Jaws Film Poster

Jaws film poster analysis

In the film poster for the movie ‘Jaws’ directed by Steven Spielburg, there are many connotations for horror and action. The target audience for this particular film is thrill-seekers and people who enjoy gore and blood. The camera angle of this poster is an extreme long shot because you can see what setting they are in and shows the main character: Jaws itself. The picture of the shark heading towards the surface creates atmosphere and tension alone. The title ‘Jaws’ is in large red capital letters, suggesting connotations of blood, violence and danger. The title also gives an obvious hint at what the film is going to involve. This gives audiences the confidence of being able to predict what the plot is going to be, therefore feeling power over the film.

The victim is unaware of her surroundings as she is in a swimming motion, not panicking, so does not know her fate. The shark’s mouth is open, obviously ready to attack the unsuspecting woman, and as it blends into it’s surroundings, it makes the scene more sinister. This picture overall is very minimalistic and keeps the audience on a cliff hanger because the shark is about to attack, it hasn’t already. The poster also suggests that women are more vulnerable to attacks than men because the character is a woman on the poster. The woman is also naked which may attract men audiences because this is considered attractive.

Potential audiences can predict what is to happen in this film easily as the poster makes it very obvious. The classic Jaws theme tune is very distinct. The central image is very big and taking up most of poster, compared to the woman shows that she is exposed to the danger of the shark. The blue image from the black background makes the image stand out even more. The colour scheme in this poster is not at all complicated, a simple blue, red and white theme, which are strong and bold.

The billing block is centred at the bottom of the page in small font, typically because it is not important to an audience. The three main actors names are in white block letters under the image, which stands out against the black background. These names may encourage audiences to watch the film, as they are famous actors, increasing popularity therefore higher ratings.

The mise-en-scene in this poster is simply just the swimmer, shark and the title. This causes no distractions for the audience and focuses on the important parts. This may make them wonder what else there is to this film, therefore will watch it.