Uploaded byctkmedia
PPT, PDF1,026 views

5. media language

This document provides guidance for students taking a critical perspectives exam focusing on analyzing a media production in relation to media concepts. It discusses the concept of "media language" and how to analyze elements like mise-en-scene, camera work, editing, sound, and textual elements. Semiotics, or the study of signs and how meaning is constructed through codes and conventions, is a key way to deconstruct media language. Indexical, symbolic, and technical codes are explained for analyzing horror genre conventions in a student's own production and trailer.

Embed presentation

Downloaded 15 times
Section A: Question 1 B: Theoretical Evaluation of Production Media Language Media Language Critical Perspectives ExamCritical Perspectives Exam
Question 1(B) requires candidates to select ONE PRODUCTION & evaluate it in relation to a media concept. You will focus on your TRAILER ONLY. In the exam, questions will be set using one of these concepts. • Genre • Narrative • Representation • Audience • MEDIA LANGUAGE * Film:Film: Media ConceptsMedia Concepts
• ‘Media language’ does not refer to the words spoken by an actor in a text, but the language & codes of the medium (for example; film language is different to the language of music). • You must discuss the way you used camera, sound, editing, Mise-en-scene, semiotics & ideologies.. to create meaning. As media students you will be able to use correct terminology to pinpoint exactly what the film-makers are trying to achieve (meaning/representation). • In order to deconstruct the rules and conventions of film, you have to be able to give all the pieces a name. What we see on the screen is the diegesis (the narrative film world). Film:Film: Media LanguageMedia Language
• SEMIOTICS ( the study of signs) is used to describe how meaning is constructed through language and codes: • A sign is anything that carries meaning • It can be explicit icons – signs that resemble the things being represented • Implicit symbols – signs that have an inner, mutually understood meaning. • Iconic signs – signs that are created to appear exactly like the thing itself. SemioticsSemiotics TASK: Indexical signs are different. They act by indirectly “pointing” or suggesting what they mean. They act as ‘cues’ to existing knowledge, e.g. smoke signifies fire, sweating suggests heat. 1. List indexical codes that we see in horror films: 2. List indexical codes that we see in your horror trailer:
1. Firstly there’s the Signifier - The physical form of the sign. The written word on the paper, a traffic light, a smile. 2. Second the Signified - This is the concept/idea that the signifier produces. A red light signifies stop. A smile could signify happiness. 3. Lastly there is the Referent - The real thing, not the signal or the idea but the real, individual thing. A real individual rose, the real feeling of happiness. THEORISTTHEORIST Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) - the signifier and signified Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) - the signifier and signified THE SIGN OR SYMBOL WE SEE DOES NOT MAKE SENSE WITHOUT THE ACTUAL OBJECT AND THE MEANING IT CREATES. For example: what potential or suggested meaning does a red rose have? TASK: WRITE A LIST OF ALL THE OBJECTS IN YOUR PRODUCTION THAT HAVE CONNOTATIONS ATTACHED TO THEM.
• There are three main types of codes in semiotics... SEMIOTICSSEMIOTICS Codes & ConventionsCodes & Conventions 1. SYMBOLIC Lighting & Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Objects Key Signifiers/Images Clothing, Hair & Make Up 3. TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS, LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Editing & Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) 2. WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music
Symbolic Codes List down the symbolic codes in the HORROR genre
Clothes are a vital part of Mise en scene as every outfit a character is given, is specifically placed to help the audience determine their characters. For example, commonly in Horror films it is often a dull day, little colour, and the lighting is bleak to match the mood. Three point lighting? Props are also part of Mise-en- scene. Props are fundamental in films. Again, they help us establish many things about characters- is they are rich, poor, a boy, a girl etc. They help make a 2D character three-dimensional. CostumeCostume PropsProps SettingSetting LightingLighting N . V. CN . V. C For example, a posh woman would commonly wear a black dress with stilettos and perhaps a lot of jewellery to further underline her wealth. • They key starting point for analysing media language in film is Mise-en-scene. • Costume, Props, Setting, Lighting & Non Verbal Communication. • Mise-en-scene (Everything in the scene) refers to all significant items on show for the viewer. Remember nothing is accidental, this is not reality, it is a representation of it. • This will include actors (think about the use of stars), set (think about the input of the designer, especially the use of colour), costume (issues of social representation), lighting etc.. You should consider how Mise-en-scène reflects production values. Location is an important aspect of Mise- en-scène: why was that particular location chosen, and what advantages/restrictions would you associate with filming there? Lighting is a very important aspect of films as different lighting helps to establish settings, characters and moods.
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting & Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Religious Symbols 2. Symbols of Death 3. Colours 4. Light 5. Weapons 6. Fabric 7. Keys/Locks 8. Doors and Windows (Portals) 9. Labyrinths/Mazes 10.Dolls 11. Masks 12.Mirrors (reflections) 13.Rope 1. Religious Symbols 2. Symbols of Death 3. Colours 4. Light 5. Weapons 6. Fabric 7. Keys/Locks 8. Doors and Windows (Portals) 9. Labyrinths/Mazes 10.Dolls 11. Masks 12.Mirrors (reflections) 13.Rope
Watch the trailer and list all the SYMBOLIC CODES http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs3981DoINw Think about: -Symbols of death -Colours -Weapons -Light -Masks Think about: -Doors and windows -Labyrinths and mazes -Mirrors -Costume
Technical Codes List down all the camera techniques and editing techniques you can think of/remember from AS (use specific terminology) Which ones are used a lot in the HORROR genre
High angle shots make the person/ building or object appeal much smaller It creates an ominous feel as it makes the object in context appear small and helpless. Low angle shots make the person or object look much bigger Opposite to high angle shots, low angle shots make the object look big and menacing. Over the shoulder shots allow us to see exactly what the character sees It again, can be an ominous angle as it suggests that there is someone behind the character. This is a common shot for horror films. Camera Movement Tracking Shot (Dollying) Crabbing Shot Tilt Shot Pan Shot Zoom Shot Camera Angle Wide Angle Shot Point of View Shot (POV) Over the Shoulder Shot Cut-In Crane Shot Aerial Shot Two Shot Birds Eye View Worms Eye View Eye Level Shot High Angle Shot Low Angle Shot Canted Shot Establishing Shot. Camera Shot/Framing Extreme Long Shot (ELS) Long Shot (LS) Medium Long Shot (MLS) Mid Shot (MS) Medium Close Up (MCU) Close up (CU) Extreme Close Up (ECU) When describing movement, we consider: • Primary action: the movement of characters/objects within the frame • Secondary action: the movement of the camera in relation to those objects • A directors desire & an artists direction, are transmitted to an expecting audience through the sequence of camera shots (framing), camera angles, camera movement, and the composing of shots. Steadicam Hand-Held Cam
There are many edits which all contribute to making a film interesting & varied. Cutting: Cut (straight cut) Cross-Cutting Transitions: Fades, Washes, Wipes, Dissolves. Pace of Editing/Length of Shot: Quick Cuts & Long Take Techniques of Continuity Editing: Match on Action Reaction Shot Shot/Reverse Shot: Eye-Line Match: Cutting: Cut (straight cut) Cross-Cutting Transitions: Fades, Washes, Wipes, Dissolves. Pace of Editing/Length of Shot: Quick Cuts & Long Take Techniques of Continuity Editing: Match on Action Reaction Shot Shot/Reverse Shot: Eye-Line Match: Editing Techniques: Elliptical Editing  Cutaway Jump Cut Superimposition Slow motion  Graphic Match Expansion of Time 180° Rule Fourth Wall Editing Techniques: Elliptical Editing  Cutaway Jump Cut Superimposition Slow motion  Graphic Match Expansion of Time 180° Rule Fourth Wall • There is an old adage that films are edited, not made. A lot of important work is done in the edit suite, and can be broken down using a range of language. While a good editor may not always be able to salvage a bad film, a bad editor can certainly ruin a potentially great film. • Hollywood movies tend to go for continuity editing, a style also known as transparency (Is the work of the editor invisible?). Actions flow smoothly from one frame to another, and the audience simply follow the dialogue. • Oppositional to this, and the style employed by many art-house films is Framed Editing, where the audience are continually reminded that they are viewing an artificially created text. Jump cuts, sudden stoppages of sound, etc. This is very common in horror productions. • Continuity - continuous action shown in sequence (Continuity supports the narrative). • Montage - a series of seemingly unrelated shots that the audience must work to connect. • When shots are placed next to each other in a sequence the link between is a transition. The simplest of these is a cut, i.e. a straight splice from one section of film to another. There are many others - fades, dissolves, wipes, plus those offered by sophisticated digital software.
