http://www.ramasscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Basterds-Empire.jpg
At the near top of the page the title of the magazine “Empire” is in direct eye contact with the reader. Empire magazine has a distinct colour scheme, one which fits in with the main person and background on the front cover. “Empire” it’s self is impacting in red colour font, and in block capitals, obviously a successful magazine, as part of the name of the magazine is concealed, due to the high recognition and popularity of the magazine. The blood red title makes a statement with the force of its colour, but also connotates violence and war, due to the character on the front cover. The red could signify rage and bloodlust, as well as power that the magazine can influence over the reader by appearing vicious. Due to the brutality the front cover suggests this magazine seems to appeal to males rather than females. The heading “Wowser” that insinuates the sex appeal of a female celebrity is also more reason to believe this magazine influences men. “Wowser” is also slang, that appears casual and generates a buzz of exciting feeling as well as giving the feeling that they can adopt an informal way of speaking to their readers. It gives reason of having something eye catching and to prepare for the surprise. This heading is in grey, that fits in with the stone wall in the background. The writing in the same tone of colour, could connotate rocks and walls. Rocks appearing solid, walls indicating a stability and sense of being hard to penetrate. This helps make the magazine adopt strength and solidity by the colour concerning stones and walls. The magazine appears alive and animated with it’s particular layout The blood thirty nature of the magazine continues with the red blood like smears that underline each piece of text underneath headers. It gives the feeling of tribal paint, as well as sacrificial colours, but most importantly it could insinuate war paint, what is smeared on warriors. Against the grey of the background this does well to appear bold and harsh as it underlines. The conventions of a female magazine are not present on the cover, and the colours, blue, white, red and grey mainly fit in with the male audience, an age of young adults perhaps of the age 15 and above.
A statistic is used at the top page, just a bit smaller then the title, to signify this heading is important on it’s own, and in white font shows clearly against a grey circle what keeps this heading away from everything else by enclosing it. The fact that it is not “1000” but “1001” indicates that they want to go beyond the borders of having whole figures, to appear more generous in crossing over so that it makes a difference to the reader, by offering just that little bit more. Alongside the statistic is it’s heading “Greatest Movie Moments” and “Greatest” is significantly in white colour, the adjective obviously more declarative and positive so that it has the different colour of font. Whilst “Movie Moments” is bright in rich blue appearing natural and casual. The end of the writing is concluded with an exclamation to highlight the audacity of thrilling the reader.
Next to this is snap shots that appear to be taken out of movies, with main characters positioned in Polaroid shaped lines. The white again enclosing the pictures so it stands out. These characters are recognised as being famous and legendary because of the way the magazine names the characters, by their second names such as “Alfred Hitchcock” is recognised as his surname, indicating that this magazine relies upon the reader’s knowledge of films in order to aspire to what the magazine is about. Again although not in slang it’s casual with its sense of not naming the characters by first name, appearing perhaps to give readers optimism and a sense of pride that readers will be able to recognise these characters. Again exclamations are made to highlight the euphoria of how these characters have earned their place in film history.
The website is advertised in small font underneath the title so that it can offer other means of what the magazine might be about with this link. . The tagline underneath the main heading says “The worlds biggest movie magazine” in white block capitals. As well as stating that this is a monumental feat of grasping the world with it’s power of influence, it has to over-state positively by saying “biggest” as if the world is not enough to declare it’s success, it has to be almost bigger than the world as if it’s a phenomenal magazine. It states it’s a movie magazine, but this is already made apparent with the movie snap shots, and main character on the front of the page.. The date and issue number is in small font that fits stylishly into the arch of the letter M.
The animated feel of the magazine continues with the subheading “Brad Pitt wants a word!” in capital letters. It makes it personal. Firstly it brings into perspective who the actor is, then it’s involvement with the reader is direct, sharp and authorities in order to appear rude to the reader. So therefore it’s mental attack with words is clear already, that the reader in question must have some nerve, and with the magazine must expect nothing short on being blunt with it’s words, with no fancy language at the moment in effect to persuade the reader to read it, in fact the magazine almost wards off the reader. But this could be why it’s alluring to men who are more associated with the intrigue of danger and violence, then women. So it’s confident and cocky approach in fact enthrals their audience more. The heading is also captioned in a red box, making the letters murderous with the use of the red colour, as well as having to caged as if the wrath of the words can not stand alone and have to be controlled.
The character again is dressed in dull boring colours, with a dusty scarf, over what looks an expensive coat, which could implicate he is vein because of his wealth and accumulate to dressing well, but this is disparaged with the weapon he holds and scar on his neck that makes him more menacing and less self absorbed in his attire that is relevant but not a huge part of his character.
The knife is cleverly made to look like it’s blade which is not just singular but double, is actually going to pierce the magazine fatally, due to the feel it generates. The knife it’s self connotates violence, and possibly death and also victory, as the facial expression on the actors face is defined as grim, but there can be glimpsed an underlying sense of pride. The knife is not seeming to glamorize the magazine but more of make a statement of this magazine is “cutting edge”.
