Key Concepts film poster analysis

THE ODYSSEY 

LANGUAGE 

- The title “THE ODYSSEY” is in large, bold, gold typography, making it the most noticeable text and the gold colour suggests importance, power and mythology, fitting the action and medieval theme.

- The tagline “DEFY THE GODS” creates a sense of challenge, daring and adventure. 

-The phrase “A FILM BY CHRISTOPHER NOLAN” uses the director’s name as a selling point, suggesting the director has a recognisable identity. The actor names showcased at the top, such as Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya and Anne Hathaway, use celebrity appeal to attract audiences that like these actors as they all popular actors with huge fan bases.

INSTITUTION 

-The poster is promoting a Hollywood blockbuster, with a large production scale, a famous director and cast. 
-Christopher Nolan is prominently mentioned, using his established reputation as part of the marketing. People who enjoy his movies would definitely watch this too. 

-The emphasis on IMAX also markets the film as a theatrical experience rather than something intended  for home viewing, it also shows that its a high quality film that people would want to watch.

Audience

The poster appears aimed at:

-Teenagers and adults interested in action, mythology and adventure but the official age is 15.

-Existing Christopher Nolan fans, because his name is highly visible. 

-Fans of the actors that are listed across the top. 

-Audiences interested in Greek mythology, particularly stories inspired by The Odyssey.

-Cinema audiences who enjoy large-scale visual spectacles, reinforced by the reference to IMAX.

Representation

-The central figure is shown facing a group of heavily armoured warriors, representing a conflict perhaps a battle or war. Also he is by himself so is it a one person vs a huge group like a country?

-The main character  is positioned in the foreground and centre, making him visually important despite appearing physically smaller than the warriors. Maybe this shows that he doesn’t have enough power. He is being belittled but also presented as strong maybe just not strong enough. 

-The armoured figures represent strength, danger and military power.

-The snowy forest creates a dark and threatening environment, representing survival and danger.

-The use of armour, swords and a mythological setting draws on traditional representations of ancient Greek/epic adventure narratives.