Coursework notes 3

A2 Media Coursework
Hannah Brown

For the coursework specification I had to
create a media package consisting of a teaser
trailer (main task), film magazine front cover
and a film poster promoting my film (ancillary
tasks.)

Codes and Conventions of a Teaser Trailer
A teaser trailer is a short trailer used to advertise an upcoming
movie, game or television series usually released long before the
advance of the product. It’s purpose is to attract the audience to
the film, creating immediate attention, and persuade them to go
watch it. It differs from a “normal” trailer as it is released before,
is shorter and only shows a limited amount of clips to tease the
audience. They tend to be around half a minute to a minute long
and they are generally used for big blockbuster films. They are
released around four months/year before the actual release of the
film. Conventions are:
• That they are usually between 30-60 seconds long
• Contain the minimum amount of footage and dialogue from the
film, to tease the audience
• Released long before the film is released
• the pace usually is fast or starts slow and picks up
Information included in a teaser trailer consists of the director,
release date, genre, actors, certificate and sometimes quotes from
critics.

My Genre
I decided I wanted to do a horror/ thriller film. This
is because I feel they will be easier to create as I
can use lots of darkness, props, and tensional
music/ sound effects whereas other genres such
as comedies I feel will take longer to produce as I
will need to think of a unique storyline and I think
it will be challenging to construct a teaser that
everyone will find funny as we all have different
senses of humour. I also wanted a sub genre of
thriller so my production has a larger target
market and I can make it more mysterious to grip
the audience.

After looking at various trailers of films I am able to
distinguish between a trailer and a teaser trailer.
For example, Saw 3D was a teaser trailer as
there was limited dialogue, under a minute long,
and you couldn‟t see a lot of the action just
snappy cuts. However, Lord of the Rings was a
trailer as there was a lot more action and
dialogue included so the audience had a much
better understanding of the plot, it was over a
minute long and the release date was only two
months away.

Analysing Existing Trailers
I‟ve picked two teaser trailers (with the same
genre as I want to do- horror/thriller) to
analyse. They include “Paranormal Activity
2”,
www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMnCYy39npA

and “The Crazies”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezMNgUJaZb8

Paranormal Activity 2
Starts of in black to create tension as
the viewers don‟t know what to expect

Adrenaline kicks in immediately as
the first thing people can see is a
figure come crashing towards the
camera which makes the audience
jump and immediately snatches their
attention

There is a long pause of the
door which creates tension as
the audience knows something
is in the room but can‟t see
where it is.

The camera is static which is a typical
convention of the horror genre. It also
represents there is paranormal
activity going on.

Using the pronoun “you” creates
synthetic personalisation and
makes the trailer seem more
personal and direct. Viewers
would also want to know why
has it been demanded? What‟s
so good about it?

By showing the peoples reaction
to the film is a clever technique
because it persuades the text
receiver to watch it because
other people find it really scary. It
also reduces the amount of
action shown so less is revealed
and people have to find out for
themselves.

There are quick cuts around the
house to put the audience on
edge as you still can‟t see the
entity. There is then diachronic
sound included of tins rattling so
the viewers can hear but can‟t
see- this is a common
psychological fear for most
people.

This short sentence entices the
reader as it is almost a
challenge and makes the
audience think, prepare for
what? This therefore beckons
the viewers to go and watch the
movie.

In this shot the audience can see that
there is a dog backing away and
barking as well as the baby stood up
and focused on something. This
creates suspense because it is a
common paranormal belief that
animals and babies often notice
supernatural sightings first. The shot
is also a high angle to represents the
baby and dogs vulnerability in the
situation.

This clause continues from the
previous sentence “nothing can
prepare you.” Sentences are often
split between cuts of action so the
viewers is hooked and wants to
carry on watching. These words
also intrigue the viewer as they
want to know what does happen
next.

There is a quick cut to show a girl
standing in the doorway that was
previously empty. Like a lot of horror
teaser trailers, you can‟t see her face
to keep the viewers guessing and
create suspense. I want to use this
idea for my own teaser trailer. The
dog and child has also mysteriously
vanished to show a connection
between their disappearance and the
girls arrival creating lots of drama.

The camera then goes static again
to emphasis the horror genre and to
cut away from the actual action.

The teaser trailer ends when the
screen goes black with a flashing
white 2 in the middle. This leaves it
on a cliff hanger to keep the viewer
guessing as to what happens next
thus persuading them to go and
watch the film. Also black connotes
evil and fear and is widely used in
the horror genre.

The teaser trailer closes with the
website and production logo on
show, a typical convention of a
teaser trailer. By displaying the
website also shows the reader
where they can find out more about
the movie. The font is white and
ghostly to represent the genre and
themes.

Evaluation
The producer and editor have adopted various techniques in order
to really scare and surprise the audience. I will split this up into
four categories:
• Camera
• Sound
• Mise en scene
• Editing

CAMERA SOUND
•Wobbly cam as the person is thrown to the floor •There is the sound of pans rattling which is
at the beginning. This creates a sense panic and scary as the audience can hear the noise but
chaos and to unnerve the audience can‟t see what is causing it
•High angle shot of baby and dog to stress their •The dog backing away and barking sets the
vulnerability and show the audience they are in audience on edge as they can tell it is clearly
danger distressed and he can see something that they
•A snappy close up of the girl coming towards cannot
the camera is used to shock the audience •The screaming of a previous audience frightens
the viewers as they can see other people found
it very scary
•Non-diachronic sound is used when a sound
effect of crashing is included when the girl in the
doorway appears. This connotes that the girl is
evil and destructive.
MISE EN SCENE EDITING
•Low key lighting is used throughout the teaser •Including the text “nothing can prepare you”
trailer to scare the audience as anything can be makes the film sound terrifying, full of twists and
lurking in the shadows almost challenging the viewers.
•The girl in the doorway is dressed in black •There are lots of hard cuts to make the
which in film presents her as an evil character audience jump and to show different rooms in
•The producer shows he/she has carefully the house which builds suspense as the
thought about props by including a mirror in the audience never knows where or when the entity
shot. This is often used in horror films and is will appear
tensional as the audience can sometimes see •Long take of the door to build tension as the
things that is not in the characters eyeline audience don‟t know where the entity is or what
it is doing, this is also down to the editor

Evaluation Continued
Overall I feel the teaser trailer for Paranormal Activity 2 is very
effective. I think this because it scares the audience right from
the very beginning then builds on this fear by use of tensional
music, black costume, static camera, a rocking chair but no one
visible on it and other peoples terrified reactions. It is also quite
different from other teaser trailers as it focuses more on making
the audience jump and less about camera/ editing techniques.
I feel the trailer is very persuasive because it doesn‟t reveal too
much so the audience has to keep on guessing until they watch
the film. The text “nothing can prepare you for what happens
next” shocks the audience and makes them want to know what
is going to happen next and find out what all the hype is about.
To conclude Paranormal Activity 2 teaser trailer is very compelling
and makes the audience want to see it as it looks very scary
and full of twists, without giving too much away.

The Crazies
The beginning of the teaser trailer
displays the production company
and logo at the beginning rather
than at the end as opposed to
Paranormal Activity 2.

The first piece of action we see is in
selective focus of a girl lying down
strapped to what appears to be a
hospital bed. This immediately shocks
the viewer as we can see the girl is
vulnerable and in danger. She says
out loud “is this really happening?”
sounding shocked and frightened. This
will create suspense because the
viewer will think what‟s happening?
Who has strapped her there? Will she
escape?