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Signifier? Signified?
Film:Film: Technical Codes Technical Codes TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS, LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) Cutting & Editing List an example of a RMT from the horror genre that has a: Close-Up or Extreme Close Up Wide Angle Shot P.O.V Shot High & Low Angle shot Establishing Shot Hand-Held Shot Juxtaposition Montage Editing Quick Cuts /Long Takes List an example of a RMT from the horror genre that has a: Close-Up or Extreme Close Up Wide Angle Shot P.O.V Shot High & Low Angle shot Establishing Shot Hand-Held Shot Juxtaposition Montage Editing Quick Cuts /Long Takes
Watch the trailer and list the technical codes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDGw1MTEe9k Think about: -Close up -P.O.V -High/low angles -Wide angle Think about: -Juxtaposition -Montage editing -Lighting used
Written & Audio Codes List down the types of fonts/texts and audio (music + sfx) that are used a lot in the HORROR genre (use specific terminology)
Commonly in films there is non diegetic music .i.e. coming from outside the text source. Non diegetic sounds are a good ways of lapsing time, setting a mood, atmosphere, or to establish a character. Dialogue in films is a fundamental ingredient as otherwise we would struggle with what a film would be about (aside for silent films). It allows us to establish what a character is like. Regional/foreign accents, all have different connotations & are included for a reason. General Sound Diegetic Sound:  Internal Diegetic Sound:  Non-Diegetic Sound: Sound Effects: Hard Sound Effects:  Background Sound Effects:  Foley Sound Effects:  Design Sound Effects: Music: Score:  Silence: Incidental Music:  Speech/Dialogue: Dialogue: Voiceover: Direct Address: Mode of Address:     Other Sound Techniques:  Ambient Sound:  Synchronous Sound: Music: Themes: Sting:  Sound Bridge:  • Sound refers to the strong relationship between dialogue, visuals & the effect of music/sound to a film text.. • Aural Language. • In Media Studies, as well as being able to discuss written & visual language, you also need to be able to discuss what you hear. Media texts often include a mixture of sounds, including spoken language (dialogue) diegetic sound (coming form within the source/text) non-diegetic sound (coming form outside of the source/text) sound effects (Foley, design etc), & incidental music. • In a film or television programme we might hear the ambient sounds of traffic or animals or the weather and this will help in our construction of environment, atmosphere and mood. • If a city is saturated with the sound of cars, building work, radio, and so on, it can create the impression that the setting is chaotic and oppressive. • In horror, if a building is totally silent we might perceive it as isolated or abandoned, thus creating a tense mood within the audience. • • The aural language of a media text can also help us to define the genre of a piece. A horror film, for example, might include non-diegetic heartbeat sounds in order to provoke a response from the audience.  
Film:Film: Written & Audio Codes Written & Audio Codes WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines/Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music WHAT DO THEY SIGNIFY? Dark Ominous Sounds Iconic Music Silence High Pitched Sounds/Screams Crashes and Thuds Red Text/Captions Aged/Worn/Degraded Text WHAT DO THEY SIGNIFY? Dark Ominous Sounds Iconic Music Silence High Pitched Sounds/Screams Crashes and Thuds Red Text/Captions Aged/Worn/Degraded Text Signifier? Signified?
Watch the trailer and list the audio and written codes Think about : -The use of silence -Dark ominous sounds -Screaming -Gruesome noises -Iconic music -Thuds and sudden noises -sounds of weapons -Intense score http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKfE5NrE7K8 Think about: -Captions -Aged degraded text
EXTRA READING!* *TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY: ONLY APPLICABLE TO THOSE WHO AN A OR B GRADE Media Language Media Language Critical Perspectives ExamCritical Perspectives Exam
• SEMIOTICS ( the study of signs) is used to describe how meaning is constructed through language and codes. A sign is anything that carries meaning whether it is explicit (icons – signs that resemble the things being represented) or implicit (symbols – signs that have an inner, mutually agreed and understood meaning). This study of signs and symbols and is a way of discussing both the literal and the potential meanings of the images we see on screen. • Iconic signs and codes are created to appear exactly like the thing itself, e.g. an image of a cowboy looks like – signifies – a cowboy. But… importantly, iconic codes always act to represent more than the thing itself, e.g. when we see an image of a cowboy, our culture associates ideas of toughness and action with this particular iconic code (which also acts to reinforce what masculinity ‘means’ in our culture – an ideological meaning). • Indexical signs are different. They act by indirectly “pointing” or suggesting what they mean by acting as ‘cues’ to existing knowledge, e.g. smoke signifies fire, sweating suggests heat or exercise. • Symbolic codes act as signifiers of meaning totally disconnected from what they denote, e.g. a red heart shape acts only to symbolise love; a white dove symbolises peace; red symbolises danger, power or sexuality, white symbolises innocence. • Most films use patterns or specific objects as metaphors for a concept that the filmmaker is trying to convey. In horror movies, many such objects are used to intensify mood, identify character traits, emphasize themes and concepts (e.g. good vs. evil), and foreshadow events. • Objects can be powerful symbols that add depth and meaning to a story. Symbolism can be very powerful and is an important tool for enhancing theme and character. Everyday objects can be used to effectively alter mood. Even a paper doll can be salaciously scary if in the right hands! Film:Film: SemioticsSemiotics
Denotation – literal or obvious meaning. A simple description of what is physically seen or heard. Connotation – potential or suggested meaning. For example: what potential or suggested meaning does a red rose have? WRITE A LIST OF ALL THE OBJECTS IN YOUR PRODUCTION THAT HAVE CONNOTATIONS ATTACHED TO THEM. THINK ABOUT HOW DIFFERENT AUDIENCES MIGHT RESPOND. Roland Barthes (1913-1980) - denotation and connotation Roland Barthes (1913-1980) - denotation and connotation
The Semiotic Triangle Text Signifier Signified ReferentGAP • THE SIGNS OR SIGNIFERS IN FILMS • Films use human capability for interpreting signs. • The black and red background to most Horror movie titles has connotations of fear and blood. • The creaky doorway in a thriller creates tension. • Creepy music puts the audience in a tense mood & they realise something dramatic is about to happen • Objective signifiers, are put there intentionally to give clues about how to feel or react). • Subjective signifiers are not intentionally put there but something that reminds an individual of something (memories from the past). • When watching a film an audience usually picks up on the same objective signifiers but can have a whole host of connotations attached to differing subjective signifiers. • The ability to pick up on the signifiers in a film depends on an audience's Experience Emotional capacity Intellect. • The less emotionally experienced you are, the less likely you are to pick up on subtle emotional signifiers. • The less intelligent you are, the less likely you are to analyse the film in depth, and so on. • Signifiers can be created through Mise-en-scene, Lighting, Music, and Dialogue.
Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting & Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Religious Symbols - Religion is very prevalent in horror, with themes of life and death, spirituality, man playing god, man fighting inner and outer demons, good versus evil, and so forth. 2. Symbols of Death - Death is naturally pervasive in horror and there are countless representative objects, such as coffins, gravestones, skeletons, angels of death, fire, and so forth. 3. Colours - Many films use colour to symbolize themes and the powers of good and evil. Red & Black are often associated with evil, blood, lust, and violence. Light, neutral colours or earth tones are associated with peace, safety and good. 4. Light - Light can symbolize hope, transition, escape, and even death. Sunlight normally provides a sense of comfort so the mix of sunlight and horror can be especially unnerving. Candles, lanterns, and flashlights are common sources of light in horror, as this light can only be cast so far while the surrounding darkness is rife with shadows. Light and dark are often used thematically to represent good and evil, hence the hope of a new dawn if you have managed to survive. 5. Weapons - From machine guns to saws, weapons have phallic symbolism that suggests masculine power and when the woman outsmarts the villain, essentially she castrates him. 6. Fabric – (Drapes, tapestries, and furniture dust coverings) As fabric can disguise, it intensifies suspense as it suggests the presence of something behind it. The protagonist can hide, but is not protected. 7. Keys/Locks – can symbolize secrets, confinement, and hidden objects or places. 1. Religious Symbols - Religion is very prevalent in horror, with themes of life and death, spirituality, man playing god, man fighting inner and outer demons, good versus evil, and so forth. 2. Symbols of Death - Death is naturally pervasive in horror and there are countless representative objects, such as coffins, gravestones, skeletons, angels of death, fire, and so forth. 3. Colours - Many films use colour to symbolize themes and the powers of good and evil. Red & Black are often associated with evil, blood, lust, and violence. Light, neutral colours or earth tones are associated with peace, safety and good. 4. Light - Light can symbolize hope, transition, escape, and even death. Sunlight normally provides a sense of comfort so the mix of sunlight and horror can be especially unnerving. Candles, lanterns, and flashlights are common sources of light in horror, as this light can only be cast so far while the surrounding darkness is rife with shadows. Light and dark are often used thematically to represent good and evil, hence the hope of a new dawn if you have managed to survive. 5. Weapons - From machine guns to saws, weapons have phallic symbolism that suggests masculine power and when the woman outsmarts the villain, essentially she castrates him. 6. Fabric – (Drapes, tapestries, and furniture dust coverings) As fabric can disguise, it intensifies suspense as it suggests the presence of something behind it. The protagonist can hide, but is not protected. 7. Keys/Locks – can symbolize secrets, confinement, and hidden objects or places.
Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting & Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Doors and Windows (Portals) - Symbolize characterization. A person has a limited perspective and is like a spectator, not part of the outside world, frightened of the world outside or physically unable to be part of it. In horror, doors and windows are typically a means of entrapment or escape. They are also highly utilized for building suspense if something behind or lurking outside. 2. Labyrinths/Mazes - often appear in horror to heighten the protagonist's lack of control. They offer opportunities for sudden surprises, trap doors, circular action, and a sense of improbability for escape. 3. Dolls - the comfort of a child's toy and danger can make it unnerving, as dolls normally represent happiness, innocence, and nurturing. Yet their distorted human qualities, such as oversized heads, unblinking eyes or exaggerated features, can symbolise, lack of control, desire, regret, families, aging. 4. Masks - most often used to disguise evil. Masks are devoid of movement, except for the eyes that peer through them, similar to doll faces. 5. Mirrors (reflections) - represent the multiple dualities of characters. Broken mirrors have obvious connotations of shattered lives and personalities. Mirrors can also represent voyeuristic, vanity, and sexual themes - we display our bodies and beautify ours faces in front of them in private. 6. Rope - Symbolises bondage, flogging, and death (the noose) to a means of escape or survival. In horror, ropes are most often used as a form of bondage. 1. Doors and Windows (Portals) - Symbolize characterization. A person has a limited perspective and is like a spectator, not part of the outside world, frightened of the world outside or physically unable to be part of it. In horror, doors and windows are typically a means of entrapment or escape. They are also highly utilized for building suspense if something behind or lurking outside. 2. Labyrinths/Mazes - often appear in horror to heighten the protagonist's lack of control. They offer opportunities for sudden surprises, trap doors, circular action, and a sense of improbability for escape. 3. Dolls - the comfort of a child's toy and danger can make it unnerving, as dolls normally represent happiness, innocence, and nurturing. Yet their distorted human qualities, such as oversized heads, unblinking eyes or exaggerated features, can symbolise, lack of control, desire, regret, families, aging. 4. Masks - most often used to disguise evil. Masks are devoid of movement, except for the eyes that peer through them, similar to doll faces. 5. Mirrors (reflections) - represent the multiple dualities of characters. Broken mirrors have obvious connotations of shattered lives and personalities. Mirrors can also represent voyeuristic, vanity, and sexual themes - we display our bodies and beautify ours faces in front of them in private. 6. Rope - Symbolises bondage, flogging, and death (the noose) to a means of escape or survival. In horror, ropes are most often used as a form of bondage.
Film:Film: Written & Audio Codes Written & Audio Codes WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines/Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music Dark ominous sounds with no beat indicating an evil presence, that everything is not as it should be. Iconic piece of music to signify something bad is about to happen. The power of silence to connote tension, and set up Cliff-hangers. High pitched sounds/screams are uncomfortable on the ear, indicating pain. Crashes and thuds enhance horrific shock value. Red text/captions, can signify blood, death or Danger. Aged/worn/degraded text, can connote a dark Mysterious history (often associated with horror). Dark ominous sounds with no beat indicating an evil presence, that everything is not as it should be. Iconic piece of music to signify something bad is about to happen. The power of silence to connote tension, and set up Cliff-hangers. High pitched sounds/screams are uncomfortable on the ear, indicating pain. Crashes and thuds enhance horrific shock value. Red text/captions, can signify blood, death or Danger. Aged/worn/degraded text, can connote a dark Mysterious history (often associated with horror).
Film:Film: Technical Codes Technical Codes TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS, LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) Cutting & Editing A close-up shot creates a connection between the audience & the character (often your protagonist). P.O.V shots are used to witness events from the killers perspective (antagonist). This framing also stops you as viewers ,seeing what is happening behind the subject . Hand-held cam helps to create realism and a sense of panic. Films like Blair Witch Project use the language of video & amateur movies. You see low resolution footage which is a bit unclear, the framing is a bit dodgy, the sound is sometimes muffled. High & low angle shots connote power and authority. Often used in the battle between good and evil. Wide angle shots allow a wider view of the surroundings, signifying isolation and vulnerability. Juxtaposition is used to co-inside with the battle of good and evil. Montage editing in horror trailers gives a sense of pacing, and can connote the many different emotions viewers can through (Fast/slow – quick cuts /long takes – tension/panic) Films like Halloween and Paranormal Activity were made on small budgets, and often with quite basic equipment, so it is appropriate to make comparisons between your own work and these two films, in terms of how the camera shots, sound and editing have been used to create meaning. A close-up shot creates a connection between the audience & the character (often your protagonist). P.O.V shots are used to witness events from the killers perspective (antagonist). This framing also stops you as viewers ,seeing what is happening behind the subject . Hand-held cam helps to create realism and a sense of panic. Films like Blair Witch Project use the language of video & amateur movies. You see low resolution footage which is a bit unclear, the framing is a bit dodgy, the sound is sometimes muffled. High & low angle shots connote power and authority. Often used in the battle between good and evil. Wide angle shots allow a wider view of the surroundings, signifying isolation and vulnerability. Juxtaposition is used to co-inside with the battle of good and evil. Montage editing in horror trailers gives a sense of pacing, and can connote the many different emotions viewers can through (Fast/slow – quick cuts /long takes – tension/panic) Films like Halloween and Paranormal Activity were made on small budgets, and often with quite basic equipment, so it is appropriate to make comparisons between your own work and these two films, in terms of how the camera shots, sound and editing have been used to create meaning.

