Movie Poster Analysis

The Evolving Paradigm of Movie Poster

The scene is a dark planet in the middle of space with a lone figure standing in a dark field, only lighting his path with a lightsaber. This poster, of course, comes from the creators of the iconic “Star Wars” movies. The whole purpose of a movie poster is to sell the movie to you, with just a glance, and make a profit. The way a movie poster is designed is all about capturing the viewer’s attention. For example, a person like me would be attracted to colorful images on the poster and an interesting title that holds my attention. Farther more, the design, color, and font are used to properly emulate the mood and tone of the film. And the poster probably includes a memorable sentence or slogan that piques your interest and makes the plot sound alluring.

The background of the poster has planets, stars, and galaxies that indicate that the film is set in space. The planet that is being destroyed in the background suggest that an intergalactic war is happening. The lone figure holding the neon blue lightsaber can be representative of the main character. The poster is primarily dark colors, which is a signature for Star Wars movies, but the color also gives a sinister feel like a

horror/science fiction movie. The title “Episode VII” stands out among the dark background with its silver coloring; and also represents the seventh installment of the franchise. The tagline: “Return to a Galaxy far, far away,” is another element that shows that this film is a part of a series and a return to a classic.
The movie, “Star Wars”, is being geared mostly toward males between the ages of 18 and 30; also older adults who are familiar with this particular franchise.

Most of the demographic is male because, they love the sense of adventure and going through challenging trials to achieve a goal. Being able to achieve one’s goal is what everybody dreams about, which is something males could relate to. The imagery in the poster would hook people in is the symbolism that goes along with lightsabers. The lightsaber creates a sense of nostalgia for a viewer who has followed the series since the beginning; reminding them of the good old days of classic movies. The poster is also quite exotic looking with the image that is presented looks out of the ordinary and

strange.
The technical element that keeps our attention is the lighting which is very minimal, the main source of light comes from the lightsaber. The poster is mostly dark colors which brings attention to the focus of the lightsaber. The camera angle is straight on, this aspect has the Jedi in the frame with a planet being destroyed in the background emitting a sense of curiosity from a viewer. The poster is axial balance causing you to view it in a Z pattern.