Friday 28 January 2011

Cover analysis on 'Sight & Sound' magazine


As part of the marketing process, it is vital that a film gets enough media promotion in order to be successful and gain a larger span of audience. One magazine cover in which i looked at was a more independent one is 'sight and sound' as oppose to a more profound magazine such as 'empire' as my own horror teaser trailer promotes an independent horror which fits perfectly with this specific magazine due to it being more money efficient.

When first glimpsing at the 'sight and sound' magazine front cover, it is the image which is the prime stand out to viewers due to it taking up a quarter of the page and being such a strong image. Its colour is in black and white grayish tones, likewise to the colour scheme of the background. This may suggest that it is a black and white film or may just be an element of sophistication. Those who enjoy more independent films appreciate these use of subtle tones as they are not there to purchase the magazine because of the elaborated graphics and big bright colourful images but instead, this overview reflects the overall tone of the film, co-linking with its genre.

Focusing on the image, it is of a Japanese man looking as though he may be in the age region between 50 and 60. His age may suggest the films aimed to a more older audience as they can relate to the assumption that he is the protagonist. The presentation of the man is the stereotypical cliche image of the authorial character; wearing a near suit, holding a cigarette while also wearing dark shades. This denotes a sense of mystery as we are unaware of this mans profile and his role, which is a pull factor into wanting to read the full article. As his head is slightly raised as well as having straight lips gives him a confidence and shows he is a serious character.

The title is another significant feature which stands out as it is in a large, capitalised, bold red font. This name 'Kurosawa' may be familiar to a Japanese audience or Japanese film lovers who know he is regarded one of the most important influential film makers in the history of cinema. To others, if this name is un-recognisable to them, they may want to read the article to discover the meaning of this word and its relation to the film. From the text above, there instant assumption is that the name is of the 'Japanese cinemas last Emperor'.

This film appears to be a must see due to the other films the magazine focuses on in a lower key white font, listed under the red yet the smaller capitalised title 'plus'. There is little text on the overall cover, only listing the articles films which makes viewers eager into wanting to read up on what they are all about, as this information is hidden from the front cover. The text 'every new filmed reviewed' gives an insight as to what the magazine contains and although in the insignificant white font, it is in a red circle, appealing to lovers of the magazine who want to read and view the most recent, independent films released.

The magazines month release, 'July', is in the repetitive font colour of red so viewers are aware it is the most recent published copy. The price underneath however, is the most un-noticeable text as it is in the smallest font which may have been deliberate due to its relatively expensive magazine price £3.95. This cost appeals to more middle class readers as it is an affordable price for them to buy. The high price may also be an indication that the text inside is long and wordy, which is deliberately done for the stereotypical purpose that more wealthy viewers will want to read the text.

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