Sub-Genre decision making:
It quickly became apparent that the genre of horror, was one that our entire group was interested in pursuing into our trailer. We enjoy the emotion you feel during a horror film, the fear you feel when pressure is building and the jump scare you receive once that build up of pressure is released. We also feel that narratives within the genre of horror are of a good quality and can create such a trill for the audiences, that we would be able to produce ourselves with a god range of ideas to chose from.
Although the horror genre on its own is thrilling, we felt that the addition of a sub genre (like many horror films have) would give us a more versatile look on the film world and give us more options to look into.There are a huge number of sub genres that can be categorized with horror, such as:
- Psychological
- Comedy
- Supernatural
- Gothic
Psychological Horror:
Psychological horror aims to create discomfort by exposing common or universal psychological and emotional vulnerabilities and fears, such as the shadowy parts of the human psyche that most people would deny or repress within themselves.
The psychological horror focuses on the mental conflict between characters therefore giving them characteristics like; suspicion, distrust, self- doubt and paranoia within themselves, others surrounding them and the world they are in. The antagonist is usually the one experiencing certain situations that involve the supernatural and because of this the protagonist is usually kept hidden, giving the illusion of mental vulnerability and issues. Due to this apparent weakness with our antagonist the plot could involve a plot twist, such as revenge against those who have not believed or even a romantic element to claim back those who have been driven away.
Below are just a few examples of psychological horror films:
If we were to chose Psychological as our sub-genre it would make the filming process a lot easier as there would be less violence, blood and gore due to the absence of a visual villain possibly until towards the end. The absence of the blood and gore can also be seen as a positive with the mise en scene of the trailer as trying to get it to look professional can be difficult and would therefore make the overall look unimpressive. However, using mental issues can be a issue in itself. If not done correctly, the narrative of the film can become confusing and can get audiences to lose interest from not understanding what is happening, making the criteria of a psychological horror challenging to uphold.
Comedy Horror:
A comedy horror film still gives its audience the scare that they are there to view, but it also provides them with something that other dramatic horror films do not... "The permission to laugh at your fears, to whistle past the cinematic graveyard and feel secure in the knowledge that the monsters can't get you".
This relaxed feeling about a horror film makes comedy horror a very popular choice may people whether they be ones who are not found of horror or complete horror fans. A comedy horror focuses on the antagonist being made a comedy outlook and because of this making the protagonists seem less scary and less of a threat. Although no fewer characters die they are not seen in the same way and are bypassed as the comedy over rides it. This gives the hero characteristics such as; funny, in denial and clumsy but still strong enough and brave enough to prevent themselves from being killed. When comedy films create a sequel or use the same/similar casts when creating another comedy horror, jokes or funny actions are often transported into the newer film. This is done as pre-humour. If a particular part has received a good laughable response it shall be reused to create the same effect.
Two of the films shown below use this technique:
Psychological horror aims to create discomfort by exposing common or universal psychological and emotional vulnerabilities and fears, such as the shadowy parts of the human psyche that most people would deny or repress within themselves.
The psychological horror focuses on the mental conflict between characters therefore giving them characteristics like; suspicion, distrust, self- doubt and paranoia within themselves, others surrounding them and the world they are in. The antagonist is usually the one experiencing certain situations that involve the supernatural and because of this the protagonist is usually kept hidden, giving the illusion of mental vulnerability and issues. Due to this apparent weakness with our antagonist the plot could involve a plot twist, such as revenge against those who have not believed or even a romantic element to claim back those who have been driven away.
Below are just a few examples of psychological horror films:
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| Above: Silent Hill |
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| Above: 1408 |
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| Above: Psycho |
Comedy Horror:
A comedy horror film still gives its audience the scare that they are there to view, but it also provides them with something that other dramatic horror films do not... "The permission to laugh at your fears, to whistle past the cinematic graveyard and feel secure in the knowledge that the monsters can't get you".
This relaxed feeling about a horror film makes comedy horror a very popular choice may people whether they be ones who are not found of horror or complete horror fans. A comedy horror focuses on the antagonist being made a comedy outlook and because of this making the protagonists seem less scary and less of a threat. Although no fewer characters die they are not seen in the same way and are bypassed as the comedy over rides it. This gives the hero characteristics such as; funny, in denial and clumsy but still strong enough and brave enough to prevent themselves from being killed. When comedy films create a sequel or use the same/similar casts when creating another comedy horror, jokes or funny actions are often transported into the newer film. This is done as pre-humour. If a particular part has received a good laughable response it shall be reused to create the same effect.
