Target Audience
After studying the genres of many movies and their target audiences. I have come to the conclusion that the demographic for my product are 14-18 females, western based in both Britain and America. This would be best suited to the tye of film we are going to produce. The trailer targets the main points in the film and each of them link to teenage life and the teenage problems that many people experience, especially girls. For example the meeting and fancying a boy who usually has a lot of other admirers. It is a common problem that teenage girls can relate to. Also, the level of comedy included in this movie, quite upbeat and girly, would appeal to the audience we have chosen to target.
In order to get a better feel for what attracts people to a particular trailer, and in turn, the film itself I have decided to ask for feedback on what indeed grabs the viewers attention and what attracts them most to the actual film.
The results are as follows;
My first question, "When viewing a trailer, what grabs your attention the most?"
The answers for this poll were:
A variety of shots and camera angles
The dialouge used
The soundtrack
Orginaility and how the movie featured is presented.
Overall, there was a total of 13 votes on my blog and a total of 20 votes outside of my blog which involved me asking people various questions. The element that attract most of the people I asked to a trailer was the originality and how the movie featured is presented, this has proven that in order to attract attention our trailer will have to feature lots of different shots to keep them interest and also add an original edge something that hasn’t been done before. This was closely followed by the variety of shots and camera angles. Many people commented on the fact they wanted to see a large variety which, in turn, would make the feature more interesting to watch. The dialogue and soundtrack used were in joint third place out of all the people I asked. Many commented on how the soundtrack adds to the feel of the scene and helps to explain the narrative, for example a horror genre of film would have a creepy style of music were as a romantic comedy would have a more upbeat style of music. The dialogue used in a trailer adds a bit more interest for the viewer, adds to the story and sometimes helps to tell it.
My second question, “What attracts you most to a film?”
The answers for this poll were:
The film trailer
The actors/actresses involved in the film
The rating received from critics
The company who made the film, for example Disney
Overall, there was a total of 11 votes online and a total of 20 votes outside of my blog which I did separately in order to find out different ways of interacting with the audience not just through one method of research, using a computer. The top answer, was exactly what I expected, the film trailer. Over half of the people I asked said they would judge a film on its film trailer rather than something else, like what the critics say. This result wasn’t very surprising at all. The second most popular answer was the people who actually are actually involved in the film, the actors and actresses, this again wasn’t too surprising. It has shown us that the people we choose to play the role will have to fit them perfectly in order to create the right image and although we can’t afford celebrity endorsement we feel by choosing the people who fit the roles will be just as effective. The least popular answers were, the rating received from critics and the company who made the film. Neither of these answers proved to be that popular in my poll and many people commented that they would rather judge a film for themselves rather than judging it by someone else’s opinion, like a film critics for example. The company involved in the production of the film, I personally thought would influence many people decisions, but they all said it was the trailer which clinched the deal the most for them as some companies who are not that well known still manage to produce excellent films.
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Sunday, 18 October 2009
Character + Location Analysis
Character Analysis
When choosing the characters we wanted to star in our trailer, we took various things into consideration. Firstly, the availability of the individuals. From our previous experience, like the AS level project which was to create a magazine front cover, we knew that people who couldn’t be relied on created more problems then they were worth. So, we wanted to cast people who could guarantee they’d always be around to help us with our trailer. Secondly, we wanted people who would fit the physical and indeed the personal portrayal of the character that would conventionally be in a fairytale. After researching various characters used in other trailers, we set our minds to actually casting the characters. We did encounter a few problems throughout this process. For example, one of the people we wanted to play a lead characters was never around to film so we had to quickly choose someone else who would fir the stereotype we were looking for. It didn’t prove to hard, overall, to find someone to play each of our characters. Most of the characters involved I this trailer, are indeed part of the group. This means that, not only are the always around, they’re also able to input their ideas in a physically.
Our cast list
To play the princesses: Ashley Finch
Charlotte Piper
Charlotte Meek
To play the prince:Matt Kaal
Each of the characters we picked to star in the trailer fitted the look we wanted for our trailer. The princesses all have individual looks and all have an individual acting style. They all contrast well with one another and all fit the conventions of princesses. The character we decided to use as the prince also fitted the conventions of a prince. Like many, he is tall and dark however some of the modern princesses like the one cast in Ella Enchanted appear to have longer hair than then one used in ours. I feel this is a good thing as its adds originality to our trailer.
The locations used in our trailer went through the same process as our character casting. We decided what we wanted each scene to portray then linked in the location. Since our trailer is a modern day fairytale it made sense to film most of it in school. This is because, not only is this where our main target audience spends most of their teenage years, it also adds a modern feel to a fairytale, we are avoiding filming in an old village./fairytale castle like many fairytales and adding individuality to our trailer.
Our location list
School Corridor
Outside of School Area
Common Room
Picnic Benches
Class Room
Most of our trailer was shot in school, this is because we want our target audience which is teenage girls to be able to relate to the narrative and we also wanted to give this trailer a modern edge. We feel that by using an original location which hasn’t been used in traditional fairytales adds a modernistic feel to this fairytale story. We used various locations in school including a Class room, the school corridors, the sixth form common room and indeed the picnic benches in the schoolyard. All these locations, not only represent the school environment but also add a modern edge to this trailer and like I’ve said make it easier for our target audience to link with the narrative. Finally, in order, to add a bit of variety to our trailer we decided to film a couple of scenes outside of school. We felt this added a different appeal to the trailer and originality.
