Questions to Consider when Analysing Movie Posters

Courtesy of http://www.classzone.com/books/lnetwork_gr09/page_build.cfm?content=analyz_media_pt1&ch=29

1. Is the movie title prominently featured? Is the text easy to read?
2. Are the main actors shown? If so, which ones? What do their appearances and expressions convey about the movie?
3. What is the design of the movie poster? Does it accurately reflect the mood and tone of the film?
4. What other images are included? What do you notice about the framing of the images?
5. What text is shown on the poster? Is there a catchy slogan? If so, what does it tell you about the movie's story?
6. Is there any other important information included on the poster?
7. Why do/don't you think this movie poster is persuasive?

Framing
The positioning of objects, actors, and text within the frame of a poster to achieve a particular effect. For example, a movie poster for an action film might feature the main actor framed in such a way as to make him seem attractive, strong, and invincible.

Mood
The feeling created for a viewer by the director's use of details, music, and cinematography.

Slogan
A catchy and memorable phrase or sentence on a movie poster. An effective slogan should convey the mood, tone, and main idea of the film without giving too much away. It should capture viewers' attention and make them interested in the story.

Tone
The filmmaker's attitude as reflected in the movie—ironic, serious, and so forth.