Two of the films shown below use this technique:
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| Above: Hot Fuzz |
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| Above: Scary Movie |
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| Above: Shaun of the Dead |
Choosing comedy horror as our sub-genre would make the filming process possibly more enjoyable as it would have a more relaxed atmosphere however, because of this it can make it easier to make mistakes. The comedy factor within a film, if got wrong, can once again make a film look unbelievably unprofessional and can ruin the genre. However, with the inclusion of the typical blood and gore can make the film come alive, if done in the right way, But because of this I feel as though it may be too difficult to include so much and in a way puts me off with the thought of guts etc. I therefore believe our trailer, if this sub genre was used, would look unrealistic.
Supernatural Horror:
When we look at supernatural horror we see it focus on horror elements such as demons, ghosts and in some cases the unknown. Due to this sense of unknown there a lot more unknown questions there to answer. These unknown questions can be difficult to answer and with films can include another element of religion (although not limited specific elements) to try to help resolve this unknown. Many state that this unknown is a good thing for the horror genre as it builds the suspension and the tension emphasizing the overall "fear" emotion.
Linked with the elements of demons etc, is the devil, the after life and possession whether that be of a person or an object. As these elements are some that are argued to be unreal then there is a opportunity to make the mise en scene more extravagant including more vivid blood and gore.
Films included within the supernatural horror sub-genre are:
From previous Supernatural horror films that i have watched, i believes these to be the scariest of them all. The idea of not being able to always defeat or escape the antagonist, and in the cases of the supernatural this would be the devil or any source of evil, makes this even more terrifying. Because of this, we have decided to chose this as our decision of sub genre. It could pose to be a challenge for us to create and show the villain as the devil as they are not always seen. This would mean showing objects moving on their own etc throughout the trailer. We have no issue with this and find the over all story lines so interesting that it does not put us off and we feel that we can create a realistic, professional and scary Supernatural Horror trailer.
Gothic Horror:
A gothic horror is considered to be an original horror from when they were first invented (apart from silent films) around the 1930's. At this time such films as Dracula and Frankenstein where produced. This makes this sub- genre traditional in style and include such elements as; fog, castles, woodland and graveyards. The antagonists are also traditional as they are usually of a monstrous nature or a phantom in some way.
This type of genre does not interest me in any way and without having to look much deeper within to the genre it has been ruled off quickly. The story line of the genre can sometimes be too predictable usually with a handsome man coming to save the day with a women being a damsel in distress either usually because of the antagonist. Although the location of most gothic horror's are isolated making them vulnerable and interesting this does not out way the feeling I receive of them being too old and going out of style in the over all horror genre.
Only 1 new gothic genre remains but others remain a little older:
Despite the setting being within a home, the homes are not shown to us in a safe and warm way. They are shown completely ordinary from outside but bare, with dark wood inside to give us the sense of danger but this is hidden from the rest of the world. This is also there to teach us that even when they think they are safe they never will be. This is because it is not the house that is haunted but usually a person within it but affects the entire house by having to effectively share it with an unwanted guest that is not visible to the naked eye.
LIGHTING:
Women characters within the supernatural horror genre are shown with little or no make up, but always beautiful. They will always show a "natural" look which flows through into the colour of their clothing. They are pale and soft colours such as pinks, blues, yellows and creams. These colours can all be linked to the gender of babies making the sense of innocence in the characters even stronger,
In the mid 20th century Levi-Strauss and Roland Barthes came together and discovered a way we understand certain words does not depend so much on the meaning they directly contain, but more by our understanding of the difference between the word and its 'opposite' or, as they called it 'binary opposition'.
I wish for my film to be of a 15 certificate. In order to create this I will need to stick to certain limits and guidelines to conclude nothing other than a 15 rating. These limitations are:
Supernatural Horror:
When we look at supernatural horror we see it focus on horror elements such as demons, ghosts and in some cases the unknown. Due to this sense of unknown there a lot more unknown questions there to answer. These unknown questions can be difficult to answer and with films can include another element of religion (although not limited specific elements) to try to help resolve this unknown. Many state that this unknown is a good thing for the horror genre as it builds the suspension and the tension emphasizing the overall "fear" emotion.
Linked with the elements of demons etc, is the devil, the after life and possession whether that be of a person or an object. As these elements are some that are argued to be unreal then there is a opportunity to make the mise en scene more extravagant including more vivid blood and gore.
Films included within the supernatural horror sub-genre are:
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| Above: Insidious |
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| Above: Devil's Due |
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| Above: The Exorcist |
Gothic Horror:
A gothic horror is considered to be an original horror from when they were first invented (apart from silent films) around the 1930's. At this time such films as Dracula and Frankenstein where produced. This makes this sub- genre traditional in style and include such elements as; fog, castles, woodland and graveyards. The antagonists are also traditional as they are usually of a monstrous nature or a phantom in some way.