At the bottom of the magazine Brad Pitts name is repeated again, as if to showcase this magazine on the subject of the stars status. Then very cleverly, as if to impose upon the reader a secretive file to be exposed they use the words “only” twice, in the colour red to stand out, as if their magazine is the only one which specializes in being able to conduct things in their magazine what other magazines can’t. The repetition of “Only” also sets a growing amount of wonder at what’s going to be provoked and uncovered in the magazine. At the bottom a banner reveals male celebrity’s that are going to appeal to the male audience perhaps. There is a headline “Exclusives” that makes Empire look like they bring something new to the table and are always fresh with the newest news on films, with another insight into their consummate devouring of finding new things out, such as “Verdicts” that show their interest at reviewing the latest films and providing their source of opinion on the recent films that have came out which will intrigue their readers if they want to find out if the film has negative criticism or positive reviews.
Overall Empire manages to bring their magazine into the style on one which is opinionated, blunt but which also transgresses into a tongue in cheek humour, expressively directing it at the reader in a rude way, which makes the magazine more exciting in it’s appeal of being daring to defy the readers in some way.
After deconstructing this Empire magazine it has helped me with my view of how if want to plan out my magazine and the approach I may want to give it. I think as my film is in the horror genre it might be good to have a magazine with a front cover that is scathing with reaching out to an audience and making them feel scared just like a film would. This could be adopted into my magazine by making sure that the characters on my magazine would have expressions that convey hostility towards the reader, as well as not having bright colourful images and vibrant backgrounds, as instead of setting a sombre affect to my magazine, I want to make the magazine look strong. I could perhaps do this by choice of writing being set in a certain way with the right colour, and right stance across my magazine as well as perhaps giving a historic old age appeal to give the magazine the sense of not being worn down and beaten, but the sense of having endured time, making my magazine seem knowledgeable and display less naivety.
Saturday, 5 December 2009
Deconstruction of Ghost Ship Film Poster -Kurt
http://www.critcononline.com/images/ghost%20ship%20poster.jpg
The posters Title is less significant then the main quote, which is unusual for film posters, as the title is the main thing which is meant to grab our attention, so going against the main conventions of normal posters they must have done so for a reason. The quote is in block capitals, and cleverly done, so that there are two colours mixed into the title in the same hues, and is made to be effective as if showing deep water rising in the letters “Sea Evil”. The blue connotates a cold sense of foreboding, as well as the intended effect of water. The words it’s self are placed above a ship, Sea is obvious as to what it means, but the second word “Evil” changes the course of the title from just being about a voyage in a ship, to something major important thought provoking, and a warning almost that on the sea something goes against the nature of goodness. The Title perhaps is smaller than the quote it’s self, because it is made to look like it is singing visually into the water, which would be more impacting then at the top of the page as it wouldn’t achieve the intended effect. They also are sinking into a darker shade of the water, not the lighter blue waters, but the black water, making it more menacing and mysterious, as the letters are sinking to more dangerous depths. The colour white makes the title ethereal and mystical. It also glows as if the ship stakes it’s claim to be on the water. The Title reveals that there is going to be a haunted ship plagued with ghost perhaps, but it also could be that the ship it’s self is a ghost, and the ship is alive of it’s own without Ghosts. The title connotates the supernatural, gloom, and perhaps a past. It indicates the film is a horror film. It’s eerie colours and evil and wickedness that is felt with this title, to me would be a film for the age of 15 and over. I think the audience intended for it is teenagers of any gender, because it doesn’t have many conventions to show that this could be for one set gender apart from perhaps the fact that this could be of the action genre as well, influencing the males more then the women. But the incorporeal beings that add suspense and horror to the movie could be appealing to the women who like to be scared by a ghostly film.
The main feature picture is dead on in the centre of the poster, so that our eyes don’t have to divert to the sides, so it is fully captivating our attention. The image of the ship is cloaked in the shadow of a malevolence face that makes up the bottom end of the ship, grinning ominously, achieving evil potential because the expression is carved onto a skull. This could connotate a history that comes with the ship, must most directly tells us that the ship could be cursed in some way and haunted. The face gives the sense of impending doom, with one side looking evil incarnate with black colour, giving effect to the empty eye sockets with no eyes, yet still appearing to be watching without use of its eyes. The other side a lighter blue that is made to look transparent, as if the body of a ghost or something immaterial that connects with forces of the occult. The face also seems to be mocking the ship, as if the Ship doesn’t know what is actually on board with it. There appears to be a crack in the face, this could represent the idea of a flaw in the scheme of the boat, something manipulative of the horror the ship wishes to cause. Behind the ship are clouds of a pale white and blue, giving the effect of something ghastly coming out of a dark night, the clouds almost misty substance, looking like they have gave birth to a monstrosity of the sea, surrounding the ship in a worshipping way, as if the ship has immense power over things. Maybe conscious of their poster, the shape and position of the ship is very much like referencing the film Jaws, as the shark rises up nose point towards the waters surface, only this isn’t a beast but a entity that has already rose before the surface, dangerous and about to inflict terror before anyone can be warned. The ship it’s self looks tragic as if something has happened that is so shocking, that the nature of the ship is reformed because of the events that have taken place. The Skull which is also the symbol of death, could show that death looks for victims on the ship.