This sets the reader on edge as they
know something big is going to
happen before we die and that is
probably what the film is about. It
also hooks the reader and
encourages them to keep on
watching to find out the rest of the
text.

The editor uses a match-on-
action to show someone has
locked the door and the
women is trapped inside. This
is very dramatic as she cannot
escape whatever danger may
lay ahead. This scene is also
in low key lighting which sets
the audience on edge as they
don‟t know what could be
hiding in the shadows

Mid shot of a man holding a flame so
we can see his actions and expressions
simultaneously. This will put the
audience to the edge of their seats as
they don‟t know what he‟s going to do
with it, for example he could be looking
for someone through the darkness or
intending to start a fire. His expression
is cold and concentrated to show that
he is fully aware of what he is doing but
doesn‟t seem to show any hesitation.

The rapidly growing fire really
captures the audiences attention
because they will probably be
thinking will the woman escape?
What is the mans motive for
committing such a crime? Will
anyone survive? Fire connotes
danger and death and is often
featured in horror films.

Repetition of the preposition
“before” to show there is a lot of
things that‟s going to happen
first. Stating that “our cities are
taken over” signifies there is a
great danger coming and
perhaps a revolution. Using the
pronoun “our” creates even
more tension as the producer is
saying the audience will be part
of this threat too.

This establishing shot creates a
sense of panic and chaos with
the combination of helicopters,
bright lights and diachronic
sound of warning alarms.

This cut away is used to show
smaller bits of the action in the
scene that otherwise would be
hard to spot. The close up shows
lifeless hands hanging outside the
truck. This indicates abduction and
possibly mass murder, reinforcing
the idea of a revolution. This will
shock and scare the audience.

There is a tracking of the man
walking up to the cars. He has
his hands in the air to show he
is the vulnerable one and the
police are the powerful
participant. He shouts “it‟s ok
I‟m not sick” this informs the
audience there is some deadly
disease gripping the nation.

Again there is repetition of the
word “before” to emphasis the
enormity of what is to come. “Our
humanity is lost” shows
something inhuman is taking
over which wonderfully creates
mystery and uncertainty.

There is a quick cut to a pitch
folk slamming down with
malicious intent. This tells the
reader the film will have a
considerable amount of
violence and gore in.

A gigantic explosion is
visible. This creates panic
and show that the people are
being targeted and under
attack. The viewers will want
to know the reasons behind
such violence and who is
causing it.

This shot shows a wounded man
behind bars trying to reach something.
He looks angry and potentially
dangerous. The producer has created
suspense and anticipation by hiding
what the character can see so the
viewers has to guess. This teases the
audience and persuades them to
watch the film to find out.

There are quick cuts of the film to tease the audience and make
them want to watch it as it looks exciting, dramatic and action
packed.

These words makes it sound as
though whatever happens in the
film will change everything and
cause mass destruction. This is
very dramatic and really hooks in
the audience. By enlarging the
font for the word “here” gives the
impression that the setting for the
film is where all the action and
terror commences, again
wonderfully building tension.
This eye line match is used to
grab the audiences attention as
the officer seems distressed and
shocked by what he has seen.
The camera then cuts to what he
can see (a point of view shot) to
show a man marching forwards
armed with a gun. This sets the
audience on edge as he appears
very dangerous and they don‟t
know if he will shoot or not.

The title of the film is in a white bold font in
front of a black background, this is similar to
what Paranormal Activity 2 did. They both
have black backgrounds because this is a
typical colour used in horror film that
signifies evil and death. As well as this,
there is some mysterious blue-green dots
on the right hand side. It looks like some
musky kind of gas and I think this is to
represent the disease going about in the
film, however audience will need
foreknowledge to decode this.

This print screen of the video
presents the films website and
production logo again, like the teaser
trailer for Paranormal Activity 2. In the
middle is the words “coming soon”
with the adverb “soon” in capitals and
in a shadowy font. This is to
emphasis how soon the film will be
realised and therefore exciting the
viewers.

Evaluation
I will analyse The Crazies teaser trailer considering the:
• Sound
• Camera
• Mise en scene
• editing

CAMERA SOUND
•There is a close up of the man locking the door to show there is •The diegetic sound of the door being locked is emphasised to
no escape, she is trapped stress that there really in no way out as they know she is in
•17 seconds in there is an aerial shot to show the whole city is in great danger
crisis •Whenever text appears on the screen there is a quiet tensional
•There is panning of the motionless hands to follow the moving piece of music that sounds like it has been constructed by a
truck violin. It is very creepy and puts the audience on edge.
•Tracking of the man walking towards the police (20 seconds in) •There is alarms and sirens in the background to help build an
so the audience feels more of a connection and as we too are part atmosphere of panic and danger
of his journey •The girl whispers “is this really happening?” By quieting her
•Low angle of the man holding match to emphasis his power in voice gives the impression that she isn‟t alone...someone else is
the situation out there
•Close up of the split coffee on the ground to show the character •Another sound included is what appears to be the beating of a
is distressed and has been taken by surprise. This creates tension drum. This starts of quite infrequent but then the more action
as it unsettles the audience there is, the more constant they become. I think this is used to
signify the beating of a heart-the more you watch, the faster
your heart will beat, the more scared you will get
•A lot of screaming to express the characters fear

MISE EN SCENE EDITIING
•The girl at the beginning is dressed in white to represent her •Combining unsettling text “before our humanity is lost” with
vulnerability and pureness and she doesn‟t deserve to be subject creepy music informs the audience the film is of the horror
of such cruelty genre.
•There is a dark shadowy background in the scene at the house •Match on action is used to show cause and effect- the man
which will create tension because anything could be lurking about. locks the door so the women screams. This is also a reaction
This is similar to the teaser trailer for Paranormal Activity 2. shot.
•There is a careful combination of props such as helicopters, •Time has been compressed when there is very quick shots of
police in uniform, lots of blue and red lights, and the sound of the man locking the door, holding the match then starting the
sirens to create realism. fire. This is to show he has no remorse which creates suspense
•Using a pitch folk as a murder weapon makes the murderer seem as it gives of the impression he is capable of anything
very sadistic and brutal which creates tension as the audience can •There is a sound bridge included where the sound of tensional
see he is very dangerous and capable of anything music is used almost throughout the teaser trailer to connect it
•The opening shot is set in a hospital which is compelling all
because it shocks the audience as this is a very unexpected •SLOW MOTION OF FOOT
location for just crimes to be committed

Evaluation Continued
I believe the teaser trailer for The Crazies is successful at scaring the audience and
making them want to see more. The company has achieved this is many ways.
Firstly, they are careful not to give much away by only showing bits of the action and
not what happens next. For example, when the house is burning does the women
survive? Did the man open fire when he was marching forwards with the gun? What
is the man screaming at behind the bars?
The editor/ music composer is forever creating tension by constantly changing the pace
of the music; at the beginning it is moderately slow, at 21 seconds it dramatically
speeds up then at 31 seconds it slows right down again. This is a clever technique
because the audience doesn‟t know what to expect next so they are constantly at the
edge of their seats. They don‟t have chance to relax either because anything could
be around the corner.
Tension and mystery is also created using mise en scene. There is use of some
inhuman eyes at the end, this combined with the close up then extreme close up shot
scares the audience as they don‟t know what this creature is but it looks powerful
and dangerous. This is similar to the shot of motionless hands dangling outside the
truck. Viewers will want to know if they are dead or alive and who is behind this
revolution.
I feel the teaser trailer is effective and persuasive through use of scary music, low key
lighting, inhuman entities, alarming text and an intriguing plot.