This type of genre does not interest me in any way and without having to look much deeper within to the genre it has been ruled off quickly. The story line of the genre can sometimes be too predictable usually with a handsome man coming to save the day with a women being a damsel in distress either usually because of the antagonist. Although the location of most gothic horror's are isolated making them vulnerable and interesting this does not out way the feeling I receive of them being too old and going out of style in the over all horror genre.
Only 1 new gothic genre remains but others remain a little older:
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| Above: Dracula |
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| Above: Frankenstein |
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| Above: The Woman in Black |
Supernatural Horror Features:
SETTING:
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| Above: House from "Insidious" |
It is almost certain that the setting will be in a building. This building is usually one connected to the protagonist most likely to be there home but will have only moved into recently. The idea of evil, that you cannot see, being within your personal space which is meant to be safe for you is difficult for people to understand making it scary. We are given the setting of a home to try help connect characters with the audience.
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| Above: Interior of house from "Insidious" |
Despite the setting being within a home, the homes are not shown to us in a safe and warm way. They are shown completely ordinary from outside but bare, with dark wood inside to give us the sense of danger but this is hidden from the rest of the world. This is also there to teach us that even when they think they are safe they never will be. This is because it is not the house that is haunted but usually a person within it but affects the entire house by having to effectively share it with an unwanted guest that is not visible to the naked eye.
LIGHTING:
Lighting within a horror film is very important to create suspension and create a dramatic ora. Within Supernatural horrors the lighting is used not to expose a "monster" but to reveal a shadow, an outline of a silhouette. Lighting is also used to tell the audience about the protagonists. It is used to inform us on whether we should trust a particular character or not. The colour and brightness of the light can also help with whiter light being used for the "angel" character on someone vulnerable. This can usually be a child. Yellow lights are also used to show the good characters from the bad within a film giving them the sense of a halo (yellow) to show trust and good will.
The lighting within a shot can also be self produced by characters themselves with the use of a torch/ candle etc. These have to be used when there is a power cut within the house which can happen because of the whether. It can can be common for bad weather to occur such as rain, thunder, lightening etc following along with the unsettling plot of the film. For the characters to have to create their own life it can relate the audience back to childhood experiences of the fear of the dark causing a mass vulnerability in the setting and for the characters.
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| Above: from Devil's Due |
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| Above: from Devil's Due |
CHARACTERS:
We are shown the characters within a horror film to be classed as "normal" or "ordinary" people who have done nothing wrong in their society or to anyone they know. This therefore means the people are innocent and because of this the ones selected are usually women or even children. This is because they are an easy target and are seen to be loving and caring. These are the individuals who end up being visited or come into contact with a spirit or ghost. In some cases they also becomes the ones haunted by them or end up being connected/linked with them in some way that they cannot escape.
In the film "The Exorcist" this role is played by a vulnerable, innocent child:
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| Above: from "The Exorcist" |
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| Above: Regan from "The Exorcist" Below: Trailer of "The Exorcist" |
There are seen to be "typical" characters within a horror usually specified to certain genders. There characters are:
- The evil character
- The loved up couple
- The hero
- The female victim
- The hysterical character
- The non-believer
The evil character:
This character is used to strike the most emotion with the audience and can take on many forms. The evil character does not necessarily have to be human, but if it is, a mask of some sort is usually worn. This to give the same sense of unknown as an evil character that is not human and in some cases cannot be seen.
The loved up couple:
This character consists of a male and female who appear to be unaware of the circumstances and situations that are going on around them. They are so focused with each other and in love with each other that they fail to stick with the rest of the group and are most likely to be killed by the evil character by there incompetence to not be with each other.
The hero:
The hero character is always portrayed to be strong by the film. This ability usually means that the hero is a male, as he is able to stay in control and show little emotion allowing him to concentrate on what he needs to do to be able to survive and protect others around him.
The female victim:
This character is usually the one in need of the hero the most as they are shown as being unable to look after themselves. It is very common for this character to be killed, however not always first, as they are usually ditsy meaning their death can be the most brutal to watch for audiences.
The hysterical character:
This character can sometimes be related to most by audiences as they show the most emotion, this also usually makes them female. This character is also one that needs looking after as she can be stubborn and unwelcome to the idea of ever moving from a certain spot, Although always killed, this character can be killed at any point, sometimes at the end as she has been able to stay hidden in one place for the longest.
The non-believer:
This character is usually the first to be killed within any horror film. They are a skeptic to what is going on around them and will refuse to believe anything unusual is going on, trying to find a realistic option every time. This cockiness is what gets them killed and is likely to start of the main feature of a film and have many killings following it.