When choosing the characters we wanted to star in our trailer, we took various things into consideration. Firstly, the availability of the individuals. From our previous experience, like the AS level project which was to create a magazine front cover, we knew that people who couldn’t be relied on created more problems then they were worth. So, we wanted to cast people who could guarantee they’d always be around to help us with our trailer. Secondly, we wanted people who would fit the physical and indeed the personal portrayal of the character that would conventionally be in a fairytale. After researching various characters used in other trailers, we set our minds to actually casting the characters. We did encounter a few problems throughout this process. For example, one of the people we wanted to play a lead characters was never around to film so we had to quickly choose someone else who would fir the stereotype we were looking for. It didn’t prove to hard, overall, to find someone to play each of our characters. Most of the characters involved I this trailer, are indeed part of the group. This means that, not only are the always around, they’re also able to input their ideas in a physically.
Our cast list
To play the princesses: Ashley Finch
Charlotte Piper
Charlotte Meek
To play the prince:Matt Kaal
Each of the characters we picked to star in the trailer fitted the look we wanted for our trailer. The princesses all have individual looks and all have an individual acting style. They all contrast well with one another and all fit the conventions of princesses. The character we decided to use as the prince also fitted the conventions of a prince. Like many, he is tall and dark however some of the modern princesses like the one cast in Ella Enchanted appear to have longer hair than then one used in ours. I feel this is a good thing as its adds originality to our trailer.
The locations used in our trailer went through the same process as our character casting. We decided what we wanted each scene to portray then linked in the location. Since our trailer is a modern day fairytale it made sense to film most of it in school. This is because, not only is this where our main target audience spends most of their teenage years, it also adds a modern feel to a fairytale, we are avoiding filming in an old village./fairytale castle like many fairytales and adding individuality to our trailer.
Our location list
School Corridor
Outside of School Area
Common Room
Picnic Benches
Class Room
Most of our trailer was shot in school, this is because we want our target audience which is teenage girls to be able to relate to the narrative and we also wanted to give this trailer a modern edge. We feel that by using an original location which hasn’t been used in traditional fairytales adds a modernistic feel to this fairytale story. We used various locations in school including a Class room, the school corridors, the sixth form common room and indeed the picnic benches in the schoolyard. All these locations, not only represent the school environment but also add a modern edge to this trailer and like I’ve said make it easier for our target audience to link with the narrative. Finally, in order, to add a bit of variety to our trailer we decided to film a couple of scenes outside of school. We felt this added a different appeal to the trailer and originality.
Friday, 16 October 2009
Storyboard
In order to make filming easier we decided to get our ideas down on paper in the form of a storyboard. This, in the long run, will make it easier to film as we no exactly what we want. It also helps us to plan out the camera shots we want and, although not detailed, will also help us decide on the narrative on this trailer in order to make it easier to follow.
The opening sequence consists of a caption and various shots or the school. The caption will be of a fairytale book open, one side will have some sort of relevant picture (just like a fairytale book) and the other will have part of the story so this one will say: Once upon a time’. We got this idea from various fairytale films like Shrek for example which includes a fairytale book opening sequence. The next shot is an establishing shot of the corridor which will be empty, then there is a quick cut to the fire bell and then back to the corridor to show it full of students. The bell signifies the end of class, which then ties in nicely withv the full corridor. There is then a medium close up of three of the main female characters (Ashley, charlotte and Pip) walking down the corridor with the students parting. This is to signify how these girls are different to the other students that go to the school, just like any other conventional teenage movie, they are what is known as ‘Teen Royalty’ everyone wants to be them. A number of close ups of the individual girls is then included in order to add variety and show emotion.
The next caption;’ They’re the girls everyone want to be..’ comes in after the three close up shots. This, again, helps to tell the story and adds a classic feel to our modern version. We then plan to include either a fight scene between two princesses when they see one princess with the prince which we haven’t yet documented because we are not too sure if we want all of it in our trailer. The next caption will then pop up with; ’Until.. ’in it, followed by a close up shot of the prince most likely in slow motion in order to show that he is the ’target’ for the princesses and the centre of all the drama. We then want to include various shots of the narrative, like a three way phone call which starts with a close-up of all three girls on the phone then zooms in to a close up shot of their lips. Adding variety and indeed individuality to this trailer. Another caption then appears; ’This summer..’ which implies the trailer is near an end but also keeps the audience hanging on for the release date (hopefully). We’ve then included a couple of shots of various practical jokes that the princesses play on one another, the example used in the storyboard is the one where one falls over in front of the other and the prince. Then there is a point of view shot of the princess looking up to see the prince stood over her. Then one from his point of view looking down at her which adds variety to the shots used. We want another caption to come up at this point but we’re not to sure what to put on it perhaps something like ’They’re in it to win it’ or ’there fairytales turned to nightmares’. The next sequence of shots revolves around a sequence in which one princess cuts the hair of the other in class. We wanted to use a mixture of shots here, such as a close up to show emotion once the hairs been cut and also a long shot of the class room to show the layout of the table and the princess going to attack the other after cutting it.
