Film & TV Language: Film poster analysis

 BLADE RUNNER

From the film poster, 'BLADE RUNNER' suggests the genre of the film is Sci-fi / Action through the use of mise-en-scene and iconography. 

One way this is achieved is through the serious expressions among the characters such as the guy holding a cocked gun and sweating from his forehead, which communicates a sense of serious and danger in the Film.

Additionally, we can tell the male is the protagonist because he is contracted with the female in the dark light, holding a cig. Which communicates an addiction, smoking is often associated with negative meaning, which may make her the antagonist.

Moreover, in the right hand corner a solgane/ tag line is shown, "man has made his match.....now time to face the problem" the verb, "made" suggests he has made the antagonist. She is a robot made by the protagonist. Such as for helping him with his missions or  in a romantic/ sexual relationship for him.

Furthermore, at the bottom of the film poster it is shown as being rated, 'R' which indicates the involvement of sex or violence. Which targets older audience such as people in their 20/30s. 

Along with the colours and lighting helps communicate to us a message such as the film being dark, futuristic and fast, this is paired by the high angle shot of the cars flying around the building which suggests the film is based in the future and not the present nor the past. 

SCARY MOVIE 2

From the film poster, 'SCARY MOVIE' suggests parody of Horror / Comedy genre through the use of mise-en-scene.

One way this is achieved is through the typography of the title and the critic review, Such as fun, bouncy, yellow text connotes a sense of humor, joy and playfulness which is contrasted with the red bold text from the title. The colour red carries heavy connotations of danger, bloody. 

Furthermore, the denotation in the font of the letter, 'O' indicates a ghost-like bloody figure being present in the letter which communicates to us this horror film could be about the characters seen could be haunted by ghosts. Which signifies the presence of supernatural elements and reinforces the horror aspect.

Additionally, The poster does not feature a single, clearly defined main protagonist, which subverts convential genre expectations and adds to the comedic tone. 

Zooming onto the female with,"I HEART DEAD PEOPLE" creates an intertextual reference to the famous line from the sixth sense, highlighting the film's parodic nature. 

While on the other than the female on the right hand side has a shirt saying, "what lies beneath" this could create the impression of what could happen throughout the film or sexual meaning of under her top such as rape.

Moreover, One the top- right hand corner a priest is shown creating a cross sign with his hand. This communicates many references such as the movie of the, "Exoricist" When two girls are possessed by evil spirts such as ghosts that haunts them and take over their bodies. A priest from the church is then involved among with many others to get rid of the demons. This creates a link of the same storyline may be taken place in the film. 

UZAK

From this film poster,'UZAK' suggests parody of a drama genre through the use of mise-en-scene.

One way this is achieved it through the lighting to create a silhouette of himself to portray a sad image of him looking down onto the water. Which reflects onto the sky and the pollution seen which can convey his feelings as being dark, sad and depressed as if he has lost someone or something.

Additionally, the props the man who is seen as the protagonist is wearing such as a dark trench coat and trousers which carries heavy connotations of death and loss.

Furthermore, the bold colours such as red and blue which carries strong connotations of American culture, evoking the culture being involved into the film to interest other audiences.

Moreover, the surroundings of the film is seen as being snow and winter which represents him as being cold towards others and himself. Which can symbolise experiences such as a death or a breakup.

The film as won Grand Prix Cannes 2003 which is an event taken place in the South of France. Which shows it must be an extremely excellent Film if it has won this award

I'M NOT SCARED

From the film poster, I’m Not Scared suggests the genre of the film is suspense/ mystery through the use of mise-en-scène.

One way this is achieved is through the camera angle. The camera is positioned at the bottom of a hole, looking up at the child. Which creates a sense of danger and confinement, 

Additionally, we can tell the boy is the protagonist because he is placed centrally in the frame

Moreover, the title “I’M NOT SCARED” is shown in bold capital letters, which connotes strength and defiance. However, it also acts ironically  if he has to declare he is not scared, it implies there is something frightening in the narrative. This further emphasises suspense, making the audience want to know what he is hiding or confronting.

Furthermore, the reviews printed on the poster describe the film as “intense,” “remarkable,” and “technically accomplished,” which shows the film beyond a simple thriller.

Finally, the credit line at the bottom suggest quality. This communicates the film is not just entertainment but also  targeting a more mature, educated audience.

SIN CITY

From this film poster, "SIN CITY" suggests horror genre though the use of mise-en-scene

One way this is achieved is through the colour scheme that is used. For example the bold red text carries very connotations of bloody, scary and dangerous. Along with the dark/ black background used which indicates this is an horror film.

Additionally, The characters in the film all display serious facial expressions. The man in the middle looks like the antagonist, as he is holding a gun. While on the other hand the man on the left looks like his partner in crime.

Moreover, there is a spotlight that is shining on the bottom of a man in props such as a cape which makes him seem like the protagonist as he stands out in the poster

Furthermore, the rain from the editing evokes a sense of pain and mystery. Suggesting a death might happen in the movie.

Along with a low angle shot of the protagonist. The central male figure is shot from a low angle, making him look powerful, threatening, and dominant. This suggests he is central to the narrative and possibly an anti hero who controls the action.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN - DEAD MAN'S CHEST

From the film poster, "Pirates of the Caribbean" suggests the genre of the film is adventure / fantasy through its mise-en-scène.

One way this is achieved is through props such as the pirate hat, beads, and bandana worn by Captain Jack Sparrow are instantly recognisable pirate iconography. This communicates adventure and swashbuckling themes.

Additionally, the ships and sea monster tentacles in the background hint at the narrative involving sea battles and mythical creatures.

Moreover, the use of fire and dark clouds in the background suggests conflict, danger, and high stakes.

The tagline beneath the title, “Dead Man’s Chest,” communicates mystery and treasure-seeking, linking to the adventure genre.

The star names across the top also suggests that this is a big-budget Hollywood blockbuster targeting a mainstream global audience.

BRIDE AND PREJUDICE

From the film poster, Bride & Prejudice suggests the genre of the film is romantic comedy / musical / bollywood through its mise-en-scène.

One way this is achieved is through the bright, vibrant colours such as the gold and blue background, connoting joy, celebration, and romance.

Additionally, the central image of a couple gazing into each other’s eyes while smiling communicates that romance will be a key narrative focus.

Along with the tagline at the top, “Spectacular, Romantic, Funny and So Sexy!” directly tells the audience the tone and genre. The adjectives create expectations of light-hearted humour and love.

Moreover, The large group of characters dancing in the background reinforces the Bollywood musical influence, highlighting community, celebration, and song, dance sequences.

This appeals to a wide audience, both Western and South Asian, signalling a cross-cultural, hybrid film

MILLION DOLLAR BABY

From the film poster, Million Dollar Baby suggests the genre of the film is sports drama through the use of mise-en-scène.

One way this is achieved is through the focus on the female boxer, shown with braided hair and muscular arms, which communicates physical strength, determination, and the central theme of boxing.

Additionally, the dark, shadowy lighting suggests the film will be serious, emotional, and possibly tragic. It contrasts with more upbeat sports films, signalling a heavier drama.

Moreover, the supporting characters’ faces in the background suggest that the narrative will involve important relationships, such as mentors or family, not just sport.

The cast list communicates fame, attracting an older, more mature audience

Finally, the minimalist black-and-brown colour palette suggests the film is not about glamour but about realism and struggle.