COSTUMES:
With the excess amount of action going on within a supernatural horror, no attention would want to be attracted away from that. The clothing amongst all characters within a film, not just the main ones, wear plain clothing, usually comfortable ones in order to be able to run away from danger or attack anything if needed. As most of the action is at a families home were are likely to see the characters in casual clothing such as a pair of jeans accompanied by a t-shirt, however when they can escape they are shown more formally, wearing a sophisticated and relatively smart outfit. This could be used to hide or camouflage what they are experiencing in their home environment.
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| Above: Main female character from "The Last Exorcism" |
WEAPONRY:
It is extremely unlikely for dangerous weaponry to be used within a psychological horror. The element of blood and gore is not massively amplified within this sub-genre making the appearance of a gun or massively violent weapon almost non- inevitable. Because of this factor any sort of weaponry used is a house hold item such as knives or heavy ornaments that could cause serious damage but never hardly ever kill.SOUND/ SOUND EFFECTS:
Within horror films the use of sound and sound effects helps to make a scene. It can build tension, cause suspension and can even guide the audience into when something sudden or bad is going to happen. There is a lot of diegetic sound within supernatural horror with the use of footsteps, doors slamming and screams however they have been amplified to be louder, causing the audience to jump more at the sudden sound of it. There is also a massive influence of non-diegetic sound from the input of music. The music is what helps us to work out whether characters are safe for a moment. Orchestral music is most likely used overall as it fits well with the narrative of the film. It is common for juxtaposition to occur through the music and imagery together. This is used effectively well with children and laughter which is usually associated with happy times, where as it is now used to "creep" out the audience and worn of danger.
PLOT LINES:
Within Supernatural Horrors that I have researched or watched personally myself, I have noticed that there appears to be two different types of plot lines within this genre. The first one I noticed involves the weak main characters becoming possessed or cursed by some sort of spirit.
Some examples of these plot lines are:
"INSIDIOUS" (2010)
"THE POSSESSION" (2012)
"THE CONJURING" (2013)
The second plot line type I have come across is the linked with death. It can either involve a family moving into a home where someone has died, or when another family members passes and triggers paranormal events within the home.
Some examples of these plots are:
"THE CABIN IN THE WOODS" (2012)
"SINISTER" (2012)
"PARANORMAL ACTIVITY" (2007)
Paranormal Activity however, can be classed under both plot line types as we are lead to believe that there has been a killing which is causing the paranormal events to occur, however it is not till the end that we discover that it is in fact the female character that is possessed. This could therefore be classes as another type of plot line type as a false plot or an innocent plot as we are lead down a certain path to believe one thing when really it is something different.
SPECIFIC EVENTS:
When we watch a horror film we expect to see certain things included in it. We expect to see the creaking of a door, objects moving by themselves, doors slamming and the curtain in the corner getting blown about by the window that has just opened by itself in the thunderstorm outside. All these elements within a horror film appear to symbolise the unknown we are glued to watch.
These elements occur towards the start of the film and the middle where most of the action occurs. This is also begins around the same type we witness or realise that something is wrong and may possibly see a glimpse of the ghost/spirit etc. There are many different ways to reveal the ghost but a common camera shot is the use of mirrors. We witness the character looking at themselves in the mirror showing us their reflection, to see the antagonist stood beside them.
Once the antagonist has been revealed to the audience it it usual for the main character (usually our protagonist) to search the house to look for clues or an indication of what is going on. Usually during this time they build an idea of what is really going on and why, During "Cabin In The Woods" it is a group of teenagers that search a cellar to discover what is going on.
Camera shots/ angles:
CAMERA SHOTS:
Extreme close up:
This camera shots is used to show extreme detail. This can be used on a particular body part to add emphasis and dramatic effect. During a horror this can be used to show the fear in someone's eyes once they have spotted the antagonist for the first time.
Close up:
In this camera shot a feature takes up the entire frame. This can be any from a specific object to an actor's face. This shot is used regularly along with a mid shot and a long shot. A close up can show a lot of detail but doesn't include the bigger picture or broader scene as to what is going on around. A close up can be linked with the movement of zooming (zoom into a close up, or out of one). During a horror, close ups are used to also show emotion and when a new major character is introduced. This can establish the characters importance.
Mid-shot:
This shot, formally known as a medium shot, is used to show a character from a medium distance usually allowing us to see the character from the waist upwards. This shot is therefore used to combine the emotion on a characters face and their body language. Although the character once again takes over the majority of the frame, the audience still feels as if they understand what is going on around the character this shot can reflect the features of a conversation.
Long shot:
During a long shot the audience is shown the entire character or object that is being focused upon. Due to seeing the entire feature, the surrounding that is placed in can usually be linked towards it. Once again the audience can understand the surroundings as it is visible within the frame itself. When a film begins a long shot can occasionally be used and is then referred to as an establishing shot. A long shot can also be used as a wide shot as it requires the same use of angles.
