Tuesday 17 December 2013

Film Industry 30 Questions.

30 QUESTIONS

1. The UK Film claims 15% of the Global Box Office.
2. In 2009, the British Film Industry took 6.8% of the Global Box Office.
3. This may indicate that people are appealing more to British Films, so therefore they will want to go and watch them.
4. The Films that have been responsible for this change are Skyfall,  Slumdog Millionaire, The Woman In Black and The King's Speech.
5. Only 7% of what the British Film Industry make is profit.
6. Hollywood makes a profit of 17%.
7. The  difference £2M (less than 4%) and £10M (upto 17%) is that the higher the budget, the higher the % of the Profit.
8. From this difference, we can infer that as there is more money in the budget; the more money that will be made.
9. 18-24 year olds make up the largest % of the cinema goers.
10. This is because they have the time and money to go and watch the movie. Also, they are above the highest age rating meaning that they will be able to watch any movie; so therefore more income will be made from this specific age group.
11. 3D Films drop 18% in attendance.
12.  Big Family Films such as Brave and Madagascar 3 has seen the biggest decline in 3D Films.
13.  Charles Gant said the 3D attendance at films like Madagascar 3 and Brave could be down to families' need to economise, and that prices mounted when the 3D premium is taken into account alongside the need.
14. Paul Greengrass is an English film director, screenwriter and former journalist. He specialises in dramatisations of real-life events and is known for his signature use of hand-held cameras. For several tickets and parking.
15. Paul Greengrass said that "People say it's a nightmare to work in the British Film Industry. I don't. I think it has transformed from where it was 25 years ago."
16. A BFI spokesperson said the 7% figure included "tiny budget films that, while commercial success is always hoped for, are successful and beneficial to the industry for other reasons like skills and training development and for artistic and cultural importance".
17. The budget for Filth was £3M. It made £3.86M.
18. James McEvoy said that $100m (£61m) movies that "sometimes aren't very good" had an advantage over smaller films because they had a massive budget to sell the film.
19. VOD is Video On Demand.
20.  The VOD market has increased by 50% last year.
21. VOD may out sell Distributors and Studios, therefore leading them to go to bankrupt.
22. This will lead the Blockbuster rental stores to have a decline in rentals due to everyone using VOD.
23. 'A Field in England' was unique as it was released in several formats simultaneously.
24. The toughest part of Film Making, according to the Machine Caradog James, is " you make a good film but can you get it to reach an audience? It's events like this and individuals who champion independent cinema that give us a profile and any chance of a mass audience."
25. The rules have been relaxed on what makes a film 'British' is that to help encourage more investment in the UK film industry
26. The cultural tests are what encourages visual effects to be used in film making.
27.The rules are that:
  • Film set in the UK-The King's Speech.
  • Lead characters British citizens/residents-The King's Speech.
  • Film based on British subject matter/underlying material-The King's Speech.
  • Original dialogue recorded mainly in English Language-The King's Speech.
  • Represents/reflects diverse British culture/heritage/creativity-The King's Speech.
28. George Osborne has announced tax relief would be increased from 20% to 25% on the first £20m of qualifying production expenditure. Productions will also only have to spend 10% of their budgets on UK expenditure to qualify - down from 25% - to help more independent production companies and make the UK a more attractive co-production partner.
29.Skyfall is the highest grossing Box Office in UK History.
30. Skyfall the Budget for $150-200M and the Box Office was £1,108,561,013.





















Monday 16 December 2013

King's Speech Marketing.

The original poster of the King's Speech failed as it received huge amounts of criticism. The initial thing that I saw, when looking at this poster, was the positioning of the characters. Colin Firth isn't placed in the middle of he poster. It isn't clear as to who the main character is. Also, the facial expressions of the characters give me the impression that the movie is a comedy. George Rush's face in particular seems playful, which contradicts the whole point of the movie. By the facial expressions, people will assume that this movie will be a comedy. Consequently, this will repel people from watching this movie; as they'll believe that the movie isn't worth watching. It is obvious that the character's faces are heavily airbrushed, which makes the poster look less authentic. As the surname of these character's are in capitals, it is evident that the creators of the poster wanted the audience's attention on this specific information. This fulfils the purpose, however, it makes the poster lose proportionality and professionalism. This poster doesn't necessarily match because it looks like the creator has just threw the words on the page without the aesthetics of the poster. The costumes that the characters are wearing are all similar, so the audiences can't distinguish as to who the main character is. The quotation at the top of the poster is rather poor. It isn't really hard hitting and isn't explicit as to which of the three the quote may be referring to. The font isn't patriotic enough to be known as being British and with holding that heritage.

