Horror Teaser Trailers Codes and Conventions

A2 Media project
Robert Andrews and Jack Perry

Horror teaser trailer codes and
conventions.
• Teaser trailers in general are very short they range from
approximately 1-2 minutes in order to not give too much away in
terms of both plot and the personality's of characters involved.
Horror trailers imperticular follow a very diverse and specific
collection of codes and conventions that are as followed:
• Frequent use of dark lighting.
• Use of climatic scenes with the sole purpose to scare the viewer.
• Tension building music.
• The colour pallet generally associated is that of red and black.
• Feature of non-diegetic sound e.g. films theme song.
• The trailer often ends on a cliff-hanger with the viewer wanting to
know what happens next or generally wanting to know more about
the film.

Horror movie teaser trailers research.
• Example one- Dead Snow (2009).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ap4TiNIKQJ8&safe=active
Dead snow is a horror/comedy film released in 2009 that breaks many of the typical horror codes and
conventions in terms of its comical element, while still dedicating itself to the more mandatory
codes and conventions in terms of its more major aspect, horror.

The trailer commences with details of the
films production, in this case informing the
audience of who is presenting the film in this
case Harald Zwart and more importantly who
the film has been created by. This gives the
audience an insight into the films production
history and some viewers may end up
criticising or even praising the film at this
point based on their preliminary views of the
production/creation cast. This is typical of
any horror teaser trailer or any teaser trailer
for that matter as without this opening
sequence the audience would be alienated
from important aspects of the productions
history.

Dead Snow trailer research.
Here the codes and conventions of a
horror trailer are followed once more as
the audience is immediately introduced
to the main characters of the movie via a
wide shot as character development is
introduced. Similarly to the opening
sequence the audience is given the
opportunity to identify any well known
actors that are to feature in the
production. To a U.K audience however
this wont be relevant due to the movies
origins being Norwegian, but to a
Norwegian audience however it is much
more relevant and important. What also
can been seen here is an immediate and
typical use of dark lighting. Representing
the unknown and unpredictable, dark
lighting being used inside is a sign that
the dangers these characters await is
inescapable and follows them into what
they feel is a safe environment.

Like all movie trailers we are given a brief
insight into the films narrative. Which in
this case is a group of snow scooters
arrive an unsuspecting former Nazi base,
of which they stumble across haunted
Nazi treasure. Using special effects in the
abnormal light that ascends from the box
automatically alerts a suspected
supernatural feature. Although using
older footage from Nazi Germany itself, it
adds a realistic element to an
unimaginable story provoking the true
horror that an incident like this could
possibly happen. The plots insight is brief
in order to not give too many details
away and being left with a lack of
knowledge of the plot and enjoying the
film trailer,as this will be a key factor in
luring the viewer into either cinema
ticket or DVD purchase.

Dead snows trailer in terms of colour scheme
adopts a horror typical one of red and black.
The trailer as shown shows dark scenes
expressing the fear of the unknown that lies
within the darkness, however few are shown
due to the type of horror that Dead Snow falls
into. Although due to its title and setting a lot
of white is used in terms of the snow which
also allows the blood and gore to stand a lot
more in comparison to concrete or grass. Dead
Snow is very much a slasher/gore based horror
movie so throughout the majority of the film it
will primarily intend to shock its viewers by the
excess amount of blood and body parts as
indicated by segments of the trailer that in
this case are emphasised by the close up shot,
allowing the viewer to the expression of pain
and emotion in a time of danger. Even though
this character seems to have been ruthlessly
attacked his wellbeing is left on a cliff-hanger
in order to once again allow the viewer to
discover this in watching the whole feature
length film, fulfilling the movie trailers success
and purpose.

Here we see the first glimpse of the movies
based villain, although when we do the
encounter is certainly atmospheric as the
villain engages in a slow motion edited
tense walk across the screen, as the viewer
at this point will be curious and provoked by
his deadly stature. The mid shot used here
allows a detailed look as the individuals
tatty but significant costume design. With a
costume that links to the films attempted
historical background the Nazi party, his
Nazi generals outfit adds to this element.
On the other hand the make up adds to the
supernatural element of which in this case is
that the Nazis are in fact zombies, indicated
by the pale skin, blood covered mouth and
nose, and cut eye.

The trailer ends by combining 3
important concluding elements. The
first being the title of the film that has
been previously unmentioned leaving
this towards the end will allow viewers
to remember and digest this
information a lot easier so the viewer
can research the movie further. No
release date is revealed, the viewer is
only informed that the film will be
coming soon which isn't very helpful or
precise. Finally the viewer is then
given more detailed credits in the
closing screen. These include the films
official website, a list of the actors,
director and other contributors to the
film as well as the production
company and producers.