Extreme long shot:
An extreme long shot is similar to long shot. This shot can be taken from a range of distances, making the characters fit the frame or make the character a tiny dot in the far distance. Due to this, an extreme long shot is rarely used to show information or detail and instead used to give a general impression. This means that this shot is popular for exterior shots, to show a landscape or a building.
Establishing shot:
An establishing shot effectively establishes the relationship between important objects. This establishing shot is either a long shot or an extreme long shot used to show the setting of where the scene will be taking place. If the setting is going to be taking place in a famous city a famous landmark is used for indication. For example, if the setting is going to be in Paris, the Eiffel tower would be used. If it is going to be in New York, the Statue of Liberty is used or the Empire State Building.
Birds eye view:
A birds eye view shot refers to a shot where the camera is looking directly downwards on a subject. This shot makes the subject appear to be very short and petite. This is amplified by the shot and is done on purpose to show how unimportant or insignificant the subject is. Because of this we are able to get a good glimpse and understanding of the surrounding scene. Due to being able to see the scene this shots are often where there is a lot of action between rivals, giving both perspectives within one shot.
High angle:
A high angle shot is located above eye line. We are left to look down on a subject through the downwards angle of the camera. Through this angle the subject is shown to us as being vulnerable to something outside of the shot and how little power that subject therefore has.
Low angle:
During this shot the camera is positioned below the eye level. It has the opposite effect to a high angle. It makes the subject look full of power and of a higher dominance to another subject either in the bottom of the shot or hidden. It can sometimes appear that we are looking from that subjects eye view, looking at a someone that is bigger than them.
Eye level:
At this angle we are at the subjects height seeming as if we are on a straight level. The camera is neither angled up or down and is "neutral". They are commonly used as this shot shows no direct power aimed towards a specific subject keeping them on an equal level.
Mid-shot:
This shot, formally known as a medium shot, is used to show a character from a medium distance usually allowing us to see the character from the waist upwards. This shot is therefore used to combine the emotion on a characters face and their body language. Although the character once again takes over the majority of the frame, the audience still feels as if they understand what is going on around the character this shot can reflect the features of a conversation.
Long shot:
During a long shot the audience is shown the entire character or object that is being focused upon. Due to seeing the entire feature, the surrounding that is placed in can usually be linked towards it. Once again the audience can understand the surroundings as it is visible within the frame itself. When a film begins a long shot can occasionally be used and is then referred to as an establishing shot. A long shot can also be used as a wide shot as it requires the same use of angles.
Extreme long shot:
An extreme long shot is similar to long shot. This shot can be taken from a range of distances, making the characters fit the frame or make the character a tiny dot in the far distance. Due to this, an extreme long shot is rarely used to show information or detail and instead used to give a general impression. This means that this shot is popular for exterior shots, to show a landscape or a building.
Establishing shot:
An establishing shot effectively establishes the relationship between important objects. This establishing shot is either a long shot or an extreme long shot used to show the setting of where the scene will be taking place. If the setting is going to be taking place in a famous city a famous landmark is used for indication. For example, if the setting is going to be in Paris, the Eiffel tower would be used. If it is going to be in New York, the Statue of Liberty is used or the Empire State Building.
Birds eye view:
A birds eye view shot refers to a shot where the camera is looking directly downwards on a subject. This shot makes the subject appear to be very short and petite. This is amplified by the shot and is done on purpose to show how unimportant or insignificant the subject is. Because of this we are able to get a good glimpse and understanding of the surrounding scene. Due to being able to see the scene this shots are often where there is a lot of action between rivals, giving both perspectives within one shot.
High angle:
A high angle shot is located above eye line. We are left to look down on a subject through the downwards angle of the camera. Through this angle the subject is shown to us as being vulnerable to something outside of the shot and how little power that subject therefore has.
Low angle:
During this shot the camera is positioned below the eye level. It has the opposite effect to a high angle. It makes the subject look full of power and of a higher dominance to another subject either in the bottom of the shot or hidden. It can sometimes appear that we are looking from that subjects eye view, looking at a someone that is bigger than them.
Eye level:
At this angle we are at the subjects height seeming as if we are on a straight level. The camera is neither angled up or down and is "neutral". They are commonly used as this shot shows no direct power aimed towards a specific subject keeping them on an equal level.
Theorists:
LAURA MULVEY:
Laura Mulvey created the term 'male gaze' in 1975. She believes that audiences of film have to experience a film through the view and eye of a heterosexual male. According to Mulvey the camera lingers on women's bodies focusing on their curves and their female parts. Because of this women's bodies are broken up into parts leaving the women shown to us an object instead of a human being. These shots are highlighted with camera effects such as slow motion and camera movements along the body of a woman.