More Related Content

PPT
06 g325sectionaq1b-genre-3
byctrmedia
 
ODP
Genre presentation
byleannacatherina
 
PPTX
Media Studies Revison
byMya007
 
DOC
As media dictionary[1]
byecclestona
 
PPT
Q1b theory and MANGeR db edit mgoogan guide
byDB3igs
 
PPT
10 g325sectionaq1b-5medialanguage
byctrmedia
 
PPTX
Week 2 genre
byguidedbyboognish
 
PPTX
Genre & Narrative Theory
byAlice Ward
 
06 g325sectionaq1b-genre-3
byctrmedia
 
Genre presentation
byleannacatherina
 
Media Studies Revison
byMya007
 
As media dictionary[1]
byecclestona
 
Q1b theory and MANGeR db edit mgoogan guide
byDB3igs
 
10 g325sectionaq1b-5medialanguage
byctrmedia
 
Week 2 genre
byguidedbyboognish
 
Genre & Narrative Theory
byAlice Ward
 

What's hot

PPT
Introduction to Film
byMrPerrins
 
PPTX
Media Language
byaimeelouisasmith
 
PPTX
Codes and conventions
byMike Gunn
 
PPT
Applying genre to your text
byhammonda
 
PPTX
Representation in Media
bykhalfyard
 
PPT
Lost audience targeting
bychristimothy12
 
PPT
Popular film and emotional response
byRachel Jones
 
PPT
Genre hybrid’s
byslidesharemagician
 
PPTX
Genre theory Steve Neale
byRafaelPerezOlivan
 
PPTX
Genre Theory
bySarah mediafilm
 
PPT
Genre theory quotes
byElle Sullivan
 
DOCX
Compare the impact and effectiveness of two promotional methods
bytcasman
 
PPTX
Christian metz
bybeckiemedia
 
PPT
Introducing tv drama_and_representation_for_g322_ocr_media_studies
byibz10
 
PPTX
Composition and Movie Posters
bybearskin_2
 
PPTX
Genre lesson slides_ 2 2012[1]
byjonreigatemedia
 
PPT
Genre theory (2)
byJo H
 
PPTX
AS G321 Media Studies Coursework Task 1
bybearskin_2
 
PPTX
This one genre theory powerpoint
bybir
 
PPT
Fm2 section c
byIan Moreno-Melgar
 
Introduction to Film
byMrPerrins
 
Media Language
byaimeelouisasmith
 
Codes and conventions
byMike Gunn
 
Applying genre to your text
byhammonda
 
Representation in Media
bykhalfyard
 
Lost audience targeting
bychristimothy12
 
Popular film and emotional response
byRachel Jones
 
Genre hybrid’s
byslidesharemagician
 
Genre theory Steve Neale
byRafaelPerezOlivan
 
Genre Theory
bySarah mediafilm
 
Genre theory quotes
byElle Sullivan
 
Compare the impact and effectiveness of two promotional methods
bytcasman
 
Christian metz
bybeckiemedia
 
Introducing tv drama_and_representation_for_g322_ocr_media_studies
byibz10
 
Composition and Movie Posters
bybearskin_2
 
Genre lesson slides_ 2 2012[1]
byjonreigatemedia
 
Genre theory (2)
byJo H
 
AS G321 Media Studies Coursework Task 1
bybearskin_2
 
This one genre theory powerpoint
bybir
 
Fm2 section c
byIan Moreno-Melgar
 

Viewers also liked

PPT
1. genre
byctkmedia
 
PPTX
OCR A2 Media studies Exam Questions 1a and 1b tips UPDATED
byMr Smith
 
PPTX
Media effects debate
byctkmedia
 
PPTX
Contemporary Media Regulation intro
byHolly Taylor
 
DOCX
A2 Media Studies Revision Pack
byAndy Wallis
 
PPTX
Horror Narratives
byBelinda Raji
 
PPTX
Ofcom
byctkmedia
 
DOCX
Regulation arguments
byctkmedia
 
PPT
Introduction to Section A Question 1a
byZoe Lorenz
 
PPT
4. audience
byctkmedia
 
PPT
3. representation
byctkmedia
 
DOCX
Question 1a Research and Planning Exemplar Essay
byjphibbert
 
PPT
Question 1a Research and Planning
byMr Smith
 
PPTX
Pegi
byctkmedia
 
PPTX
Contemporary Media Regulation Theory
byhcayton
 
DOCX
Regulation social issues
byctkmedia
 
DOCX
Regulation previous practices
byctkmedia
 
1. genre
byctkmedia
 
OCR A2 Media studies Exam Questions 1a and 1b tips UPDATED
byMr Smith
 
Media effects debate
byctkmedia
 
Contemporary Media Regulation intro
byHolly Taylor
 
A2 Media Studies Revision Pack
byAndy Wallis
 
Horror Narratives
byBelinda Raji
 
Ofcom
byctkmedia
 
Regulation arguments
byctkmedia
 
Introduction to Section A Question 1a
byZoe Lorenz
 
4. audience
byctkmedia
 
3. representation
byctkmedia
 
Question 1a Research and Planning Exemplar Essay
byjphibbert
 
Question 1a Research and Planning
byMr Smith
 
Pegi
byctkmedia
 
Contemporary Media Regulation Theory
byhcayton
 
Regulation social issues
byctkmedia
 
Regulation previous practices
byctkmedia
 

Similar to 5. media language

PDF
Film language
byGraveney School
 
PPTX
Btec level 2 intro
byecclestona
 
PPTX
PPT6MIL.pptxjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj
bymichellejoysemeniano
 