Dead Snow trailer research- Sound.
• Throughout the majority of the film trailer the sound is dominated
by dialogue. However the film adapts a heavy rock style theme song
at the beginning of the trailer which is cut immediately as tension
begins to sink in. This dramatic halt to the music identifies the
sudden change in attitude towards the plot as it is clear the cast of
characters wont be enjoying a simple snow scooting trip but
instead a battle to survive a horde of the Nazi un-dead. The more
significant soundtrack used is a speed edited version of Beethoven's
"Ode to Joy“. The upbeat yet classical track helps keep the pace of
the action on screen at the time as the violence sets in and is
heavily emphasised. Although the strange use of such a cult like
musical piece highlights the comedy factor In the film, as the
unlikely pairing of the 2 tend to allow the viewer to view the
violence more lightly without concern of the characters in danger.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre trailer
research.
• example two-The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974).
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs3981DoINw&safe=active
• Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a production piece that’s narrative revolves around an isolated horror
house which stands as a hunting ground for a masked deranged lunatic, Leatherface. The film is
said to have been based on a collection of real life events.
Unlike the typical modern day horror trailer, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre
does not follow the typical codes and conventions by not including the name
of the production until the trailer is concluded. Instead it immediately places
it at the beginning of the trailer combined with a voice over narrative stating
“what happened was true”. This early indication of the film possibly being
based on real life events will draw the viewers more immediately than other
fictional horror trailers would due to the true fear of this movie being that it is
horrifically realistic. Once again the film does not follow the typical codes and
conventions of a horror trailer by instantly showing the main aspect of horror
in this movie, Leatherface. Displaying a medium shot the viewer is subject to
seeing a lot of Leatherface at this point and Is most likely to be confused by his
costume design. Wearing an apron, smart shirt and tie this clothes are typical
of that of a typical modern man with the items typically being found in the
domestic home. This design however can be used to assure the viewers that
Leatherface is not a work of the supernatural, but instead a crazed killer more
insane and sadistic than fictional. The most significant piece of costume
design however is the mask. Its poor craftsmanship and lack of quality alone
insinuates that Leatherface is a mass killer with a lack of care for his
appearance (including his dirty shirt and apron) and mercy for this victims.

research.
As well as being introduced to the main villain the viewer is also
introduced to the main character. Although typically it does
attempt to develop the character at all and nor should it, but what
also strangely lacks is any plot engagement at this point. The viewer
is oblivious to any simple plot ideas this film engages with and
instead focuses on an unconnected series of violent encounters
between the female protagonist and Leatherface. A lot of props in
this scene once again point towards the symbolism of death mainly
the vast amount of what seems to be human bones. Being a typical
horror prop the bones are present in this scene throughout and are
vital in creating the horror and death present atmosphere in the
trailer. A slow pan is also used here for the viewer to see the wide
extent of terror and evil that is present in the room in a fashion that
allows the viewer to feel like they are also there. Once again
Leatherface appears again in an identical position to a previous
shot. This trailer is not one that follows the codes of conventions as
a reoccurring shot of the villain decreases the tension within the
trailer as the viewer seems to know too much already at this point
about the horror aspect of the film leaving little left to discover in
the actual film except gaps in the presumed plot. By this point the
sound in the trailer is nothing more than screams shrieks and
emotional dialogue from the female protagonist as music at this
point of the trailer is absent.

research.
Constantly expressing its link to a collection of true
events that inspired, the trailer incorporates a
selection of flash driven extreme close ups that are
used to identify segments of corpses. These shots
portray a typical crime scene photograph and thus
further adds to the element of horror due to the
realistic factor that is added alongside the voice
over narration. As well as this the use of make up is
significant in the fear we can see in the victims and
other characters within the trailer. Here for
example the use of black make up around the eyes
and extreme pale face detailed by the close up shot
show the extent of horror the victims endure, a
horror so disturbing it leaves the victims physically
scared and mentally distraught. In terms of the
Mise-en-scene her position at this point is similar to
that of a coffin this further symbolises the
reoccurring theme of death seen earlier in the
trailer that is constantly emphasised to the viewer.

research.
Here for the first time in the trailer the main prop that
links this film with its title is revealed, the chainsaw.
Being revealed so late in the trailer and hardly
emphasised once more points to this film trailer
straying away from the typical codes and conventions
of a horror trailer as more modern trailers like Scream
highlight the knife at several points throughout. As well
as identifying the key prop for the first time we are
also introduced to horror essential dark lighting. Used
to express the fear of the unknown it is pushed further
due to the outdoor environment where a lack of
shelter and safety comforts the victim as indicated by
yet another appearance from the now familiarised
Leatherface. Although the production title had been
featured at the beginning of the trailer it is included for
a 2nd time in its conclusion. However unlike more
modern horror trailer endings not as much detail is
given to the films creation as only the film creator and
production company are shown actors and producers
for example are absent. What also comes at the end of
the trailer is a cliff-hanger chase between Leatherface
and his victim although the lack of tension packed
music creates a lack of tension curiosity is instead a
focus point as the viewer wonders whether she will be
caught and become one of many victims.

research- Sound.
• With a consistent flow of tension building music absent, the majority of
the film trailers sound is dedicated to dialogue. The main dialogue
primarily used is the addition of voice over narration of which acts an
informer to the audience who expresses the amount of horror digested
within the movie. More importantly he expresses a true horror factor
within this trailer which is of course that it is based on real events.
Opening with “what happened was true” and later on claiming it was
based on “the most bizarre and brutal crimes in America” are key
examples of this majorly opinionated narration. The other dominating
factor in terms of sound is the excess screams let loose by imperticular
female characters within the trailer. We never actually hear many
characters talk in the trailer or when they do it is done with a matter of
great urgency as the constant shrieks of fear are essential in expressing
the fear that Leatherfaces presence and actions create.