The role of a female within films is also important in the male gaze theory. Mulvey states that women are only placed within a film to delay the film. They are there as a feature and not as a proper character. Because of this females became linked with the term "scopophilia". The term scopophilia means love of watching.
LEVI STRAUSS:
Claude Levi-Strauss studies hundreds of myths and legends all around the world, from that he found out that we as humans make sense of the world, people and events by seeing and using Binary Opposition. He found out that the narratives are arranged around the conflict of Binary Opposition.
In the mid 20th century Levi-Strauss and Roland Barthes came together and discovered a way we understand certain words does not depend so much on the meaning they directly contain, but more by our understanding of the difference between the word and its 'opposite' or, as they called it 'binary opposition'.
They realised that words simply act as symbols for society's ideas and that the meanings of words was a relationship rather than a fixed thing just as a relationship between opposing ideas.
Examples of binary oppositions:
- good vs evil
- boy vs girl
- action vs inaction
- protagonist vs antagonist
- strong vs weak
Age Certificates (BBFC):
The BBFC (The British Board of Film Classification) is an independent, non governmental body which classifies cinema films and has done since it was first set up in 1912 and videos/DVDs since the Video Recording Act was passed in 1984.
Films for cinema release are classified by at least two examiners using published guidelines. In most cases the decision is ratified by a senior examiner. However, if the examiners are in doubt to agree, or if policy issues are involved, the work may be seen by the director and other members of the board.
Examiners look at issues such as discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behaviour, language, nudity, sex, sexual violence, theme and violence when making decisions. They even consider how it will make the audience feel and even the release format of it.U- SUITABLE FOR ALL:
A U rated film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. However, it is impossible to predict what might upset a particular child, especially at this lower end of the category range.
PG- PARENTAL GUIDANCE:
A PG rated film should be suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A PG film should not unsettle a child aged eight or older. Parents should consider whether the content may upset younger, or more sensitive, children.
12A/12- SUITABLE FOR 12 YEARS AND OLDER:
Films classified 12A or 12 contain material that is not generally suitable for children aged under 12. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in cinema unless accompanied by an adult. Adults planning to take a child under 12 to view a 12A film should consider whether the film is suitable for that child.
15- SUITABLE ONLY FOR 15 YEARS AND OLDER:
No-one under 15 years is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a 15 rated video. A 15 rated film is not suitable for children under 15 years of age.
18- SUITABLE FOR ADULTS:
Films rated 18 are for adults only. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated video. No 18 rated films are suitable for children.
I wish for my film to be of a 15 certificate. In order to create this I will need to stick to certain limits and guidelines to conclude nothing other than a 15 rating. These limitations are:
- Horror- Strong threat and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised
- Language- there may be frequent use of strong language (e.g. f*ck), the strongest terms (c*nt) may be acceptable if justified by the context. Aggressive or repeated use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable
- Discrimination- The work as a whole must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour
- Nudity- Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context
- Drugs- Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse. The misuse of easily accessible and highly dangerous substances (e.g. aerosols or solvents) is unlikely to be acceptable
- Theme- No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year olds
- Sex- Sexual activity may be portrayed without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour, but the strongest references are unlikely to be acceptable unless justified by context. Works whose primary purpose is sexual arousal or stimulation are unlikely to be acceptable
- Violence- Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Strong sadistic or sexualised violence is also unlikely to be acceptable. There may be detailed verbal references to sexual violence but any portrayal of sexual violence must be discreet and have a strong contextual justification
- Imitable behaviour- Dangerous behaviour (e.g. hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail which could be copied. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised
Film Trailers:
Now that I have a clearer idea as to what I wish to produce I now need to research into film trailers themselves. A trailer is an advertisement for an upcoming film, shown at the start of a feature film. Originally, a trailer was shown at the end of a feature film, hence the name trailer. However, this did not last long as many people would leave after the film ended.
A trailer tells the story of a film, in an abbreviated format, without giving away too much, and without showing the ending. This is shown in a series of selected shots from the film. These shots, are not necessarily always shown in order, to ensure that the plot isn't given away. All of this is to ensure that the audience want to go and see the film.
A trailer is usually broken down into 3 stages. These 3 stages are what makes a trailer successful and catch the audiences attention. The first stage sets up the story for the audience, giving the audience a part understanding. The second stage drives the story further and usually ends with a climax. The final stage is usually a visual montage of powerful and emotional moments from the film. This stage also features a strong/recognisable piece of music and will often show some key actors and actresses. Through any of these stages a voice over can be included to give a brief, necessary explanation as to what is happening.
All of this creates a purpose. The overall purpose of a film trailer is to make its audience want to go and see the film that it is advertising. This means that trailers are becoming art pieces, as the more effective and interesting the trailer is, the more likely it is that a large number people are going to take notice and watch the film.