Comparison of the Two Teaser Trailers
The teaser trailers for Paranormal Activity 2 and The Crazies vary
slightly. I think a key difference is the length of each.
Paranormal Activity 2 is 58 seconds whereas The Crazies is
only 36 seconds however they still follow the convention that
teaser trailers should fall between 30-60 seconds. I think this is
perhaps because The Crazies have lots of quick cuts whereas
Paranormal Activity consist of an extensive amount of long
takes. I feel The Crazies contains a lot more action and unlike
Paranormal Activity, includes dialogue. This causes the
audience to have a better understanding of the plot whereas
Paranormal Activity‟s storyline is a lot more concealed- all that
is given away is that the film is about some kind of destructive
ghost. I think the main themes of Paranormal Activity includes
supernatural happenings and disappearance whereas The
Crazies is more about a revolution, an illness/disease that is
engulfing the population, violence and destruction.

How has Watching the Teaser Trailers Influenced
my Ideas for my own Production
By watching and analysing the two teaser trailers, I have come up with some ideas for
my own production. In both teaser trailers, especially Paranormal Activity 2, there is
extensive use of low-key lighting. I want to use this in my production as I feel it
makes it more tensional and scary. It also is a convention of the horror genre- to
have lots of black and darkness in the film. There is a wobbly cam when the body
gets thrown at the camera at the beginning of Paranormal Activity 2. This creates a
sense of panic and that the character is not in control. I wish to use this for a shot
when my character is about to unlock the mystery door so she looks unstable and
shaky- an indicator she is scared and not sure of what she is doing. At the end of
The Crazies the editor has used slow motion to speed down time of the character
moving forwards. This has been used to emphasise a dramatic moment- when the
officer is about to approach the armed man. I want to use this when the girl is walking
towards the door to show what she is about to do will have great consequences and
also to delay the time it takes for her to open the door, and therefore keeps the
audience gripped and excited. Finally, in Paranormal Activity 2 there is a shot where
the ghost-like figure is standing in the doorway, all in black however her face is
hidden. I would like to imitate this as it connotes that the character is evil and creates
mystery and suspense.

How Paranormal Activity was Marketed

Paranormal Activity (2009)
Genre: Supernatural horror
Directed, written and edited by Oren Peli.
Producers: Steven Schneider and Jason
Blum
Starring: Kate Featherstone, Micah Sloat

Website
The creators of Paranormal Activity came up with an
ingenious idea. They created a “Demand” button
allowing fans across the country to literally demand for
the film to be shown in their city. This determined which
markets Paramount would choose for a series of
midnight screenings. This was so unique as it put the
power of movie distribution in the fans‟ hands. The
“Demand” ticker exceeded 860,000 by mid-afternoon on
the first Friday after its release.
There is also a website for the film. It is eye catching and
spooky looking due to the black and red background.
You can find out more about the film, where and when
it‟s showing and watch trailers etc.

Social Networking Sites
A sponsored Twitter account “@TweetYourScream”
currently has 18,337 followers and their Facebook page
has over 47,000 fans. Fans from the Facebook page
have been uploading their video reactions to the film and
writing comments about their opinion of the movie. I think
it is very effective to use social networking sites to
market a film as fans can find out who‟s interested from
a geographic perspective and can all share a sense of
excitement, a buzz towards the release of the specific
film.

Magazine Interviews
The two actors of the film, Katie Featherston and Micah
Sloat have participated in several media interviews. One
includes an interview for the magazine “She Knows.”
This is a good form of marketing as the audience can
find out more about the film such as how it was created,
what the actors are like and how the experience was for
them, for example playing a role of a villain. During the
interview the stars quote “it‟s the best thing you could
ever ask for”, “it scared me when I watched it” and “it‟s
wild how people can‟t control how they‟re shaking.”
These quotes really grip the attention of the reader and
make them think that the film must be terrifying, luring
them in to watch it.

This is an effective eye
catching film poster that
Posters Draws you to
the statement
through use of a tensional that it is the best
image, iconic horror text horror you could
see, therefore
colours and a shocking tagline,
entices you to
wonderfully persuades the watch the film to
audience to go and watch the see for yourself.
film.
Large, colourless
image fills most of the
page. Audience can
see the couple are
The title of the
clearly disturbed by
film is in a red,
something that is
shadowy spooky
non-apparent in the
looking font. Red
picture. This creates
typically
a sense of mystery
connotes blood,
and wonderfully
danger, and
builds tension.
warning signs.
This compliments
the black
The tagline “What background, as
Happens when you go black is a cold
Sleep?” Has been colour that
used effectively as it represents evil .
will play on peoples The red and
mind and encourage black effect
them to use their signifies the
imagination of what
genre of horror.
could happen, and
therefore what could be
expected in the film.

Codes and Conventions of a Film Poster
Film posters are constructed sometimes weeks, sometimes months before the
film it features is released. They are primarily displayed inside and outside of
movie theatres or elsewhere such as on the streets, in schools/ colleges,
shops, etc. They are also included on the films website, leaflets, magazines
advertisements, DVD packaging, etc. The purpose of a film publicity poster
is to promote an upcoming film. It does this by using persuasive features
such as powerful adjectives, dramatic strap lines, including USP, having
enticing photographs, large bold title etc. Other features and conventions of
a film poster is to include:
• A billing block
• Production Logo
• Certificate (to determine suitability)
• Name of actors, actresses, directors, producers, etc
• Release date (this aims to generate excitement as the audience will be
waiting for the film to be released)

Print Media Terminology
Masthead: a list, usually found on the editorial page of a periodical, listing the
publication‟s name, editorial board, owners name etc.
Strapline: a strapline is a slogan used in advertising, featured on the front page
of a magazine. It is a short, effective, memorable phrase used to identify brands
(e.g. Tesco‟s “Every little helps”)
Cover lines: cover lines are located on the front page of the magazine. They are
spaced around the outside of the page and tells the reader what articles are
featured inside.
Screamers: a screamer is a large distinctive headline which has been written
with the goal of drawing attention to the specific article. They command attention,
persisting the reader turns to the article in question at once.
Billing block: the words found at the bottom of a media text such as a film
poster. Included is the production company, writers, editors, actors, producers as
well as the company logo.
Tagline: a tagline is usually a few words/ sentence long found on film posters or
the front cover of a DVD. It sums up the tone and principle of a film so the
audience has a bit of an idea of what to expect. For example the tagline to Shaun
of the Dead is “A romantic comedy. With zombies” so the audience can expect a
funny film that‟s out of the ordinary.

Se7en

My first film poster analysis is on “Seven” a 1995 American thriller film directed
by David Flincher.

Deep reds, rustic golds and fearsome
oranges and yellows are the primary
colours in the poster. I feel the
colours symbolize a fire. This could
connote the film is full of struggles,
danger and judging by the characters
eyes, strong in emotion. The title and
actors name are in white to make it
stand out from the dark background. I think there is a considerable amount of
effective persuasive techniques used to
persuade people to see the film. The
famous actors are used as the USP- Brad
Pitt and Morgan Freeman. People can
identify these famous actors and want to
see more of their films. Also, the seven
deadly sins listed in the middle of the
poster is another persuasive technique.
People will want to watch the movie to see
how the film relates to the sins. Focusing
on the deadly sins makes the film very
original, unique and stands out form the
average thriller/ horror film.