To round off our trailer, we plan to include on caption containing the title; ’He’s Mine’ and then we want it to cut to the final ending shot which we want to make enough of an impact for the viewer to want to go and see the film. A close-up of the prince walking away from the three princesses who are in the background, we then want him to whisper something like ’Let the games begin’ but perhaps not that exact phrase as that has already been used in a film called Saw which is actually a horror film which we don’t want to be associated with our modern fairytale. He close up as been included to show emotion but we also want the three princesses in shot. The last caption incorporates; ’In 2010’ then underneath; ’Who will get their happy ever after’. We thought by including a catchy phrase it would entice the viewer to come and see it.
The opening sequence consists of a caption and various shots or the school. The caption will be of a fairytale book open, one side will have some sort of relevant picture (just like a fairytale book) and the other will have part of the story so this one will say: Once upon a time’. We got this idea from various fairytale films like Shrek for example which includes a fairytale book opening sequence. The next shot is an establishing shot of the corridor which will be empty, then there is a quick cut to the fire bell and then back to the corridor to show it full of students. The bell signifies the end of class, which then ties in nicely withv the full corridor. There is then a medium close up of three of the main female characters (Ashley, charlotte and Pip) walking down the corridor with the students parting. This is to signify how these girls are different to the other students that go to the school, just like any other conventional teenage movie, they are what is known as ‘Teen Royalty’ everyone wants to be them. A number of close ups of the individual girls is then included in order to add variety and show emotion.
The next caption;’ They’re the girls everyone want to be..’ comes in after the three close up shots. This, again, helps to tell the story and adds a classic feel to our modern version. We then plan to include either a fight scene between two princesses when they see one princess with the prince which we haven’t yet documented because we are not too sure if we want all of it in our trailer. The next caption will then pop up with; ’Until.. ’in it, followed by a close up shot of the prince most likely in slow motion in order to show that he is the ’target’ for the princesses and the centre of all the drama. We then want to include various shots of the narrative, like a three way phone call which starts with a close-up of all three girls on the phone then zooms in to a close up shot of their lips. Adding variety and indeed individuality to this trailer. Another caption then appears; ’This summer..’ which implies the trailer is near an end but also keeps the audience hanging on for the release date (hopefully). We’ve then included a couple of shots of various practical jokes that the princesses play on one another, the example used in the storyboard is the one where one falls over in front of the other and the prince. Then there is a point of view shot of the princess looking up to see the prince stood over her. Then one from his point of view looking down at her which adds variety to the shots used. We want another caption to come up at this point but we’re not to sure what to put on it perhaps something like ’They’re in it to win it’ or ’there fairytales turned to nightmares’. The next sequence of shots revolves around a sequence in which one princess cuts the hair of the other in class. We wanted to use a mixture of shots here, such as a close up to show emotion once the hairs been cut and also a long shot of the class room to show the layout of the table and the princess going to attack the other after cutting it.
To round off our trailer, we plan to include on caption containing the title; ’He’s Mine’ and then we want it to cut to the final ending shot which we want to make enough of an impact for the viewer to want to go and see the film. A close-up of the prince walking away from the three princesses who are in the background, we then want him to whisper something like ’Let the games begin’ but perhaps not that exact phrase as that has already been used in a film called Saw which is actually a horror film which we don’t want to be associated with our modern fairytale. He close up as been included to show emotion but we also want the three princesses in shot. The last caption incorporates; ’In 2010’ then underneath; ’Who will get their happy ever after’. We thought by including a catchy phrase it would entice the viewer to come and see it.
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
Initial Ideas
In order to come up with ideas for the tailer, i researched various trailers. Using these conventions and indeed the theories of many experts, the group and i have come up with a few rough ideas for the trailer sequence, the shots used and the locations.
This trailer opens with a caption featuring a typical opening of a fairy tale "Once Upon A Time" this is conventional of many fairy tales and adds a classic appeal. The soundtrack will feature an enchanted tune which will cut to a more up beat tune when the next shot appears which shows the viewer immediately that this isn't a classic fairy tale that they have come to expect, it in fact has a modern twist to it. The next shot is a medium long shot of an empty school corridor, still with an upbeat tune in the background. This is an establishing shot and shows the viewer that this trailer is indeed set in a modern day school. A close up shot of a school bell ringing to singal the end of second lesson then appears on screen. This again, empahasises the fact that this trailer has got a modern edge to it. A medium long shot of the school corridor then appears again featuring groups of students and a busy corridor appears. This shows the bussling feel of any school. The camera zooms in to three girls, the modern princesses, who appear on screen (played by Zoe, Charlotte and Ashley).The camera films as the walk through the corridor, then cuts to various close-ups of the individuals. This is done in order to allow the audience to connect with the characters featured. Another caption then flashes up on screen; "They're The Girls Everyone Wats To Be.." again this is presetned on a plain background with a fairytale tune, after this another caption, "Until.." , again with conventional music and a plain background. A close-up of the male lead character (played by Alex) appaears on screen. He proceeds to walk in slow motion up to the camera past Zoe, Charlotte and Ashley. The next shot in split into a 3 way shot in order to show each character in different locations on the phone in the same camera shot. This is put in, in order to allow the viewer to see the three girls are friends but are all after one boy. Following this, a close up three way shot of each of their lips is included in order to add variety. Yet another caption apears, "This Summer", followed by a tracking shot of Charlotte walking along the corridor towards the prince only to fall over and land on the floor in front of him. Then a close-up shot of the Alex, from Charlottes point of view, appears with the added effect of being blurry to show that Charlotte fell over and hit the flor hard enough to knock herself out. The camera then changes to Alex's point of view looking down at Charlotte, she then looks up realizing its Alex and shows herself to be very embarrassed. Another caption appears,"They're In It To Win Him..", Now, to a different location, outside of school. Medium long shot of car with Alex and Zoe in pulling up outside of school. Charlotte and Ashley look on-obvious they are not happy about it, shown with a close up of each of them. Camera shoots to a classroom environment with a close up of a hand with scissors featured. Then flashes to Zoe cutting off Ashley's hair, over shoulder shot of Zoe holding the piece of hair. Zoe then launches herself over the desk, shown in a medium close-up Ashley as she goes to attack Zoe. The title then flashes up on screen then a final medium close-up of Alex walking in front of the girls, all three looking t him as he walks away, Alex then says, "Let The Games Begin". Final caption pops up containing information such as the release date; "In 2010" then "Whose Gonna Get Their Happy Ever After?".