A trailer tells the story of a film, in an abbreviated format, without giving away too much, and without showing the ending. This is shown in a series of selected shots from the film. These shots, are not necessarily always shown in order, to ensure that the plot isn't given away. All of this is to ensure that the audience want to go and see the film.
A trailer is usually broken down into 3 stages. These 3 stages are what makes a trailer successful and catch the audiences attention. The first stage sets up the story for the audience, giving the audience a part understanding. The second stage drives the story further and usually ends with a climax. The final stage is usually a visual montage of powerful and emotional moments from the film. This stage also features a strong/recognisable piece of music and will often show some key actors and actresses. Through any of these stages a voice over can be included to give a brief, necessary explanation as to what is happening.All of this creates a purpose. The overall purpose of a film trailer is to make its audience want to go and see the film that it is advertising. This means that trailers are becoming art pieces, as the more effective and interesting the trailer is, the more likely it is that a large number people are going to take notice and watch the film.
During a trailer either a red or green rating card is shown. This is to clearly show the audiences the standard of the film this trailer will be promoting.
The red card rating is to warn audiences that the trailer is restricted. This restriction is for maturer audience. This therefore means that some of the footage within this trailer includes nudity, violence or something inappropriate for a younger age group.
The green rating card it show the audience that the footage from the film within the trailer is appropriate for all ages.
Film Industries:
Within a film trailer a major film industry is usually always mentioned. Here are some of the major film industries and the films they have created:
Warner Bros. was founded in 1918 as Warner Bros. Studios with Warner Bros. Pictures founded on April 4th 1924 by Albert, Harry, Sam and Jack Warner. The headquarters for Warner Bros. is located in Burbank, California, USA and is not a subsidiary of Time Warner after being a part of many other Warner companies including Warner Communications.
List of Warner Bros. films:
Universal Studios was founded on April 30th 1912 by eight people including Carl Laemmle, Pat Powers and Jules Brulatour. The headquarters is currently located in Universal City, California, USA, with other locations around the world including Universal Studios in Florida, Japan and Singapore. The studio itself is the oldest in America and the third oldest in the world.
List of Universal Studios films:
20th Century Fox was founded in May 1935 by Joseph Schenck ad Darryl F. Zanuk. Their institution includes some of the most famous film franchises such as Star Wars and X-Men. As well as movies, 20th Century Fox also provides some of the most famous American Television programs including The Simpsons and Family Guy. Up until 1985, 20th Century Fox was classes as an independent film institution, however in the same year it was bought by News Corporation. The headquarters is currently located in Fox Plaza, Century City, Los Angeles, USA.
List of 20th Century Fox films:
Paramount Pictures was founded on July 19th 1916 by Adolph Zukor and Jesse L. Lasky. The headquarters for Paramount is currently situated in Hollywood, California, USA. Paramount is the fourth oldest existing film studio in the world and the last major film studio with headquarters situated in the Hollywood district of Los Angeles.
List of Paramount Pictures films:
Columbia Pictures is currently situated in Culver City, California, USA and distributes films world wide. It has been going since 1918 when it was founded by Harry and Jack Cohn and Joe Brandt. It first existed as CBC Film Sales Corporation but was renamed as Columbia Pictures on January 10th 1924. Columbia Pictures in fact remained an independent film institution until it was bought in 1989 by Sony. It is now still owned by Sony and has been responsible for bringing out some of the biggest movies in the world.