TASK TWO

The second attempt in marketing the King's Speech was also a 'poor' design. The background colour is of mustard, which is associated to be British. In the mans face, we can see that there is a tint of gold in there. We can connote that gold is associated with victory. Gold is usually associated with wealth and royalty, which relates to the most powerful; The King and Queen. Similarly, like the first attempt this poster doesn't give the audience a clear aspect as to who the main character is. Although there is only one there, you can't see his face. All the audience can infer from this poster is that there is a man near some sort of old fashioned micro-phone and is going to present a speech. His mouth is closed, which could suggest that he has trouble with his speech or that he may own some sort of authorative power.  The quote beneath the mans face, would encourage people to go and see the movie because it is someone else's review of the movie. This is someone's personal opinion of the movie. The actor's names are all the same font and font size, as everything is the same; it gives the poster a more professional look. The crown suggests that this movie holds British heritage, as it is part of the British culture.  The actors are mainly famous in Britain, so the British audience would be more inclined to watching the movie as they would be familiar with the actors.

TASK THREE



 The layout of these the banner seem to be plain yet effective. The left banner contains quotations from a review/ magazine, mainly one word or short sentences; to show to the audience that people actually enjoyed the movie. The right side just has 'God Save the King'; as Colin Firth is on that side alone, people will assume that Colin Firth will play the part of the King. Their facial expressions seem to be more serious, which gives the audience a sense of mystery and caution. The graphological features shows that the text has filled the space well, but it leaves enough space so the information isn't all overwhelming to the audience. The colour seems to be darkened, to create a sense of dangerous and serious aura of the movie; to suggest that this movie will be about something hard hitting. Personally, I think that by putting Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush side by side; will show the contrast between the two characters. This banner gives the audience a hint as to what the genre of this movie will be like, through the type of picture they have chosen for each character and the lighting of the pictures as well.

TASK FOUR

There are many similarities between the banner and the poster for the Social Network as that they both have a picture of the main/ a character with some sort of hard hitting quote on top. Both have a darker picture to portray some sort of serious atmosphere. The Weinstein company wanted to emulate this as the poster was simple yet effective. Having a picture of the main character would encourage the public to watch the movie as they may recognise the Actor. Perhaps, the poster was a success in Marketing the Social Network; Weinstein wanted to emulate this as they felt that it would be a complete success in Marketing The King's Speech as well.









TASK FIVE


This is the poster used to market the movie in the US. This differs a lot from the other posters in many ways. The first thing is the picture used; it is of a man holding a child with a woman looking lovingly at her. The audience will assume that they are family. The American audience will instantly know that this has something to do with the Royal Family, due to the crown and the very patriotic picture. The background is bright and yellow; which could connote to happiness. It also had a tint of gold, which is associated with wealth and the Royal Family. This poster is different from the others as it portrays a happy atmosphere, probably foreshadowing the underlying tone of the movie. By portraying that the movie will be happy, people would want to go and see the movie. Also, the fact that it is about the British culture, it would encourage them more.


























 

Thursday 12 December 2013

How Hollyoaks Reflects Teenagers.

Hollyoaks is a long-running British TV Drama. It set in a fictional suburb of Chester called Hollyoaks; the cast is mainly featured of people aged between 16 and 35. It had developed a fan base and has been credited as a vibrant, modern and young person's soap. The programme centralizes around real life story-lines. Some of these story-lines are drug addiction, murder, arson, homosexuality, bullying, homophobia and many more. As you can see, Hollyoaks has a diverse range of topics. I have chosen this particular programme as it includes the teenage group and reveals situations which most teenagers go through. It opens the eyes to the audience of the programme, as some people may not realise that some of these things are actually happening.

The Hollyoaks 'Logo' is a red colour, we can connote that this programme is filled with danger, passion, anger and many more. The colours in the background are interweaved with blue (boy colour, matches with the male sign), pink (girls, matches with the female sign) and purple (possibly to represent the different people within the show). Also, there sparkly dots scattered around to show that the show has a playful edge to it.  Normally, this would appear after the theme tune, if the storyline is of the norm.


However, when there is a hard hitting topic, this background will be used. It is very different to the original background colour. The colour of the font,  is a misty, ghostly colour which could connote to the fact that something out of the ordinary may happen. Also, the background is black, which suggests that the topic will be dark, scary, mysterious and hard hitting. The reason they do this, is to portray are more serious and life changing topic. By doing this, it becomes more memorable due to the change in colour. You can probably feel a more sympathetic, frightening and dark feeling when you see this colour. It is completely opposite to the first picture. The illumination around 'Hollyoaks' suggests that something memorable will happen in this episode or within the week.



This picture is from an episode where there was a party at the local club. This shows the stereotypical representation of the fact that teenagers go out drinking and get drunk. This picture is just a typical party, with people in the background gathering around the bar looking at the girl with amusement on their faces. They are probably laughing at her. The people in the background look older, so they might be laughing at how young she is.

