LO3: Understanding how Meaning is Created in Media

Understanding how Meaning is Created in Media

Features in a Trailer (Codes and Conventions)

• Scenes from the product (enigma/spectacle/non-linear narrative)
• The characters and cast present in the product
• The genre of the product (denoted by Mis En Scene e.g. props and costume)
• Locations within the product
• Creators/studios/directors etc. (title cards/graphics)
• Soundtrack (non-diegetic)
• Product name at the end (for tension and memorability)
• camerawork (close-ups common in trailer to show characters and attach audience)
• Transitions (and their frequency)
• SFX

Macro Meanings - a deeper understanding of something (e.g. surveillance). Connotations/themes/ messages.

Micro Meanings - Producers use micro elements to allow audiences to understand a micro idea (genre - e.g. horror movie conventions like haunted houses, close ups, stings). Micro elements are media language -These are:

1. Mis En Scene
2. Camerawork
3. Sound
4. Editing

Q6/Q7/Q8 (Q6 - 15-20 marks, 4-5 examples)

You will be asked to theoretically how a product of your choice creates meaning:

Macro Meanings (what the question will ask):

• Genre
• Narrative
• Representation

Micro Meaning (how you will give and explain examples):

• Mis En Scene (best for representation and genre)
• Camerawork (good for representation)
• Editing (best for narrative and genre)
• Sound (genre and representation)