List of Columbia Pictures films:
WARNER BROS:
Warner Bros. was founded in 1918 as Warner Bros. Studios with Warner Bros. Pictures founded on April 4th 1924 by Albert, Harry, Sam and Jack Warner. The headquarters for Warner Bros. is located in Burbank, California, USA and is not a subsidiary of Time Warner after being a part of many other Warner companies including Warner Communications.List of Warner Bros. films:
- Annabelle (2014)
- Magic Mike (2012)
- Happy Feet (2006)
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS:
Universal Studios was founded on April 30th 1912 by eight people including Carl Laemmle, Pat Powers and Jules Brulatour. The headquarters is currently located in Universal City, California, USA, with other locations around the world including Universal Studios in Florida, Japan and Singapore. The studio itself is the oldest in America and the third oldest in the world.List of Universal Studios films:
- Jurassic World (2015)
- Mama (2013)
- Hot Fuzz (2007)
20TH CENTURY FOX:
20th Century Fox was founded in May 1935 by Joseph Schenck ad Darryl F. Zanuk. Their institution includes some of the most famous film franchises such as Star Wars and X-Men. As well as movies, 20th Century Fox also provides some of the most famous American Television programs including The Simpsons and Family Guy. Up until 1985, 20th Century Fox was classes as an independent film institution, however in the same year it was bought by News Corporation. The headquarters is currently located in Fox Plaza, Century City, Los Angeles, USA.List of 20th Century Fox films:
- Kingsman (2015)
- Devil's Due (2014)
- Taken (2009)
PARAMOUNT PICTURES:
Paramount Pictures was founded on July 19th 1916 by Adolph Zukor and Jesse L. Lasky. The headquarters for Paramount is currently situated in Hollywood, California, USA. Paramount is the fourth oldest existing film studio in the world and the last major film studio with headquarters situated in the Hollywood district of Los Angeles.List of Paramount Pictures films:
- The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
- Paranormal Activity (2009)
- Mission: Impossible (1996)
COLUMBIA PICTURES:
List of Columbia Pictures films:
- White House Down (2013)
- Salt (2010)
- Men in Black (1997)
Inspiration/ existing examples:
FILMS:
To help me gain a clearer understanding of what plot line I wanted to be included within my trailer, I have looked at some already existing supernatural horror films. These films were:
"INSIDIOUS" (2010)
"THE CONJURING" (2013)
"OUIJA" (2014)
"THE VISIT" (2015)
TITLES/ FONTS:
Insidious:
The Conjuring:
Ouija:
The Visit:
TAG LINES:
Insidious:
The conjuring:
Ouija:
The Visit:
PROPS:
Insidious:
The Conjuring:
Ouija:
The Visit:
Box Office:
INSIDIOUS:
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THE CONJURING:
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OUIJA:
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THE VISIT:
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From these Box Office statistics we can see that all 4 of the existing films that i have chosen to look at, have received a high gross. This would make all of them successful films and support my decision of horror as a genre to use for my trailer.
Insidious Trailer Analysis:
- The title screen at the start of the trailer cuts to a medium close up of the protagonist with a sound bridge. He is asked if he is 'ready', which he replies 'yes'. This builds some anticipation towards the trailer. The protagonist's expression and the shot creates a tense atmosphere.
- The previous shot then fades out and a close up of a metronome then fades in. The diegetic and non diegetic sound of the metronome is pace settler for the trailer, it is set at a fast tempo, and the transitions between shots are synced with it, giving the trailer a continuously fast, menacing pace.
- This close up cuts to a shot with text, promoting who the film was made by creating anticipation to see it through promotion of experiences of previous films.
- This cuts to a medium close up, which is similar to the first shot of the trailer. However this time, the protagonist is closing his eyes, and the camera is zooming in. This zooming movement connotes that we are looking at his thoughts.
- This shot cuts to an establishing shot of what is assumed to be their house. The camera is tracking left, and the movement feels slightly unnatural, which connotes that someone is watching them in their family home, making the safe unsafe. This shot is also a low angle shot, connoting that the house is powerful and giving it a menacing look. This once again makes home comforts seem less warming.
- The next two shots the give some exposition into the story, and reveals why the previous shot was in fact an establishing shot of the house. The first shot is a medium shot of a mother and her son. The composition of the shot and the mise en scene allows the audience to establish that they have moved house, and are settling in. The second shot is a long shot of the whole family that live in the house. We now understand that the protagonist that we saw earlier is now the father in the family. We see him getting ready which we assume to be a new job, and may be a reason as to why they have moved house.
- The close up of the ladder, showcases conflict of the boy, this is synced with the metronome, connoting that the conflict is almost controlled, and in order. This emphasises the message the trailer is emitting, that the house is the antagonist and causing conflict upon the family.
- That cuts to a two shot of the parents looking intrigued and terrified, this marks the disequilibrium in the narrative. The composition of the illuminates the fact that they are behind a window. connotating that what they are looking at is unknown and therefore needs to be controlled and contained.
- The following shot is an over shoulder shot of what the parents were looking at. We can now see that the disequilibrium has been clarified and is the condition that the boy has received (provoked by the house). The over shoulder shot re-enforces this connotation of the unknown, since is displays how far away they are, suggesting that they cannot get near since they do not know what the condition is.
- This cuts to a medium close up of the mother. We can see that she looks very distressed and tired, and contrasts from the starting shots displaying her happiness.
- This cuts to a medium shot of a shadow unnaturally drifting past the window. This unnatural movement has connotations of the supernatural and the fact that we can only see the shadow connotes that the supernatural is outside, watching or trapping the family inside their home.
- This cuts to a long shot with an unnatural movement connoting the supernatural. This low angle shot connotes that the family are being watched, but the composition of the shot combined to animate the house creating a sinister atmosphere. This also illuminates the antagonist, which is the house.
- This cuts to an extreme high angle of the women connoting that she is being watched and is extremely vulnerable. The contrast between the following shot and this high angle shot connotes the that the house is watching them and contributes to the overall theme of the trailer, that the house is alive and haunting the family.