When creating the logo for my Production company I researched and looked at already existing companies and logo's. I found that the logo's for companies related somewhat to the name, allowing the audience to register and associate the logos with the company name automatically. This is evident when looking at companies such as Dreamworks and Reel Farm (as seen below). I then came up with the name 'Red Lion Productions' and from this found a logo that suitably reminds the audience of the name of my production Company. I feel that the logo is simplistic and therefore works well at sticking in the audience's minds.
When creating the logo I used an already existing logo that I found on Google images. The logo related to my company name giving a reason as to why I chose the logo in particular. When editing the logo I had to break down the image into different segments in order to use them in my animation. I then put a selection of fonts and designs into photoshop in order to further make a decision as to which looked the best.
One of the main, if not the main, influence for the magazine cover is TIME magazine. The cover is very simplistic and mainly focuses on the aesthetics of the magazine on the cover rather than extensive amounts of information in order to attract readers. The simplistic colour scheme also is easily replicable and again is simplistic. TIME also is a highly successful magazine and by using it as an influence for my designs i can guarantee that my design will be a success. I feel that using a more simplistic approach with one image on the cover will be a lot more successful, as visually it is more pleasing, in my opinion, than a cover of other magazines, such as Empire magazine for example.
When creating the two mock posters I have used artists Saul Bass and Chung Kong as inspiration for my designs as they create minimalistic movie posters in a similar style. The style is successful as it is interesting and engaging for the audience, however makes them question the films content or why the emblem or logo is used and relevant to the film. many audience members who haven't seen the film will be unable to identify why the logo is used, however this will become clear when the film is watched and the emblem/logo will become relevant to the plot. I prefer the simplicity again, as it makes audiences interpret the designs differently, and the block colour is very eye-catching and engaging as a glance. This will be useful with a poster that is usually placed on billboards, on the side of busses and online also (social media).
The trailer will begin using a variety of close ups of various household objects (or another familiar location for audiences), creating a sense of normality for the audience. I will use minimalistic camera movement in order to further support this, saving the more chaotic movement for later in the trailer. I will then further establish a sense of normality through the use of mid and close up shots showing the protagonist doing normal day-to-day activities. The themes of the trailer will switch suddenly after this however, prompted by the narrator. I will then use various clips, show in various locations. I will use unique shot types such as a low angle shot, with dirt being shovelled onto the camera, suggesting that the person who's view s seen is being berried. I will also use a low angle shot from inside a car boot, showing the dominance of the protagonist through this. This is similar to the shots used in Black Mass and Gangster Squad when showing the protagonist. I will use a variety of shot types in order to exaggerate the violence and confuse the audience, creating enigma. I will then end with either a shot of the protagonist, looking insane almost, or a shot inside the first location, creating a sense of equilibrium.
However, I am undecided on the detailed specifics of the trailer, as this will depend on the locations and the actors, as well as other unpredictable factors on the day. I have a rough idea but this may fluctuate nearer the time of the shoot, and only offers a rough guide to the contents of my trailer. It may also change due to the flexibility of the actors and how much film time I am able to secure on the day.
Ellie Burrell-Bicker - No Preference In my opinion, the red background is the most effective because this will link with the crime theme featured in your film trailer, however I like the brain image as this will also link with the two sides to the male protagonist featured in your media product. With the red background, add the splats that are on your yellow background. Overall, the layout of the posters composition seems successful, you just need to involve a bit more text information e.g. upcoming release (season), the slogan, and maybe a review from a critic. Kieran Panchal - Yellow Poster I love the style of both posters, as i can see that inspiration has clearly been taken from the successful designer Saul Bass. The way the posters use significant objects for the film creates a sense of familiarity for viewers that have already seen the film but also enigma for those who haven't. The simplistic set-up with block colours and minimalistic information (just the title and 'coming soon') is particularly effective, as it gets the message across to the consumer without including any irrelevant or additional advertising jargon - setting the film apart from others already on the market. My preference is the yellow poster. I think that this piece is particularly effective for many reasons. Firstly, i love the way that it uses texture, with the coffee stained-style background, which adds a sense of realism and 3-dimensional effect. The kerning and the capitalisation of the letters suggests impact and is additionally captivating. Josh Manley - No Preference For me I feel that a very successful poster could be made from a combination of both of your poster mock up ideas. This is because I believe that their are aspects of both which you could potentially include to still form a simplistic yet effective poster. Your simplistic approach allows for the text and central image to easily stand out from the background. I feel that the colour of your first poster is more relevant to your film genre as the colour red has connotations of blood. Also I like the fact that you have included a review/quote which shows that you have considered the conventions to what is included film posters. I feel that the central image of the second image is the most successful due to the detail included which could work very effectively with the red background. Also I like the sense of texture created with the blood splats on the background which could relate much better to the red background and ultimately relating to your genre very effectively. Danielle Fletcher - No preference Out of the two mock up's of the posters, I feel like I prefer a hybrid of the two. I love the effect on the yellow back ground, however I believe the colour red is stronger. So perhaps put the effect onto the red. I prefer the brain logo in the centre of the poster as it links with 'Sanity' and the mind. The quote on the poster is effective, however I prefer the 'Coming Soon' font from the red backgrounded poster. The font on the yellow background also is more interesting as it is bold and clearer. Overview It is clear from the research that both poster designs would be successful but audiences would prefer a mixture/hybrid of the two posters. They would like to see a mash up of the red colour, as it has connotations of blood, with the emblem and blood splats featured in the yellow design. I will therefore take this into consideration when creating my final poster, in order to create a successful poster that advertises my film yet also appeals to the target audience of the film. many of the review also mention that I should include more information about the film or its release, however this is contrasted other views that believe that the poster works better as it is simpler.
