This document analyzes and summarizes the symbolism and conventions used in a movie poster. It discusses how the two contrasting colors could represent different opinions or good and evil. It also notes that the dark colors suggest dark themes, and the inclusion of a gun and police badge reinforce the gangster genre. Additionally, it points out how the positioning of actors implies a power hierarchy and familial theme that is common in the genre. Overall, the poster provides insights into the characters and film through its unique design choices, while also leaving some ambiguity to intrigue audiences.

1. Two contrasting
colours could be
implying two
different opinions,
pasts. Could also be
referring to the
inverted colours of
the ‘yin and yang’ the
contrast of good and
evil between the two
characters
The use of dark
colours could be a
representation of
dark themes within
the film
Including the gun
within the poster
reinforces the
gangster
symbolism as well
Police badge acts as
symbolism for the
involvement of law
enforcement within
the storyline
Poster subverts the
convention of the
actors faces being
the main focus
Centred title
highlights
importance
Actor and director
recognition would draw
in a larger target
audience Another convention is to
include studio logos and
credits at the bottom of
the poster

2. Chicago cityscape
sets the theme for
the film, sheds
more light on the
time period of the
film
Dead victim
reinforces the
gangster genre
Positioning of the actors
could be a representation
of the hierarchy. Robert
de Niro’s character being
placed in the middle
could imply that he has
the most power.
Addition of a
chiaroscuro effect for
the main image creates
a ‘coming out of
darkness’ effect. Thus
providing a sinister
connotation for the
character background
Grouped main
image could also be
implying a familial
theme, commonly
associated with the
genre. The enlarged
image also
highlights the
importance of the
characters within
the film
Costume: the fact that
the main characters are
wearing suits, it could
be suggesting an
opulent background as
well.
Full credits and studio
logos are included

3. A unique way of
providing an insight
to the characters
and film
However, because the poster
is made to be quite
minimalistic, a lot of
ambiguity remains. Leaving
the audience in the dark for
elements such as the plot,
time period, or simply where
the film is situated.
Some of the character
faces are hidden,
therefore, it could be
another hidden
representation of
uncertainty towards
their personality and
the part they play
within the film
The fact that the
actors are centred
within the poster,
will mean that their
recognition would
draw in a larger
target audience.An odd element to the
poster could be the fact
that the credits and
studio logos are not
displayed at the bottom
of the page. Thus
converting an important
convention
The text and imagery
displayed on the poster
aren’t centred like the
general convention. it
could be a positive thing
as it keeps the viewer
interested as they seek
the necessary
information