Scream trailer research.
• Example three- Scream (1996)
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTWf9QGdJCQ&safe=active
• Scream is a horror film that is set in a typical domestic as a now iconic masked hunts down the fans of the
reluctant horror genre. The film following this has spawned 3 sequels.

The trailer begins with a long shot view of the house in which the
majority of the film will be based in or around. This gives the viewers
a feel of what area the film will be based around will be like and an
introduction to the lighting aspects with its presence amongst the
props and cast. This inclusion of the domestic home adds an iconic
elements that usually dominates many clichéd horror productions.
Considering this will be where the majority of viewers reside, the
psychological feeling of expected danger when they return home is
caused by the horror Scream creates within its chosen location. The
moving swing early on in the trailer indicates unwelcoming
movement outside which is also an immediate indication of
intrusion as it assists in kick starting the trailer. The quick switch to a
close up of this unnamed character inside the house indicates the
immediate victim who is likely to speaking to an unknown
phenomenon on the phone who is more than likely to be the killer.

Although brief this part of the trailer gives the viewer a very quick look
at the killer. Only showing a brief look at the killer is essential in terms
of not giving too much away to the viewer as leaving them oblivious
about the majority of the key horror element and villain. Although this
is isn't a consistent factor as in other parts in the trailer the killers full
figure is seen chasing after its victim's. The mask is a key part of the
villains persona in scream as the indication of lack of identity adds a
crime element in uncovering who the killer could be. This particular
image shows an early emotional encounter between the victim and
killer early on in the trailer. With the close up shot being used to show
how petrified and emotionally distraught the pure horror of the villains
presence is presented. The special effects also add agony to this section
of the trailer as the reflection is used in showing the viewer the villain,
but also indicates that the 2 may not be so indifferent emphasising the
humanistic qualities “Ghost Face” possesses. The fact that this film is set
in a domestic home In America makes the films that little bit more
realistic, a character trapped in their home surrounded by a killer who
evidently knows precise details about them gives the audience the
sense that somebody could equally be watching them at that very
moment. This scene further emphasises this as irony surrounds it as you
would believe that you home I the safest place to be where danger is
absent d, when In fact in this case it’s the worst probable possible
setting as the villain thrives in the homes of it victims as he or she plays
mind games with the victim. In a medium close up the facial expression
of the character as well as another domestic setting is shown as the
surrounding area of the house is dark where as the house itself seems
to glow proficiently to showcase its potential and significance

The trailer throughout several points employs a series
of warnings aimed directly at the viewer and indirectly
at the characters in danger in the production. “Don’t
try to hide”, and “don’t answer the phone” are key
examples of this as it adds to the foreboding
atmosphere created as it seems that the killer is
inescapable or can only do so by following a set of
seemingly strict instructions. Here the colour pallet
throughout both the villains appearance and posters is
seen here in the white and black bold text that appears
on screen throughout.


Unlike horror trailers such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre the main
prop is not a weapon of any sort that is dedicated to the villain only,
instead the main prop is more common and domestic, a telephone. A
lot of irony surrounds this prop as in terms of its domestic use in
contemporary society the phone would be used to contact others such
as the police service to assist you if in danger. This film however turns
that idea on its head as the telephone is a direct link between the killer
and the unfortunate victim as when the phone rings usually the killer is
not that far away. The use of the phone in terms of its place in the
domestic horror further fuels the realistic element to the film due to
its place in many homes around the world, further emphasising how
similar collections of such horrific events can occur almost anywhere.

As the trailer concludes the trailer like many other in the
industry concludes with its previously unseen production title.
Its pure purpose is to be informative as an essential part for the
conclusion of the trailer the title of the film should be relatively
memorable to the viewer who will be likely to research it
further and anxiously await its arrival in cinema. The conclusion
also continues this essential informative information with
revealing the director of the film. Viewers familiar with the
director may instantly become more interested in the films
success if they are a fan of his style in previous productions.
Although viewers that are not drawn into his directing style
may drift away due to feeling unattached to the film they are
likely to dislike. To a viewer not aware of Wes Cravens style,
their view upon the trailer and film may not be effected by this
especially if the viewer is not a dedicated fan of the industry
and is therefore oblivious to many directors and their past
productions. Finally the film concludes with the credited cast
and production crew. This is further used to inform the viewer
although like many current trailers they are often hard to
distinguish and are often ignored as popular culture has seen
them as unessential.

Scream trailer research- audio.
• The majority of audio within this Scream trailer is dedicated to dialogue.
Specifically the voice over narration throughout the trailer that creates
suspense in his description of the events that are occurring and the villain
himself. Besides the narrator there is a lot dialogue from the characters
themselves something common in many movie trailers that is essential for
introducing the viewer to the character in a brief manor. On the other
hand the more extensive and significant dialogue comes in the
introduction to the killer with his voice being frequently heard through
the phone. Although that other more modern horror trailers will use a lot
more sound effects to emphasise the climax points of the films, where as
this only uses 1 at the beginning rather than at the end.