The mind map above highlights the various ideas that I have brainstormed in order to try and select a title for the film that my trailer is advertising. All of the names relate somewhat to the films plot and what I will feature in my trailer. The name that i have chosen, and i believe that best suites my film trailer, is Sanity. I have chosen this as it is short and snappy and will get stuck in the audiences head, yet relates well to my films plot, allowing audiences to get a sense of what the film is about from the title alone.
When creating the two mock posters I have used artists Saul Bass and Chung Kong as inspiration for my designs as they create minimalistic movie posters in a similar style. The style is successful as it is interesting and engaging for the audience, however makes them question the films content or why the emblem or logo is used and relevant to the film. many audience members who haven't seen the film will be unable to identify why the logo is used, however this will become clear when the film is watched and the emblem/logo will become relevant to the plot.
Loyalty is a highly common theme in the Gangster/Mafia genre. Loyalty is usually present between family and/or the gang. The plot often revolves around this theme, showing characters willing to die for family and their gangs. This is present in films such as Gangster Squad, where characters are willing to die in order to take down the antagonist and protect their family. This is also shown in The Godfather, in which family life is extensively contrasted with the violence. This is true when looking at real life examples of Gangsters. For example, Al Capone valued family as he used them to cover up various crimes he committed. All his purchases are put under his wife and other family members names in order to ensure that he couldn't be charged with any crimes. This is also relevant when observing the Kray Twins as they valued family highly, leading ultimately to their downfall.
Self Destruction
Self destruction is also a common theme in many Gangster films, leading to the downfall of the mafia members. For example, in Gangster Squad, Mickey Cohen keeps pushing to try and kill the protagonists, attacking their families and underhandedly killing members of the 'Gangster Squad'. This act drives them to confront Cohen and his temper means that he comes out the safety of his hotel, ultimately leading to his arrest.
Evil/arrogance
The antagonist can be portrayed as ultimately evil, not showing any signs of morality at all. The gangster character is normally shown as the dark in the dark versus light theme that is normally present, the law being the light. For example, the characters of Cohen, John Dillinger and the Kray Twins are portrayed as the dark mostly, although the audience can relate and feel sorry for them in some ways. When looking at Dillinger the audience can understand why he is killed at the end, as the law ultimately will catch up with him and charge him for the crimes we know he has committed. Yet, this being said, the audience still feels sorry for him as it is evident he had no other means of income throughout the depression period.
Rivalry
Rivalry can be a common theme throughout the genre, showing rivalry with other gangs or members. This is relevant in Gangster Squad as the antagonist and protagonist both compete for the same girl, causing added conflict throughout the film. John Dillinger ends up working with the rival mobsters however in Public Enemies, showing a break from the conventions and subversion of the genre. Rivalry is also a fear of all the Gangsters in the various films, as they are always fearful that somebody will take their territory and challenge their authority, such s the conflict relevant in Gangster Squad.
Fierce Ambition
Most of the characters, antagonists and protagonists, are driven by ambition. The Gangsters most commonly are driven by the greed and need for power and money, wanting to constantly build their empire. Characters such as the Krays in Legend want to build and expand their power and authority in London. Again, when referring to Cohen in Gangster Squad this is present, however this is also relevant for the antagonists as they have a drive to take down Cohen, and even resort to illegal methods to do so.
Appearance vs Reality
The glamorous life of a gangster is heavily contrasted by the violent truth behind it. Many of the gangsters seem appealing to women through their power, wealth and sometimes looks, however the other side of the characters shows that they are not nice individuals and have a harsh violent side to them. It allows the audience some clarity on the crime life, showing how although many of the characters are rich and powerful it comes at a price, possibly hinting that there is an unglamorous side to the rich and powerful outside the cinematic world.
Symbols
Money - Shows the characters ultimate drive and desire. Also has connotations of rags to riches.
Guns - Connotations of violence and main weapon used by Gangsters. Can also appear to be business-like
Women - Used as a sign of wealth rather than a romantic relationship in most cases. Women objectified commonly.