The whole colour scheme gives the overall feeling of isolation, and the sense of being lost. The darkness indicates this sense of being trapped, with no light to show the way forward. The blue could suggest the climate what is to be expected in the film, but also the emotions of the people, who in a remote sea perhaps are being affected by the frosty damnable cold which attacks, that being a force of evil, not the weather it’s self. The flash of white doesn’t suggest in this case a goodness, but a sterility that seems mad with the knowledge of being sterile as the title also could present the wrath as it sinks down into the water.
There is no indication if there is going to be famous Hollywood stars in the movie, and relies more up on it’s picture then the actors who might be in it, giving us insight that the film might be important of it’s own accord without the actors.
The credits are not that distinct but are shown underneath the title , the main director of the film the first thing in white small text to be seen. The maker of the film could give insight into what type of film it is going to be. A website is underneath the credits to promote the film. And underneath that, although it doesn’t say the release date, is the word “Halloween” to indicate when it is going to fall. The fact that they chose that day to release the film, makes the film look more sinister and appealing, by choosing a day of revered superstition, making the audience feel like they need to give the film a wide berth, as in be cautious of the impact of the film, gives a more realistic sense of fear. This makes the film more solid in it’s way of scaring the audience but also making them anxious.
The posters Title is less significant then the main quote, which is unusual for film posters, as the title is the main thing which is meant to grab our attention, so going against the main conventions of normal posters they must have done so for a reason. The quote is in block capitals, and cleverly done, so that there are two colours mixed into the title in the same hues, and is made to be effective as if showing deep water rising in the letters “Sea Evil”. The blue connotates a cold sense of foreboding, as well as the intended effect of water. The words it’s self are placed above a ship, Sea is obvious as to what it means, but the second word “Evil” changes the course of the title from just being about a voyage in a ship, to something major important thought provoking, and a warning almost that on the sea something goes against the nature of goodness. The Title perhaps is smaller than the quote it’s self, because it is made to look like it is singing visually into the water, which would be more impacting then at the top of the page as it wouldn’t achieve the intended effect. They also are sinking into a darker shade of the water, not the lighter blue waters, but the black water, making it more menacing and mysterious, as the letters are sinking to more dangerous depths. The colour white makes the title ethereal and mystical. It also glows as if the ship stakes it’s claim to be on the water. The Title reveals that there is going to be a haunted ship plagued with ghost perhaps, but it also could be that the ship it’s self is a ghost, and the ship is alive of it’s own without Ghosts. The title connotates the supernatural, gloom, and perhaps a past. It indicates the film is a horror film. It’s eerie colours and evil and wickedness that is felt with this title, to me would be a film for the age of 15 and over. I think the audience intended for it is teenagers of any gender, because it doesn’t have many conventions to show that this could be for one set gender apart from perhaps the fact that this could be of the action genre as well, influencing the males more then the women. But the incorporeal beings that add suspense and horror to the movie could be appealing to the women who like to be scared by a ghostly film.
The main feature picture is dead on in the centre of the poster, so that our eyes don’t have to divert to the sides, so it is fully captivating our attention. The image of the ship is cloaked in the shadow of a malevolence face that makes up the bottom end of the ship, grinning ominously, achieving evil potential because the expression is carved onto a skull. This could connotate a history that comes with the ship, must most directly tells us that the ship could be cursed in some way and haunted. The face gives the sense of impending doom, with one side looking evil incarnate with black colour, giving effect to the empty eye sockets with no eyes, yet still appearing to be watching without use of its eyes. The other side a lighter blue that is made to look transparent, as if the body of a ghost or something immaterial that connects with forces of the occult. The face also seems to be mocking the ship, as if the Ship doesn’t know what is actually on board with it. There appears to be a crack in the face, this could represent the idea of a flaw in the scheme of the boat, something manipulative of the horror the ship wishes to cause. Behind the ship are clouds of a pale white and blue, giving the effect of something ghastly coming out of a dark night, the clouds almost misty substance, looking like they have gave birth to a monstrosity of the sea, surrounding the ship in a worshipping way, as if the ship has immense power over things. Maybe conscious of their poster, the shape and position of the ship is very much like referencing the film Jaws, as the shark rises up nose point towards the waters surface, only this isn’t a beast but a entity that has already rose before the surface, dangerous and about to inflict terror before anyone can be warned. The ship it’s self looks tragic as if something has happened that is so shocking, that the nature of the ship is reformed because of the events that have taken place. The Skull which is also the symbol of death, could show that death looks for victims on the ship.
