JASON BOURNE - CASE STUDY
This poster has the protagonist centralized in a close-up shot, signifying the characters importance to the plot and revealing his stern facial-expression, which could mean that the character is currently observing, or waiting for something to happen, before he takes action. In addition, the character's face is barely seen due to the usage of low-key lighting that is shone on the characters face, divulging that the character is hiding behind a door, or in a dark room; this connotes that the protagonist possesses some sort of intelligence, as he is tactically waiting for his opponent to make his move before he commits to his action. The fact that he is hiding means that someone or something is coming for him, highlighting the idea that the character is someone of utmost importance to the plot.
The slogan of the film is placed vertically across the face of the protagonist, it issues the statement, “YOU KNOW HIS NAME” This could connote several things, the fact that we know his name means that the film is the next installment of an established film franchise that we have seen previously; thus we may know his name already. It could also tie in with the use of star-marketing, as the character is centred in the poster with his iconic face, showcasing the celebrity which could convince people or fanbases of the actor to watch the film - due to his popularity.
The title of the film and the release date of the film is positioned at the bottom of the poster and is quite small compared to the rest of the poster, this is because the title of the film is the name of the protagonist featured on the poster, it also ties in with the slogan, as it assumes that people would know the name of the film already, judging from the character present on the poster and the actor who depicts him. As the movie is already part of a successful film franchise, there is less of a need to emphasise the title of the film.
This poster is entirely made with monochromatic tones, which - combined with the fact that this film is of the action genre, could indicate that the film possesses a dark and violent plot. Black is conventionally a colour associated with mystery, death and evil; whilst white is a colour usually associated with pureness and innocence. This could hint that the protagonist, who has a ray of light shone upon him, is the ‘light in the darkness’ the innocent character who may be trying to solve the mystery that will subjugate the antagonists. It could also be the case that the protagonist may be alone in this battle, as there is nothing else in the poster to suggest that he will have help - conveying the idea that the protagonist has the power to overcome the odds against a large amount of opposition.
The style of the typography in the title and slogan is of a sans-serif font, which gives off a modern feeling, symbolising the newest rendition of the film, the word ‘Bourne’ in ‘Jason Bourne’ is emboldened to link to past installments in the franchise, which had used the word ‘Bourne’ in the title. The slogan itself is styled in a certain ‘coded’ way which makes it seem more discreet and mysterious, this connects with the genre of the film: action and thriller.