You can see that the girl with the American hat on, is being sick due to the intoxication of alcohol. The facial expressions on the peoples faces shows the different kind of people in the youth society nowadays. The one in the orange shirt, has an 'oooo' expression, as if he's laughing at her and taking the mick. His costume, compared to the other two boys is more messier. His shirt is untucked and he is wearing informal clothes. This could connote to him building a rebellious and troublemaker character. The other two seem more sympathetic towards the girl being sick as we can tell from their body language. The overall costumes are that of which teenagers would wear, a shirt and jeans for the male and a tight/short dress for the female.
The lighting is mainly focused on the people in the foreground. This is to highlight the stereotypical views that society has on teenagers. All of the stereotypes' that society has on teenagers are all being put to play here, representing teenagers and our view on them.

Hollyoaks just shows that although, the teenagers (like in the picture above) may go out and be rebellious and troublemaking, they all have a problem at home to go back to; once all the partying is put to bed. Hollyoaks shows how the bullying, racism, homophobia will all be a root from. That's the reason why I have chosen this show as it represents all of the above.




















Thursday 5 December 2013

The Little Mermaid Essay.

HOW DOES THE CHOSEN CLIP HOOK THE AUDIENCE?

 The clip that was chosen comes from the Little Mermaid. The Little Mermaid is a Disney production based on a mermaid, Ariel, who dreams of becoming human. It was released in 1989 by Walt Disney Pictures. The primary audience for The Little Mermaid, would most likely be young children. The reason for this would be that animated movies tend to appeal more to younger children. As the movie is based on a mermaid, the imagination of the child would not be restricted, so they would want to watch it as it's about a mythical creature. However, adults and teenagers are able to watch it, due to the storyline. So, there will be some aspects of the movie that will be fitted for them. The main genre is adventure and mythical; which will appeal to the children. Also, the genre of love, trust and authority will appeal more to the older audience because they will understand and in some ways relate to the story.

This particular clip hooked the audience due to the Mise en Scene. In this scene, there are the props of which are present within this clip. King Triton is holding his Triton, which connotes to power and authority. Additionally, his beard could connote to wisdom and obviously old age. The camera angles within this clip shows who beholds the most power. His white beard retracts him from everyone else and makes it obvious to the audience that King Triton is different and powerful. Also, the lighting is dull and gloomy which juxtaposes the atmosphere. Throughout the clip, the lighting has brightened alongside with the atmosphere. As when Sebastian (The Crab/ Lobster) has a high angle shot; this shows that the King sees him as an inferior meaning that the audience should too. When Sebastian is speaking to the King, the audience sees him looking up to him by using a high angle shot. This shows that Sebastian sees him as a powerful being and accepts that he is of a lower ranking than he is. The colours within this clip are important as at the beginning the water is brown and dull whereas towards the end the water is a fresh, blue colour. This may be because at the beginning of the clip, there was tension between Ariel and King Triton, so the murkiness of the water could connote to the murkiness of the atmosphere. As Sebastian is encouraging King Triton to let Ariel become human and he accepts; the water is a fresh blue. The freshness of the water could connote to a new start in both of their lives. Furthermore, the freshness of the water also could be seen as a liberation for Ariel because she is allowed to become human.

Afterwards, Ariel emerges from the water and a magical light surrounds her as she is transformed from a mermaid to a human. Along with the magical light, there is also a twinkling sound. The sound would be Diegetic as when the King holds his Triton up and transforms her into a human, it would be more dramatic and effective if there was that sound it would be more realistic. This creates a magical aura and sense of proudness for Ariel as she is turned to a human, by her Father (who was against the idea that she should be human). There are more ways in which sound has influenced this clip. The sound of the waves along the shore, is an Ambient Sound, which shows that this could be a realistic movie because this clip is based in a normal, everyday setting. Also, the characters Dialogue has been edited with because King Triton's voice is a more deep and powerful whereas Sebastian's is high pitched and more playful. This could show the status of each character. Ariel's voice is more softer, to show that she is the antagonist of the story. Ariel is sitting on a rock, which is the only piece of land in this clip. It is evident that Ariel was going to be different from the rest of them. Her fiery red hair could connote to passion, love and danger (that has occurred to her throughout the duration of the movie). This is revealed in the clip, as she is set aside from Sebastian and the King. The fiery red hair foreshadows the wedding that happens later on in the clip between Ariel and Prince Eric. There was Editing in Post Production of the Little Mermaid. Mainly Continuity Editing. However, as this is an animation there was more work in cooperated within this movie; meaning that every little detail had to be refined and edited to the point where it was able to flow better.


