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1. What have I learnt from my
content analysis?
Reflection
When carrying out a content analysis of ‘The Notebook’ I found that two-shots were frequently
used throughout the trailer. Two-shots generally gave the ability to see the relationship of two
characters together. In relation to our own trailer it would mean the audience could see the
developing relationship between James and Emma and how this increased romance abruptly
ends. Therefore having a balance of intrigue and tension. Many close-ups were also used in the
trailer which helps to show the emotions of the characters and more importantly how they feel
towards each other. For example during the scene where Emma and James are sat on the bench
a jump cut may be used to a close-up where they are looking into each other’s eyes.
Wide-shots are useful in showing the location of the scene. Wide shots are important as they
demonstrate the variety of locations that have been used which increase the narrative story.
Wide-shots can also promote the genre and the location could be a park with lots of flowers.
Flowers of which will connote love and romance. In the trailer I analyzed a wide-shot showed a
carnival which connotes a sense of freedom and excitement.
Over the shoulder shots were also used, I feel that these were most effective in giving
perspective to the characters. It enables the audience to see what is happening in there opinion
and how it is affecting them emotionally. Long-shot is used fewer times in the trailer and were
usually to compare the social classes of characters based on appearances. Long-shots are most
effective in a romantic genre when used as a reason to the audience while the couple cannot be
together. Finally mid-shots are used so the audience can show the emotions of the character but
also enable the audience to evaluate the appearance of the characters. Most of the shots used
are also incorporated with low or high angles which promote the superiority or dominance of
particular characters.
From my content analysis I found that these were the main shot types used within a romantic
genre. They enable the audience to study the emotions of the characters and follow the
narrative story.