Grimy Locations - Shows the unglamorous side of crime life
Police - Represent the law and the authority that the mobsters want to challenge, and may be fearful of
Jail - Connotation reminding the audience that crime doesn't pa, but also can be a symbol of disloyalty
Universal Pictures
Universal Pictures is a subsidiary of Universal Studios. Universal Studios was founded April 30, 1912 (103 years ago) as Universal Film Manufacturing Company and is owned by Comcast, through wholly owned NBC Universal. Universal Pictures are responsible for films such as Jurassic World ($650,518,931Domestic Gross), E.T. the Extra Terrestrial ($435,110,554 Domestic Gross) and Jurassic Park ($402,453,882 Domestic Gross). They also have produced/distributed crime films, such as American Gangster which had a gross of £2,564,853 in the UK on its opening weekend in 2008. Warner Bros. Warner Bros studios was founded April 4, 1923 (92 years ago) and is a subsidiary of Time Warner. Some of their most successful films include Batman: The Dark Knight ($534,858,444 Domestic Gross), Harry Potter and the deathly Hallows Part 2 ($381,011,219 Domestic Gross) and American Sniper ($350,126,372 Domestic Gross). They are also responsible for films such as Gangster Squad which had a gross of $17,070,347 in the US on its opening weekend and Bullets and Ballots, released in 1936. The film is an example of how early on the company were making crime films and Gangster/Mafia style films in particular, showing theirexpertise in the genre. The film itself revolves around a New York cop infiltrating a crime gang. This shows also that the narrative in films of the genre do not vary all that much and are still successful today amongst a modern audience. Paramount Pictures Paramount Pictures Corporation is a film studio and television company commonly known for its success and being one of the 'Big Six' that dominate the media industry. The company was founded in 1912 (103 years ago) as the Famous plays film Company. The company's most successful film was Titanic (1997) which had a domestic gross of $658,672,302 followed by Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen in 2009 with a domestic gross of $402,111,870. The company is also responsible for the Godfather series, which follows the Corleone New York crime family over the years 1945 - 1955. The film contrasts strong violence and graphic images with a strong sense of family and normal, relatable, family life in general. The film was highly successful with a gross of $302,393 in the US on its opening weekend. The film was for a time the highest picture ever made. The success of the film then spawned two sequels, The Godfather II and The Godfather III, and is considered a 'classic' film, setting a further president for the genre as a whole. Miramax Founded in 1979 by Bob and Harvey Weinstein and was a leading production and distribution company before it was acquired by The Walt Disney Company in 1993. The company is fairly small compared to the other companies above, however is responsible for cult classic Pulp Fiction, written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film is considered a classic and is now loved by multiple audiences around the world. Pulp fiction was a huge success having a opening weekend gross of £4,243,233 in the UK. Overall To conlude, if i were to choose a production company for my film/tailer i would most likely choose Paramount Pictures. This is due to them being in the 'Big Six' and dominating a large area of the market, meaning that publication and marketing would be a lot easier and more wide spread. It would ensue that my target audience would see the trailer and therefore go and see my film, increasing its success. This would also allow my film to be produced by a company with experience in the genre and consequently publicising it. Through their production of The Godfather films I can guarantee that my film would be produced to a good standard and would target and appeal to the correct target audience.
0:00 - 0:06 - The classification screen identifying the classification age of the trailer
0:08 - 0:10 Panning establishing shot of LA skyline
0:10 - 0:13 - Mid shot and close up of antagonist boxing (showing violent nature)
0:13 - 0:14 - Close up of barrels burning - foreshadowing explosion (linking to violence and voice over)
0:14 - 0:20 - Various mid shots used to give an insight into the film and creating tension. Gives insight into antagonists crime life
0:20 - 0:21 - Person drowning/dead in water (highlighting violent nature further)
0:21 - 0:22 - Mickey Cohen (antagonist) laughing. Further showing disliked character and villain
0:23 - 0:25 - Three shots used to show conversation between two antagonists (two close ups and a mid establishing shot)
0:25 - 0:27 - Two separate animations of company logos
0:27 - 0:28 - shot establishing and showing new location (police department)
0:28 - 0:32 - Various shots used to establish police and Cohen further - showing his almost celebrity like status and that he's a problem for the police
0:32 - 0:36 - Fade to black before using two separate scenes of a casino - close ups contrasted with mid and long shots before a sharp fade to black
0:36 - 0:40 - 10 shots used of various shot types, creating a sense of chaos creating a sense of confusion amongst the audience - another sharp fade to black is then used
0:41 - 0:42 - Close up and mid shot of main character cradling child and policemen (again accompanying the voice over)
0:42 - 0:45 - a mid shot of main character and a long shot of the antagonist - creating contrast between characters
0:45 - 0:46 - slow tilt of city landscape - fade to black
0:46 - 0:54 - uses various shots again also (mix of mid shots and close ups with various lighting) to introduce the main characters of the film (antagonists) - fade to black
0:54 - 1:00 - various shots again to show the plot of the film and action (variety of shot types again) - fade to black