The Little Mermaid can fit into Propp 's theory of fairy tales. He believes that there is a Hero, Villain, Dispatcher, Donor, False Hero, Princess, King and Prince. In this case, his theory matches the movie. The Hero is King Triton, the Villain is Ursula, the Dispatcher and Donor is Sebastian, the False Hero would be Ursula, Princess Ariel, King Triton and Prince Eric. This theorist matches with this movie as fairy tales are stereotypically known to have all of these major components within the story.
Another theorist that we could apply to the Little Mermaid would be Levi Strauss. His theory was the binary oppositions. The main obvious one would be Land v Sea, which would lead onto to Human v Merpeople (which we could see a conflict between Prince Eric and King Triton), Good v Bad (King Triton and Ursula). Barthe's Theory of the 5 Codes, fits with the story line. the Action Code is when the Chef chases Sebastian as it includes the knife being thrown at him and lands in the ground. The Enigma Code would be when Ariel is going to go or not, to the other side. Semic and Symbollic would both fit as there are lots of Denotations and Connotations within this clip. The Cultural Code would the whole thing about the Myths of Mermaids. Finally, this movie would also fit to Todorovs theory about the Equilibrium - Disequilibrium - New Equilibrium. This would hook the audience has it would appeal to everyone, more or less, as it consists of a little bit of all the theorists; a range of people would be hooked due to different events that are occurring within this clip.

Overall, this particular clip hooks the audience as various theorists techniques are used which engages the audiences attention. The blend of the Micro - Aspects create a sense of drama, realism and emotion which are the three things that will get the audience to watch the movie.














Monday 2 December 2013

King's Speech Research.

What Makes a British Film?
  • The most vital thing that makes a film British, would be the culutural elements such as the setting in the UK, a predominatley British cast, a storyline about a British Life (past, present and future). It also has to be based on a British Author. Billy Elliot and Bend It Like Beckham are both set in London (which is the capital of England, which is what most foreign people are familiar with).
Have Things Changed Since Then?
  • Personally, I don't think that the ideas of the British Culture has changed and what Britain is famous for (London, Monarchy etc). The TV Shows/ Movies that are about now are mostly based on the historical events that have happened in Britain. An example of that would be Ripper Street which airs on BBC 1, which is based on the 19th Century. The reason why this specific series has done so well, is because it is based on something that is British and what people are interested in.
Exhibition Issues:
  • "a plucky-underdog success story that's as headline-friendly as it gets". The Kings Speech was given the impression, to the public, that the movie was going to predominantly fail. It bought everyones hopes down, so that when they saw the movie in the cinema's they'd be surprised.  When people went to go and see the movie have a low expectation of it; so therefore when they have watched the movie, they will be surprised (as was the critics). This will increase the amount of views and income the movie will recieve. The film recieved  £3.52m opening weekend, this shows that the movie must've receieved some good critique for people to go and watch it. The King's Speech took $414 Million in the Box Office, it grossed 50X more than its Budget. The statistical evidence shows that the movie did exceptionally well, for a British movie. As the audience realised that the movie was based on a British King who reigned during WWII (two of the most significant things that Britain is famous for); this reeled in more views as it sparked up interest.
The King's Speech Critical Reception:
  • The King's Speech was nominated for 12 Oscar Nominations and 14 BAFTAs. With the amount of nominations the movie recieved, it was obvious that the King's Speech did well as everyone who went to go and watch it was surprised that it was so good.  Philip French says that WH Auden, who wrote this in 1939 said that the '30s were  "Uncertain and afraid/ As the clever hopes expire/ Of a low dishonest decade."  Tom Hooper, the Director, wanted the movie perscept a different view of Britain in the 1930s. As the movie starred Award Winning Colin Firth, most of the older, female audience recognises  him from 'Bridget Jones' or 'Pride and Prejudice'; so that would be one of the reasons as to why it did so well. The movie was praised for it's storyline which was George VI from a nervous, stammering second-in-line to the rabble-rousing king of England. 

          Production Issues:
  • In preparation for the project, the fim's production team provoked the ire of one of the film's stars, Geoffrey Rush, by taking the unorthodox step of posting the movie script through his home letterbox in Melbourne, Australia. Rush's management wrote the filmmakers a furious email for their impertinence. Despite this, Rush accepted the role of Lionel Logue, the King's speech therapist. The film is released in Britain on Friday. Publicly, Rush claims he was immediately intrigued by the script. The movie was originally a play performed in London. Due to the lack of potential in the stage script, they had the alter the plot a little in order for it to be a potential film also. Tom Hooper, director, wanted to reinvent the play to become a film, so they asked Geoffrey Rush as their main star. The UK Film Council contributed towards the finanical backing for the film alongside Prescience film, a UK Film finance company. Harvey Weinstein in the USA also had a share. See-Saw Productions worked alongside Bedlam Productions in synergy to create The King's Speech as well as receiving One Million Pounds from The UK Film Council to help with the films production.

