Ancillary Task - Research Analysis - Part 3

In the previous tasks I have been analysing both film trailers and their posters. From this I have developed my skills in techniques by looking at real examples but now I am analysing film magazine covers and seeing ways in which these compliment and contrast trailers and posters. From looking at this film magazine 'Empire' I have analysed the print, colours used, the layout, fonts and features, etc.

After analysing the 'Empire' cover I have learnt the techniques and have asked myself how effective they are. To expand opinions I have asked two friends to look at both the 'Empire' cover for 'Casino Royale' as well as the one below produced by 'Starlog' and give a review comparing the two and ultimately picking a favourite.

"I prefer Empires cover because it fits more with the Bond intro, with the classic gun shot scene. It looks more professional, and the Starlog one looks more like it was made on a budget. Also, it doesn't have to say the films title as by saying 'Bond Begins' there is more suspense and hype building. However, I do like that on the Starlog cover that the gun is more aimed at you and is clearer as well as the eye contact making it more eye catching for consumers. Apart from that, the Empire one is significantly better than the Starlog one in all other aspects".

From this review I can take that it is important to audiences that the cover does show an iconic moment of the film and that simplicity can be effective in looking professional. For more opinions I asked another friend the same question to find out their opinions when comparing the two magazine covers.

"I prefer the Starlog magazine cover because it has an old-fashioned retro feel which reminds me of the classic Bond films which are the best ones. I like the fact the name of the film is clear as well as the '007' logo showing it is another film in the franchise. I would agree with 'It's bloody well time for a new James Bond' and this makes me really hyped! I like the blood, however, that is shown on the Empire magazine because I like the violence in these films".

From this review I can understand that people like the classic aspect from the Starlog cover and how it links to previous films in the franchise, however, as we will be making a new film magazine cover this will not be possible and so from these responses and my personal opinion, I think I will be looking at the 'Empire' cover more for ideas and techniques.