There are several symbols in the poster as well as conventions of horror. For example
there are patches of black which resembles shadows creating an air of mystery and fear.
There is also red lines crossing out the sins and red connotes blood and danger- this
could reflect the actions of the film. On the right near the bottom there is what appears to
be scratch marks on a wall. This, along with the fiery background, connotes a struggle
and someone trying to escape, making it apparent the 0genre is of horror/ thriller. Mise
en scene is used effectively as an icon of genre. For example the actors are wearing
hats, shirts, tie, and Brad Pitt has a moustache. This is a typical uniform of what a
detective would wear so the audience will think what are they investigating? What will
they discover? What problems will they face? Furthermore, like a lot film posters, the
actors take up most of the page and is the first thing to catch the audience‟s eye. Brad
Pitt and Morgan Freeman are stars in the film which will automatically determine the
audience because the genre of the film will be apparent as these actors have starred in
lots of thrillers/horrors previously. The text producer has used a close up of the pair so
their emotions capture the audience superbly. Brad Pitt looks angry and alert (he would
need to be as a detective) whilst Morgan Freeman looks scared and vulnerable. These
strong emotions again convey the genre of horror/thriller as the audience can recognize
there is a threat to the actors and they are in severe danger.

Next, I will analyze the tagline; “Seven deadly sins.
Seven ways to die.” This is an effective tagline that
gives out the message that there will be death and
violence in the film and, with the repetition of the
number seven, seven victims. The victims will have
some connection with the sins which grips the audience
as they will have to watch the film to find what that link
is. The tagline is spilt into two simple sentences. Both
provide five syllables to make it flow and harsh
consonant sounds on the word “seven” to make it stand
out.

Attention is gained through a variety of powerful
techniques. I think the main one is having two famous
actors as the USP (Brad Pitt is also attractive and
therefore could bring in viewers who don‟t normally tend
to opt for horror films.) The fiery palette of colour is very
eye catching and could resemble the actors being
caught up in the heat of the unfolding events throughout
the film. Attention is also achieved with the seven sins
listed down the middle in-between the men‟s faces. This
signifies why the detectives most probably is
investigating- seven deaths in connection to the sins.
The list also causes the actors to be separated- this
could mean the actors are against each other and
conflict may arise.

Critical Evaluation
I feel the poster is very effective. It immediately snatches the audience‟s attention
through the clever combination of famous actors as the USP, a striking
background and a dramatic, captivating tagline. I think the text receiver‟s initial
thoughts will be that the film looks scary and exciting, full of twists and turns, an
enticing storyline and be thrilled that two famous actors star in the film.

I believe the film poster to “Seven” does communicate effectively with the
audience. I predict the intended audience is lovers of horror and dramatic films.
Teenagers/adults, mainly men as stereotypically they are the ones who prefer
action and thrillers films. The poster communicates well with the reader because
it represents the genre of thriller/horror superbly through the use of dark fiery
colours, signs of hostage (scratching on wall) and the violence implicating tagline.
However, to make this poster more persuasive the text producer could perhaps
have quoted expert witnesses so the reader can see evidence the film is good.

Shutter Island

My second movie poster I‟ve chosen to analysis is “Shutter Island”, a 2010 psychological
thriller directed by Martin Scorsese.

There is a mix of different colours to attract
attention and emphasis the thriller genre of the
film. For example the background consists of dark
colours and black seems to dominant which
connotes evil and mystery. The title stands out in a
large, red, sharp font, a typical horror colour that
symbolises blood and danger. Around the island
there is a spooky white glow highlighting it. I think
this makes it seem ghostly and mysterious-
perhaps indicating people have died on the island
but can‟t let go. The actors name “Leonardo
Dicaprio” and the tagline is in white to make it
stand out from the dark gloomy background and
perhaps show a connection, maybe he is the
person missing or is in involved with them?
Moving on, there are a considerable amount
of symbols in the poster. The actor is holding
a match (this image is actually taken from a
scene in the movie) however the audience
does not need foreknowledge to understand
he is trying to make his way through the
darkness. Also there is a lighthouse visible
on the island. Lighthouses can be seen as
lonely and remote buildings which I think is a
theme in the film as the character “Teddy” is
by himself and cut off from the real world,
however the audience would need
foreknowledge to know this.

Leonardo Dicaprio, a very famous and attractive
actor, is used as the USP as he is the main
focus in the poster. He has a quizzical,
suspicious expression on his face which creates
tension as the audience cannot see what is
disturbing the actor. Half of his face is hidden in
darkness building a sense of mystery and as
many people are scared of the dark, reflects on
the genre of horror. The secluded eerie island
puts the viewers on edge because it looks
dangerous and gives the impression unpleasant
events happen there. From the uneven,
crashing waves and the rain hammering down,
it is apparent there is a storm. This is again a
There are several persuasive techniques
convention of the horror/thriller genre. The
used to gain attention. The main one, the
distant island combined with high cliffs and
USP would be Leandro Dicaprio as
stormy weather conveys the message that there
people can associate him with other
is no escape and the people on it are doomed.
successful films and he is also quite
popular with the ladies. There is a
secluded dangerous looking island which
shocks the audience as they will want to
find out what happens on this abnormal
piece of land. Also the thrilling tagline and
intrigued expression the actor carries
makes the reader know something
dramatic is going to happen and the actor
will discover something intense.

Next I will analysis the tagline “someone is
missing.” This immediately hooks in the
reader because they will want to know who
is missing? Are they dangerous? Will they
be found? Using the word “someone”
makes it very vague and mysterious. This
creates tension as it could be anyone and
the audience will have to watch the film to
find out whom, therefore this is a very
persuasive tagline.

I think the intended audience for this text is
teenagers/ adults who enjoy thriller/horror
movies. This is based on the certificate (it is a
fifteen so not suitable to anyone under this age)
and the conventions of horror seen in the film.
This includes bold red text, a dark background
and a match (connotes fire and danger)
Given that all movie posters have the same
purpose - to get audiences to go see a movie -
what persuasive techniques are used by the
poster?

Critical Evaluation
To conclude, I think the poster is very effective from use of
careful colour, image and layout. It shares similarities with
the “Seven” poster such as all the actors are looking
suspicious and curious to put the audience on edge. They
also include red and black colours to emphasis the genre of
horror. The poster for Shutter Island communicates well
with the audience as it creates a theme of disappearance
and becoming trapped, beckoning the audience to watch
the film.

Code and Conventions of a Film Magazine
Front Cover
The purpose of a film magazine front cover is to entertain, persuade and inform.
They promote and provide information to readers about up and coming films.
Conventions of a film magazine front cover includes:
• A large striking masthead at the top centre of the page
• Dominating images usually of the main characters in the featured films
• Cover lines around the edges of the page indicating the kind of information
inside the magazine
• Colour theme
• Price, date and sometimes the issue number
• Sometimes a screamer
• Name of famous actors, actresses and directors are sometimes used as the
USP
They provide information such as a description of films to be released soon,
famous actors/ actresses and directors involved in the featured film,
competitions to get involved in, free posters etc. Empire is Britain‟s biggest
selling magazine followed by Total Film. The kind of films they tend to
feature are horrors, mystery, crime, drama, action and fantasy whereas
comedies, children's films and romantic comedies are less commonly used.

