The names of the main actors in the film appear to be secondary to the title. They are positioned just above the title in a small type - however they're still in capitals and bold, to show their importance. The reviews and text is justified to add structure and are placed along the top of the poster as it draws attention to it.
The images of these actors appear alongside on the poster and appear to be in character, shown by their facial expressions, and positioning on the poster i.e. lined up, however with the male character appearing central to the composition and also slightly forward (shown by his layer being brought forward, causing him to overlap the other female).
Representation:As previously said, mise en scene helps to create the persona and representation of the different characters shown.
The male character is shown to be central in the composition and pulled slightly forward. This suggests that he is perhaps the person in charge (whether this be as an antagonist, we don't know) and has more authority and status.
His formal attire further demonstrates the status he possesses - the tie, along with the long coat, and buttoned jacket, shows a professional look to whatever he appears to be doing. The dark coloured theme to his costume could connote several things: a dark side to him i.e. the antagonist and also a formal/seriousness to his character.
The other two female characters shown on the poster appear to oppose each other. This links with the Narrative Theory proposed by Claude Levi-Strauss. It isn't entirely obvious on the opposition however I think it could show good and bad and also some sort of envy. Helen Mirrens Character on the left appears appears to be running for something (shown by her body language) and her facial expressions show a look of concern. Enigma is created as the audience are left to ask why and what she is running for; is it following the man? Does she work with him? And further, is this why the other female character (right of the man) is shown to be giving her a look (facial expression) of disapproval and disgust?
Genre:
From looking at the poster, the audience can assume that it is of a thriller genre, this is backed up by the IMDB website, which states that it is crime/drama/thriller. This is known as a Hybrid Film as it includes multiple genres.
There are a few semantic codes (Rick Altmans theory of Genre) that connote the genre:
- lighting - this is low key which conveys a 'dark' theme
- the shadows created by the 3 point, and key lighting help connote eeriness.
Audience:This film has a certificate rating of 15 due to:
- Violence and Gore
- Sex and Nudity
- Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking
- Intense Scenes
- Profanity
These all make this film suitable to an audience of no younger than 15. This ,I think, is a suitable target audience, as Brighton is often associated with the younger generation so they would perhaps be more interested to watch this film.
I would however consider an older audience for the film as it is based in the 1930's and therefore would have a greater understanding of the film.
Good analysis Rosie.
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