PPTX
Aziz key concepts research
byCat Davies
 
PPTX
Tia key concepts
byCat Davies
 
PPTX
Lesson 2 & 3 Visual codes
byElle Sullivan
 
PPTX
Film Codes - Introduction Year Seven Media.pptx
byamandabullow
 
PPTX
STORYBOARD.pptx
byNorth Bromsgrove High School
 
PPTX
9 media cat 2 revision
byRobert Webb
 
PPTX
Codes and conventions
byammz786
 
PDF
A-Level Media MIGRAiN - Zaahid Ziyaad Asvat
byZaahidAsvat
 
PPTX
Btec level 2 intro
byecclestona
 
DOC
Terminology Log (Terms used so far)
byOliStr
 
PPTX
Aya ks5 media assessment (2)
byCat Davies
 
PPTX
Horror opening sequences
bylyddieandrews
 
PPTX
Lesson 2 - Camera
by42RolandMichaud
 
PPTX
Media language refresher
bytwbsmediaconnell
 
DOCX
Media language
bygeorgia123456789
 
PPTX
unit 2, Task three
byjoshua263
 
ODP
Exam revision
bySophie Hales
 
Film language
byGraveney School
 
Btec level 2 intro
byecclestona
 
PPT6MIL.pptxjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj
bymichellejoysemeniano
 
Aziz key concepts research
byCat Davies
 
Tia key concepts
byCat Davies
 
Lesson 2 & 3 Visual codes
byElle Sullivan
 
Film Codes - Introduction Year Seven Media.pptx
byamandabullow
 
STORYBOARD.pptx
byNorth Bromsgrove High School
 
9 media cat 2 revision
byRobert Webb
 
Codes and conventions
byammz786
 
A-Level Media MIGRAiN - Zaahid Ziyaad Asvat
byZaahidAsvat
 
Btec level 2 intro
byecclestona
 
Terminology Log (Terms used so far)
byOliStr
 
Aya ks5 media assessment (2)
byCat Davies
 
Horror opening sequences
bylyddieandrews
 
Lesson 2 - Camera
by42RolandMichaud
 
Media language refresher
bytwbsmediaconnell
 
Media language
bygeorgia123456789
 
unit 2, Task three
byjoshua263
 
Exam revision
bySophie Hales
 

Recently uploaded

PDF
Quiz.exe (Coding Quiz) 2025- 09th October 2025, Quiz Club NITW
byQuiz Club NITW
 
PDF
Keratometer /ppt/pdf/notespdf/kerato.pdf
byAnmol Singh
 
PDF
Introductions Introductions Introductions
byaidanattema
 
PPTX
TEACHING OF POETRY.pptx. The PPT helps and provides guidance on Lesson Planni...
byDr. Meeta Agrawal
 
PDF
Determining the Sample Population updated version.pdf
byThelma Villaflores
 
PDF
Basics of Marketing_Unit 1 Introduction to marketing
bySandeep D Chaudhary
 
PDF
Optomery MCQ pdf/exam/pyq/joinquiz/..pdf
byAnmol Singh
 
PPT
COCCYDYNIA.ppt for physiotherapist students
byDrNidhiAgarwal
 
PDF
Advanced Microbiology, Microbial Physiology and Biostatistics-Comprehensive H...
byinsighteduwithme
 
PPTX
14 November 2025 The Impact of Digital Technologies on Students Learning
byEduSkills OECD
 
PDF
Herniation Syndromes - Neuro Imaging Master Series
bySean M. Fox
 
PPTX
How to Create Certifications in Odoo 18 Employees
byCeline George
 
PDF
Chapter 1 ICAR Intro_Horticulturte_FoH_.pdf
bybisensharad
 
PPTX
West Hatch Ski Trip - Wagrain 2026 - Induction Meeting 2
byWestHatch
 
PPTX
(2) Physiology (Cell Structure). pptx
byaryanhaniarshi
 
PDF
The bronze sculptures of the Chola dynasty
byPrachiSontakke5
 
PPTX
Unit 6- Heme Catabolism.pptx............
byAkanksha Kotangale
 
PPTX
Historical Background of Pharmacy .pptx
bySneha Gaurkar
 
PPTX
Politici de marketing
byRodica B.
 
PPTX
Lupus nephritis updates of managment....
bydrmostafa2110
 
Quiz.exe (Coding Quiz) 2025- 09th October 2025, Quiz Club NITW
byQuiz Club NITW
 
Keratometer /ppt/pdf/notespdf/kerato.pdf
byAnmol Singh
 
Introductions Introductions Introductions
byaidanattema
 
TEACHING OF POETRY.pptx. The PPT helps and provides guidance on Lesson Planni...
byDr. Meeta Agrawal
 
Determining the Sample Population updated version.pdf
byThelma Villaflores
 
Basics of Marketing_Unit 1 Introduction to marketing
bySandeep D Chaudhary
 
Optomery MCQ pdf/exam/pyq/joinquiz/..pdf
byAnmol Singh
 
COCCYDYNIA.ppt for physiotherapist students
byDrNidhiAgarwal
 
Advanced Microbiology, Microbial Physiology and Biostatistics-Comprehensive H...
byinsighteduwithme
 
14 November 2025 The Impact of Digital Technologies on Students Learning
byEduSkills OECD
 
Herniation Syndromes - Neuro Imaging Master Series
bySean M. Fox
 
How to Create Certifications in Odoo 18 Employees
byCeline George
 
Chapter 1 ICAR Intro_Horticulturte_FoH_.pdf
bybisensharad
 
West Hatch Ski Trip - Wagrain 2026 - Induction Meeting 2
byWestHatch
 
(2) Physiology (Cell Structure). pptx
byaryanhaniarshi
 
The bronze sculptures of the Chola dynasty
byPrachiSontakke5
 
Unit 6- Heme Catabolism.pptx............
byAkanksha Kotangale
 
Historical Background of Pharmacy .pptx
bySneha Gaurkar
 
Politici de marketing
byRodica B.
 