The date and price is in a very The screamer is effective
small text so not to steal
attention. It is like this so it is the
last thing noticed, after all the
Empire Analysis because using the word
“amazing” makes the
magazine sound remarkable
exciting pictures and cover lines, and the reader is in for a
so the audience wouldn‟t mind treat. Combining the words
paying £3.99. “new” and “revealed” in the
same sentence is very
By using consonance makes the persuasive because readers
text flow better and the reader is will feel amazed they can be
more likely to remember the the first to know the cast.
words. “Extraordinary” is a very
powerful adjective persuading the
reader to buy the magazine as the
A red background
content must be very good
connotes power and
The text is in white and yellow. perhaps signifying the
White has been used for the film is dangerous,
masthead, the main cover line and therefore thrills the
other cover lines. it has been used audience
to stand out from the dark red
background. Yellow is a cheerful
Barcode needed for sale of
sunny colour so perhaps has been
the magazine, makes it
used to calm the readers.
look more professional
This encourages readers to
buy more of their magazines,
to feel more of a loyal fan Using the words “ the
Short snappy phrases makes it only magazine”
easier for the reader to take in makes this issue of
information Empire sounds
The characters are all in costume unique and there is
which attracts the audience because nothing else similar
it shows the feature is about the film out there. Also by
rather than the actor itself. Having saying it is on set
the actor positioned in front of the appeals to fans of the
masthead gives him prominence film because it shows
over everything (maybe to show how they will be up close
big and successful the film is) and and personal with the
indicating the magazine is so well actors so they will be
known the title doesn‟t need to be
the first for
fully on display.
information.

The masthead is in a bold white The date and issue number is
font. This has been used so it
stands out from they greyish
background. The first work “total”
Total Film Analysis present so the reader can
ensure they are up to date.
Like in the Empire edition, it is
is in a transparent font enclosed in in a small font so the price is
the letter “f.” I think this is to show the last thing you notice.
the readers the magazine is very
The main image is a close up
specific to film
of an actor from Star Trek. He
This cover line attracts has a cunning mischievous
the audience because it expression on his face as
appears entertaining though he is hiding
and thorough by going something, this is perhaps
through the whole persuasive as the readers will
alphabet. It also sounds feel intrigued to know what
jokey and comical by this is.
saying “f**k the The grey background
recession”, a topic that connotes uncertainty and
would otherwise be vagueness, therefore
quite serious and creating suspense. The
miserable. striking reds connotes
power and danger,
By using the word “exclusive” signifying the film is of the
makes the reader feel they‟re find thriller/mystery genre.
out something special and
valuable This cover lines attracts males
because Gwyneth is an
attractive actress so men
This is a clever technique would want to find out more
used to hook the reader about her
and make them want to
This screamer is placed at the
purchase more of the
bottom centre and is in a large,
magazines so they feel like
white, eye catching font to
a true fan
attract attention. It is positioned
in front of the image to show
The main image has been edited both items are related. Using
so that it is in black and white. This the superlatives “boldest” and
is effective as it really captures the “coolest” makes the film sound
typography and the powerful reds really good and readers must
used. find out more

Critical Evaluation
I will now evaluate and compare both magazine front covers in terms of the audience, layout,
colours, persuasive features, themes etc.
Audience
I feel that Empires audience isn‟t really that specific as it attracts both genders with a mix of
different colours as well as including good looking female and male actors/res. However I feel Total
Films audience is targeted more at young men with the use of taboo “f**k” and having the love life
of an attractive actress, Gwyenth Paltrow, as one of their featured articles.
Colours
Both magazines makes extensive use of whites and reds. Red connotes love, horror, and danger
whereas white signifies purity. Total Films main colour is grey, they have edited the image so it is
black and white which creates a sense of ambiguity and suspense. Empire however, uses a mix of
yellows and whites for their cover lines so it stands out from the red background.
Layout
Both Empire and Total Film demonstrates conventions of a magazine front cover by having the
masthead in a large striking font at the top of the page, the main image in the middle, cover lines
around the edges and the date, issue number and price in a small font at the top of the page.
However there are some differences between the two. For example, in Empire the actors are
positioned in front of the masthead to show they dominant the cover and that the magazine is so
widely recognised that the reader will know the title regardless of the fact that some letters are
hidden. This contrasts to the masthead in Total Film which is ordered in front of the actor. I think this
is effective as it combines well with the actors expression- crafty and mischievous so its as though
the masthead is hiding him and he is in the background. My opinion is that the layout of Empire is
more exciting as there is a lot going on in the page and it looks more appealing because of the
mixture of different colours.

Persuasive Features
There are various persuasive features used in both covers. They both
encourage the text receiver to purchase more of their issues by
highlighting the other covers you can collect, Total Film uses the word
“amazing” to describe the covers which will encourage sales.
Both magazines uses the main stars as the U.S.P. The actors/ess are
quite attractive so to boost sales and attract the opposite sex. Empire
adopts a lot of powerful adjectives such as “amazing”, “extraordinary”
and “exclusive” similar to Total Films choice of words “coolest”
“boldest” and “exclusive” as well. These adjectives gives off the
impression that the readers are getting value for money and they
won‟t be disappointed. Total Film includes a screamer “the boldest
and coolest film of 2009” which gives it a high competitive position
with use of the superlatives “boldest” and “coolest” as people who
haven‟t watched the film before will know that this really stands out
and better than the others. Empire quotes their product is “the only
magazine on set” which entices the audience as they will be getting
up close and personal with the stars therefore delivering hot, fresh
and new information and gossip. This is similar to Total Films “world
exclusive” which exaggerates the context of the information and
makes the reader feel as though they are getting valuable and special
information therefore the magazine is good value for money.
Themes
I feel the theme for Empires cover is fantasy which is reinforced by the
costume and make up of the actors. Total Films cover has a theme of
mystery and secrets which is shown by the black and white colour
scale, the actors expression and how he appears to be concealed
behind the masthead.

BBFC
The BBFC (British Board of Film
Classification) is “a non-governmental
organisation, funded by the film industry
and responsible for the national
classification of films within the United
Kingdom.” (wiki)

The Different Certificates
U stands for universal, it Suitable only for
is suitable for all. fifteen years or
over

Parental guidance

Suitable for
Only suitable for people over adults only
twelve.
The „12A‟ category exists only for
cinema films. No one younger Films may only be
than 12 may see a „12A‟ film in a shown to adults in
cinema unless accompanied by specially
an adult, and films classified „12A‟ licensed cinemas,
are not recommended for a child such as sex
below 12. (BBFC.co.uk) shops.

More on BBFC
Main issues that determine what certificate a film falls
into include drugs, horror, discrimination, imitable
behavior, language, nudity, sex, themes and
violence.

Sometimes the BBFC can intervene. For example if
they have concerns that the material can cause
“moral harm”, context is clearly unacceptable for
public opinion, is in conflict with the law etc. They
can do things such as cut scenes out of the film,
change the certificate (like in Pineapple Express)
make film producers put warning caption on a film or
in extreme cases, cut films out completely. Last year
the BBFC cut five films.

My Chosen Certificate and the Restrictions
I want my film to be rated as a “15” certificate. I have thought about the kind of
issues I am going to cover and have research the restrictions on each:
Horror:
I am allowed to display strong threat and menace however it cannot be sadistic
or sexualised.
Imitable behaviour:
I am permitted to show dangerous behaviour such as self-harm or suicide
however I am not aloud to dwell on detail which could be mimicked. I‟m
thinking about using a knife in my teaser trailer however I can not glamorise
easily accessible weapons.
Language
There will be some use of swearing in my film. The regulations of this states
“there may be frequent use of strong language (for example, „fuck‟).
The strongest terms (for example, „cunt‟) may be acceptable if justified by
the context. Aggressive or repeated use of the strongest language is unlikely
to be acceptable. (BBFC website)
Violence
I am planning on using a small amount of violence. I can not emphasis the
infliction of pain or injury and it cannot be too gory. Also strong sadistic or
sexualised violence is not acceptable.