Friday the 13 trailer research. th

• Example four- Friday the 13th (2009).
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MiJzZ7FQX0&safe=active
• This version of Friday the 13th Is a remake of one of many originals as the plot revolves around a
group of young teenagers who stumble across a closed of Camp Crystal Lake and are who soon
hunted mercilessly by a masked killer.

In the first sequence of the trailer we are instantly introduced to
the environment the production is centred around. The reflection
in the water of the sun set help contrast the significance between
light and dark something that is seen a lot in the trailer and is
essential as the darkness employed is where the killer appears and
wreaks havoc. Although this long shot of what seems to be a
mesmerising environment is not usually common in horror trailers
as it usually intended for the scene to be seen as dark dull and
unwelcoming. The use of dark lighting is present within the next
shot as the primarily shadowed scene is where the horror truly
begins. The dark lighting surrounded with this nature dominated
setting employs a horror that is unavoidable due to the lack of
shelter or safety the seen provides, as the many trees can just as
easily be hiding places for the killer as they are for the victims.

Friday the 13th trailer research.
The predominate use of darkness is seen again in the following
three shots. The first is set at a low angle shot to limit the view
and create a further fear of the unknown and what we are
forbidden to see. The poor quality of the door and its rotting
presence indicate to the viewer that is has been unused for
some time and with good reason.

Following from this we are introduced to another light lacking
scene as the only light source that manages to emerge is one
that is clearly artificial and unnatural. With these scenes in
particular we are introduced to what the viewer will assume to
the main characters since other cast members and the villain in
particular are absent.

At the midpoint of the trailer the viewer is informed of the films
producer. Michael Bay is without doubt a well known figure in
the film industry as his presence within this production can
stand as a guarantee to some viewers that the film will be a
success upon release date, especially due to his past
achievements that include Pearl Harbour and Transformers.
Furthermore the trailer also informs the viewer that the
director of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” will also make a
contribution to Friday the 13th. Strangely the director is not
even named and his role in the movie has to be assumed due to
the lack of simple information that was present when
introducing Michael Bay.

Friday the 13 trailer research.
th

To many viewers confusion a medium shot
identifies an unusual prop unlikely to be
found in any horror movie, a teddy bear.
Often bearing the denotation of nothing
more than a childhood toy, its inclusion in
this trailer holds much dark connotations.
Its unappealing appearance much like the
door earlier on in the trailer the trailer
indicate a sign of it being forgotten and that
the time of innocence is over as we can
assume this was once the villains. It also
bares connotations of a wrecked childhood
something that may be a key factor in the
narrative when the full film is released.

Friday the 13th trailer research.
Despite a prolonged absence, the villain
otherwise known as “Jason Voorhees” is
presented in a daunting fashion. The
viewer at this point finally gains some
insight into the villain especially in terms
of his costume design. A white hockey
mask (something emphasised on the
movie posters), and a ragged shirt and
jacket all of which lead to connotations
of Jason being a relic of the past,
someone forgotten but none the less still
dangerous. The flickering and unstable
movement of the head lamp that reveals
Jason's presence doesn’t seem genuine
and instead supernatural due to his
disappearance from the scene, however
the following climatic scene contradicts
this. At the climax of the trailer the
genuine appearance of Jason accounts
for the trailers cliff hanger ending. His
swift dart across the scene with his
famous prop (the machete) in hand, the
screaming victim who's fate is in
jeopardy is left on a cliff-hanger as the
trailer reaches its conclusion.

Friday the 13 trailer research.
th

As the trailer concludes the films production
title is revealed over shadowed by the
famous costume piece that conceals Jason's
popularity, but yet ironically is his persona
due to the lack of insight into his personality
in previous productions. The highlighting of
“13” emphasises the importance of this
number especially in popular culture as it is a
day of surrounded with a lack of luck and
doomed events.
Like the previous 3 trailers that have been
analysed the end of the trailer pays tribute
to the contributors of the films creations,
such as Steven Spielberg who had previously
mentioned at mid point in the trailer. The
film studios are also credited which in this
case are New Line Cinema and Paramount
Pictures.

Friday the 13th research-audio.
• With a shroud voice over narration throughout
the trailer, the sound is significantly toned down
for a horror trailer. The audio for the most part is
filled with non diegetic noises that are alarming
due to the quick switching of shots due to
flashbacks that include nature based sounds such
as the distant tweeting of a bird at the early
stages of the trailer. Furthermore the climax of
the trailer sees a far more alarming and sudden
switch of tempo in terms of the climatic
encounter between Jason and his victim at the
end of the trailer.

Horror poster codes and conventions.
Horror movie posters lack the extensive information that horror trailers provide
regardless of their short running time. Horror posters however serve as a
simple reminder following on from the trailer appearance they emphasise one
or two key elements from the production piece and undoubtedly ensure the
release date of the film is made evidently clear.
•Colours of black and red are predominant, with black representing a fear of the
unknown and bleak future ahead, while red connotes the violence and gore that
are likely to be present.
•The release date is clearly emphasised to ensure the reader is familiar with the
date the film shall be brought to the big screen.
•The films title is often the largest text on screen and serves as a style of a
masthead.
•A key aspect of the horror is emphasised in including either a significant prop or
image of the films villain or supernatural element.