Distribution and Marketing:

  • The distributor of The King's Speech (Momentum Pictures) a British institution were in charge of the films marketing plan, the way in which the UK audiences will have it advertised to them. The film, on 6th September 2010, was globally released at the Telluride Film Festival in the United States. It was screened at the 2010 Toronto International Film Festival on Colin Firth's 50th birthday, receiving a standing ovation and the Peoples Choice Award. The original poster was altered to show an extreme close up of Colin Firths jaw to the right of a microphone in which symbolised the plot of the film. Due to the film being entirely related to The King's Speech and dialect by representing the film with a microphone it shows that a voice is a way in which a King maintains his power. For advertising a film the poster is key as it is primarily the most viewed was of advertising other than the official trailer.



















Tuesday 26 November 2013

Research of Film Companies.

SCREEN YORKSHIRE
  • An company that has been running for over 10 years.
  • Based in Humber and Yorkshire.
  • Aim is to provide support for Britain within the Film Industry.
  • One of the largest organisations in the UK. With investments over £15 Million.

Examples of Films by Screen Yorkshire:
  • Kill List(2011).
  • Red Riding(2009).
  • Death Comes to Pemberley(2013).
STUDIO CANAL
  • French based Production and Distribution Company.
  • The company is owned by Canal + Group.
  • Owns the thirds-largest film library in the world.
Examples of Films by Studio Canal:
  • The Tourist(2010).
  • Terminator 2: Judgement Day(1991).
  • Basic Instinct(1992).

FILM 4 PRODUCTIONS
  • Digital TV Channel, available in the UK and Ireland.
  • Owned and operated by Channel Four Television Corporation that screen films.
  • It offers films in standard definition, free of charge.
  • In order to access the HD, the viewer will must have a paid subscription to Sky or Virgin Media.
Examples of Films by Film 4:

  • 127 Hours(2010).
  • Deep Water(2006).
  • Red Monarch(1983).

WARP FILMS
  • Pioneering independent British record label.
  • Founded in Sheffield in 1989.
  •  Has a secondary company Warp Films Australia, based in Melbourne.
  • Warp Films have worked alongside Channel 4 and Screen Yorkshire numerous times to create films that they feel will turn out successful nationally.
Examples of Films by Warp Films:
  • Four Lions(2010).
  • Dead Man Shoes(2004).
  • This Is England '88(2011).











Thursday 21 November 2013

Hardware and Content Essay.


IN WHAT WAYS HAVE IMPROVEMENTS IN HARDWARE AND CONTENT AFFECTED AUDIENCE AND INSTITUTION?

The improvements in hardware and content have affected audience and institutions in many ways. This has led to the film makers in thriving to produce better quality movies. Due to the advancement in technology, the audience have different ways of approaching and viewing the movies. This means that the industry would need to keep up to date with the technology as the ways in which the public watch movies are changing drastically.

One of the ways in which hardware and content have affected the audience and institutions is better graphics. CGI (Computer Generated Images) is the application of computer graphics used for creating scenes or special effects in films and television. This has affected it, as movies can be produced in a much higher quality; meaning that the audience will then have a higher expectation, as they know that we have the technology and ability to produce hi-tech movies. This raises the bar higher, as the film industry have a pressure in having to reach the audiences expectations. Therefore, creating competition between film industries in who can make the best movie that will appeal to the audience.  The invention of iMax has impacted the audience the most as it has created more of a realistic experience, when being viewed on the big screens in the cinemas. The effect that it has on the audience when being viewed in the cinemas, encourages people to go and watch it due to the quality of effects. As more people go to the cinema, purely for the iMax experience, this will increase the income and publicity of cinemas. Although, there will be a rise in viewings in the cinema, the cost of each camera is ludicrously expensive, meaning that only big companies who can actually afford this equipment are able to possess these cameras. Due to the complications in using these cameras, institutions may need time to get used to this, which means that they will be using the camera longer than needed. Consequently, this will expand their budget and they will have to pay more than anticipated.

Initially, movies could only be viewed in the cinemas, in limited number of screens; not giving the audience much of choice as if they missed out on a movie they missed out completely. Nowadays, you can purchase movies on Blu –Ray DVDs, 3D, 2D and even HD. This gives the audiences more a diverse range of which they can view the movie in. Audiences, now, wait for the movie to be released on DVD or Blu –Ray as they find it to be cheaper. This leads to a decline in cinema viewings as people nowadays would rather stay at home and spend £10 on a DVD rather than £30 + on popcorn, drink and however many tickets they need for that night. This means that there will be a rise in the usage of the internet, through online streaming or film/ TV specialized apps such as Netflix or LoveFilms. So the institutions will need to make their money in a different way, rather than cinemas; this is to charge the users of these apps monthly in order for them to be able to watch the movies.  Due to the rise in people buying DVDs and Blu – Rays, TV companies have developed 3D TVs as they are aware of the fact that people want to view movies in 3D; but not at the expense they have to in the cinemas. This all affects the audience and institution as they will need to keep in date with the needs and requirements of the audience.  If they don’t, then the audience will go elsewhere and seek other companies, who have pursued their needs.