Production Logo

This is my production logo which I decided to
create to follow conventions of media
productions, to make it look more professional
and create a connection between all my media
texts.

Any ethnicity or Target Audience
religious
background Male or female
(however they will (mainly men as horror
need to speak films are typically
English to enjoyed most by the
understand the male gender )
teaser trailer)

Anyone over 15
Wealth or disability is (due to certificate)
not an issue but mainly young
adults between 15
and 30

Dislikes: Personality:
•School/college/work •Sociable
•Being told what to do •Stressed a lot
•Early mornings •Miserable at times
•Happy
Hobbies/interests include:
Males- money, cars, technology (phones. Game consoles etc),
football, drinking, partying
Females- shopping, partying, getting pampered, socialising,
celebrities, drinking, money, fashion

Primary Research
I handed out questionnaires to eighteen people around
my college, all of whom that would fall into my
intended target audience of 15 to 30 year olds. I tried
getting a good mix of gender, age etc for fair,
unbiased results. My intention for this is finding out
what kind of films do people like to watch and what
they expect from the horror/ thriller genre. I also asked
for their opinions for features I‟d like to use for
example a cliff hanger ending.
I will analyse and evaluate their answers to get an
insight into what my target audience like so therefore
how I could adapt my teaser trailer to fit the criteria.

What gender are you?
There were 10 females and 8 males

I asked people between 15-30 as
this is my target audience. The
majority of people were between
15-17 year olds.

The top two most popular genres were
horror with 6 votes, followed closely by
comedy which had 5 votes. It is good
that most people liked horror as this,
combined with thriller, is the genre I will
be focusing on which shows that the
majority of people I asked will be
interested in my production and
therefore give honest answers in the
questionnaire.

If you selected horror or thriller, please state what
would you expect from these types of films.

Blood
Knives Darkness

Drumming/
heartbeats Cliff-hangers

Silence
Mirrors
Scary/
creepy
music Dolls/ masks
Red & black colours

1/3 of people asked said it
was the storylines that
enticed them into watching
films however no one
selected location.

What are your views on a cliff-hanger
ending?
•Effective
•Leaves you wanting more
•Open to interpretation of imagination
•Grips the audience
•Annoying as you don‟t know what happens next
•Very dramatic
•Intriguing and enticing

Quantity

Graveyard
Big House

Old town/

Remote
Island
village
Most people thought that a big house would be the scariest setting. I agree with
them however I won‟t be able to get access to a this kind of location and also
my storyline is about a girl on a long journey to find this door she needs to
unlock so I will need settings like forests and graveyards.
CHANGE TO A FOREST SETTING

How I will Adapt my Teaser Trailer to
Match the Feedback
• From my results of question 4, I will ensure I use some of
peoples ideas for that kind of genre film. I will include
-heavy breathing or heartbeats in the background
- end on a cliff hanger
- have pauses of silence
- dolls/ scary masks
- red text and black background
- I want the footage to appear to be set at night
• Question 5- I will ensure I have a gripping and interesting
storyline that will hook the audience in.
• Question 6- I will use a cliff hanger ending as people think it will
be effective and intriguing.
• Question 7- 16 out of 18 people said they‟d rather be kept in
suspense. I will do this by not revealing the characters face so

Top 10 Horror/ Thriller Films
Most Watched Horror Films: Top 10 Best-selling Thriller Films:
(www.horror-movies.ca) (www.filmcrave.com)
1) The Crazies 1) The Silence of the Lambs
2) The Human Centipede 2) Se7en
3) Rear Window
3) Halloween 4) Vertigo
4) A Nightmare on Elm Street 5) Taxi Driver
5) Piranha 6) Jaws
6) Shutter Island 7) North by Northwest
7) Dawn of the Dead 8) The Shining
9) The Usual Suspects
8) Trick R Treat 10) The Sixth Sense
9) Predators
10) The Thing

I researched the top ten most watched and best selling horror and thriller films
to see what fans of this genre are into. I selected two films from the list “Shutter
Island” and “Se7en.” I will now analyse their film posters to identify why they
have been so successful so I can adapt this in my work.

This graph shows the top three most popular genres are dramas, action-adventures
and comedies. Seeing as my chosen genre is not in the top 5 I will have to make sure I
have a large target audience and my film is split with a sub genre of thriller so it is not
so focused on the one genre.

Storyline
My character in the film is called Eliza and she is nineteen
years old. When she was fifteen her parents were killed and
her older sister abducted. She sets out on a dangerous
journey to uncover what happened that night and has sworn
to seek revenge...
During her adventure she meets some extraordinary
characters that guide her in her quest. They inform her about
her parents murderers and what she must do to find them. A
mystery stranger eventually passes her a weird looking key
and promises that what it unlocks will give her all the
answers and change her live forever. However he warns her
it will be a very dangerous journey and the consequences of
unlocking this door could be fatal…

Description of Shot Lists
I intend to use a varied amount of camera angles and shots to make my
production more interesting and gripping. I plan to start with:
• A close up and pan of the girls shoes as she walks closer to her destination. I
feel this will be effective for the first piece of action viewers see as they will be
submerged in suspense because they can‟t see the characters face- it could
be anyone. This will also be in slow motion for dramatic effect.
• I want to use a track of the doll moving slowly towards the camera. I think
this will shock the audience as the doll is moving by itself giving the
impression it is powerful and dangerous. I think it also reinforces the genre of
the film as there is often creepy dolls in horror/ thriller films.
• I wish to use a close up of the girl holding the key to really emphasis that this
is a very significant shot as this key will open the door to all the girls answers
• A long shot of the girl walking towards the door. This is so the audience has
understanding of her surroundings and they know she is all alone but still
determined.
• Canted angle of a car burning. This suggests imbalance and instability to
represent that the character is not in control. It also demonstrates my
creativity.
• Finally I want to use wobbly cam when she is about to open the door. This will
crate a sense of panic and chaos and show she is frightened as her hand is
shaking.

Stages of Creating my Film Magazine Cover

I used Microsoft I then edited the Next, I put in all my text including the
Publisher to create my image by increasing masthead and cover lines. I used repetition
print based media, “Win! Win! Win!” Powerful adjectives such
the brightness and as “exhilarating” and “shocking” (similar to
First of all, I enlarged contrast to give it that Empire‟s use of the words “extraordinary”
my chosen image so it ghostly effect and and “amazing”) and rhetorical questions as
would act as the also so the text these are all persuasive techniques to hook
background for the the reader in. I capitalised certain text to
would be more clear. attract attention and I‟ve also kept the
cover and be the main synergy going between my products as my
focus. title of the film is in the same “papyrus” font.