1:00 - 1:02 - close ups of weapons - signifying violence - fade to black
1:02 - 1:05 - shots accompanying music (variety) again conveying violence - fade to black
1:05 - 1:08 - two mid shots of weapons being passed from member to member (violence) - fade to black
1:08 - 1:10 - Same mid shot repeated of policemen talking to members of squad - then cut to black with text
1:10 - 1:15 - mid shots with fade to black multiple times in between
1:15 - 1:22 - various shot types of restaurant scene (intro of new character) - with violence in between for contrast of "honest" life
1:22 - 1:37 - various shot types of various points in the film - conveying violence and sex - in time with the music (now more fast paced) - fade to black with more text (release date)
1:37 - 1:45 - various shot types again of family going along with the dialogue "kill their families" - showing extreme violence also in the section with intense music accompanying
1:45 - 1:51 - further mid shots of relationship between characters - and contrasted with violence fade to black and text
1:51 - 1:54 - Various establishing and long shots of car chase and also violence - fade to black and text
1:54 - 2:07 - Many shots (montage) of various types used to build pace and build for title reveal - creating tension and genre through the violence and the anger of the antagonist - fade to black and revealing actors names, followed by mid shot of actor in film
2:07 - 2:10 - repeat with another actor
2:10 - 2:11 - repeat with another actor
2:11 - 2:13 - repeat with another actor
2:13 - 2:15 - repeat with another actor
2:15 - 2:21 - various shots, including establishing shot of new location, mid shots of gunfire and explosions and then fade to black
2:21 - 2:26 - three more shots of characters in similar poses firing guns (mid shots) - then fade to black for title reveal animation
2:28 - 2:32 - final release date and copyright text etc.
Legend (Teaser Trailer)
0:00 - 0:03 - Two shots of logo animations are used (accompanied by soundtrack) - fade to black
0:03 - 0:05 - establishing tilt shot of London skyline - fade to black
0:06 - 0:08 - establishing shot of car rolling towards camera through street - fade to black
0:08 - 0:11 - background with text on - fade to black
0:11 - 0:13 - mid shot of character smoking - fade to black
0:13 - 0:17 - long shot of another character walking in front of car - fade to black
0:17 - 0:21 - text again with fade to black
0:21 - 0:24 - slow mid shot zoom out of another character on a bed - fade to black
0:24 - 0:27 - mid shot of already introduced male character walking towards camera
0:27 - 0:30 - more text animation - fade to black
0:30 - 0:34 - establishing long shot outward zoom of male overlooking London from hotel window - fade to black
0:34 - 0:38 - mid shot of two brothers sat in car front on to camera accompanied by voice over - fade to black
0:38 - 0:42 - outward mid shot over the shoulder zoom of crime spider graph of characters (establishing role along with voice over)
0:42 - 0:46 - Front on mid shot of characters sat behind another unknown man - accompanies by voice over
0:46 - 0:47 - long shot of Kray twin sat in chair - cut to text
0:47 - 0:49 - text again - fade to next shot
0:49 - 0:51 - slow long shot tilt of car in forest
0:51 - 0:52 - two mid shots of girl looking at boy and boy back at girl in casino with other twin over looking (mid shot)
0:52 - 0:54 - long shot of men and one being punched )showing violence)
0:54 - 0:55 - mid shot of two characters in back of car - one cocking gun - again highlighting violence
0:55 - 0:58 - text again - fade into next shot
0:58 - 0:59 - long shot establishing trafalgar square and news stand - hinting at fame of characters
0:59 - 1:00 - two protagonist characters (mid shot) sat in court
1:00 - 1:01 - twins looking at each other - over the shoulder mid shot
1:01 - 1:02 - mid shot tracking run through washing line
1:02 - 1:03 - mid shot of characters (who were looking at each other in casino) dancing in a club
1:03 - 1:04 - mid shot with slight track of one twin pulling gun on an unknown character - highlighting violence
1:04 - 1:05 - mid shot of women looking in multiple mirrors (highlighting normal life)
1:05 - 1:06 - downward angle close up of money then mid shot of many characters looking at it (money pov) - highlighting crime - stolen money
1:06 - 1:07 - twin walking in prison with guards (mid shot) - showing crime again and conveying genre
1:07 - 1:10 - three shots - mid shot of characters and establishing shot, showing more of the location
1:10 - 1:13 - Multiple shots of characters - side on kissing - and other mid shots in club
1:13 - 1:15 - two shots - long shot of fight and close up of hammer held - showing violence
1:15 - 1:20 - various shots of car hitting person (MS), fighting (ms) and fireworks going off in building (MS) - highlighting violence in the film
1:20 - 1:25 - title screen and then fade to black
1:25 - 1:29 - actors name text and then shot of character
1:29 - 1:32 - actors name text and then shot character
1:32 - 1:35 - Release date text and links to social media (clickable)
Black Mass
0:00 - 0:07 - classification screen - logo animations and then an establishing shot of the Boston skyline using a slow zoom out
0:07 - 0:12 - Close up of main character
0:12 - 0:14 - long shot of the characters at the table eating (normal activity)
0:14 - 0:17 - close up of other character - conversation
0:17 - 0:20 - mid shot over the shoulder - conversation
0:20 - 0:25 - mid shot reverse - conversation
0:25 - 0:30 - long shot of table repeated
0:30 - 0:32 - close up of character two again
0:32 - 0:42 - Long shot of table again - suspenseful shot for audience
0:42 - 0:44 - over the shoulder mid shot again (Johnny Depp)
0:44 - 0:45 - MS of character two
0:45 - 0:47 - MS of character Johnny Depp
0:47 - 0:49 - MS of character two
0:49 - 0:50 - MS of Johnny Depp
