KOTV - media language and representation

Question 1

Explain the historical / political influence on the representation of gender

Answer 1

1960s was start of women’s sexual liberation;
- contraceptive pill
- women entering workforce

= dominant female character - Van Zoonen

Question 2

How does the poster obey the codes and conventions of the ‘monster film’ genre?

Answer 2

• serif font ‘wooden’ styled title
• painted poster “eastmans colour”
• black/ brown palette
• actor names in order of fame

iconography of genre
- moon/ night time
- bats
- castle
- blood

Question 3

apply Semiotics theory

Answer 3

suspense is created through enigmas;
- relationships between male and female vampires
- fate of victims
- main villains’ facial expression that suggests fear

Question 4

How are Gesture codes used in the poster?

Answer 4

• body language of passive woman, man is in power, holding her with one arm
• teeth exposed and fist stretched out puts woman in active, dominant position. … and man is passive position.
• facial expression of male vampire makes him appear fearful

Question 5

Appy van zoonen and David Gauntlett to KOTV

Answer 5

GAUNTLETT - dominant woman could become role-model to young women in 2nd wave feminist movement
ZOONEN - woman is in a powerful position and not domestic role.