The whole colour scheme gives the overall feeling of isolation, and the sense of being lost. The darkness indicates this sense of being trapped, with no light to show the way forward. The blue could suggest the climate what is to be expected in the film, but also the emotions of the people, who in a remote sea perhaps are being affected by the frosty damnable cold which attacks, that being a force of evil, not the weather it’s self. The flash of white doesn’t suggest in this case a goodness, but a sterility that seems mad with the knowledge of being sterile as the title also could present the wrath as it sinks down into the water.
There is no indication if there is going to be famous Hollywood stars in the movie, and relies more up on it’s picture then the actors who might be in it, giving us insight that the film might be important of it’s own accord without the actors.
The credits are not that distinct but are shown underneath the title , the main director of the film the first thing in white small text to be seen. The maker of the film could give insight into what type of film it is going to be. A website is underneath the credits to promote the film. And underneath that, although it doesn’t say the release date, is the word “Halloween” to indicate when it is going to fall. The fact that they chose that day to release the film, makes the film look more sinister and appealing, by choosing a day of revered superstition, making the audience feel like they need to give the film a wide berth, as in be cautious of the impact of the film, gives a more realistic sense of fear. This makes the film more solid in it’s way of scaring the audience but also making them anxious.
Deconstruction of Obsessed Film Poster-Kurt
http://i43.tinypic.com/9t3acj.jpg
The poster’s title Obsessed is displayed in block capitals, and across the middle of the picture so that it stands out. The colour of the title is strange, as it’s a mixture of white and black, to oppositional colours, perhaps indentifying the characters, or part of the meaning of the film. Such as the white side of the title on the two characters, could be the pure innocent people in the film, where as the black mysterious colour could signify the dark streak there could be to the other character. Or it could identify the take over of evil that arises in the story, as the black colour is slowly taking over the white, presenting the idea of a shift in the goodness of things.
The conflict that arises between loves is made apparent in the quote, “all’s fair when love is war”. It could also signify the film may hold a few violent scenes, if war is brought into the question. But it could also be meant for one particular, like someone who doesn’t comprehend the importance of what they may be doing because they are in love. It’s sarcastic, but also thought provoking, or possibly even sadistic and physiologically dealing with an unstable mind. Romance is also a factor of the film, as “Love” signifies this, but the “War” suggests it might not be as charming with much sentiment, and is more abrasive then normal “slushy” romance films.
The dress code is made significant to what each character is conformed to wear. Such as the tall man looks powerful in his crisp working suit, and smart shoes, and blue silk tie which makes him look successful. Where as the female beside him also wears dull colours to represent her role in a work force, with a black belt and black high heels to make her seem sassy and elegant. Her hair is the lustre of curls to add to her appeal as a woman, but in total her uniform signifies she is a powerful woman. The ring she wears could mean she is linked to the man beside her, and that’s why it was important to be shown in the poster, as she is in fact standing in close proximity to the man, giving us the impression she is romantically linked with him. The other woman stands out more, with a deep red dress, that indicates glamour, and sense of being appealing to her and others. She is wearing heels, and is in a certain stance with them, to appear sexual perhaps. Again the hair also warms to her confidence of sexuality. She looks imposing, and dangerous, as if the red imposes a warning, against the other colours of the poster. Also could represent her as the devil in the film, the feisty one set to cause trouble.
She is also cloaked in shadow more then other people, half in shadow, whilst the other half of her gleaming, represent a split personality, or a darker aspect to her character. Her heels are even shadowed, the heels looking sharp and deadly. Whilst the other couple are not so much shadowed, standing in the white clearly seeming not to be as corrupted by darkness. Her skin is a ivory white colour almost, giving the appearance of her not being real, as if she is deluded in herself, or being sick because she is so pale. Her expression looks bitter and envious, perhaps jealousy over the other two beside her. Whilst the couple appear to be looking out for something, her? They seem very guarded in their expressions.
There is no real sense to who the bigger star is, as they seem to be equal with each other among status. With the three names in the same line, and same sized font and colour. The date is in the same font also, making it important too. Underneath is a website to promote the film giving people a insight into the film more by checking their website.
The colour of the film poster is the colours you get used to seeing in noir movies, and they are normally used in mystery detective films. Perhaps there is a puzzle to be solved, or there will be things that will unfold in the film slowly. The black is rather bold, not the faded black that is sometimes used to make things miserable or depressing, but this black colour is thrilling, as if the film will be entertaining. Whilst the white background, and the two people in their work attire colours, seem to be in the norm of things, when something interrupts their daily fashioned lives, in the form of a woman who is behind them in the poster, making it seem as if she is stalking them. The red showing the disruption in the placid colours.
This poster could indicate it is meant for people above the age of 12, or 15, as it’s a mature adopted approach to adults as well, but the characters look quite fresh faced, and less boring to the teenage audience, the glamour something which could appeal to them. There is not enough horror conventions or aspects that suggest the film will be gory, so perhaps its certificate is a 12a. as if there are small violent scenes in it and sexually suggestive dialogue, it might be appropriate for an adult to accompany a child for it.