Lupus nephritis updates of managment....
bydrmostafa2110
 

5. media language

  • 1.
    Section A: Question1 B: Theoretical Evaluation of Production Media Language Media Language Critical Perspectives ExamCritical Perspectives Exam
  • 2.
    Question 1(B) requirescandidates to select ONE PRODUCTION & evaluate it in relation to a media concept. You will focus on your TRAILER ONLY. In the exam, questions will be set using one of these concepts. • Genre • Narrative • Representation • Audience • MEDIA LANGUAGE * Film:Film: Media ConceptsMedia Concepts
  • 3.
    • ‘Media language’does not refer to the words spoken by an actor in a text, but the language & codes of the medium (for example; film language is different to the language of music). • You must discuss the way you used camera, sound, editing, Mise-en-scene, semiotics & ideologies.. to create meaning. As media students you will be able to use correct terminology to pinpoint exactly what the film-makers are trying to achieve (meaning/representation). • In order to deconstruct the rules and conventions of film, you have to be able to give all the pieces a name. What we see on the screen is the diegesis (the narrative film world). Film:Film: Media LanguageMedia Language
  • 4.
    • SEMIOTICS (the study of signs) is used to describe how meaning is constructed through language and codes: • A sign is anything that carries meaning • It can be explicit icons – signs that resemble the things being represented • Implicit symbols – signs that have an inner, mutually understood meaning. • Iconic signs – signs that are created to appear exactly like the thing itself. SemioticsSemiotics TASK: Indexical signs are different. They act by indirectly “pointing” or suggesting what they mean. They act as ‘cues’ to existing knowledge, e.g. smoke signifies fire, sweating suggests heat. 1. List indexical codes that we see in horror films: 2. List indexical codes that we see in your horror trailer:
  • 5.
    1. Firstly there’sthe Signifier - The physical form of the sign. The written word on the paper, a traffic light, a smile. 2. Second the Signified - This is the concept/idea that the signifier produces. A red light signifies stop. A smile could signify happiness. 3. Lastly there is the Referent - The real thing, not the signal or the idea but the real, individual thing. A real individual rose, the real feeling of happiness. THEORISTTHEORIST Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) - the signifier and signified Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) - the signifier and signified THE SIGN OR SYMBOL WE SEE DOES NOT MAKE SENSE WITHOUT THE ACTUAL OBJECT AND THE MEANING IT CREATES. For example: what potential or suggested meaning does a red rose have? TASK: WRITE A LIST OF ALL THE OBJECTS IN YOUR PRODUCTION THAT HAVE CONNOTATIONS ATTACHED TO THEM.
  • 6.
    • There arethree main types of codes in semiotics... SEMIOTICSSEMIOTICS Codes & ConventionsCodes & Conventions 1. SYMBOLIC Lighting & Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Objects Key Signifiers/Images Clothing, Hair & Make Up 3. TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS, LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Editing & Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) 2. WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music
  • 7.
    Symbolic Codes List downthe symbolic codes in the HORROR genre
  • 8.
    Clothes are avital part of Mise en scene as every outfit a character is given, is specifically placed to help the audience determine their characters. For example, commonly in Horror films it is often a dull day, little colour, and the lighting is bleak to match the mood. Three point lighting? Props are also part of Mise-en- scene. Props are fundamental in films. Again, they help us establish many things about characters- is they are rich, poor, a boy, a girl etc. They help make a 2D character three-dimensional. CostumeCostume PropsProps SettingSetting LightingLighting N . V. CN . V. C For example, a posh woman would commonly wear a black dress with stilettos and perhaps a lot of jewellery to further underline her wealth. • They key starting point for analysing media language in film is Mise-en-scene. • Costume, Props, Setting, Lighting & Non Verbal Communication. • Mise-en-scene (Everything in the scene) refers to all significant items on show for the viewer. Remember nothing is accidental, this is not reality, it is a representation of it. • This will include actors (think about the use of stars), set (think about the input of the designer, especially the use of colour), costume (issues of social representation), lighting etc.. You should consider how Mise-en-scène reflects production values. Location is an important aspect of Mise- en-scène: why was that particular location chosen, and what advantages/restrictions would you associate with filming there? Lighting is a very important aspect of films as different lighting helps to establish settings, characters and moods.
  • 9.
  • 10.
  • 11.
  • 12.
  • 13.
  • 14.
  • 15.
    Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting& Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Religious Symbols 2. Symbols of Death 3. Colours 4. Light 5. Weapons 6. Fabric 7. Keys/Locks 8. Doors and Windows (Portals) 9. Labyrinths/Mazes 10.Dolls 11. Masks 12.Mirrors (reflections) 13.Rope 1. Religious Symbols 2. Symbols of Death 3. Colours 4. Light 5. Weapons 6. Fabric 7. Keys/Locks 8. Doors and Windows (Portals) 9. Labyrinths/Mazes 10.Dolls 11. Masks 12.Mirrors (reflections) 13.Rope
  • 16.
    Watch the trailerand list all the SYMBOLIC CODES http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs3981DoINw Think about: -Symbols of death -Colours -Weapons -Light -Masks Think about: -Doors and windows -Labyrinths and mazes -Mirrors -Costume
  • 17.
    Technical Codes List downall the camera techniques and editing techniques you can think of/remember from AS (use specific terminology) Which ones are used a lot in the HORROR genre
  • 18.
    High angle shots makethe person/ building or object appeal much smaller It creates an ominous feel as it makes the object in context appear small and helpless. Low angle shots make the person or object look much bigger Opposite to high angle shots, low angle shots make the object look big and menacing. Over the shoulder shots allow us to see exactly what the character sees It again, can be an ominous angle as it suggests that there is someone behind the character. This is a common shot for horror films. Camera Movement Tracking Shot (Dollying) Crabbing Shot Tilt Shot Pan Shot Zoom Shot Camera Angle Wide Angle Shot Point of View Shot (POV) Over the Shoulder Shot Cut-In Crane Shot Aerial Shot Two Shot Birds Eye View Worms Eye View Eye Level Shot High Angle Shot Low Angle Shot Canted Shot Establishing Shot. Camera Shot/Framing Extreme Long Shot (ELS) Long Shot (LS) Medium Long Shot (MLS) Mid Shot (MS) Medium Close Up (MCU) Close up (CU) Extreme Close Up (ECU) When describing movement, we consider: • Primary action: the movement of characters/objects within the frame • Secondary action: the movement of the camera in relation to those objects • A directors desire & an artists direction, are transmitted to an expecting audience through the sequence of camera shots (framing), camera angles, camera movement, and the composing of shots. Steadicam Hand-Held Cam
  • 19.
    There are manyedits which all contribute to making a film interesting & varied. Cutting: Cut (straight cut) Cross-Cutting Transitions: Fades, Washes, Wipes, Dissolves. Pace of Editing/Length of Shot: Quick Cuts & Long Take Techniques of Continuity Editing: Match on Action Reaction Shot Shot/Reverse Shot: Eye-Line Match: Cutting: Cut (straight cut) Cross-Cutting Transitions: Fades, Washes, Wipes, Dissolves. Pace of Editing/Length of Shot: Quick Cuts & Long Take Techniques of Continuity Editing: Match on Action Reaction Shot Shot/Reverse Shot: Eye-Line Match: Editing Techniques: Elliptical Editing  Cutaway Jump Cut Superimposition Slow motion  Graphic Match Expansion of Time 180° Rule Fourth Wall Editing Techniques: Elliptical Editing  Cutaway Jump Cut Superimposition Slow motion  Graphic Match Expansion of Time 180° Rule Fourth Wall • There is an old adage that films are edited, not made. A lot of important work is done in the edit suite, and can be broken down using a range of language. While a good editor may not always be able to salvage a bad film, a bad editor can certainly ruin a potentially great film. • Hollywood movies tend to go for continuity editing, a style also known as transparency (Is the work of the editor invisible?). Actions flow smoothly from one frame to another, and the audience simply follow the dialogue. • Oppositional to this, and the style employed by many art-house films is Framed Editing, where the audience are continually reminded that they are viewing an artificially created text. Jump cuts, sudden stoppages of sound, etc. This is very common in horror productions. • Continuity - continuous action shown in sequence (Continuity supports the narrative). • Montage - a series of seemingly unrelated shots that the audience must work to connect. • When shots are placed next to each other in a sequence the link between is a transition. The simplest of these is a cut, i.e. a straight splice from one section of film to another. There are many others - fades, dissolves, wipes, plus those offered by sophisticated digital software.
