2. The Masthead
The masthead is big, bright and bold, so stands out catching the
eye of the reader. This is a Christmas edition, so as well as
connoting the typical NME calm but exciting feel, it also
connotes enjoyment and happiness at the wonderful time of
year.

3. The Central
Image
The central images covers the majority of the
front cover, making it one of the first thing you
see. It connotes slyness, cheekiness and
maybe even a bit of evil. This is very effective
because it is Simon Cowell featured and he is
know to be a bit of a stern but cheeky
character.

4. The Splash, Headline and
Strapline
The headline is very effective, as it refers to Simon Cowell as The Grinch. This is
really clever because The Grinch is an evil Christmas character and Cowell is often
described as evil. The sheet white look also connotes Christmas and snow, at the
same time as being simple and nice and easy to read. The Strapline, again, plays
with the typical Cowell character by saying NME is going ‘head to head’ with him.
This connotes a fight or battle rather than an interview, which builds interest.

5. The House Style, Layout
and Mode of Address
The colours used are mainly
red and white, which connote
Christmas time. They are also
attractive, as they catch the
eye of the reader but aren’t
too in their face. The fonts are
simple and bold, possibly
connoting a calm atmosphere
and making it an easy read.
The layout seems organised
but there are puffs dotted
about in ball balls which add
to the Christmas theme. The
front cover shows that the
magazine is formal but, at the
same time, still quite chatty.