As there is two women in the poster, it could appeal to females more, The sense of a battle between to dominant females appealing to the women because of the meaning of empowerment. Where as men might appeal to watching this because of the male gaze held for the women, and the potential of their characters in the film. This looks like the type of film people who want to be entertained, or people who like solve things out by help from the film with clues. All in all it looks a film that has suspense, fighting action, but mystery, so its connotations show that it is a thriller genre.
The credits are in tall impacting text, and is at the bottom of the poster, but it is effective in the credits being recognised because the size of font, and it’s place in the poster. It does not overshadow the importance of the poster, because of its choice of font so that it isn’t a distraction to the main message of what the poster is getting across, in terms of what the film is going to be about.
The poster’s title Obsessed is displayed in block capitals, and across the middle of the picture so that it stands out. The colour of the title is strange, as it’s a mixture of white and black, to oppositional colours, perhaps indentifying the characters, or part of the meaning of the film. Such as the white side of the title on the two characters, could be the pure innocent people in the film, where as the black mysterious colour could signify the dark streak there could be to the other character. Or it could identify the take over of evil that arises in the story, as the black colour is slowly taking over the white, presenting the idea of a shift in the goodness of things.
The conflict that arises between loves is made apparent in the quote, “all’s fair when love is war”. It could also signify the film may hold a few violent scenes, if war is brought into the question. But it could also be meant for one particular, like someone who doesn’t comprehend the importance of what they may be doing because they are in love. It’s sarcastic, but also thought provoking, or possibly even sadistic and physiologically dealing with an unstable mind. Romance is also a factor of the film, as “Love” signifies this, but the “War” suggests it might not be as charming with much sentiment, and is more abrasive then normal “slushy” romance films.
The dress code is made significant to what each character is conformed to wear. Such as the tall man looks powerful in his crisp working suit, and smart shoes, and blue silk tie which makes him look successful. Where as the female beside him also wears dull colours to represent her role in a work force, with a black belt and black high heels to make her seem sassy and elegant. Her hair is the lustre of curls to add to her appeal as a woman, but in total her uniform signifies she is a powerful woman. The ring she wears could mean she is linked to the man beside her, and that’s why it was important to be shown in the poster, as she is in fact standing in close proximity to the man, giving us the impression she is romantically linked with him. The other woman stands out more, with a deep red dress, that indicates glamour, and sense of being appealing to her and others. She is wearing heels, and is in a certain stance with them, to appear sexual perhaps. Again the hair also warms to her confidence of sexuality. She looks imposing, and dangerous, as if the red imposes a warning, against the other colours of the poster. Also could represent her as the devil in the film, the feisty one set to cause trouble.
She is also cloaked in shadow more then other people, half in shadow, whilst the other half of her gleaming, represent a split personality, or a darker aspect to her character. Her heels are even shadowed, the heels looking sharp and deadly. Whilst the other couple are not so much shadowed, standing in the white clearly seeming not to be as corrupted by darkness. Her skin is a ivory white colour almost, giving the appearance of her not being real, as if she is deluded in herself, or being sick because she is so pale. Her expression looks bitter and envious, perhaps jealousy over the other two beside her. Whilst the couple appear to be looking out for something, her? They seem very guarded in their expressions.
There is no real sense to who the bigger star is, as they seem to be equal with each other among status. With the three names in the same line, and same sized font and colour. The date is in the same font also, making it important too. Underneath is a website to promote the film giving people a insight into the film more by checking their website.
The colour of the film poster is the colours you get used to seeing in noir movies, and they are normally used in mystery detective films. Perhaps there is a puzzle to be solved, or there will be things that will unfold in the film slowly. The black is rather bold, not the faded black that is sometimes used to make things miserable or depressing, but this black colour is thrilling, as if the film will be entertaining. Whilst the white background, and the two people in their work attire colours, seem to be in the norm of things, when something interrupts their daily fashioned lives, in the form of a woman who is behind them in the poster, making it seem as if she is stalking them. The red showing the disruption in the placid colours.
This poster could indicate it is meant for people above the age of 12, or 15, as it’s a mature adopted approach to adults as well, but the characters look quite fresh faced, and less boring to the teenage audience, the glamour something which could appeal to them. There is not enough horror conventions or aspects that suggest the film will be gory, so perhaps its certificate is a 12a. as if there are small violent scenes in it and sexually suggestive dialogue, it might be appropriate for an adult to accompany a child for it.
As there is two women in the poster, it could appeal to females more, The sense of a battle between to dominant females appealing to the women because of the meaning of empowerment. Where as men might appeal to watching this because of the male gaze held for the women, and the potential of their characters in the film. This looks like the type of film people who want to be entertained, or people who like solve things out by help from the film with clues. All in all it looks a film that has suspense, fighting action, but mystery, so its connotations show that it is a thriller genre.