0:50 - 0:55 - MS of Johnny Depp repeated - the conversation makes audiences feel uncomfortable through dialogue
0:55 - 0:56 - Long shot of group of gangsters exiting a club - convey genre
0:56 - 0:59 - Mid shot slow zoom on main character followed by arial down angle shot of body by car - creates suspense and graphic images convey genre also
0:59 - 1:00 - Slow zoom mid shot into main character - shadowy lighting conveys genre
1:00 - 1:02 - shot of newspaper and low angle zoom into face of Johnny Depp's character - conveys crime genre as he's wanted
1:02 - 1:04 - Text - slow zoom
1:04 - 1:06 - close up of Bulger's face lit by camera flash - conveys genre and lighting creates suspense combined with the intense voice over
1:06 - 1:07 - Close up of character two repeated - close up of tape recording
1:07 - 1:08 - slow MS zoom across table
1:08 - 1:09 - LS of someone being stopped by police and searched (genre conventions)
1:09 - 1:10 - Bulger in club with women (possibly prostitute - conveying genre and classification also)
1:10 - 1:12 - Three MS used of violence and money - again conveying the genre further
1:12 - 1:19 - Various shots conveying the main characters - then back to Johnny Depp shot around the table
1:19 - 1:23 - long close up of the second character - awkward for the audience to witness - very uncomfortable
1:23 - 1:24 - Close up of Bulger again
1:24 - 1:30 - Collection of shots - conveying violence of genre further and insight into characters - introducing the police/investigator style characters also
1:30 - 1:37 - collection of shots again - all very short - creating a fast paced trailer - also an insight into further violence and of kids - creating a strong feeling of suspense
1:37 - 1:38 - Close up repeat of Johnny Depp at dinner table
1:38 - 1:39 - low angle mid shot of Depp kicking someone - creates vulnerability and makes the audience feel vulnerable also
1:39 - 1:41 - Text with actors name on - attracting audience with celebrity endorsement
1:41 - 1:44 - Three shots in quick succession - mid shots and long shot of Depp walking up to man and going to shoot him - standing over him before cut to title screen - shows his dominance
1:44 - 1:46 - title screen before trailer cuts back to table scene - circular style trailer
1:46 - 1:51 - Tense Mid Shot of character two sat at table looking at Depp - suspenseful
1:51 - 1:56 - Depp laughing (MS) at the second character - intense as the joke is very dark - conveying the genre - excessive laughter makes audience feel uncomfortable also.
1:56 - 1:58 - close up of character two repeated - blank expression - scared
1:58 - 2:02 - Actors names appear on black background - advertising actors top audience - using fame to sell film
2:02 - 2:06 - coming soon text - leave wondering
2:06 - 2:10 - end credits of trailer with information about film - then a two second black screen for added suspense - lets audience process trailer
Target Audience From looking at secondary research online it is identifiable that the crime genre usually attracts a mixed target audience. The films normally are aged 15 in order to allow the use of violent scenes and more explicit language, however aren't rated 18, unless felt necessary, in order to attract a larger audience. The films normally also are aimed at both males and females, with many using female characters as heavy parts throughout so both genders can feel some sense of connection and reality to the film. The target age is usually around 15-30, as some older viewers may be put off by the violence, however many of these films are still loved by viewers outside this age bracket, showing that the film can be successfully aimed at a various age range. The historical context of many crime films may also attract older audiences as they may have been able to remember the criminals or aspects of the crimes themselves. However, there is a fairly large amount of freedom when looking at the age of the target audience. For example, if i choose to target the film at an older audience then I will use characters of a similar age. However, if i aim at a younger audience then I can use younger character. This will enable my audience to relate to the characters even more, creating a more engaging experience and emotional relationship. Furthermore, the target audience may consist of those that are fans of a more psychological style film, due to the plot of my film having the audience interpret the characters actions and motives, and whether they are correct in choosing to pursue the path that they take in the film. The target audience will not however, be those that are interested in historical factual mafia/crime films as my film will be comprised of fictionalised content. I would have liked to include historical content but this would be hard to do as it would mean using a high budget in order to pay for props, costumes etc. which is not feasible unfortunately. Although saying this the film will appeal to individuals that are fans of the historical content as the film will be very similar in terms of visuals and narrative to other historical based films in the genre. Gangster Squad
As shown by the graph the largest percentage of the audience were Males under the age of 18, closely followed by Female under 18. This data therefore supports the finings above, showing that i should aim to target a young audience. This again supports the argument that I should age the film at a rating of 15, in order to incorporate the audience. Legend
The main group in terms of age for the film Legend is surprisingly the "Aged Under 18" considering that it is an 18 rated film. However, this still supports my findings supporting that i should aim my film at an audience of under 18. Black Mass
Again, it is clear from the data that the most popular age of viewers is the under 18 category. This further supports my findings and shows that iIshould definitely pursue this target audience in order to ensure maximum success.
