Conventions of a Film Magazine

The front cover of any magazine is the main focal point for every reader. They are used to draw in their audiences with the combination of image and sell lines. Some of the main codes and conventions that you expect to see on a film magazine front cover are as follows:

·         The type of shot that is used on the front cover of a film magazine are mainly close up’s.

·         Like any magazine, they feature a big, bold, eye catching mast head at the top of the page.

·         Image dominates the page, which is again the case with any magazine front cover that you will see on the shelves.

·         Film magazines tend to use dark, primary colours because they are simple and bold.

·         The names of actors, actresses and famous directors are featured on the front to draw in all kinds of different target audiences.

·         The name of the featured film is always the second largest piece of text, after the mast head, which is on the front cover of the magazine.

·         Graphics and colours are interchangeable, depending on the featured film. For example, if a horror film was being featured on the front covers, the colours would be dark and dull whereas if it was a romantic comedy, colours would change and be brighter and more welcoming.

·         The few sell lines that are actually featured on the front cover of a film magazine indicate the information that they will be able to find inside.

·         Only three/ four colours maximum are used on the front cover to maintain the simplicity of the magazine. An example of this convention is exemplified in the below editions of 'EMPIRE'.

·         Like film posters, props are used to suggest the main genre of the film.

·         Along the top of the front cover, additional information that could determine that the audience will buy this magazine is featured. E.g. free posters, entry into competitions and so on.