𝚈𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝟷𝟷 𝙿𝚊𝚙𝚎𝚛 𝟷 𝙰𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝: 𝙻𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚛 𝚁𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚎

WWW: You start well in several questions but overall this needs to be a useful lesson at the start of Year 11 of the level we need to reach by the summer. 

EBI: Some of this will be revision and preparation: vertical integration, Black Widow. Some is exam technique: writing enough for the 12- mark questions or unseen analysis skills. See the mark scheme for suggestions on  both. 

Q2: Analyse the Under Armour print advertisement (Figure 1) to show how connotations communicate meaning to the audience. (12marks)

Full mark answer example: 
The typography in the advert is bold and in upper case which has connotations of the important, powerful message of the image and copy. The white text against a black background and the darkness of the image makes the writing stand out and anchor the message of the text about training being important.

The colour palette of this advert uses dark colours  which has connotations of dangers to be faced and makes it more dramatic. The use of the spotlight links to sports matches and connotes drama / excitement but also shines on the main image connoting his power. The smoke special effect adds to the drama of the situation and the idea of dangers to be overcome.
The advert uses a long shot which shows the whole power of the body and the effort involved in pushing the tyre. The main image is positioned in between the flood lit logos to link his effort with the brand image but also to isolate him and connotes personal struggle /strength.

Q3: Analyse the narrative features of the television advertisement for Galaxy (Close Study Product. (8marks)

Full mark example: 

The clear function of the narrative: to persuade people of the superior quality and sophistication of the Galaxy product.

In the advertisement the structure of the narrative follows a linear structure and features versions of iconic actors from the glamorous era of Hollywood (a CGI Audrey Hepburn and a lookalike for Gregory Peck) associated with sophistication and desirability.

The use of intertextuality is that the narrative references Roman Holiday so rewards audiences who have knowledge of the glamour of old Hollywood. The narrative is a parody of the original film where Audrey Hepburn’s character steals Gregory Peck’s Vespa motorcycle and he jumps on the back whilst Italians shout at them, a bus goes past and a lady drops fruit.

Q4: Explain how magazine covers use conventions to reflect the social and cultural contexts of British society. Answer with reference to the Tatler magazine cover (Figure 2). (12marks)

Full mark example: 

Serif font for title connotes formality, high class and how well established the magazine is (Britain’s oldest magazine). The use of green colour scheme (fresh and new) with white text (style, class, sophistication). Recent cultural events referenced in cover lines – ‘See EU later’ references Brexit while ‘Love in the time of Corona’ reflects Covid pandemic. Suggests that wealthy British people want to know the latest news and current affairs.

‘Blond Ambition’ shows link to Prime Minister Boris Johnson (interview with his brother). Reflects Tatler’s focus on power and

influence in Britain. This is also seen in cover line ‘Inside the new British establishment’. 

Cover image reflects British culture’s interest in stately homes and high society events with Weymouth dressed in a ballgown in the gardens of her Longleat house. References to royalty / aristocracy suggests elite demographic and reflects ingrained aspects of British culture (‘Off Duty Royal Dressing’)

Q7: How are big-budget films marketed and promoted to an audience? Refer to your Close Study Product Black Widow in your answer. (6 marks)

Full mark example: 

The importance of the Marvel franchise and the overall Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)

The use of trailers, teasers and social media to build up excitement and word-of-mouth long before release.

The use of traditional film marketing techniques: trailers, film posters, red-carpet premieres, interviews with stars and director etc.

Star Power: most big-budget mainstream films and blockbusters will use Star Power to attract audiences to their film. The main star in Black Widow is Scarlett Johansson who is very well known and has established fans.

Specific IMAX promotions with 22 minutes of the film shot in 1.90:1 aspect ratio especially for IMAX cinemas.

Section of the Marvel website with gallery, story synopsis, character posters and opportunities to buy or stream the movie.

For my next assessment I will:

• Manage my time better
• Revise all case study products 
• Know what I will be assessed on