Monday, 12 October 2009
Applying Theory
The 31 Functions of a Fairytale
1. Absentation: One of the members of the family leaves home
2. Interdiction. The hero is told not to do something, for example told not to do something.
3. Violation: The her does the interdiction anyway.
4. Reconnaissance: The villain makes an attempt to try and find something, for example the jewels.
5. Delivery: the villain find out information about the hero.
6. Trickery: The villain tries to trick the hero.
7. Complicity: The victim gives in, at this point the story looks as if it may end in tragedy.
8. Villainy: Villain causes harm to the hero/ family.
9. Mediation: defining moment in the story, hero finds out about the deceit.
10. Beginning counteraction: Hero now decite to act in a way to help the lack. Usually helped by the seeker.
11. Departure: The hero begins their journey.
12. First function of donor: hero is finally tested/interrogated/attacked.
13. The hero’s reaction: The hero reacts to actions of the future donor.
14. Provision or receipt of a magical agent: The hero then gets hold of the magical agent that will help the hero on their journey.
15. Spatial transference, guidance: hero is guided on their journey.
16. Struggle: The hero struggles to beat the villain.
17. Branding, marking: Hero is ’branded’, for example receives a scar/cut etc.
18. Victory: Hero beats the villain
19. Restoration/ Lack liquidated: Initial misfortune is resolved, for example a spell is broken/ curse lifted etc.
20. Return: Hero returns back a legend.
21. Pursuit, chase: Hero is followed by the pursuer, tries to eat/kill/undermine the hero.
22. Rescue: Hero is rescued from pursuer.
23. Unrecognized arrival: Hero is unrecognized and returns home/to a different country
24. Unfounded claims: False hero then presents untrue claims.
25. Difficult task: Hero is given a difficult task.
26. Solution: The task is resolved.
27. Recognition: Hero is finally recognized.
28. Exposure: The false hero/villain is exposed.
29. Transfiguration: New appearance is given to the hero
30. Punishment: Villain is finally punished.
31. Wedding: Hero is usually married/descends the throne/rewarded or promoted.
1. Absentation: One of the members of the family leaves home
2. Interdiction. The hero is told not to do something, for example told not to do something.
3. Violation: The her does the interdiction anyway.
4. Reconnaissance: The villain makes an attempt to try and find something, for example the jewels.
5. Delivery: the villain find out information about the hero.
6. Trickery: The villain tries to trick the hero.
7. Complicity: The victim gives in, at this point the story looks as if it may end in tragedy.
8. Villainy: Villain causes harm to the hero/ family.
9. Mediation: defining moment in the story, hero finds out about the deceit.
10. Beginning counteraction: Hero now decite to act in a way to help the lack. Usually helped by the seeker.
11. Departure: The hero begins their journey.
12. First function of donor: hero is finally tested/interrogated/attacked.
13. The hero’s reaction: The hero reacts to actions of the future donor.
14. Provision or receipt of a magical agent: The hero then gets hold of the magical agent that will help the hero on their journey.
15. Spatial transference, guidance: hero is guided on their journey.
16. Struggle: The hero struggles to beat the villain.
17. Branding, marking: Hero is ’branded’, for example receives a scar/cut etc.
18. Victory: Hero beats the villain
19. Restoration/ Lack liquidated: Initial misfortune is resolved, for example a spell is broken/ curse lifted etc.
20. Return: Hero returns back a legend.
21. Pursuit, chase: Hero is followed by the pursuer, tries to eat/kill/undermine the hero.
22. Rescue: Hero is rescued from pursuer.
23. Unrecognized arrival: Hero is unrecognized and returns home/to a different country
24. Unfounded claims: False hero then presents untrue claims.
25. Difficult task: Hero is given a difficult task.
26. Solution: The task is resolved.
27. Recognition: Hero is finally recognized.
28. Exposure: The false hero/villain is exposed.
29. Transfiguration: New appearance is given to the hero
30. Punishment: Villain is finally punished.
31. Wedding: Hero is usually married/descends the throne/rewarded or promoted.
Sunday, 11 October 2009
Propp's Theory
Propp’s Theory
Vladimir Propp, born in 1895 and died in 1970 came up with the morphology of the fairytale in 1928.
