Textual Analysis Homework

What codes and conventions does this advertisement use to connote the genre of the film?

This poster uses typical codes and conventions to connote the genre of the film. Alice in Wonderland is a cross between adventure, horror and fantasy. A reason for this is because the use of a high top key light as a backdrop makes the poster look very dull and mysterious which connotes the genre of horror, as this is typically used on most horror ads. The use of the colour black not only allows the image and text to stand out but also foreshadows something is amiss as it is a typical colour that posters use in order to give away the mood of the film. The centralised image of the main protagonist is also creates a sense of mysteriousness as the way in which she is presented with dull make up and a long dress gives the poster and the film a scary background. However on the other hand, the enlarged cup and succour connotes the story will be of a fantasy tale, as in reality succours and cups are not bigger than a human. This also helps the audience have insight to what the narrative may be about, as the unrealistic succour and cup suggests there will be other things in the film itself that will not have a sense of realism. In addition the font used for the text, adds to the codes and conventions of a horror that are being followed.

How are women represented in this ad?

Based on the centralised image, women are represented as being evil. The main protagonist is a girl therefore the poster connotes that the film will be female dominated. Stereotypically women would be sexually objectified to help promote their film. However this poster clearly sticks to the codes and conventions of following a fantasy horror. Her posture and pose establish she is the main protagonist as she is the focal point of this poster. She is presented as an evil character through the way she is dressed and her make-up, which suggests she plays the role of an evil character. The use of bright lighting on her, represents are as being very powerful and of great authority, which also helps present women as being very powerful.