Dead Snow poster research.
Although it is typically classed as a gardening
tool and often found in the domestic home, its In the distant background more
presence on this Dead Snow poster emphasise of the undead relics appear to
the change in connotation it has had in terms emerging from the ground
of the horror genre. Due to being stained with behind the faceless protagonist
blood it is clear that its purpose now is purely and his severed victim. The
to kill , as the domestic product has been emerging of such wretched foes
transferred into a weapon of death, indicate a strong supernatural
something closely associated with the several element that has already been
adaptions of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”. emphasised in the direct image
of the gravely injured yet still
The setting of the films creation is living Nazi general. Their
identified as an artic based area presence indicate the violence
surrounded by mountains and clearly a will be wide spread and
lot of snow whether this be genuine or merciless.
artificially produced. Considering the Although horror posters usually
film is a Norwegian production, due to are dominated by a black and red
the their cold climate it can be assumed colour scheme, this poster doesn't
that this is where the filming has taken follow the typical codes and
place. conventions. This is due to the
Here the poster emphasises a key
element of the film as it shows what snow that is predominantly
appears to be the severed head of a present, although it connotation is
Nazi general. The victims appearance usually purity, its purpose here is
in himself is startling, his mouth is to assist the blood and gore in
clearly missing and is most likely standing out in which contribute to
rummaged below in the pile of blood this films 18 rating.
and gore. However what is more
startling is the fact that he appears to The title is interactive due to the fact
be somehow alive. This is indicated the that within the letters of the
production title a series of cast
direct gaze of his eyes that maintains
members can be seen within them.
an eye line view with the reader. This
Although the characters aren't
element of the poster alone is relevant
named they will become familiar to
to the narrative aspect, as the
villainous enemy on the trail of the viewers who intend to see the film
upon its release date.
teenage group are in fact undead Nazi
zombies.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre poster
research.
In terms of literary devices this film
poster uses the use of a rhetorical
question. The question itself links Despite not being an animated
directly to the victims who are piece, the image here appears very
likely to be decapitated as “what un-genuine. Due to this the horror
will be left of them” indicates. The isn't as easily expressed at it had
significance of a lack of answers been in the trailer or could have
and uncertainty link specifically been with a more appropriate image
with the trailer as that is also ended choice. Furthermore the characters
on a cliff hanger that the viewer is costume seems very clean cut and
eager to see the result of. isn't as ragged and damaged as you
would expect as the image used
Anchorage is used here to directly link with once again does follow the codes
the image above. Being classed as and conventions in creating a horror
“Americas most bizarre and brutal crimes” poster that isn't that horrific at all.
the image above emphasises this, due to
Leatherface`s costume in which a strange The films title like many
mask is present and the weapon is even other horror production
more strangely a chainsaw (a typical posters is featured at the
domestic product). This anchorage also bottom of the poster. It
emphasises the factual element of this film is clearly visible by the
which is that the movie was based on a bold and red coloured
collection of true events, which is font it adopts,
emphasised further in the second connotations of violence
anchorage below. and gore are relevant
here due to the type of
Here the key prop is identified actions committed by
immediately due to its inclusion in the title. Leatherface. Strangely
Considering it is in the hands of the key this font choice doesn’t
villain of the production, we can consider it integrate well with other
serves as a harmful weapon which may elements of the poster,
confuse many viewers who simply see the such as the colour pallet
chainsaw as garden tool found in their own which is mainly black and
and many other domestic homes. white.

Friday the 13th poster research.
Lighting is an important aspect of this There is a sense of irony within this title, as
poster, as it helps create a sense of it obvious that “Camp Crystal Lake” has lost
mystery within its lighting choices. its original purpose as a innocent summer
Although most of the poster is subjected camp, and now simply serves as a hunting
to the shadows in emphasising a fear of ground for a savage killer, otherwise
the unknown, the use of the moon light known as Jason Voorhees.
to identify Jason holds various
connotations. Although a moonlights It is evidently clear that the posters main
connotations usually are more relevant in focus is on Jason Voorhees. His posture
other horror productions such as “The alone seems startling as his emotional
Wolfman” its presence here is to create a stance is indicate further by an element of
sense of mystery and serve as a form of his costume, the mask which prevents any
enlightenment to inform the viewer that emotion being uncovered, this
the moonlight shines on this particular emphasises the cruelty that lives inside
character for a specific reason. This Jason as he is likely to show little
reason being that he is the films focus as compassion for his victims. In terms of
the killer which if it hadn't been identified other aspects of his costume like many
already, would have been due to the other horror based villains such as
props that Jason possesses, in particular Leatherface his clothes are worn and
his sword. This swords length certainly ragged. A lack of consideration for his
matches Jason's supernatural stature in appearance indicates that Jason's only
terms of height and the swords concern is committing the many
classification as a weapon ensures that predictable acts of murder.
this will be Jason's tool of destruction.
Considering this version of the film is a The film title here follows the codes and
remake of the original its emphasis and conventions of a typical horror poster, due
clear presentation of the villain is used to its placement upon the poster and the
simply as reminder to those who have font and colour choice It employs. The red
forgotten of Jason's presence in past and fairly gothic font indicates the
productions. connotation of gore, blood and violence
Here the contributors to the films creation are credited that the villain shown on the poster is
here, these include cast members and producers who clearly accountable for. Furthermore due
of which is the same producer that was involved in to the dark and misty background the red
“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” indicating possible font used allows specific and important
similarities between the 2 productions. text based features to stand out, such as
the production title and release date.