He examined hundreds of fairytales in its generic form, he identified 8 characters and 31 functions which move the story along, for example the punishment of the villain. Another example is the ban of action for example in snow white she is not allowed to eat the apple or she will fall into a deep sleep.
The 8 Characters
The Villain
The Hero
The Donor
The Helper
The Princess
Her Father
The Dispatcher
The false Hero
The 31 Functions
Absentation
Interdiction
Violation Of Interdiction
Reconnaissance
Delivery
Trickery
Complicity
Villainy And Lack
Mediation
Beginning Counter-Action
Departure
First Function Of The Donor
Heroes Reaction
Receipt Of A Magical Agent
Guidance
Struggle
Branding
Victory
Liquidation
Return
Pursuit
Rescue
Unrecognized Arrival
Unfounded Claims
Difficult Task
Solution
Recognition
Exposure
Transfiguration
Punishment
Wedding
Vladimir Propp, born in 1895 and died in 1970 came up with the morphology of the fairytale in 1928.
He examined hundreds of fairytales in its generic form, he identified 8 characters and 31 functions which move the story along, for example the punishment of the villain. Another example is the ban of action for example in snow white she is not allowed to eat the apple or she will fall into a deep sleep.
The 8 Characters
The Villain
The Hero
The Donor
The Helper
The Princess
Her Father
The Dispatcher
The false Hero
The 31 Functions
Absentation
Interdiction
Violation Of Interdiction
Reconnaissance
Delivery
Trickery
Complicity
Villainy And Lack
Mediation
Beginning Counter-Action
Departure
First Function Of The Donor
Heroes Reaction
Receipt Of A Magical Agent
Guidance
Struggle
Branding
Victory
Liquidation
Return
Pursuit
Rescue
Unrecognized Arrival
Unfounded Claims
Difficult Task
Solution
Recognition
Exposure
Transfiguration
Punishment
Wedding
Saturday, 10 October 2009
Levi-Strauss's Theory
Claude Levi-Stauss was a french structuralist and lived during the 1970's. He is famous for putting together his film theory known as the 'binary oppositions'.
In order to find he oppsitions, Struss was less interested in..
1) Syntagmatic relations
-How events line up in the narrative structure, which then develop the plot.
He was most interested in..
2) Paradigtic Relations
-Those events and features that belong to the theme of the piece, especially within genre based texts.
He used the 'western' film genre to develop his theory of binary oppsitions:
Homesteaders Native
Christian Pagen
Domestic Savage
Weak Strong
Garden Wilderness
Inside Society Outisde society
All of these are opposites t one another.
The horror gere of film is also a good example f opposites in films; good + Evil. Another example of this is evident in the crime genre.
law criminals
mean strong
safe streets means streets
sane mad
poor rich
detective villian
In order to find he oppsitions, Struss was less interested in..
1) Syntagmatic relations
-How events line up in the narrative structure, which then develop the plot.
He was most interested in..
2) Paradigtic Relations
-Those events and features that belong to the theme of the piece, especially within genre based texts.
He used the 'western' film genre to develop his theory of binary oppsitions:
Homesteaders Native
Christian Pagen
Domestic Savage
Weak Strong
Garden Wilderness
Inside Society Outisde society
All of these are opposites t one another.
The horror gere of film is also a good example f opposites in films; good + Evil. Another example of this is evident in the crime genre.
law criminals
mean strong
safe streets means streets
sane mad
poor rich
detective villian
Friday, 9 October 2009
Barthe's Theory
Rolan Bathe was a french theorist who came up with his own theory which can be applied to film.
Five action codes that enable an audience to make sense of a narrative:
1) Hermeneuic (narrative turning points)
-We no where abouts the story is going, what is going to happen.
2) Proacien (basic narrative actions)
- For example; detective interviews a suspect, femme fatale seduces hero etc.
(Propps 31 functions)
3) Cultural (prior scial knowledge)
- Our attitudes to gender/racial stereotypes
4) Semic (medium-related codes)
For example; intertextuality
5) Symbolic (themes)
For example; icongraphy or a theme such as "Image versus reality"
(Curtis Hanson)
Five action codes that enable an audience to make sense of a narrative:
1) Hermeneuic (narrative turning points)
-We no where abouts the story is going, what is going to happen.
2) Proacien (basic narrative actions)
- For example; detective interviews a suspect, femme fatale seduces hero etc.
(Propps 31 functions)
3) Cultural (prior scial knowledge)
- Our attitudes to gender/racial stereotypes
4) Semic (medium-related codes)
For example; intertextuality
5) Symbolic (themes)
For example; icongraphy or a theme such as "Image versus reality"
(Curtis Hanson)
Saturday, 3 October 2009
Todorov's Theory
Todorov’s Theory
“Disrupted Equilibrium”
Equilibrium
Disequilibrium
Equilibrium
Equilibrium: ‘Status Quo’ where things are as they should be
Disequilibrium: ‘Status Quo’ is disrupted by an event
Equilibrium: is restored at the end of the story by the actions of the hero.
An example of this is a movie called Independence Day.
Equilibrium: People are living their daily lives normally, day to day activity the same as it always was, always has been.
Disequilibrium: The people are disrupted by the arrival of an alien space ship.
Equilibrium: The alien space ship is exterminated and the people go back to living their lives again.