All of this would lead to the technical convergence of media. Mobile Phones, Laptops/Computers and inevitably TV’s will all come together, as they will need to be able to play the movie on every single device possible. This is when the Internet plays its biggest part. It is vital, as nowadays everyone connects over the Internet; meaning that apps like Netflix or LoveFilm will become more and more popular as time goes by. This is because the industry has acknowledged that the Internet is getting used to an extent that people from across the globe can contact one another; therefore the hardware and content will have needed to be fitted to the audience’s desires. 

Consequently, this would affect the various areas of film production. During the production process, there will be competition between markets, as audiences can consume films from numerous platforms. Meaning that more money would be spent on advertising and the move on the technology of the film (3D, Special Effects, CGI). During the distribution process, again advertising would be mainly focused on. Also, they will use synergy more effectively such as Video Games, DVDs, CDs, and Books. A development in more web interactivity coincides with the fact that people are using the Internet more than ever. Also, there will be competition with small companies that use the Internet.

The advantages to technical convergences are that more people will have access to watch films from different platforms. Also, they are able to watch the film whenever they want. Most importantly, it creates opportunity for distribution.  However, the disadvantages are that there will be growing problems of piracy and revenue. Additionally, there will be less control on audiences by film distributors.

Exhibition will play a vital role in how hardware and content affects audiences and institutions as this dictates on how audiences are able to watch the film and how that is changing at a rapid rate. They get to choose to watch films at cinemas, on DVD, Blu Ray, VOD/ Download Films. This produces an increased pressure on the target audiences. They want to show that the cinema has a greater viewing experience (iMax, 3D, Possibly 4D and Live Music/ Sport); to encourage people to spend their money and enjoy the experience of watching.

Overall, hardware and content is changing rapidly, all to fit with the purpose of the audience. The institutions are doing everything they can in order to fulfill their purposes. This will constantly change as people are becoming more and more lazier. Personally, I think that (if they continue to release new ways of watching movies), there will be a time when there will be peak in people going to the cinemas; then it will decline. It would just be a vicious circle and the institutions would just be keeping up with this.

Media Production Research.


Tuesday 29 October 2013

Dredd Essay: Improvements.

 The three ways in which I could've improved my Dredd Essay would be:
  • The lack of statistical knowledge on the movie.
  • Going into more depth when introducing my points.
  • The use of more evidence.

Thursday 3 October 2013

American Beauty-Scene Analysis.



This scene from the movie is the day Lester dies. Lester is getting his life perfect, working out and having a new overview of life. In this scene we see the change in Lester and the true Angela escape.
I have picked this particular scene from the movie for two reasons. The first reason would be the change within Lester's behaviour and attitude towards Angela's seduction. The second reason is the change within Angela's behaviour towards Lester's reaction.

The Mise En Scene created in this scene is different to the first kitchen scene. The Lighting has been manipulated so that Lester and the Dining Table are in the brightest lighting. We could connote this as Lester discovering who he is and is finally at peace within himself whereas Angela (who now is in the dark) has to hide underneath this façade. Also the two brightest are the two significant, drawing attention to the event that is almost foreshadowed in this scene.  In this scene, the lighting is darker probably connoting that things aren't the same as they were before; the tensions between Carolyn, Lester, Angela and Jane have increased and everyone's all suspicious of one another. This creates an eerie atmosphere, making the audience anticipate what's going to happen next.

Lester's choice of clothing has changed throughout the course of the movie, at first he was wearing baggy and dull coloured clothing; whereas now (in this scene) he is wearing a tight, bright coloured t-shirt. His actions and the way he replies is mainly monosyllabic words. Suggesting that he doesn't an interest in anything anymore. This connotes to the change in his personality, alongside his body language. As Angela approaches him in a seductive and confident manner; he just sits there perched on the side of the worktop like an adolescent would. This suggests that Angela doesn't 'excite' Lester anymore. When the camera did a close up on his face after the attempted seduction, it looked like there was a moment of realization that glimmered through his eyes. His reply almost seemed teasing, showing that Angela's just a teenager and he's the adult; implying that the tables have turned.

Additionally, the props within this scene play an important role, as the imagery of perfection is still maintained, as are the roses connoting passion. The audience can see this when Angela struts up to Lester, the dining table and the cleanliness  is shown. This could connote to Angela being similar to Carolyn as they behold the same qualities. Both have this perfected image about themselves, which is a façade to hide their true self, the tidiness of the kitchen could reflect the tidiness of Angela's appearance. The reaction of Angela to Lester's question gave the audience a glimpse of Angela being submissive and vulnerable. When she started slowly backing away, we connote this to be the dissection of Angela's true self.  The colour white connotes to innocence and purity which is completely corrupt at this point in the movie; bringing to the surface Angela's innocence and virginity.

American Blockbusters.