The Protagonist will be a gangster in his day job
however, a normal person outside of the life of crime. He will murder for a
living in order to gain money yet merely act normally outside of it. The two
contrasting personas will create tension, as it will be strange for the
audience to witness. Firstly, throughout the start of the film the protagonist
will have his personal life and mafia life completely separate. Showing
contrast between him killing violently and day-to-day activities. This changes
when he kills a private investigators son as part of his job. He is then
under investigation for the murder that he committed and he begins to unravel,
and his crime life begins to seep through into his personal life, ending in
them both together becoming one. The investigator is only able to pick up on
the murder due to his skill, as everyone else ignores it (as they are corrupt).
Towards the end of the story the protagonist is pursued by the investigator and
then finally killed. The investigator has to turn to illegal methods however,
as the police in the city are corrupt. The investigator then will be left with
the death of the protagonist on his hands, leaving the audience to question
whether he was right to do so, or whether it makes him just as immoral as the
protagonist.
The contrast and slow merging of the two different
lifestyles will show how the protagonist slowly loses sanity and coming closer
to his death at the end of the film. The use of illegal means to kill him used
by the investigator however, highlights how the mafia are still in control and
he must turn to violence and crime in order to defeat him. This follows similar
narratives to other successful crime films such as Gangster Squad and Black
Mass, which I have used as inspiration for my narrative. The film will also
have various action sequences throughout and tense scenes building up to the
end, however the above narrative is more of a basic outline that I will use for
the trailer.
The plot of the trailer will focus predominantly on
one scene showing the protagonist to be ‘normal’, in a natural environment such
as a shopping in a supermarket or doing the washing at home. The audience will
then hear a voice over, explaining a little about the protagonist and his
characteristics in first person. This will soon switch to more violent clips
showing the protagonists true nature and ‘work’ side of his life. This will
continue building up, using various shot types in order to convey the chaotic
side of his life. This will end with the protagonist either in a chaotic,
insane frenzy at the end, or where the trailer started, ending with him in the
kitchen or just a close up of the washing spinning around in the machine. This
ending will highlight and support Todorov’s theory of equilibrium, ending how
it started. However, the first ending will support the title of the film and
convey the psychological state of the protagonist, hinting further at the films
plot.
Context Gangster Squad - Focuses on the crime legend Micky Cohen, and his control over LA in the 1940s and 1950s. Most of the films events, characters and the film plot itself is mostly fictionalised, although there was a 'Gangster Squad' created by Clemence B. Horrall the LAPD's Chief of Police at the time. Throughout the tim themes of violence and also corruption amongst the police, meaning they cannot defeat him legally. This links to the context of the era, showing how the corrupt and violent are running the big cities with fear, and the honest are bottom of society. This is similar to other Gangsters in the era such as Al Copone, who could not be taken down legally.
Legend - Legend focuses on a similar aspect of the Mafia film style by using aspects of corruption and historical fact. However, Legend (using the book The Profession of Violence: The Rise and Fall of the Kray Twins by John Pearson) focuses on the family and personal lives of Ronald and Reggie Kray, and their characters in particular are the protagonists, not the antagonists like in Gangster Squad. It focuses on the twin's downfall and later imprisonment, showing another side to the fear that most experienced. Again this film focuses on the fear and corruption that the Twins were involved in throughout the film and the 1960s in general in London. It reflects the real life events (to an extent) that occurred in the time period.
Black Mass - The film is based on the 2001 book Black Mass: The True Story of an Unholy Alliance Between the FBI and the Irish Mob by Dick Lehr and Gerard O'Neill. The film follows James "Whitey" Bulger, leader of the Irish-American Winter Hill Gang, who control almost all of the organised crime in Boston. However, the gangs authority is challenged by opposing gang the New England Mafia. This therefore, is similar to the ideas of the other two films, as they focus on Mafias that control large cities, however authorities can do little to challenge their power. Bulger is also under investigation from authorities throughout the film. The film conveys historical fact (some fictionalised), using a similar style to the previous two films. Conclusion
All three films focus on, or are based on, real life events. They are all set in large cities and follow the control of them by Mafias. They focus on how they affect either the mafia members lives or innocent civilians lives, and the fear that they create amongst communities. Most focus on the family and personal lives of families and how important they are to the characters. This works well as the personal lives contrasted with the fear of death and violence makes the characters, and therefore the films, more emotional overall.