Later, Todorov developed his theory into a 5 stage pattern:
1. A state of equilibrium at the outset
2. A disruption of the equilibrium by some action
3. Recognition that there has been a disruption
4. Attempt to repair the disruption
5. Reinstatement of the equilibrium.
This shows a development from three stages too five.
“Disrupted Equilibrium”
Equilibrium
Disequilibrium
Equilibrium
Equilibrium: ‘Status Quo’ where things are as they should be
Disequilibrium: ‘Status Quo’ is disrupted by an event
Equilibrium: is restored at the end of the story by the actions of the hero.
An example of this is a movie called Independence Day.
Equilibrium: People are living their daily lives normally, day to day activity the same as it always was, always has been.
Disequilibrium: The people are disrupted by the arrival of an alien space ship.
Equilibrium: The alien space ship is exterminated and the people go back to living their lives again.
Later, Todorov developed his theory into a 5 stage pattern:
1. A state of equilibrium at the outset
2. A disruption of the equilibrium by some action
3. Recognition that there has been a disruption
4. Attempt to repair the disruption
5. Reinstatement of the equilibrium.
This shows a development from three stages too five.
Wednesday, 30 September 2009
Focused Analysis 3: Locations
Again, I'm focusing on the cinderella story trailer in order to keep consistency in my research.
Since this film is based on a modern fairy tale. The first opening shot is of an enchanted castle which only appears in the opening shot. This sets the theme of the story. The frosty looking landscape contrasts well with that of Los Angeles, a desert like place. The landscape f Los Angeles has been included with a beautiful blue sky. This allows the viewer to establish where this film is set. The wooden fence also adds to this scene, because it is so small, the viewer feels as if LA is the best place to escape too.
The house in which Cinderella lives in with her stepmother and step sisters is quite inviting itself. The LA style architecture adds an appeal to this shot and also emphasizes the authenticity of the house. The colour scheme used adds to the sunny landscape and the browns and whites compliment each other well. The characters clothing and style contrasts well with that of the house. Overall, this house shows that although the family is well off, the size and look of Cinderella's room shows that she herself is quite underprivileged. The outside area of this house includes a pool and a sun bed. This shows the viewer that this family is indeed very privileged and very well off. Also, adding in the garden scenes adds variety to this trailer.
The cafe in which Cinderella is works is also included, this is too show that although she comes from a well-off background she still has to work. The cafe decor is similar to that of an 80's cafe with the checked floor tiles and the bold wall paint. The round tables add a friendly atmosphere and the fact the counter runs the whole way through the cafe adds a stylish look to the whole place.
Another main location used is the school. This environment is perfect for a romantic comedy as it is a common believe that teenagers are the ones to have the most fantasy romances and school is the conventional location to show this. By including a school, ost of the target audience can relate to this story. Inside the school, there is shots of the library where cinderella spends her time talking to her 'Prince' through the computer, this adds mystery. Cinderella is also shown here when doing her work, proving she is smart and wants to do well. he location used adds to the narrative and the viewers understanding of it.
Also featured is the batting cage where Cinderella works on her baseball skills. This location is used as her personal space as earlier on in the story we are told that she used to play there with her dad before he was killed. The cage she is in perhaps represents the fact she feels trapped and this is the only place she feels she can let off steam.
Like every fairy tale, the Princess has to get her Prince. The location used for this scene is that of a ball. The lighting used adds to the romantic feel and the location seems to be well style and fits the narrative well. The colour scheme used in this location adds to the enchanted feel of the ball and also adds a formal appeal to this scene. When the camera moves outside, into the garden, an arch comes into shot decorated with white flowers and beautiful lighting which sets the scene off nicely. The white fencing ties in with the white flowers which compliments the whole scene well. The fairy lights composition seem to get more compact as the camera drops down to reveal a the bottom of the arch. Overall creating a fairy tale like location.
Monday, 28 September 2009
Focused Analysis 2:Sound/Music
In order to carry on with a focused analysis i have chosen to look again at the Cinderella Story trailer as i feel being consistent will help me to dissect exactly what i need in my video.
This trailer starts off with fairy tale music to go along with the establishing shot. This has been done in order to introduce this film as a fairy tale, when the twist in this story becomes obvious it is more of a surprise to the audience. To go long with the ambient soundtrack there is a voice over the top. This voice tells the story in a traditional way thus adding to the fairy tale theme.
When the camera changes to a shot of Los Angeles, the music changes and its no longer the traditional type instead it changes to a more upbeat sound. this has been done in order to show the change of narrative, to show the viewer that this story line isn't traditional in the sense that this one is based in a modern day setting. Also, just before the music changes, a musical effect has been added in in order to show that the soundtrack is going to change to a different type of sound.
As the film continues, conversations between the characters start to play over the top of the ambient sound. This, in turn, creates an interesting trailer and also hints at the viewer what the narrative is without giving too much away. However, the voice over still continues which adds to the variety of this trailer.
Each shot, generally, seems to include a voice over and the characters speaking. When the shot changes from one to another a sound effect has been added which sounds as if a page is being turned. This has been done to, again add variety to the shot, and also give the impression that this story is being read out of a fairy tale book.
When various objects are added to the trailer, like a mobile for example, different sound effects are placed in to go along with it in order to add variety to this soundtrack. When a text message flashes up on the mobile, a beeping sound is added which cuts in to the ambient soundtrack this has been done to make sure tat the viewer focuses n the phone and the fact a message has gone through thus making the story line easy to understand. Also, the fact that sound effects have been added when the buttons are being pressed adds to the reality factor and again keeps the viewer interested in the story line.