Scream poster research.
The image here is a direct one Here there is a play on words on both the
indicated by the inescapable narrative element in which revolves
gaze of this petrified female. This around the enjoyment of people watching
gaze indicates something of a scary movies suffering a similar fate.
horrific event that has transpired “Solving this mystery is going to be
of which has horrified this murder” also emphasises this point as the
expected next victim of play on words on the mystery being
Ghostface. The make up choices murder is a well known expression, but in
also emphasise this presented this case it is very relevant and true.
emotion of a petrified, shock and
The use of make up also is
horrified individual, as the
significant in presenting this very
inclusion of her mouth be
distraught image of a distressed
covered by what could be own
female. The use of black lip stick
hand indicate that she cannot
along with the very dark eye
express this fear in any other
shadow help show this which
way, as it is likely the killer will
evidently stands out from other
also be on her tail soon after.
elements of this very pale and
petrified face.
The poster here presents the cast of
The colour scheme
which were present in the creation of
throughout the horror
the films production. However like
poster is black and white,
many modern horror movies the cast is
which unlike most horror
relatively unknown as increasingly
posters does not include a
unknown acts are used in the horror
predominant feature of
Being classed as “highly acclaimed” indicates the film is likely to be industry, as little experience is needed
red. The films title is also
a successful one expressed by the 7 awards it had won upon to be one of countless deceased
interactive
release including 2 from MTV . It also will be an important factor victims.
in persuading viewers who are unsure of its potential to view it on
the big screen.

Film magazine front covers codes and
conventions.
• Upon the release of an highly anticipated film, film magazine such as Empire
and Total Film tend to purely focus on one of these productions for one issue
in which is emphasised by the films presence of the magazines front cover.
Although the acknowledgment of the films release is dominated through
teaser trailers in advertising opportunities on the domestic television and in
the cinema, similarly to film posters film magazines can also contribute heavily
to the films popularity.
• Codes and conventions of a film magazine cover focusing on a horror
production:
• A colour scheme consisting of red, black and occasionally white.
• The films villain or evil element and thus for main focus is usually the centred
image on the cover drawing instant attention from readers.
• Literary techniques such as rhetorical questions and the use of a play on words
are often present in subtitles and mastheads.
• Subtitles will usually advertise other features in the magazine, such as
competitions and other films, however on some occasion the pure focus is on
the chosen film.

Empire magazine front cover analysis.
A subheading is used here to acknowledge other features in
the magazine, which in this case seems to be a feature of a
The price and issue date doesn’t gossip magazine as the magazine looks to expand its target Similarly to the typical codes and
follow the typical codes and audience to in particularly middle aged females. conventions that horror movie posters
conventions in terms of its follow in terms of colour scheme, Empire
placement, as this is usually found in magazine does the same. Using a
one of the 4 corners of the cover predominant red font that bears such
page and not in the magazine connotations such as gore and violence that
title/masthead where it becomes stands out clearly from a pitch back
interactive. background emphasises this clearly. Never
the less this magazine also includes the
There are two key use of a play addition of white font that in terms of the
on words that undoubtedly link proportion of the colours used tends to
with the magazines focus standout a lot more as it is used a lot less
Hannibal. “What's cooking” is a that red.
clear reference to Anthony The emergence of Hannibal from the darkness
Hopkins character eating his and background in a close up shot of the cover
victims as a clear act of indicates a dark and weary sense of the
cannibalism, although many unknown in terms of the cannibal human
individuals who have not seen eater. His place in the shadows indicates he
past productions such as has no place in contemporary society due to
“Silence of the Lambs” will not his horrific and unwelcoming habits .Even
see this play on words as more so this can also indicate that he could be
anything more than a anywhere at anytime as the victims likeliness
meaningless rhetorical of spotting their adversary is extremely
question. Secondly “Gore unlikely. Many film magazines such as Empire
blimey” also links to the when focusing on horror productions tend to
magazines focus as to state that highlight the villain in the production over any
there is a fair amount of gore Unlike the issue date and price the barcode however does follow the
over aspect, especially in this case due to
and blood in the film would be codes and conventions within its simple placement in the left hand
Anthony Hopkins respectable status in the film
an understatement as corner of the front cover. The barcode is only essential in terms of
industry. Focusing on the evil element of the
emphasised by the overly the distributing and selling of the magazine, as to the readers it
narrative tends to intrigue viewers further as
predominant red colour bears little significance and importance.
they feel they want to know a lot more about
font/scheme. the villain to an extent that the trailer doesn’t
fulfil.

