2. GENRE RESEARCH
My genre research allowed me to identify the conventions of
horror films. I found out some of the most stereotypical
horror imagery includes blood, fire, silhouettes, close-ups etc.
Because of this, I was determined to include the specified
imagery in my film opening because my target audience are
mainstream horror fans, who will be enticed by the
stereotypical, mainstream horror imagery.
3. MISE-EN-SCÈNE RESEARCH
Another way I aimed to draw in my target audience is through the use
of low-key lighting. I used low-key lighting in my film opening
because my mise-en-scène research encouraged me that low-key
lighting was the most common and most effective kind of lighting for
horror films, as it adds drama and eeriness. Therefore, my mainstream
horror fan target audience will pick up on the convention of low-key
lighting, indicating that my film is perfect for them.
4. PRIMARY AUDIENCE
RESEARCH
Similarly to the genre research, my primary audience research helped
me to draw conclusions about using stereotypical horror imagery.
When interviewing my target audience, I found they responded much
better to stereotypical imagery like blood, fire and silhouettes, as they
felt this kind of imagery was much more effective at connoting the
genre. Due to this, I decided to include stereotypical imagery in my
film opening, in the hope that my target audience would be drawn in
by it.