The credits are in tall impacting text, and is at the bottom of the poster, but it is effective in the credits being recognised because the size of font, and it’s place in the poster. It does not overshadow the importance of the poster, because of its choice of font so that it isn’t a distraction to the main message of what the poster is getting across, in terms of what the film is going to be about.
What is a British Film? Kurt
What is a British film?
In my opinion what makes a film “British” depends on the setting, cast and crew and everything that you see on screen, but the most important thing when it comes to making a film appear British is the accent used by the characters. Although a lot of films may appear British at some point it is not always the case, there have been some films that have been produced by American companies and scenes were filmed in the UK but the cast and crew are American. There are a lot of American companies who for example take a novel written by a British person produces it and films everything in UK Locations.
One really good example of this is when the Warner Brothers entertainment Inc which is a US based production company, who decided that they wanted to make Harry Potter films which are based on the books written by J K Rowling, the films which were all shot in the UK and had a full British cast and crew became a big hit with people from all over the world. There are also films that are American influenced which are also based on British authors and playwrights, one good example of this is a film called Shakespeare in Love which is an entirely fictional story but with actual references to real people and quotes that were written by one of the most famous British playwrights William Shakespeare. The cast and crew had a lot of different nationalities in their production. The director is a British man but the writers are American and Czechoslovakian. The cast is a mixture of different nationalities so it does not make it entirely British. As Britain is so multicultural, there are many films made that aren’t made in English.
There are certain aspects of Icons of British films, such as
· Tradition is very important in films. Such as the culture of the country. Things like dance are the UK’s speciality, and their ambition in theatre, and musicals what are referenced in most British films. The traditional aspects of a British film might have classic films that were made before in the past, such as The sound of music and Mary Poppins bears a heavy influence over British film.
· Accent can determine whether a film is British, cockney accents normally stereotype dodgy characters, such as shady business men or poor scoundrels. Oliver is a good example of this.
· The Queen is an important aspect, as royalty is what unites Brittan with a passion.
· In war there is a historic reminder in war films that we win, when it’s not always the case, but our optimism doesn’t fade, as British people have their pride.
· Tea is another aspect, it contributes to lending warmth to an atmosphere, when to have conversational discussions or general chat, and it’s a way of being polite and showing friendship. Foods such as fish and chips are popular in British culture.
· Period drama are popular, for example, Jane Austen, Charles dickens are greatly revered by the film industry, as British wants’ to take their genius and portray it in films that show the elegance and knowledge of British writers. In particular adaptations of the film are continuous because they remain authentic to the British audience.
· Vehicles and objects, such as double Decker buses and red telephone boxes are used to effect, in setting the scene, mainly used for places such as London. The UK flag stresses in the mindset of people the country’s passion and power in uniting as a country.
· Labour and politics are included in the British society of films, most made apparent in films such as This is England by Shane meadows, when it references a struggle in a war, and the tough times that Britain had to endure. It’s a way of showing that most of the working class people didn’t search for an American dream, but rather worked for their family and themselves, without worrying about being famous.
· Football encapsulates what British film is about many Hooligan style films setting the tone of rough harsh sport, but managing to glorify as it unites Britain with a passion when football is played.
· Historic and Victorian aspects of British film is shown in reconstructed dramas such as The Tudors which is an American based drama, yet takes much of their ideas from the influence of British history, and Henry the 8th.
· Music such as The Beatles, and Spice Girls, which are famous bands, play a part in making a film British due to the enormity of their status.
· Minis most famous in the film The Italian job always has significant references in films, as well as being developed by an American industry into a film also.
· British films always love it when the unlikely underdog pulls through. Such as Mr Bean and Bridget Jones, who are clumsy characters that overcome obstacles, and large embarrassment only to pull through at the end. It gives the nation a sense of pride, whilst making sure the influence of being cynical becomes lost due to the Underdogs endurance to the end,
· There are many British heroes such as Doctor Who, and James Bond, who are both seen as the cool slick men, who have everything, and give aspirations to British people with their composed clever nature, always defeating the villains, but charming enough to get the girls also. Heroes were created that were central to Britain like these, so that the charisma of them built up the confidence of the nation.
· Fashion such as Burberry helps maintain the idea of luxury as being made in London, its part of tradition and culture also, with shops Topshop, and designer Stellar McCartney vital in outlining British fashion.
· Public schools are used in British films. This can normally signify an arrogant attitude and portray people who go there as Snobs. Films such as Harry Potter show this superior attitude, where the contrasting film St Trinians shows a more common British attitude which is more humble.
· Heritage is used in films such as the symbolic monuments such as castles that show Dracula being a wealthy old man, and one who has control over the peasants below him, with the women his victims, showing him as being upper-class.