Whilst playing baseball, the main female character whose representing a 'princess', hits the ball really hard sending it over to where the modern 'prince is. The ambient soundtrack goes from gentle quiet background music to a loud dramatic soundtrack to express her triumphant hit. This adds variety to the soundtrack and also expresses the fact that she is skilled at baseball. Overall, expressing the personality of this character.
A the ball, when the 'Princess' appears in the shot, the music changes a enchanted soundtrack to express the fact she has developed into a beautiful woman. This is carried on after the voice overs from the characters when the camera shoots to the dancing outside, the fact that for the first time a soundtrack is used which includes lyics. This has been done because there is no voiceovers from this point onwards. The lyrics of this song also link to what is going on in this scene and what is going on overall in the story line.
Saturday, 26 September 2009
Focused Analysis 1: Characters
For my focused analysis on characters i decided to look at the characters used in popular trailers. I have chosen to look at the cinderella story as i feel this links in well with my chosen genre. Since this film is based on a modern version of a fairy tale, Cinderella, each of the characters have a similar appeal that the original characters have.
Firstly the female character who plays the step-mother. She has been made to look like a modern American mother with a selfish side which links nicely to the original story. She has been made to seem jealous of the main character, Cinderella, which again fits in with the original fairy tale. Throughout the story she is made to seem as if she is in control and also made to seem as if she is the boss. As well as this, throughout the film, she is made to seem vein which is shown by the fact she gets botox in the film, Thus, following the conventions of a step-mother in many films and fairy tales. Also, the clothes she wears throughout this film, seem to be modern versions of the clothes worn in the fairy tale. This has been done to add a modern feel to this film.
The character modeled to be like cinderella, is obvious from the start of this film trailer. She first comes into shot wearing ordinary clothes, nothing that stands out which is how Cinderella starts off in the original fairy tale. Also, the modern cinderella is shown working in a cafe, scrubbing the floor and acting as a waitress which again fits in nicely with the original story where she is a slave to hr step-mother, technically she is too in the modern version as the step-mother is the one who owns the cafe. This character also has appearance similarities to that of the original cinderella, for example the blonde hair tied up and out of her face, also her striking blue eyes which conventionally fits in with many fairy tales like Sleeping Beauty. Eventually, Cinderella's happy ending starts to come together when she attends the school prom wearing a prom dress which fits in with the character nicely, and also the conventional characters in fairy tales who always get their happy ending. Also her personality in this film is similar to how Cinderella in the original fairy tales is. She is kinda and caring which is conventional of many fairy tale princesses.
Also, a main feature in the original fairy tale is the two step-sisters. These have also been featured in this film, and made just as selfish and nasty as they are in the fairy tale. The two characters contrast well with each other when focusing on their appearance. One is tall and skinny were as one is short and plump. One comes across as being bossy were as the other seems to be less intelligent. These two personalities are conventional of twosome in a story like this for example the two burglars in another movie called Home Alone. Each of their outfits seem to fit with what's going on in the story. For example when they are relaxing they wear matching tracksuits in different colors. When they attend the fancy dress ball they dress up as twin cats. The fact they wore these could signify the fact that they are sly and scheming.
Finally, the Prince. He has been portrayed as the 'popular' character with a lot of friends who hang around with the ' right ' people, they guy who has the pick of the girls. His exterior character is portrayed as having everything but as the story goes on the viewer discovers that he is looking for his princess and his happy ending as well. Perhaps unconventional of a fairy tale, is the fact his character has short blonde hair as opposed to long blonde hair which many princes are portrayed to have. This has obviously been done to give this story a modern edge. The clothing he wears in this film is quite simplistic, he has been styled in average dress with a slight edge, i.e rolled up sleeves or jeans with original sneakers. Also, whilst at the fancy dress ball, the 'prince' actually turns up dressed as a prince were as his two friends turn up looking like his henchmen-obviously been done to portray the fact he has turned up to save the princess from her life of misery.
Friday, 25 September 2009
The Proposal Trailer
Shot 1: (0:06) This trailer kicks off with an establishing shot of New York city. This is made obvious by the fact there are yellow taxis in this shot. This scene has been speeded up in order to show how fast paced the city actually is and the tall buildings in the background imply that this is a place for how powered jobs and people who are successful. The background seems to be faded into the rest of the scene which gives the impression that it goes on forever.
Shot 2: (0:07) Although simplistic, i decided to analyse this bit of the trailer as i feel it is an interesting way of introducing the main characters. The black writing on a white background adds a modernistic feel to it, a clean-cut approach. Also, from simply the font size and the colour scheme, it is implied that this is an office based romantic comedy. These shots, explaining what is going on, keep flashing up at various stages in this trailer. Not only to they add an original edge to this trailer, they also help to explain the story.
Shot 3:(1:02) This medium close-up reveals the contrast between the two characters facial expressions. The male character looks confused were as the female character looks quite impressed. The light brown background compliments what the characters are wearing. The male character is wearing a red tie, in this context i think it signifies romance. The black suit in which the female character is wearing implies she is a serous business woman, very smart looking.