Special horror edition of Empire
magazine cover analysis. The state of Johnny in this centred and
Here is a pull out quote directly emphasised image sums up the horror
from the film. It is a well known aspect of the film in an instance which is
one that has made “The Shining” the mental detrition of Johnny. The lack
a popular production piece, as of consideration for his appearance with a
the quote itself expresses the substantial amount of facial hair
pure chaotic and irrational mind- emphasise this . Following this is the use
set that Johnny is in of which is a of a sadistic and crazed smile of which has
key element in the narrative arisen from this horrific ordeal as further
which is likely to remain signs of a lack of care for himself
unspoiled in order for the viewer physically appear in what appears to be a
to witness this themselves, as sweaty and untended to hair style.
film magazines and trailers alike
rarely include any narrative Following the direct pull out quote this
related spoilers. image regardless of its lack of caption
captures the popularity of this film with
its most famous and recognised image of
Similarly to the previous edition of which usually follows “Here's Johnny!”. It
Empire magazine the films title isn't has become a part of popular culture with
placed at the top nor the centre of the its parodied inclusion in adverts such as
cover. Instead the title is placed in a that of the Premier Inn hotel, as the
position of little priority, as its very images widely recognised status allows a
bland colour scheme in which appears suitable reason to be put forward for the
to be beige challenges the typical captions absence.
codes and conventions of which film
magazine covers focusing on horror
tend to cover. The broken and damaged
The barcode also reappears as it should due to being a mandatory factor of any state of this fragile door
magazine regardless of its specified genre. Its position in the corner of the cover signifies that is has been
follows the typical codes and conventions which weren't necessarily followed in the forced shut in order to
previous issue that was analysed in which the barcode was used in an interactive prevent this crazed killer
way with the masthead. from harming them.

Primary Target Audience.
Age: 18-27 years old. Job occupation: Tertiary Income distribution: Film
sector, retail or office job. magazines, cinema and
festival tickets, fast food
Favourite food choices: and clothing.
Fast food and chain
restaurants.
Household income:
Primary Target £15,000-£20,000.
Sexuality:
Heterosexual
Audience.
Residence: Studio
apartments or at
Favourite film genre: home with parents.
Horror. Hobbies: Cinema, film
Typical holiday destination: festivals, clubbing and
Cannes, France. night life, reviewing
Gender: Male films.

Secondary Target Audience.
Income Residence:
distribution: Food, Privately rented
Gender: Male housing, children, houses, 2/3
or Female. transportation. bedroom.

Age: 28-37 years
Sexuality: old.
Heterosexual or Secondary
Homosexual. Target Household
income: £24,000-
Job occupation: Operations Audience. £31,000.
manager, supervisors or
manager in other areas. Hobbies: Sports, restaurants,
occasional cinema visits.
Favourite film genre:
Typical holiday
Thriller. Favourite food
destination:
choices: High
Belgium or
standard restaurants
America.
found commonly in
central London.

Questionnaire.
• In order to understand what viewers will expect of our
production we have constructed a simple questionnaire for
potential viewers to fill out before viewing our entire
promotional package. The results will be filtered into a pie
chart in order for these results to be seen and understood
clearly.
• Furthermore we have also created a post production
questionnaire in order to gain an understanding of how
successful our package was in relation the opinions of the
viewers. The questions covered are identical to the ones
asked in our preliminary questionnaire so that we can make
direct links to what our viewers originally wanted and what
we gave them.

Production Planning: Narrative and
characters.

Production overview and
introduction.
• Production title: “Pay Day” (2012).
• Age rating: 18 years and over.
• Release date: 20th July 2012
• Estimated budget:
• Production company:

Plot overview: As Tony a notorious loan shark lends his largest sum of
£25,000 to an unknown client, he soon receives no word from his
delivery man as his loan appears in jeopardy. His arrival at the
clients drop off point causes Tony`s life to spiral out of control, as his
horrific discovery on the scene and the retrieval of his dirty cash
soon see a relentless and violent psychopath on Tony`s tail to take
back the stolen cash sum in order to carry out his own dirty
murderous deeds.

Plot synopsis.
• Tony is a notorious loan shark from West London who is advised by his
criminal colleague Luke to loan out a large sum of £25,000 to an unknown
client through a third party. Tony agrees to the deal but three days later
he hears nothing from Luke and suspects his cash is in jeopardy. As he is
informed but another one of his partners Danny where the cash was
supposed to be taken Tony reluctantly makes his way there. Upon his
arrival blood is present, as Tony cautiously enters the drop off point he
observes a weapon ridden blood stained room with a body bag placed In
the centre of the room. He discovers Luke`s body with the cash and the
brief case besides the body and as he grasps it, stands up and goes to walk
away the villain Is there and viciously swings for Tony with a butchers
knife. Tony only just escapes with the money however the villain who
bears no identity relentlessly pursues Tony for the dirty cash, which he
intended to use to fund his murderous activities.