· Bookmarking a technique mainly used in British films. It’s iconic such as starting a film at a seaside and then ending it at a seaside, which is obvious for the film
In my opinion what makes a film “British” depends on the setting, cast and crew and everything that you see on screen, but the most important thing when it comes to making a film appear British is the accent used by the characters. Although a lot of films may appear British at some point it is not always the case, there have been some films that have been produced by American companies and scenes were filmed in the UK but the cast and crew are American. There are a lot of American companies who for example take a novel written by a British person produces it and films everything in UK Locations.
One really good example of this is when the Warner Brothers entertainment Inc which is a US based production company, who decided that they wanted to make Harry Potter films which are based on the books written by J K Rowling, the films which were all shot in the UK and had a full British cast and crew became a big hit with people from all over the world. There are also films that are American influenced which are also based on British authors and playwrights, one good example of this is a film called Shakespeare in Love which is an entirely fictional story but with actual references to real people and quotes that were written by one of the most famous British playwrights William Shakespeare. The cast and crew had a lot of different nationalities in their production. The director is a British man but the writers are American and Czechoslovakian. The cast is a mixture of different nationalities so it does not make it entirely British. As Britain is so multicultural, there are many films made that aren’t made in English.
There are certain aspects of Icons of British films, such as
· Tradition is very important in films. Such as the culture of the country. Things like dance are the UK’s speciality, and their ambition in theatre, and musicals what are referenced in most British films. The traditional aspects of a British film might have classic films that were made before in the past, such as The sound of music and Mary Poppins bears a heavy influence over British film.
· Accent can determine whether a film is British, cockney accents normally stereotype dodgy characters, such as shady business men or poor scoundrels. Oliver is a good example of this.
· The Queen is an important aspect, as royalty is what unites Brittan with a passion.
· In war there is a historic reminder in war films that we win, when it’s not always the case, but our optimism doesn’t fade, as British people have their pride.
· Tea is another aspect, it contributes to lending warmth to an atmosphere, when to have conversational discussions or general chat, and it’s a way of being polite and showing friendship. Foods such as fish and chips are popular in British culture.
· Period drama are popular, for example, Jane Austen, Charles dickens are greatly revered by the film industry, as British wants’ to take their genius and portray it in films that show the elegance and knowledge of British writers. In particular adaptations of the film are continuous because they remain authentic to the British audience.
· Vehicles and objects, such as double Decker buses and red telephone boxes are used to effect, in setting the scene, mainly used for places such as London. The UK flag stresses in the mindset of people the country’s passion and power in uniting as a country.
· Labour and politics are included in the British society of films, most made apparent in films such as This is England by Shane meadows, when it references a struggle in a war, and the tough times that Britain had to endure. It’s a way of showing that most of the working class people didn’t search for an American dream, but rather worked for their family and themselves, without worrying about being famous.
· Football encapsulates what British film is about many Hooligan style films setting the tone of rough harsh sport, but managing to glorify as it unites Britain with a passion when football is played.
· Historic and Victorian aspects of British film is shown in reconstructed dramas such as The Tudors which is an American based drama, yet takes much of their ideas from the influence of British history, and Henry the 8th.
· Music such as The Beatles, and Spice Girls, which are famous bands, play a part in making a film British due to the enormity of their status.
· Minis most famous in the film The Italian job always has significant references in films, as well as being developed by an American industry into a film also.
· British films always love it when the unlikely underdog pulls through. Such as Mr Bean and Bridget Jones, who are clumsy characters that overcome obstacles, and large embarrassment only to pull through at the end. It gives the nation a sense of pride, whilst making sure the influence of being cynical becomes lost due to the Underdogs endurance to the end,
· There are many British heroes such as Doctor Who, and James Bond, who are both seen as the cool slick men, who have everything, and give aspirations to British people with their composed clever nature, always defeating the villains, but charming enough to get the girls also. Heroes were created that were central to Britain like these, so that the charisma of them built up the confidence of the nation.
· Fashion such as Burberry helps maintain the idea of luxury as being made in London, its part of tradition and culture also, with shops Topshop, and designer Stellar McCartney vital in outlining British fashion.
· Public schools are used in British films. This can normally signify an arrogant attitude and portray people who go there as Snobs. Films such as Harry Potter show this superior attitude, where the contrasting film St Trinians shows a more common British attitude which is more humble.
· Heritage is used in films such as the symbolic monuments such as castles that show Dracula being a wealthy old man, and one who has control over the peasants below him, with the women his victims, showing him as being upper-class.
· Bookmarking a technique mainly used in British films. It’s iconic such as starting a film at a seaside and then ending it at a seaside, which is obvious for the film
Proposal-Kurt
I am going to be producing a horror film with the help of my friend also working on the project, so that with the combination of our ideas, our film heads in a more stronger direction of being successful with two people in control of the project. The audience for our film is for teenagers 18 and above, as our film will deal with spiritual and frightening issues, which would not be fit for people under that age. It will be for both gender as the film will revolve around a group of Boys and Girls.