Shot 4: (1:41)This shot could either be described as an over the shoulder shot or a medium close up. The camera is positioned over the shoulder of the main female leed, but not in such a way that it is obviously an over the shoulder shot. By filming this scene in a moving vehicle it adds variety to the trailer and keeps the viewer interested. The expression on the male characters face is a reaction to what has gone on in the previous scene.
Shot 5: (1:50) This close-up shot focuses in on the characters comical kiss. It is obvious from this shot that the characters are forcing themselves to show affection. Thus, adding a comedy edge to the film. It is interesting how the camera has focused purely onto the male character as opposed to the female character who's main facial features are faced away from the camera. Also, what the male character is wearing adds to the relaxed nature of this scene and makes him look like any other regular guy who has got himself into an awkward situation.
Shot 6: (2:21) This medium close up features three characters, each placed differently in the shot. The character at the back is facing forward but her head is tilted a little bit. The main female character is shown to look a little awkward, shown by the fact that her eyes are focused elsewhere than what is going on. The final character is facing with her back to the camera showing that she is fixing the dress. The camera work in this scene proves that this scene is meant to show emotion and ad an edge to this scene.
Overall, I feel this is an effective trailer for a romantic comedy. It grabs the viewers attention and, more importantly, keeps it. The camera work used is conventional of a trailer for this genre as it includes various bits of speech, a typical plot and also an upbeat ambient soundtrack. I feel that by taking various ideas from this and adding them to my own trailer, i could produce something which is not only effective, but fits perfectly with the genre.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Ella Enchanted Trailer
Shot 1: (0:08) This trailer starts off with a establishing shot of various parts of a fairy tale castle. Already it is obvious this film is set in a classic storybook kingdom. This shot has been used in order to attract the viewers attention and set the scene. As the camera zooms forward, yellow lettering stating a conventional set of words appears, this adds to the fairy tale appeal as many classic fairy tales include this opening sequence. The yellow colouring compliments the background and grabs the viewers attention right away. The font used echoes that of a medieval genre, again making it obvious that its set in an old style village.
Shot 2: (0:22) This shot is very interesting, the camera pans through the wall and adds variety to the shots used. It makes the viewer feel as if they are watching the character, the fourth person in the room. The room in which its set and indeed the clothes they are wearing adds to the classic, medieval setting. Ella, the main character, is dressed in plain clothe when compared to the other two women in the room who are in quite fancy dresses, meaning the viewer can relate to Ella’s character. A special effect is also included in this sequence, a ringing sound as that main character is told what she must do, thus triggering the spell over her. Along with the noise effects, there are also visual effects. Purple sparkles pop up just as the spell comes into action-this adds a magical feel to the story.
Shot 3:(0:36) A birds eye view of Ella sat at a desk in the library adds an interesting appeal to this trailer. As the camera zooms out, it spins which adds variety to this shot and makes it stand out, thus grabbing the viewers attention. An old style library and desk is included in this scene along with some authentic looking books which all add to the medieval appeal. Instead of lights, candles are used, which light the room in a mysterious fashion, giving a magical appeal. Two stones pillars have also been included which again adds to he authenticity of this scene. I also noted how Ella is surrounded by a pool of light which draws the viewers attention. The colour scheme used, compliments the scene and what has been included in it.
Shot 4: (0:38) The next shot, a long shot, is of an enchanted forest. In the corner there is a thick tree truck this emphasises the fact that this scene is set in a forest. The moss included on it adds to the authenticity of it and gives it a more magical appeal. The green grass included suits the forest landscape and everything look clean cut. The clothes in which Ella is wearing, coloured purple, compliments the leafy background.
Shot 5: (0:45) A long shot is next included to show a market place and to set the scene for the next part of the story. The most notable feature of this shot is the coloured streams of flags, coloured to compliment the rest of the shot. As Ella swings along the rope, the ambient soundtrack gets more dramatic and so does the voice over-this adds to the excitement in this scene. The shot makes this place look crowded, showing the reader that this is a busy town square, thus making them wonder what has led Ella to it.
Shot 6: (1:01) This close up shot has been used so the viewer focuses purely on the expression of the characters. The fact that the male character has chosen to hide behind the female proves that she is the stronger one. The blue gown she is wearing implies she is peaceful and quite delicate. The background, however, is quite plain and a little out of focus showing that the audience attention should be solely on the characters in place.
Shot 7:(1:24) An extreme close up on Ella’s face has also been included, this has been done in order to show her facial expression and nothing else. The background is dark, lit only by a burning fire, which adds a romantic appeal to this scene. Her hair is fashioned simply and she has no bold make-up this is too make sure the viewer pays 100% attention to what is going on and what is being said in this scene.
Shot 8: (1:51) A medium close up shows the main character in the shot, but also what is going on around him, again adding variety to this trailer. A special effect has been added, purple mist flying towards the book, this has again been added to intrigue the viewer and also add a magical fairytale appeal. The ambient soundtrack speed up and there is a ’whoosh’ sound along with it this adds to the effect.
Overall, I think that this trailer is an excellent one to extract ideas from. It has given me a lot of ideas and shown me how variety is important. For example the mis-en-scene tells the viewer a lot about what is going on in the shot and the camera angles add to the excitement on in each frame. In order to attract the viewers attention, and more importantly keep it, I will have to make sure each shot is exciting and relevant to narrative of the story as the purpose of a trailer is to give the audience a taster.
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