Characters featured in “Pay Day”.
• Tony Pane- Main character
• Villain- Key horror element and major
character
• Luke Watts- Minor character
• “Danny the driver”- Minor character

Character profiles- Tony Pane.
• Played by: Dylan Ryan.
• Narrative significance: Tony is the main character in the production, as his intention to escape from the villain and with his
money is the narratives key focus. We have chosen Tony to be a criminal in order to allow the viewer to take this into
consideration when feeling sympathy for him.
• Costume:
• Suit and tailored trousers
• White smart shirt and black tie
• Smart black shoes
Costume significance: Within this very dark yet smartly tailored costume choice bears many similarities to what is worn to a
funeral. In this light we have decided to use this in order for it to appear that Tony is attending a funeral which ironically is
likely to be his own. Furthermore the suit will also have connotations of Tony`s career. His successful yet unlawfully abiding
job allows him to indulge in a luxury life style that is expressed within his ability to afford clothes of the highest tailor. Even
more so his appearance in a suit is also used to hide his criminal persona by in turn looking like an ordinary yet successful
law abiding citizen. This has been seen in the 1995 production “Goodfellas” in which members of the mob dress similarly in
order to not draw attention to their respective criminal lifestyles.
• Make up: No make up techniques will be needed for Tony as he is a realistic figure unlike the villain who undoubtedly will
need much more attention in terms of this.
• Associated props: I Phone: This key prop allows Tony to engage with other characters in production without having to see
repetitive and time consuming on screen physical introductions. Being a considerably expensive piece of mobile
technology it further reflects how successful Tony is in terms of his criminal career of which is in jeopardy in this film.
• Handgun: A weapon that is undoubtedly illegal to hold, but this shows the lengths Tony has to go to in order to same
himself and his dirty cash.
• Characteristics: Tony lacks desirable morals, he is fouled mouthed lacks manors and is aggressive all of which intertwine
with his criminal lifestyle.

Character profiles- Villain (unnamed).
• Played by: Shkelqim Hyseni.
• Narrative significance: This identity lacking maniac is Tony`s vengeful and relentless pursuer in the production trailer. He is the
unknown third party that loans the £25,000 from Tony and murders his colleague Luke as well as his driver Danny. It is his
spontaneous appearances on screen and his murderous actions that account for the main element of horror in “Pay Day”. We have
decided not to name our villain as it is unlikely that he will need to be formerly introduced at any point as his villainous ways has
enforced him to have a lack of personality and identity.
• Costume:
• Ragged and torn navy suit
• Previously smart not dirty and worn shoes
• Equally ragged blue shirt and tie
• Mask- We have drawn inspiration from 2 villains from both horror and action productions for the significant costume aspect that
shields the villains persona. One is from The Scarecrow from “Batman Begins” while the second is from the horror production “The
Strangers”, with a significant design choice we feel we can create a villain who can be both realistic and petrifying at the same time.

• Costume significance: In comparison to Tony`s luxury suit, the villains torn and quality lacking suit emphasises the gap between the
two in terms of the criminal lifestyle they are subject to. While Tony`s job is illegal yet fairly safe and uncompromising he is allowed
to indulge in an envious lifestyle while the villain who wants no more than bloodshed has little concern for his wellbeing or
appearance.
• Associated props: Butchers knife: Normally associated with the decapitation of dead animals, but in this case its purpose bypasses
deceased animals as its purpose now is aimed at the human body.
• Characteristics: He is chaotic, psychopathic and shows no mercy for any of his victims including Tony while clearly lacking any form
of self control.
• Make up: Our make up techniques will ensure that the villains skin tone will be of a dirty complexion that links directly with his
costume design.

Character profiles- Luke Watts.
• Played by: Beau Pergusey
• Narrative significance: Luke is significant in terms of the origin of the narrative. It is his
suggestion to Tony that leads to his own death and possibly Tony`s, not to mention he is also
the deliver of Tony`s money. Apart from his verbal significance at the beginning of the trailer
he is simply another of the villains many victims. Furth
• Costume:
• Grey suit (blazer and tailored trousers)
• Black smart shoes
• White smart shirt and black tie
Costume significance: Luke`s costume is very similar to Tony`s as this indicates clearly that they
are colleagues. As Luke is not a major character his costume doesn’t conceal any symbolism
or significance.
Associated props: Briefcase (full of Tony`s cash): As he is the delivery man for the money and due
to it being found next to his deceased body this prop is closely linked to Luke.
Characteristics: Although the viewer wont get much insight into Luke due to him being such a
minor character, the early verbal encounters between him and Tony indicate the same
rudeness that Tony subjects the viewer to. His anxiousness for the deal to go ahead indicates
a certain aspect of greed within Luke.

Character profiles- Danny the driver.
• Played by: Alfie Knight
• Narrative significance: Danny doesn’t have any significance in terms of the plots progression
he is simply a getaway driver whose dead body within the car when Tony is anxious to get
away at one point in the trailer serves as another trophy of the villain.
• Costume:
• Polo shirt
• Chinos
• Vans
• Casual black jacket/coat
Costume significance: Danny`s costume is very casual as is expected of a getaway driver that has
been presented in productions such as “Drive”, as his job is unlikely to be highly paid or need
a suit to hide his criminal persona.
Associated props: No props are needed for Danny due to such a short time on screen, the only
things that can be associated with him are his costume and the car of which his corpse sits in.
Characteristics: No characteristics can be identified as Danny has no lines in the trailer, nor do we
see him physically function in any way.

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