Monday 8 February 2016

Thriller Poster Analysis - David McConnell

Taken (Morel, 2008) Poster -

Analysis

(1) Title

The title 'Taken' gives a explanation of the whole plot in one word. The word 'taken' is synonymous with being seized or arrested, both being threatening words. The title is short and catchy to make it memorable and the blunt nature of the word implies that someone or something has been captured, which would start Neeson's journey to return them.  

(2) Main actor's name

By having Liam Neeson's name at the top of the page, it makes it more eye-catching. If you were scrolling through a web page and found the poster, Neeson's name would be the first thing you see. By having a well know and highly acclaimed actor's name on the poster, and having it as one of the largest piece of information, it would grab more people's attention, making them want to see the film, especially if Neeson is one of their favourite actors.

(3) Protagonist

The poster contains only one person, the most important. This tells the audience that the movie will revolve around the character. The character is looking away from the camera and his face is in a shadow. This shows that he may be ashamed of something he did or that he wants to keep his identity a secret. It also shows his contrasting personality; the light, happy father and the dark killer. He is wearing a shirt and jacket like James Bond. However, this character's shirt is not fully buttoned to show his informal nature and how he isn't as clean cut and precise as a professional secret agent.

(4) Iconic speech

The iconic words of the film are recognisable to anyone and everyone, even if they haven't seen the film before. The use of the long sentence followed by the two short sentences adds emphasis the the shorter one. The imperative 'will' shows that the character is certain that he will 'find you' and 'kill you'. This direct command is cold and heartless; a simple request by a father for his daughter to be let go otherwise he will kill the people who took her away. 

(5) Colour scheme

The dark black symbolises the mystery and death that surrounds the main character. This is contrasted by the bright orange that catches the audiences attention.

(6) Credits

The information block contains information about the producers, director and other cast members that aren't as important as Liam Neeson. This information is found on most posters.

(7) Company logo

The company logo is well known and might be used to draw some movie fans to watch the film. This is because the company is known for making high quality films.

(8) Gun

The gun is the only image used, apart from the main character. The audience is left wondering why he is holding gun - although we can make the assumption that he will use it in the movie to kill those who kidnapped his daughter.

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