Throughout the project as well as just making the finished result of a film, I will have to build up the right amount of advertising needed in order for the film to do well. And using this knowledge of the trailers for movies and the promotion needed, I will incorporate this into my work so it’s proper. I will be using the computer, and programmes such as Microsoft publisher to plan out designs of magazine spreads and posters and the layout. With the use of a digital camera I shall use it to take my photos. I will use Photoshop in order to manipulate images, so that they fit the genre of film I’m looking forward to make, experimenting with colours and so on. I will verify that the correct locations are used to that our pictures are used to the effect intended for our genre and don’t stand out for the wrong reasons. I will also enhance pictures if i feel needed to, and experiment with the amount of light I want in my photos as well as important positions i want objects or people in my images to stick to. Body posture and facial expression will have to convey a particular type of meaning so the purpose of my film is made clear.
I will use Microsoft PowerPoint in order to do case studies so that I can grasp the full extent of to what aspects need to be absorbed when looking at films and the particular type of genres. I will carry out a survey and experiment with film titles, and see what my intended audience think of the title meanings, so that I can see from their point of view what they take into their own perspective and glean what the titles genre could be, or what audience it’s for.
I will use Polaroid cameras, to film the film, on tripods, so that our camera will have the right height, the right balance, as it won’t look messy by a person filming as he holds it only in his hands, and will help to make the film appear more to professional standards. Although breaking the rules sometimes to give people a different incentive by using the effect of the moving camera hand held by a person, is a way of establishing a degree of panic and realism with the person, this will not be a worthy way in which to conduct our film, as it doesn’t centre on one particular individual in the film or actually move about that much with not a huge load of different place sequences.
Throughout the project as well as just making the finished result of a film, I will have to build up the right amount of advertising needed in order for the film to do well. And using this knowledge of the trailers for movies and the promotion needed, I will incorporate this into my work so it’s proper. I will be using the computer, and programmes such as Microsoft publisher to plan out designs of magazine spreads and posters and the layout. With the use of a digital camera I shall use it to take my photos. I will use Photoshop in order to manipulate images, so that they fit the genre of film I’m looking forward to make, experimenting with colours and so on. I will verify that the correct locations are used to that our pictures are used to the effect intended for our genre and don’t stand out for the wrong reasons. I will also enhance pictures if i feel needed to, and experiment with the amount of light I want in my photos as well as important positions i want objects or people in my images to stick to. Body posture and facial expression will have to convey a particular type of meaning so the purpose of my film is made clear.
I will use Microsoft PowerPoint in order to do case studies so that I can grasp the full extent of to what aspects need to be absorbed when looking at films and the particular type of genres. I will carry out a survey and experiment with film titles, and see what my intended audience think of the title meanings, so that I can see from their point of view what they take into their own perspective and glean what the titles genre could be, or what audience it’s for.
I will use Polaroid cameras, to film the film, on tripods, so that our camera will have the right height, the right balance, as it won’t look messy by a person filming as he holds it only in his hands, and will help to make the film appear more to professional standards. Although breaking the rules sometimes to give people a different incentive by using the effect of the moving camera hand held by a person, is a way of establishing a degree of panic and realism with the person, this will not be a worthy way in which to conduct our film, as it doesn’t centre on one particular individual in the film or actually move about that much with not a huge load of different place sequences.
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Film 4 By Hollie-Jade Higgins

Film 4 operates in the United Kingdom, where they broadcast free films across the nation, in the region of 20 hours a day. Film 4 is now available to view on Freeview, cable and satellite services, as well as to Sky Digital subscribers. Film 4 finances British films that are usually low budget, showing a realistic filming point of view, which contrasts with the glossy look of American films, below is a list of some Film 4 backed movies;
· Borat
· Bruno
· Deep Water
· Elizabeth
· 4 Weddings and a Funeral
· In Bruges
· Slumdog Millionaire
· This is England
As well as showing some of our ‘home grown talent’ Film 4 also shows mainstream Hollywood such as Alien vs. Predator. Throughout the year Film 4 dedicate certain nights or weeks, this may be to a specific actor/ess, director or even season. Earlier this year Film 4 broadcasted a Julia Roberts season etc.
Film4 has a wide variety of sub-channels including Film4+ 1, Film Four Weekly. With a phenomenal 18 million households tuning in nightly, Film4 has established it’s self as a successful channel.
· Borat
· Bruno
· Deep Water
· Elizabeth
· 4 Weddings and a Funeral
· In Bruges
· Slumdog Millionaire
· This is England
As well as showing some of our ‘home grown talent’ Film 4 also shows mainstream Hollywood such as Alien vs. Predator. Throughout the year Film 4 dedicate certain nights or weeks, this may be to a specific actor/ess, director or even season. Earlier this year Film 4 broadcasted a Julia Roberts season etc.
Film4 has a wide variety of sub-channels including Film4+ 1, Film Four Weekly. With a phenomenal 18 million households tuning in nightly, Film4 has established it’s self as a successful channel.
What Is A British Film- By Hollie-Jade Higgins
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
What Is A British Film
View more presentations from HigginsPlumb.
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