Codes and Conventions of Film PostersBy Josh Farooque

A film poster is a means of exhibiting a film. Unlike trailers, posters are physical, static, so they are a lot more versatile in terms of where they can be placed.

You might see them anywhere from billboards to bus stops, to in cinemas themselves.

But, whilst different, they all share the same conventions.

Film posters very often feature an image- this image being the main focus of the poster, and this image is always reminiscent of the genre.It’s common for a poster to feature the protagonist, especially if a celebrity or film star is playing the character (note that the celebrity will always be in character). Usually, the image of the character will take up the entire poster.

Direct mode of address

The character being featured may be facing the camera as in the previous slide. This is

called the ‘direct mode of address’

However it is more common for the character to be looking off to the side, in a very cliché dramatic

pose

Names of famous contributors/actors/directors/producers.

Billing Block, production logos and release information are placed at the bottom

Cliché, dramatic pose

Billing blocks use a particular font on all posters

For a less adrenaline-fuelled touch, look at this poster

Billing block, release date and production logos. Occasionally you will also see social media information here, such as #WhatIf or a Facebook page advertised.

A tagline- usually short and snappy and reflects the tone of the film.

Listing the famous cast members, above the title.

The main characters are pictured as the focus of the poster.