  • 20.
  • 21.
  • 22.
  • 23.
  • 24.
  • 25.
  • 26.
    Film:Film: Technical Codes Technical Codes TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS,LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) Cutting & Editing List an example of a RMT from the horror genre that has a: Close-Up or Extreme Close Up Wide Angle Shot P.O.V Shot High & Low Angle shot Establishing Shot Hand-Held Shot Juxtaposition Montage Editing Quick Cuts /Long Takes List an example of a RMT from the horror genre that has a: Close-Up or Extreme Close Up Wide Angle Shot P.O.V Shot High & Low Angle shot Establishing Shot Hand-Held Shot Juxtaposition Montage Editing Quick Cuts /Long Takes
  • 27.
    Watch the trailerand list the technical codes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDGw1MTEe9k Think about: -Close up -P.O.V -High/low angles -Wide angle Think about: -Juxtaposition -Montage editing -Lighting used
  • 28.
    Written & Audio Codes Listdown the types of fonts/texts and audio (music + sfx) that are used a lot in the HORROR genre (use specific terminology)
  • 29.
    Commonly in filmsthere is non diegetic music .i.e. coming from outside the text source. Non diegetic sounds are a good ways of lapsing time, setting a mood, atmosphere, or to establish a character. Dialogue in films is a fundamental ingredient as otherwise we would struggle with what a film would be about (aside for silent films). It allows us to establish what a character is like. Regional/foreign accents, all have different connotations & are included for a reason. General Sound Diegetic Sound:  Internal Diegetic Sound:  Non-Diegetic Sound: Sound Effects: Hard Sound Effects:  Background Sound Effects:  Foley Sound Effects:  Design Sound Effects: Music: Score:  Silence: Incidental Music:  Speech/Dialogue: Dialogue: Voiceover: Direct Address: Mode of Address:     Other Sound Techniques:  Ambient Sound:  Synchronous Sound: Music: Themes: Sting:  Sound Bridge:  • Sound refers to the strong relationship between dialogue, visuals & the effect of music/sound to a film text.. • Aural Language. • In Media Studies, as well as being able to discuss written & visual language, you also need to be able to discuss what you hear. Media texts often include a mixture of sounds, including spoken language (dialogue) diegetic sound (coming form within the source/text) non-diegetic sound (coming form outside of the source/text) sound effects (Foley, design etc), & incidental music. • In a film or television programme we might hear the ambient sounds of traffic or animals or the weather and this will help in our construction of environment, atmosphere and mood. • If a city is saturated with the sound of cars, building work, radio, and so on, it can create the impression that the setting is chaotic and oppressive. • In horror, if a building is totally silent we might perceive it as isolated or abandoned, thus creating a tense mood within the audience. • • The aural language of a media text can also help us to define the genre of a piece. A horror film, for example, might include non-diegetic heartbeat sounds in order to provoke a response from the audience.  
  • 30.
    Film:Film: Written & Audio Codes Written& Audio Codes WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines/Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music WHAT DO THEY SIGNIFY? Dark Ominous Sounds Iconic Music Silence High Pitched Sounds/Screams Crashes and Thuds Red Text/Captions Aged/Worn/Degraded Text WHAT DO THEY SIGNIFY? Dark Ominous Sounds Iconic Music Silence High Pitched Sounds/Screams Crashes and Thuds Red Text/Captions Aged/Worn/Degraded Text Signifier? Signified?
  • 31.
    Watch the trailerand list the audio and written codes Think about : -The use of silence -Dark ominous sounds -Screaming -Gruesome noises -Iconic music -Thuds and sudden noises -sounds of weapons -Intense score http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKfE5NrE7K8 Think about: -Captions -Aged degraded text
  • 32.
    EXTRA READING!* *TERMS ANDCONDITIONS APPLY: ONLY APPLICABLE TO THOSE WHO AN A OR B GRADE Media Language Media Language Critical Perspectives ExamCritical Perspectives Exam
  • 33.
    • SEMIOTICS (the study of signs) is used to describe how meaning is constructed through language and codes. A sign is anything that carries meaning whether it is explicit (icons – signs that resemble the things being represented) or implicit (symbols – signs that have an inner, mutually agreed and understood meaning). This study of signs and symbols and is a way of discussing both the literal and the potential meanings of the images we see on screen. • Iconic signs and codes are created to appear exactly like the thing itself, e.g. an image of a cowboy looks like – signifies – a cowboy. But… importantly, iconic codes always act to represent more than the thing itself, e.g. when we see an image of a cowboy, our culture associates ideas of toughness and action with this particular iconic code (which also acts to reinforce what masculinity ‘means’ in our culture – an ideological meaning). • Indexical signs are different. They act by indirectly “pointing” or suggesting what they mean by acting as ‘cues’ to existing knowledge, e.g. smoke signifies fire, sweating suggests heat or exercise. • Symbolic codes act as signifiers of meaning totally disconnected from what they denote, e.g. a red heart shape acts only to symbolise love; a white dove symbolises peace; red symbolises danger, power or sexuality, white symbolises innocence. • Most films use patterns or specific objects as metaphors for a concept that the filmmaker is trying to convey. In horror movies, many such objects are used to intensify mood, identify character traits, emphasize themes and concepts (e.g. good vs. evil), and foreshadow events. • Objects can be powerful symbols that add depth and meaning to a story. Symbolism can be very powerful and is an important tool for enhancing theme and character. Everyday objects can be used to effectively alter mood. Even a paper doll can be salaciously scary if in the right hands! Film:Film: SemioticsSemiotics
  • 34.
    Denotation – literalor obvious meaning. A simple description of what is physically seen or heard. Connotation – potential or suggested meaning. For example: what potential or suggested meaning does a red rose have? WRITE A LIST OF ALL THE OBJECTS IN YOUR PRODUCTION THAT HAVE CONNOTATIONS ATTACHED TO THEM. THINK ABOUT HOW DIFFERENT AUDIENCES MIGHT RESPOND. Roland Barthes (1913-1980) - denotation and connotation Roland Barthes (1913-1980) - denotation and connotation
  • 35.
    The Semiotic Triangle Text Signifier Signified ReferentGAP •THE SIGNS OR SIGNIFERS IN FILMS • Films use human capability for interpreting signs. • The black and red background to most Horror movie titles has connotations of fear and blood. • The creaky doorway in a thriller creates tension. • Creepy music puts the audience in a tense mood & they realise something dramatic is about to happen • Objective signifiers, are put there intentionally to give clues about how to feel or react). • Subjective signifiers are not intentionally put there but something that reminds an individual of something (memories from the past). • When watching a film an audience usually picks up on the same objective signifiers but can have a whole host of connotations attached to differing subjective signifiers. • The ability to pick up on the signifiers in a film depends on an audience's Experience Emotional capacity Intellect. • The less emotionally experienced you are, the less likely you are to pick up on subtle emotional signifiers. • The less intelligent you are, the less likely you are to analyse the film in depth, and so on. • Signifiers can be created through Mise-en-scene, Lighting, Music, and Dialogue.
  • 36.
    Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting& Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Religious Symbols - Religion is very prevalent in horror, with themes of life and death, spirituality, man playing god, man fighting inner and outer demons, good versus evil, and so forth. 2. Symbols of Death - Death is naturally pervasive in horror and there are countless representative objects, such as coffins, gravestones, skeletons, angels of death, fire, and so forth. 3. Colours - Many films use colour to symbolize themes and the powers of good and evil. Red & Black are often associated with evil, blood, lust, and violence. Light, neutral colours or earth tones are associated with peace, safety and good. 4. Light - Light can symbolize hope, transition, escape, and even death. Sunlight normally provides a sense of comfort so the mix of sunlight and horror can be especially unnerving. Candles, lanterns, and flashlights are common sources of light in horror, as this light can only be cast so far while the surrounding darkness is rife with shadows. Light and dark are often used thematically to represent good and evil, hence the hope of a new dawn if you have managed to survive. 5. Weapons - From machine guns to saws, weapons have phallic symbolism that suggests masculine power and when the woman outsmarts the villain, essentially she castrates him. 6. Fabric – (Drapes, tapestries, and furniture dust coverings) As fabric can disguise, it intensifies suspense as it suggests the presence of something behind it. The protagonist can hide, but is not protected. 7. Keys/Locks – can symbolize secrets, confinement, and hidden objects or places. 1. Religious Symbols - Religion is very prevalent in horror, with themes of life and death, spirituality, man playing god, man fighting inner and outer demons, good versus evil, and so forth. 2. Symbols of Death - Death is naturally pervasive in horror and there are countless representative objects, such as coffins, gravestones, skeletons, angels of death, fire, and so forth. 3. Colours - Many films use colour to symbolize themes and the powers of good and evil. Red & Black are often associated with evil, blood, lust, and violence. Light, neutral colours or earth tones are associated with peace, safety and good. 4. Light - Light can symbolize hope, transition, escape, and even death. Sunlight normally provides a sense of comfort so the mix of sunlight and horror can be especially unnerving. Candles, lanterns, and flashlights are common sources of light in horror, as this light can only be cast so far while the surrounding darkness is rife with shadows. Light and dark are often used thematically to represent good and evil, hence the hope of a new dawn if you have managed to survive. 5. Weapons - From machine guns to saws, weapons have phallic symbolism that suggests masculine power and when the woman outsmarts the villain, essentially she castrates him. 6. Fabric – (Drapes, tapestries, and furniture dust coverings) As fabric can disguise, it intensifies suspense as it suggests the presence of something behind it. The protagonist can hide, but is not protected. 7. Keys/Locks – can symbolize secrets, confinement, and hidden objects or places.
  • 37.
    Film:Film: Symbolic CodesSymbolic Codes SYMBOLIC Lighting& Colour Positioning Setting & Locations Facial Expressions & Body Language Key Signifiers/Images/Objects Clothing, Hair & Make Up 1. Doors and Windows (Portals) - Symbolize characterization. A person has a limited perspective and is like a spectator, not part of the outside world, frightened of the world outside or physically unable to be part of it. In horror, doors and windows are typically a means of entrapment or escape. They are also highly utilized for building suspense if something behind or lurking outside. 2. Labyrinths/Mazes - often appear in horror to heighten the protagonist's lack of control. They offer opportunities for sudden surprises, trap doors, circular action, and a sense of improbability for escape. 3. Dolls - the comfort of a child's toy and danger can make it unnerving, as dolls normally represent happiness, innocence, and nurturing. Yet their distorted human qualities, such as oversized heads, unblinking eyes or exaggerated features, can symbolise, lack of control, desire, regret, families, aging. 4. Masks - most often used to disguise evil. Masks are devoid of movement, except for the eyes that peer through them, similar to doll faces. 5. Mirrors (reflections) - represent the multiple dualities of characters. Broken mirrors have obvious connotations of shattered lives and personalities. Mirrors can also represent voyeuristic, vanity, and sexual themes - we display our bodies and beautify ours faces in front of them in private. 6. Rope - Symbolises bondage, flogging, and death (the noose) to a means of escape or survival. In horror, ropes are most often used as a form of bondage. 1. Doors and Windows (Portals) - Symbolize characterization. A person has a limited perspective and is like a spectator, not part of the outside world, frightened of the world outside or physically unable to be part of it. In horror, doors and windows are typically a means of entrapment or escape. They are also highly utilized for building suspense if something behind or lurking outside. 2. Labyrinths/Mazes - often appear in horror to heighten the protagonist's lack of control. They offer opportunities for sudden surprises, trap doors, circular action, and a sense of improbability for escape. 3. Dolls - the comfort of a child's toy and danger can make it unnerving, as dolls normally represent happiness, innocence, and nurturing. Yet their distorted human qualities, such as oversized heads, unblinking eyes or exaggerated features, can symbolise, lack of control, desire, regret, families, aging. 4. Masks - most often used to disguise evil. Masks are devoid of movement, except for the eyes that peer through them, similar to doll faces. 5. Mirrors (reflections) - represent the multiple dualities of characters. Broken mirrors have obvious connotations of shattered lives and personalities. Mirrors can also represent voyeuristic, vanity, and sexual themes - we display our bodies and beautify ours faces in front of them in private. 6. Rope - Symbolises bondage, flogging, and death (the noose) to a means of escape or survival. In horror, ropes are most often used as a form of bondage.
  • 38.
    Film:Film: Written & Audio Codes Written& Audio Codes WRITTEN & AUDIO Slogan Typeface/Font Headlines/Captions Style Choice/Emphasis of words Sounds/Music Dark ominous sounds with no beat indicating an evil presence, that everything is not as it should be. Iconic piece of music to signify something bad is about to happen. The power of silence to connote tension, and set up Cliff-hangers. High pitched sounds/screams are uncomfortable on the ear, indicating pain. Crashes and thuds enhance horrific shock value. Red text/captions, can signify blood, death or Danger. Aged/worn/degraded text, can connote a dark Mysterious history (often associated with horror). Dark ominous sounds with no beat indicating an evil presence, that everything is not as it should be. Iconic piece of music to signify something bad is about to happen. The power of silence to connote tension, and set up Cliff-hangers. High pitched sounds/screams are uncomfortable on the ear, indicating pain. Crashes and thuds enhance horrific shock value. Red text/captions, can signify blood, death or Danger. Aged/worn/degraded text, can connote a dark Mysterious history (often associated with horror).
  • 39.
    Film:Film: Technical Codes Technical Codes TECHNICAL Camera Angles Framing (ELS,LS, MLS, MS, CU, ECU, POV) Cropping Juxtaposition (2 separate signs that together make contrasting meaning) Cutting & Editing A close-up shot creates a connection between the audience & the character (often your protagonist). P.O.V shots are used to witness events from the killers perspective (antagonist). This framing also stops you as viewers ,seeing what is happening behind the subject . Hand-held cam helps to create realism and a sense of panic. Films like Blair Witch Project use the language of video & amateur movies. You see low resolution footage which is a bit unclear, the framing is a bit dodgy, the sound is sometimes muffled. High & low angle shots connote power and authority. Often used in the battle between good and evil. Wide angle shots allow a wider view of the surroundings, signifying isolation and vulnerability. Juxtaposition is used to co-inside with the battle of good and evil. Montage editing in horror trailers gives a sense of pacing, and can connote the many different emotions viewers can through (Fast/slow – quick cuts /long takes – tension/panic) Films like Halloween and Paranormal Activity were made on small budgets, and often with quite basic equipment, so it is appropriate to make comparisons between your own work and these two films, in terms of how the camera shots, sound and editing have been used to create meaning. A close-up shot creates a connection between the audience & the character (often your protagonist). P.O.V shots are used to witness events from the killers perspective (antagonist). This framing also stops you as viewers ,seeing what is happening behind the subject . Hand-held cam helps to create realism and a sense of panic. Films like Blair Witch Project use the language of video & amateur movies. You see low resolution footage which is a bit unclear, the framing is a bit dodgy, the sound is sometimes muffled. High & low angle shots connote power and authority. Often used in the battle between good and evil. Wide angle shots allow a wider view of the surroundings, signifying isolation and vulnerability. Juxtaposition is used to co-inside with the battle of good and evil. Montage editing in horror trailers gives a sense of pacing, and can connote the many different emotions viewers can through (Fast/slow – quick cuts /long takes – tension/panic) Films like Halloween and Paranormal Activity were made on small budgets, and often with quite basic equipment, so it is appropriate to make comparisons between your own work and these two films, in terms of how the camera shots, sound and editing have been used to create meaning.