I printed out my last draft and showed some of my
My next step was adding I then used Google to collect a friends (who fell into my target market) to ask for their
colour to the text to make it picture of a barcode to use for feedback. The majority of them said to decrease the
brightness of my photo as detail is missing from the girl
look more interesting. I my cover to make it look more such as you can‟t really make out her arms which need
followed conventions of real realistic. I also created a box to be addressed as they convey her body language. I
media products by having a round my screamer to took their comments on board and adjusted the
brightness but still tried to create that ghostly,
colour scheme of just red and separate it from the page, thus mysterious effect essential for representing my genre. I
blue. I chose these colours as attracting the audiences also changed the colour of the box around my screamer
they stand out nicely from the attention more effectively and to black and grey as it looked more scary and
complimented the text better as red and black are
visual and compliment each making them want to turn to typically used to convey the horror genre. I also included
other well. Similar to my case the page immediately. the tagline “escape into the pages” because it sounds
studies, I also included a “4 relaxing as the reader can just escape all the worries
and stress of the real world and read my magazine. Also
covers to collect” feature. using the word “escape” represents the film category as
it is about fantasy and non fiction.

Location
As my story centres on a door being unlocked, I need to find a creepy looking,
remote door. I think the easiest place I could get access and permission to
is the graveyard at St. Mary‟s church. I have noticed a black old fashioned
door around the perimeter of the church that matches my vision quite
accurately of what I wanted it to look like. As well as this, it has an eerie
surrounding consisting of graveyards, a long stony path and tall lonesome
trees. A graveyard is a typical setting for a horror film and I think it will help
build up an atmosphere of fear and panic.

Characters & Casting
I only require one character for my teaser trailer. I need a young
woman (between 16-25) that is prepared to be dressed all in
black and walk along the path whilst I take different shots of her
holding a key and approaching the mystery door. My friend
Jules fits this description and is prepared to take on the role.

Props
I will use various props to make my teaser trailer look more realistic
and scary. I plan to use:
• An old remote door as the film centres on this being unlocked and
finding out what‟s behind it
• My mum owns an Indian hand crafted doll that looks very
unsettling. It has scary black eyes and a vivid dress. I think it will
create tension and make it look more like a horror/thriller film.
• A key- I will try to find an old and eerie looking key. This will make
it appear like the door it unlocks is also old and creepy and
therefore creates more tension.
• A clock- as the film is about a rush against time to open this door
and find out what‟s behind it, I would like to get a shot of a clock
ticking.
• A toy car- I‟m going to attempt to set a toy car on fire and make it
look like a genuine one to create chaos and show the film is about
destruction

Costume Design
• Ripped black clothing and big boots- I
want my character to be dressed all in
black so she looks evil and mysterious. I
have some ripped tights I could use and
some big gothic looking boots.

Risk Assessment
Possible Hazard/ Problem Level of Risk Control Measures Level of
Without Risk WITH
CONTROLS CONTROLS
Building and occupied MED Make sure the ground is clear of any LOW
premises- objects on floor that hazardous objects and bags and
the cast and I could trip over equipment are put to the side where
(e.g. stones and bags)
everyone is aware of
Audience, members of the LOW Ensure I ask the vicar for permission N/A
public- vicar or residents beforehand
are annoyed we are filming
around their church
Night working- need to film MED/LOW Film during the day then edit my CLEAR
in the dark to make it look production by changing the light to low
more effective and of the key so it appears to be happening at
horror/thriller genre, this night.
could put the cast and I in
danger as our vision will be
weakened
Dangerous substances- MED Make sure I set light to the car in a LOW
will be setting light to a toy secluded area, away from the public and
car other objects/buildings. Make sure I am
not wearing or possessing anything
flammable.

Photos for Print Media

I took several photos of my actress. We went to Wendover
Woods as it looks creepy, typical of the horror genre and also
look more like she‟s on a journey. We also revisited the door
at St Marys Church as it would have looked more genuine to
have a shot with the actual door we used in the teaser trailer

I really like this photo because the
main focus is the door in the
centre of the image. It stands out
because of its dark colour around
the white ghostly looking walls. It
also has lots of shadows which
adds to the suspense and
mystery. The next thing your eyes
are drawn to is my main character
sitting on the floor. From her body
language and facial expressions
she looks distressed and troubled.
There appears to be a link
between the door and the girl. The
door seems powerful and
dominants the picture whereas
the girl looks troubled by what is
behind it. I will use the photo
because it grips the audience by
playing on their mind as they are
intrigued to know why is the girl so
distressed? What is behind the
door that is causing so much
panic and anxiety?

I have edited this image so it is in
black and white. I think this is
more effective because it adds to
the sense of mystery and is
typically used in the horror/
thriller genre. I have used a slight
high angle to connote weakness
and vulnerability however the girl
is still looking directly in the lens
to show she isn‟t afraid therefore
boasts a brave and courageous
personality. I have included an
image of the key. I have
positioned it so it is in front of the
character and is enlarged. This
shows it dominants the film and
has control over the character. I
also recoloured the key so it is in
red. This is to steal the
audiences attention as it will
stand out from the dull
background and red is classically
used in the horror genre as it
connotes blood and danger.

Link to my Teaser Trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJtGt1RjTNg

Final Draft of my Ancillary Tasks

Link to Photo Bucket

http://s1132.photobucket.com/albums/
m574/hannahbrown9/

Camera Techniques
There is a canted
angle of the clock. I
think it makes it look
more dramatic as the
person looking at it is
portrayed as
disorientated and at
unease. The clock is
there to symbolise
that time is against
I have included close ups of the characters Eliza.
feet and hand. This is to keep the audience
in suspense as they cannot see the persons
face so they have to use their imagination
wait until the film is released until the
characters identity is revealed.

I have used a two shot so the
audience can see both the
mystery hand and the assumed
victim. The shot is embedded
in shadows to again create that
sense of mystery right at the
beginning of the trailer.

This close up is used to
shock the audience as it
looks creepy and unnatural. I
think it wonderfully I have incorporated a wide shot to show the kind of
symbolises my genre and is location the girl is in. People can see a long wide path,
also suppose to indicate the trees around her and the mysterious door she is
kind of things hidden behind approaching. I feel this represents the sub genre of
the door- inhuman and thriller as this is a typical setting for such a film. Also I
shocking sightings. have filmed her walking away from the camera so her
back is against the audience which builds on that sense
of anonymity.

I have used a wobbly cam as the girl is getting closer
to the door. This shows she is scared and unstable,
creating a sense of panic and chaos. This unsettles
the audience as they know she is afraid and
therefore vulnerable and perhaps weak.

Mise en Scene
I have carefully thought about mise en scene and representation of colours when
dressing my character for my ancillary tasks. She has a mix of black and white
clothing. Black represents evil as she is a bit of a menacing and devious
character however inside she is a good and innocent individual, hence the white
top. She is wearing ripped tights to connote she has been on a long difficult
journey full of struggles.
For her makeup, I put dabs of brown eye shadow round her face so she looks
dirty and again, like she has been on a difficult journey. I have decided for her to
wear red lipstick as this stands out, to show she is the centre of attention in the
film. I also feel red is a powerful colour and is used frequently in the horror
genre.

I have edited the colours
In my teaser, the girl by decreasing the
is wearing black brightness and changing
gloves. This makes it the contrast so it is in black
more mysterious and and white. This gives it a
as though she wants sinister and eerie effect so
her identity to be it is more of the horror/
hidden. thriller genre.

Sound
I have used ominous drones and tensional
music to unsettle the audience and make
the genre evident. I have used mystery
accent 3 and drone suspense 1 and 3.

Editing

I have used the transition “fade to black” so the cuts aren‟t that abrupt and flows
smoothly.

I have used the editing technique wipe so that it looks like the girl is being watched
which automatically indicates she is being spied on. But why? What connection do they
share? This attracts attention wonderfully. I tried other editing techniques such as
“picture in picture” however this gave the effect of a rear mirror and didn‟t look suitable.
Also I tried cutting it so you saw the girl walking, then the eyes, then the girl walking
again however this seemed to give the impression it was the girls eyes and not someone
else's.