When completing the research task I aimed to use the research in order to give me a more specific idea of how to construct my text and what to include throughout it. I also aimed to identify a specific target audience and then aim my film at this audience specifically, in order to ensure success when attempting to attract an audience to watch the film. I was lacking in a plot and some of the sub context that is highly important in the genre. I hoped, and aimed, to gain this knowledge through my research and also get a clearer understanding of what the audience expects from a film within this category.
I chose to pursue the film trailer option as I had various ideas and plans for a crime/thriller trailer already and fell like this option will challenge me most, and push me to produce a better text. I chose not to choose an advert as I felt like, although I could produce a very successful text, it would not be all that challenging to film as it would be in one location and most likely filmed in one day. If i were to have filmed an advert i would have used food as the main focus. I also chose not to do a music video as, honestly, I was disinterested. I have more interest, and freedom, when creating a trailer and can use more variety, in terms of shots and locations. I therefore, am happy with the choice to do a trailer and am confident that I can create a successful trailer that is appealing to the audience. Firstly, in order to start planning I needed to identify my target audience, and in order to do so I carried out a survey into my chosen genre and film type specifically. I was unsure as to choose to create an under class style, or a Mafia/gangster style trailer. Throughout audience feedback collect via my survey, it is now clear that the audience prefers a Mafia style film overall. It has also been identified that the audience wish to see a male protagonist rather than a female, as they stereotypically prefer a male, and think that it suits the role better. I therefore have the opportunity to either conform to this or not, allowing me to justify either gender choice. I also looked closely into the age brackets that my target audience comes under, in order to further target my film well and also know what rating most accurately applies to my film trailer. This is important as if i were to choose too high a rating, such as 18 for example, all those that are under that age but interested wouldn't be able to view my film, meaning a loss in money. Surprisingly however, the films normally also are aimed at both males and females, with many using female characters as heavy parts throughout so both genders can feel some sense of connection and reality to the film. The target age is usually around 15-30, as some older viewers may be put off by the violence, however many of these films are still loved by viewers outside this age bracket, showing that the film can be successfully aimed at a various age range. This shows that despite having a primary target audience, there is a secondary target audience comprising of a smaller majority of fans of the genre from other age or gender brackets, meaning that the film genre as a whole is still highly successful and the Mafia style film is still highly favoured amongst todays market. This therefore gives me more freedom overall as i know that whatever content i choose to include, if using the genres conventions, will appeal to some area or aspect of my target audience as it is so broad.
Also, I found from research that Loyalty, Self destruction, Rivalry, evil/arrogance, fierce ambition and reality versus appearance are all common aspects of the genre, and Mafia films in particular. Loyalty specifically is important as it is usually present between family and/or the gang. The plot often revolves around this theme, showing characters willing to die for family and their gangs. This therefore shows that it is a main aspect and should be important when deciding a plot for my trailer and film. Another important factor is Evil/Arrogance as the antagonist can be portrayed as ultimately evil, not showing any signs of morality at all. The gangster character is normally shown as the dark in the dark versus light theme that is normally present, the law being the light. Thirdly, Appearance versus reality is important as commonly the glamorous life of a gangster is heavily contrasted by the violent truth behind it. Many of the gangsters seem appealing to women through their power, wealth and sometimes looks, however the other side of the characters shows that they are not nice individuals and have a harsh violent side to them.
