2. How does the poster indicate the genre?
Sagrada Familia in its normal state
There are multiple factors that suggest that the film is an apocalyptic thriller/horror. Using iconic
landmarks such as Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia creates a shocking statement to audiences, confirming
that the immensity of the apocalypse spreads worldwide. Furthermore, this famous landmark lies within
the heart of Spain – the capital city, in which millions of people are at risk of serious danger. The fire and
explosions happening in all the buildings indicate the town’s vulnerability in comparison to the forces of
whatever is coming. The dark plumes filling the sky also indicates that everything is ‘going up in smoke’
and is taking a turn for the worst. The word ‘apocalypse’, today is commonly used to describe the end
of days or the end of the world , which is the main concept of the film. However it is the world versus the
risks to civilisation, humans, and planet Earth itself. This can be seen in many of the posters as the
streets are filled with what seem to be either people or the ‘infected’ that are taking over the city. A sense
of danger is then heightened with this image as these people are so small, they begin to look like ants,
either running from or to safety. The immense masses of people emphasise the fact that everybody is in
danger.
3. How does the trailer indicate the genre?
The trailer begins with shots that portray a normal day in modern day America - long shots of the
family in their kitchen and close-ups on the face of the main characters. The home they live in makes
them appear to live comfortably as a middle-classed, nuclear family. However, a turning point is
created when one of the children mentions ‘marshal law’, and the screen becomes a sudden black
with a low, booming bass. Some establishing hand-held shots are then shown of New York in turmoil
and citizens running away from some uncontrollable threat. Diegetic and non-diegetic sound is used
as guns, explosions and screams from civilians can be heard, as well as the dramatic pounding drums
and discordant trumpet noises play in the background. A low bass descending in pitch then initiates
the introduction to the producers of the film. A close up of a flare being lit is shown in a fade from black
– this shows that there is an emergency, and it is to be used as an indication for help.
