codes and conventions of a film magazine

1. Codes and
conventions of a
magazine!
Focusing more keenly on a film
magazine.

2. Masthead
Mastheads appear on all magazine covers as
the title of the magazine. Usually, the masthead
appears across the top of the magazine to
attract the readers attention, especially whilst
on shelves in shops.
The masthead utilises what the magazine is
about; film magazines use connotations to film,
for example; total film – the reader is instantly
aware what the genre of the magazine is.
The text of the masthead is kept the same
throughout all issues keeping with the house
style of the film magazine.
The masthead appears to be the largest text on
a magazine front cover suggesting the magazine
is selling themselves as a brand as well as the
issue itself.

3. Image
Usually, magazines, including film magazines,
have only one main image – this image is likely
to be of the main actor starring within the
movie and so helps to attract a niche audience
for the film and the magazine.
The actors on the front cover often make direct
eye-contact with the reader directly requesting
them to read and buy the magazine. Effectively
using a mid-shot of the model helps the
appearance of the front cover.
The main image has to follow the house-style of
the magazine while also indicting the theme
and genre of the film they’re promoting.
Small imaginary can also be included on the
front cover of film magazines promoting other,
maybe smaller, films.

4. Headline – the main statement or feature on the front
cover, large and bold font used to highlight this article to
the reader. This is the issues selling point.
Pugs – include the logo or slogan and prices are placed
here, usually in the top right hand corner aimed to catch
the readers eye.
Splash – this is the main story on the front cover which
is accompanied by the headline and main image.
Strapline – a subheading positioned underneath the
main headline.
Tag – a fixed promotional feature usually reading;
‘exclusive’ or ‘new’ to intrigue the reader into the
magazine.
By-line – the name of the reporter or journalist is
printed on the front cover.
House-style – colours, font, language and layout all
contribute to the house-style of a film magazine. The
house-style is kept constant.
Examples of puffs and other
features included on film
magazines effectively used to
create a buzz about the
magazines issue.