watching gangster films may be too explicit and may have negative references and reflections on society.

Interestingly, the audience might be desensitized toward this film trailer, as they might be used to the recurring theme of violence and honour killings, as they might be bombarded by news spreading moral panic to viewers about gun and knife crime and how it is rising daily and might be aroused to a specific degree.

Who's Bad? Trailer Review

This particular 'Teen Comedy' really was hilarious and comical and immediately grabbed my attention.

The 'protagonist' is a typical stereotype of a geeky school kid; who has various denotations through props including thick black glasses, shirt tucked in and who dresses very formally in a school environment where there are other characters which are cool, this use of binary opposition is effective. The geek aims to become 'cool' and ultimately achieve sexual experience, by getting a girlfriend through the help of his friends. Through close ups, medium shots and long shots, the audience are able to 'identify' with the protagonist.

This trailer has enigma codes, as the audience intend to find out if the geek will end up achieving sexual pleasure or not and if he will survive in the tough school environment. There is also a linear pattern, as the movie might be intended to show the progression of the geek's self discovery.

Interestingly, the use of comical music and transition of scenes proves to be very effective as the use of non digetic sound as background music links to the stereotype of the bumbly, shy geek.

Do the images of skinny models have an impact?

Generally, skinny models have been highly criticised for being malnourished and seemingly made to look ideally thin due to the models endorsing the clothes and are seemingly made to aappear beautiful and a typical representation of woman as a whole.

Skinny models appear to be a media effect or hypodermic model as they incite women and young girls. Consequently, this appearance of thinness persuades women into becoming thin and being able to wear clothes which they feel secure and confident in, therefore being thin is seen to be ideal. Interestingly, in the media, there has been moral panic, as people are concerned into the fact that size zero models are 'fashion victims' as they are made to look thin, as they may be omitted from being a model, as being slighlty fatter or healthier might not be suitable and might ruin the way the clothes are modelled on the user.

There might also be a sense of catharsis amongst designers, fashion magazine companies and fashion icons, as they might only intend to show off their creations and might be mainly concerned on making money, rather than being concerned on the model who actually is wearing and promoting the clothes. Also, these fashion conscience superiors might ignore the moral panic which is shown in the media.

Does watching violence produce violence?

Within society, the concept of watching violence and therefore producing violence is quite debatable. Interestingly, this concept has various oppositional readings as certain groups in society such as concerned parents may be against their children playing such games, as they evoke violent ideas and instill a homicidal tendency amongst teenagers mostly. Conversely, certain people might want to catharsise themselves or desensitize against violence such as groups in society such as Quakers, Buddhists and other such people.

In society, there have been various cases of reenactment of such violent video games, such so, that there was a infamous case regarding a video game related murder. On February 27, 2004 in Leicester, UK, 17-year-old Warren Leblanc lured 14-year-old Stefan Pakeerah into a park and murdered him by stabbing him repeatedly with a claw hammer and a knife. Reportedly, Leblanc was fascinated by the game Manhunt, however it was discovered that he never owned the game. Consequently, this case resulted in worldwide moral panic, as many people especially, adults and parents were concerned about violent video games and their effects on the teenage or young audience. Also, there were media effects (hypodermic model), as research was conducted into how violent games or violence in general links to aggressive and addictive behaviour.

Eventually, the Manhunt game was withdrawn from shelves across the UK, as it provoked violence and portrayed strong graphic content.

From a different view, certain people may be civil and mature enough to not be engrossed by such violence as they might not be so impressionable on them, as people like David Gauntlet might believe that the media negatively effects them and causes them to be irrational ,senseless and carefree. Generally, this concept of watching violence and therefore producing it usually causes moral panic as people might be objecting against violence in media, such as peaceful protests which end up in police inflicting violence on innocent people, terrorism and violence in wars.