Purpose of film posters

The purpose of a film poster is to advertise the upcoming film, letting audiences know that a new film is due for release, which raises awareness so that the movie can get maximum views. Film posters always show a positive representation of the movie and provide a range of information such as: the name of the film, the release date, the star actors and actresses who are in the film and the BBFC certification. This information attracts a viewer. Through naming the stars that are popular and well known, people will think the movie is worth seeing because of the reputation they have, also as a catchy film title will be very memorable and at the same time informs them of vital information. Other important information they may want to know about is the certification, to make sure it is appropriate for the people that want to see it, especially if children are going to watch it.

US Version

UK Version

                                                                 

Film posters target specific audiences; sometimes films have a range of posters, which all vary in terms of images and colour to aim for many audiences. The same thing is done when promoting movies in different countries as different countries have different expectations and preferences of films. The American version of the Elizabeth movie poster has red colour scheme which shows the theme of passion which is present in the film, the American audience are known for their interest in the British monarchy and they will be interested in this angle of the story. However the British versions are character posters which present the movie as more of a thriller, they look like wanted posters, which gives it mare edge. 

Where do film posters appear?

One place which often has film posters is Buses & Bus stops. Buses allow for a large space and it mobile, so it travels to many places allowing huge numbers of people to see it, buses also stop giving people a chance to see it even better. The bus stops also have posters, this will give allot of exposure to the film, as there is very little to do at the bus stop so people will almost definitely notice it, this will allow the poster to be more detailed too as people have more time to look at it, unlike billboards.

Film Posters are also displayed on large billboards, which will be on motorways so passengers can see at them as they drive past. Billboard posters will have less information because there isn’t enough time to read it, so it will only have the title of the movie and maybe a date just to make people aware of the movie.  

In the modern era of promotion and marketing the internet is a very influential media as it reaches everyone and it is easy to access, and therefore easy to reach the market that is being targeted. The internet can also be very cheap when advertising compared to other forms such as newspapers, Billboards and television. YouTube is a great example of advertising because before you watch a video you have to watch the adverts and there are also adverts on the side of the pages and on the banner of the home page, which millions of people visit.