BATMAN
History: Batman was created in 1939 as a Comic Book Hero by Bob Kane. He is a fictional superhero, whose mission is to protect his hometown from evil. Originally he was referred to as 'Bat-Man' or as 'The Capital Crusader'.
Publisher: DC Comic Books published the first comic in May  1939.
Film: Batman (1966), the first film adaptation of the DC Comic Books. Based on the Television Series. Released by 20th Century Fox.
          Batman(1989) directed by Tim Burton. First instalment of Warner Bros.
          Batman Returns(1992), Batman Forever(1995), Batman and Robin(1997),
          Batman Begins(2005), The Dark Knight(2008), The Dark Knight Rises(2012).
Other Media: Comics.
                       Books.
                       Television Shows.
                       Musicals.
                       Radio Shows.
                       Board and Video Games.
IRONMAN
History: A fictional character who appeared in comic books. His character was created by Stan Lee. He made his first appearance in 'Tales of Suspense'( March 1963). Chest injury, made himself a  power suit of armour  to help him escape life and captivity. Later uses the suit as Iron Man and protects people.
Publisher:  Marvel Comics.
Film: The Invisible Iron Man(2007), Iron Man(2008), Iron Man 2(2010), Iron Man 3(2013), The Avengers(2012).
Other Media: Television Shows.
                       Video Games.
CAPTAIN AMERICA
History: Made his first appearance in 'Captain America Comics in March 1941 (cover dated). Was a Wartime Superhero for WWII, so he was the most popular superhero during that period.
Publisher: Marvel Comics.
Film: Captain America(1944), Captain America(1979), Captain America 2: Death Too Soon(1979), Captain America(1990), Ultimate Avengers(2006), Ultimate Avengers 2(2006), Captain America: The First Avenger(2011), The Avengers(2012).
Other Media: Novels.
                      Television Shows.
                       Video Games.
THE FLASH
History: Created by Gardener Fox and Artist Harry Lambert. Possess 'Super Speed, includes the ability to move incredibly fast and violate certain law of physics. First appeared in 'Flash Comics'(1940).
Publisher: DC Comics.
Film: The Flash(2016).
Other Media: Novels.
                      Television Shows.
                       Video Games.
GREEN LANTERN
History: The name of several superheroes of DC Universe, all of whom are characterized by power rings and ability to create solid constructs with the ring. The first Green Lantern was created by writer Bill Finger and Artist Martin Nodell in 'All American Comics' in 1940.
Publisher: DC Comics.
Film: Green Lantern(2011).
Other Media: Novels.
                       Television Shows.
                        Video Games.
THOR
History: First appeared in 'Journey Into Mystery' (1962). Created by Editor-Plotter Stan Lee, Scripter Larry Leiber and Penciller Jack Kirby. Based on the Greek God 'Thor' of 'Norse Mythology'(humanity-protecting God).
Publisher: Marvel Comics.
Film: Almighty Thor(2011), Thor(2011), The Avengers(2012), Thor: The Dark World(2013).
Other Media: Novels.
                       Television Shows.
                        Video Games.

Thursday 5 September 2013

Connotations and Denotations.

1.
  • Apple.
  • It stands for the brand of technology.
  • It doesn't have more than one meaning.
  • I think that the elderly and younger generation are unable to read and understand what the Apple Logo stands for.
2.

  • Citreon.
  • A make of cars.
  • No, the Citreon doesn't have more than one meaning.
  • The group of people that won't be able to read this would be people from LEDCs as they are not used to being surrounded by 21st Century technology.
3.
  • Gender.
  • Represents Male gender.
  • I don't think it has more than one meaning.
  • Elderly people may not understand this symbol.