From further research i have also managed to identify various sub contexts of the genre, this being films that are based on or contain real life events. They are all set in large cities and follow the control of them by Mafias also, many of which show a contrast between normal family life and daily activities such as going to clubs and drinking, compared to the highly violent and extremely illegal activities that the characters are involved in. Audiences in particular feel that the film is more involving or that they have learnt something more if the film is based on real life events, as the events and characters are not simply made up by screenwriters and directors, but are actually the sick and twisted, in most cases, lives of real people. Many of the films highlight the fear that these real gangsters bought into many lives and also how their power enables them to illegally control cities, which for even a modern audience is a terrifying thought, and a possibility as it still occurs today in some cities. These films for that reason therefore further engage the audience as it is more realistic and relatable. Many films in the genre also focus on the light against dark or good versus evil themes that are common in many other genres also, allowing the audience to relate to the good characters. Audiences will also identify strong themes of morality, making them question their own throughout the films, as they will constantly ask themselves, 'What would i do?' if they were in the situation, seen heavily throughout my research. Moreover, the audience feedback and research into target audience has been highly successful as i have found the target audience and their likes and dislikes, allowing me to further plan a trailer that will appeal to them and not disinterest them, making my film trailer a failure. I now also know that a Mafia style film will be more successful and appealing to my target audience than an underclass and more gritty style film would be, giving me a clear indication as to what style film i shall create. The contextual research also has been a huge help in particular, as it allows me to know what themes are common in films in my chosen genre of crime and mafia, and therefore include these in a subtle way throughout my film trailer. I now know that a good versus evil theme is good to hint at throughout my trailer, using techniques such as low key and high key lighting when filming my good (protagonist) characters and the bad/evil (antagonistic) characters. This theme and other aspects of my research will enable me to select different shot types and utilise various high and low angles throughout my trailer in order to reflect the themes. Also, the research conducted into biographical context and themes and themes is highly important as it gives me multiple aspects that should be included in my film, giving me conventions that, although can be subverted, should be followed in order to create the genre and allow the audience to identify this genre. Overall, the research that has been conducted by myself has enabled me to target a specific audience and given me a clear indication of how and what i should include min terms of content in my trailer. The research into audience also has given me a clear judgment of age rating and also what content to include and not include in order to keep a younger audience of around 15. The research overall has been extremely helpful and has given me a clearer understanding of where i need to go in terms of planning and then production, giving me a starting point in the process. It has given me large insight into the genre and given me the knowledge i was lacking in, allowing me to create a plot for my trailer and focus more in depth on themes and the sub culture of the genre. I can now start to proceed with the planning stage, using my research to precisely target the correct audience and also to ensure success of my film trailer, and that if it were to advertise a real film then it would do so successfully in a professional manner.
Critic Reviews Legend - The Guardian stated that Legend "is on strong ground when it takes you through the macabre success of the Krays’ early prominence", showing that films like this allow the audience an insight into real life events and how they played out. Therefore, showing that crime films, in particular many of the specific genre, can be historical and factual. The Telegraph also stated that the film was "big and brash" again speaking for the genre as a whole, allowing me to know what the audience likes, which in the genre may be over the top action and drama. I can then use this information when creating my text. Gangster Squad - The Guardian felt that this was a good film cinematically however lacked correct historical fact and that "the story has little connection to reality. The film is set entirely in 1949, when in fact Cohen wasn't put away until first 1950 and then, finally, in 1961 and, as with Capone, it was accountants that brought him down, not a thuggish cop". This allows me to see that if i were to use any historical fact in the film it would need to be correct otherwise the audience would be unpleased with the film and may not come to see it despite it being aesthetically pleasing. themselves. Institutional Detail Production Companies
Universal Pictures - Safe House, American Gangster
Mirimax Studios - There will be blood
Warner Bros. Studios - The Departed, Bullets and Ballots
Village Roadshow Productions
Paramount Pictures - Responsible for the Godfather series
Paramount Pictures appear the most significant of the selection as they are responsible for The Godfather series, one of the most successful crime/gangster films ever. They therefore have the experience to be able to produce and create a successful crib e film that they know will sell well and will appeal to the target audience of the genre.
My survey consisted of quantitative and qualitative open and
closed questions in order to explore and collect the target audience’s views on
the subject of music videos. The survey allows me to further create a specific
and direct film trailer that will be appealing to the target audience. The
survey also allowed me to identify what films are the favourites of the
audience and why, and then apply this information into the construction of my
media text.
Gender
The first question that I asked the audience was about their
gender. As you can see from the results I asked slightly more Males than
Females, however it is roughly 50/50, providing a more reliable public opinion
in general, allowing me to know what each gender in particular wants from a
film trailer. This data is valuable to me, as when creating a trailer I can
focus on the factors that both genres want from a trailer, allowing me to
attract both audiences.
Age
As seen from the pie chart, I mainly asked 14-18 year olds,
as I believe this to be my target audience. This again shows that the main
feedback from my film will be from 14-18 year olds, showing me what I need to
do to attract them and make them see my film.
Features Expected in
a Trailer
This chart shows what features the
audience view as the most important in a trailer. This allows me to know what
is necessary in a trailer for audience engagement, showing me what I need to
include. This again allows me to have a more focused approach when creating my
trailer, and allows me to know what is definitely needed to make it a success
with my target audience. The chart shows that narrative and plot and action
scenes need to be included because they are most desired.
What is your
favourite sub-genre/genre and why?
As seen from the two charts below
audience’s preferred the crime genre and in particular Mafia style films as
opposed to under class/gritty crime films. This information allows me then to
choose which idea I wish to carry out, as I know what my target audience wants
from the genre and style. This is highly valuable also as I am then able to
start planning/constructing my film including more specific detail.
Antagonist Gender and
what would make you watch a film?
The audience have identified that they think the most appropriate gender
for a main character in a crime film should be Male, although many said that it
could be either. This again gives me a clear direction to go when creating my
film as I can start the search for a male actor to please the majority of my
audience. My audience also identified that they want to see interesting context
more than a dramatic or informational, therefore again giving me a strong
audience view that will need to be carried out throughout my film. If I do not keep
the audience happy and adhere to their preferences then I will not have anyone
who wants to watch my film.
