Media Language - Film Poster Codes & Conventions

Question 1

What are the 9 Film Poster Codes & Conventions?

Answer 1

1. Stars
2. Mark of Quality
3. Expert Criticism
4. Promise of Pleasure
5. Star billing
6. Icinography
7. Tag line
8. Language
9. Image/s

Question 2

What are ‘Stars’?

Answer 2

The stars who are in the film may provide familiarity to the genre.

E.g. Vin Diesel = action

Question 3

What is ‘Mark of Quality’?

Answer 3

This can range from the films typography, institution logo or directors name to reference the quality of the film. This acts as a source of branding and relates to reputation.

Question 4

What is ‘Expert Criticism’?

Answer 4

Quotes from various media institutions suggesting the quality of the film

E.g. breathtaking

Question 5

What is ‘Promise of Pleasure’?

Answer 5

Words and language used to acknowledge what the audience may experience when watching a film

Question 6

What is ‘Star Billing’?

Answer 6

The position of the stars or the names of the stars are alwyas on the poster. There is usually a sense of hierarchy and importance

Question 7

What is ‘Iconography’?

Answer 7

Objects synonymous with a genre will also provide evidence of the film’s genre and even context, whether that be cultural or historical

Question 8

What is a ‘Tag Line’?

Answer 8

Memorable phrase or slogan that becomes memorable for the film

E.g. “You’re gonna need a bigger boat” - Jaws

Question 9

What is ‘Language’?

Answer 9

This will be persuasive and contain a direct mode of address. There may be excessive use of superlatives and hyperbolic language

Question 10

What is an ‘Image/s’?

Answer 10

Image will be carefully chosen and communicate elements of the narrative and role of key characters.