I have used black at the I have used the inertitle I have included titles as this
end so viewers have to “directed by Hannah is what my case studies use.
wait until the film is Brown” as this follows It also sets the tone and
released to find out what is conventions of real media genre as well as a vague
behind the door. This gives products and it is also more idea of the storyline. They
it a cliff hanger ending interesting to have text in keep the audience gripped as
which I have used front of moving images. they want to read the end of
because it is what my the sentence. I have used
target audience preferred repetition for consistently by
when I conducted my using the word “one” before
primary research. most words.

1.
In what ways does your media product use, develop or
challenge forms and conventions of real media products?

Date, price and issue number

Barcode

Bold, striking masthead

Strapline

Black screens Covers to collect

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjE9hf4J-2A

2)
How effective is the combination of your main
product and ancillary texts?
It is vital that all three of my media products compliment each
other effectively to advertise my production as a whole as well
as creating successful synergy. They must all show
connections and links so they communicate the same message
to the audience. For instance, my film is of the horror genre
with a sub genre of thriller. Therefore I made sure I used
consistent fonts, colour schemes, and props throughout my
media texts to represent this and not to confuse the text
receiver. My ancillary texts are there to advertise my film, e.g.
my film magazine cover offers more information of the featured
film “The Intruder” such as promising an “exclusive interview”
with the main character. I will explain how I have established
links between my production package.

SAME
COLOURS

I have used a consistent colour of red text in front
of a black background to emphasis the synergy
and make the connection apparent to the
audience as well as representing the horror genre
effectively.

Links Between Props

I have carefully selected props to give visual clues to
my films narrative. There is a connection between the
props above as the key from my film cover unlocks the
door shown in my film magazine cover, and the close
up of the clock in my teaser trailer shows time is
against the character and she must hurry.

Same T

In all three of my products a sinister, mysterious
tenor is present. I have created this effect by
using lots of black and white colours, low key
lighting and by adjusting the brightness and
contrast. I chose to have this effect as it seems
quite eerie and mysterious so therefore
represents my sub genre of thriller.

Production Logo

I have ensured my production logo is on my film cover
and my teaser trailer so the audience can distinguish the
brand. It also follows conventions of real media products.

Release Date

I have included the release date on both my teaser trailer
and film poster to again show a connection. I decided to
chose October 2012 for my release date as because it is a
teaser trailer, the film doesn‟t usually get released until quite
a long time after so I done it for the end of next year. I also
said it was coming out in October as this is when Halloween
falls, and my film is primarily a horror.

To conclude, I have carefully and effectively
used links and connections between all
three of my products so the audience have
a rough idea of my plot without giving to
much away, and so the genre and theme
is recognised.

3)
What have you learned
from your audience
feedback?

The first draft of my
trailer was viewed by
thirteen people in my
class. To the right is the
questionnaire I gave out
in order to gain
feedback and know how
to improve. I will display
the results in
appropriate formats then
analysis and evaluate
the outcomes to how I
can improve.

From the pie chart I can
notice that the modal answer
was horror, followed closely
by thriller. I am pleased with
these results as it means I
have portrayed my chosen
genre effectively.

Did you notice any editing mistakes?
On this question, 7 out of thirteen people spotted no editing mistakes. However of the 6
that did these were their comments:
•Long takes between shots
•Some transitions were too long
•Background noise (someone laughing)
•Needed action between last titles
•Black screens were too long
•Directors hand at one point

This graph shows that the most
common rating was 6, with 4 out of 13
people opting for this. However a lot of
people also thought it was less scarier
which is slightly disappointing, however
it was only my first draft so I will try
make it more frightening.

Most people decided I needed to add
music and sound effects to my teaser
trailer. I also need to shorten the black
screen time so I will do this and also
include audio and images so it doesn‟t
seem to drag on for so long and the
audience looses interest.

What audience do you think my trailer is for?

My intended audience is anyone over fifteen, but mainly young adults between
15 and 30. The nearest answer was 15-29, both genders. The furthest answer
was when two people guessed it was for 12 years plus. This show I perhaps
need to make it look scarier. However on the whole, most peoples‟ guesses fell
into the right target audience.

Do you think it follows the
conventions of a teaser
trailer?
Everyone said yes to this answer
which I‟m happy about as I don‟t
need to change anything to do with
the conventions. However I will put
my production logo in for my
second draft so it looks more
professional.
Do you think my title is
appropriate?
Nine out of thirteen people answered yes
to this question. However the people that
didn‟t think so said:
•Not as it isn‟t really explained
•Don‟t understand it, a bit strange
•Liked it but didn‟t think it was totally
relevant however it did intrigue me!
•Thought it was unclear

Changes I have Made to Match the Feedback
I have took the feedback on board and am aware of what I needed to do to
improve my teaser trailer. I have:
• Made the trailer appear scarier so people have a better idea of my target
group. I will do this by adjusting the brightness of my footage so it looks like
it is set at night. I also included creepy sound effects such as the door being
unlocked, and other scary shots.
• Added music to my trailer so it follows conventions of similar products and to
grip the audience as well as to establish the genre more successfully.
• Shortened the time of the black screens at the end. I also added audio on
top of them so it didn‟t seem to drag on, and inserted my production logo to
make it look more expert.
• I changed the title of the film. I think the title sounds intriguing however it
seems rather formal and the word is used too often to sound scary. People
also found it quite unclear probably as the trailer doesn‟t give too much away
about them film so they perhaps need a wider knowledge about “Disclosure”
to understand. I will change the title to “The Intruder” as I think it sounds
gripping and sinister and will make the audience contemplate who the
intruder is and why they are intruding? What are they looking for?

Evidence of Change
I have made my trailer more chilling so it
therefore symbolizes its genre more and
also keep the audience gripping and
persuade them to go watch the film.
I have included a shot of an ordainment in
an artificial fire. The statue is suppose to
represent the main character in the film
whereas the fire represents danger. This
shot is intended to signify to the
audience that the girl is trapped in a
blaze of flames with no chance of
escape; she is doomed. This grips the
audience as they know she is going to
be in great jeopardy throughout the film.
I have used a zoom out for this piece of
action as I feel it creates emotional
distance between the audience and the
statue, adding to the fact that the girl is
all alone.

Also to add to the fear element I have included tensional music. I used
“mystery accent 1” over my production logo at the beginning as I feel
the trailer needed some kind of sound and also to set the tone so the
audience can straight away identify that it is a horror/ thriller film. After
this, I applied “drone suspense 1” throughout to keep everything
flowing and to unsettle the viewers, then during the close up of the
hand I have included “drone suspense 3” as well to build on the fear
factor. Also I used a “mystery accents 3” effect combined with the text
“one fatal mistake” to heighten the tension and emphasis the text to
stress how much danger she is in. As well as this, I have recorded
myself heavy breathing as this is a key sign of fear. I have placed
these voiceovers in parts of the trailer to unnerve the audience, so the
black screens doesn‟t “seem to drag” and to reinforce the sub genre of
horror as they can tell it is a scary film.
I have changed my film title to “The Intruder” as it is more clear and
dramatic. I also changed the font colour to red as it signifies the film is
of the horror genre and also to keep the synergy as my other media
texts uses this colour scheme.

4)
How did you use new media technologies in the
construction and research, planning and
evaluation stages?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCFL58IbYGY

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