4.
  • McDonalds.
  • Fast food restaurant.
  • People usually associate this sign with McDonalds and only McDonalds.
  • People in LEDCs as they won't have fast food restaurants within where they live.
5.
  • No ironing sign.
  • Usually seen on garments. Not to iron it.
  • People would only see this sign for one meaning and that is when they see it on clothing.
  • Younger children may not understand, or people in less economically developed countries as they aren't used to being surrounded by clothing stores, so they may have never seen the sign before.
6.
  • No entry sign.
  • No entry beyond this point.
  • Usually means that you may not enter, drive, walk past a certain point. Mostly, used for driving on the roads, to warn the drivers that they aren't allowed to go beyond a certain point.
  • The people who may not be familiar with this sign, are usually those who haven't experienced driving. Or those who don't live urbanely so they won't be used to seeing this sign during construction.
7.
  • A sign with a man and woman on it.
  • Unisex sign on WCs/ Toilets.
  • The meaning of this sign means that both genders are able to use any facilities (usually toilets).
  • Those who live in LEDCs probably won't be familiar with this sign as they may not have these kind of facilities to have the Unisex sign on.
8.
  • Lip with tongue sticking out.
  • Rolling Stones.
  • This sign only has one meaning and it is for the famous rock band The Rolling Stones.
  • People who weren't around during the time they were famous or those you don't listen to music?
9.
  • Four different coloured rings connected.
  • Olympics.
  • This is a Logo for one thing and that is the Olympics, which people are very aware of.
  • People who may not know about the Olympics would be the ones whose country don't participate or live in LEDCs.
10.
  • A plus sign with a 'C' on each box and 3 circles at the bottom.
  • Pawnbrokers.
  • It usually means that someone trades in jewellery for money. That is the only meaning that they've had for this Logo.
  • Teenagers mostly wouldn't know of this sign, as they may not be used to seeing it around or just haven't come across this before.
11.
  • Woolmark Logo.
  • Woolmark.
  • An Australian Wool Company. However, some people believe that it has some sort of mysterious identity of it's designer and it's putting a message across.
  • People who aren't Australian and don't really have an interest or contribute within the Wool Trading Company.
12.
  • The Union Jack.
  • The UK Flag, Union J.
  • It symbolizes UK and uses patriotic colours, meaning that UK is a proud country.
  • Those of which who live in LEDCs countries may not be educated enough to know what the flags of each country is.
13.
  • Star of David.
  • Jewish Star.
  • It only has the meaning that David represented Judaism and nothing else.
  • Elderly people/ Younger children may not be able to read it as they can't read and won't be able to comprehend the Logo.
14.
  • Pros and Cons.
  • A  balancing/ weighing item.
  • It may have different meanings weighing or balancing out the pros and cons. Or they could be saying that everything needs to be balanced in order for things to go on.
  • People who are elderly/ younger may not be able to read as they can't.

Tuesday 3 September 2013

5X5.

5 BANDS.
The Wanted- These are one of the bands of which most of their songs that they have released are all individual and unique, but simultaneously are all different.
Lawson- I like there songs because the music isn't heavy. Screamo or Heavy Metal doesn't really appeal as it makes my ears bleed. It is more relaxing.
The 1975- They have an indie vibe to them, which is good because again their music is relaxing and mellow.
Disclosure- All of there songs are insanely good. Although they're producers there music is amazing.
Rudimental- There music is similar to Disclosure.

5 SONGS.
Miley Cyrus-We Can't Stop: It's slow and relaxing. This is probably the only song by Miley Cyrus that I like.
Fuse ODG-Antenna: This song is very upbeat and immediately puts you in a good mood. It's a summery song.
Disclosure- F For You: The beat to it is just flawless.
Rudimental-You&Me: Is another song that I like because of the beat.
R.Kelly-Ignition: Old RnB is a relaxing and it's a good party song.

5 FILMS.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off- I just like the plot of the movie and it has a lot of humour in it. I just enjoy the song that he sings on the float, which is a reggae classic.
Home Alone- It's entertaining and I like how the antagonists get beaten up by a little kid. And it is during Christmas and gets you in the spirit.
The Lucky One- One of my favourite actors is the lead role and it has a good plot.
The Lion King- Is probably one of the best disney movies ever made. The story between the Father and Son is emotional and moving.
Monsters Inc- I just like the idea that it's about Monsters and we get a look inside of there world.

5 ACTORS/ ACTRESSES.
Zac Efron- I think personally, he is good looking. Also, he has such an unlimited amount of talent in every single movie that he releases.
Vanessa Hudgens- She's really pretty. Additionally, she had a wide range of talent and she can suit any character that she plays.
Will Smith- He has such a great sense of humour and is a sincere actor.
Sandra Bullock- Her acting is just impeccable. She has done diverse characters and is able to play them  amazingly.
Idris Elba- Best known for his role in 'Luther' as DCI Luther. He is such an amazing actor who is just flawless.

5 TV SHOWS.
Friends- It is a comedy. Comedy is one of my favourite genres. The characters within this show are what makes it.
White Collar- I like TV shows about FBI's chasing criminals. This is a different one to all the other shows and has a little humour embedded within it.
Luther- Is a British TV Show. About a Detective, but in the Murder Unit. This TV show has a different approach on how they layout the show. It's unique and a good show to watch that will keep you on the edge of your seats. Will not predict what's coming.










MOVIE I WATCHED OVER THE SUMMER.
Monsters University- The reason why I went to go and watch this movie because the first movie was flawless. My anticipation for the sequel to Monsters Inc was too high and I have to admit that the movie was a little dissapointing. However, I did learn things that related to the first movie. There was a fault in watching the movie, it was that the cinema screen was filled with young children. They were all noisy and it ruined the whole atmosphere of watching a movie that I've watched 12 years. The movie itself was entertaining as it was comedic in some scenes, which really appealed to the little kids.

Overall, I think the whole experience of watching this movie was disappointing. I think for me the lack of enjoyment was the younger children fidgeting and causing disruptions during the viewing. Something that really made me loose concentration was the younger child kicking the back of my chair.  If I took the option of watching this movie late at night, where the existence of children was almost unthinkable, would've allowed me to enjoy the movie a lot more than I did.