Movie magazine front cover analysis and conventions

I have briefly analysed some movie magazines using Thinglink. This will be helpful when creating my own poster and magazine as it enables me to look at the conventions in detail.



The following is a list of conventions found on the front cover of a film magazine:

• Main image - containing the main character of the film. Usually just one or two models. Solid background colour often used so that the cover isn't crowded and text will stand out and be clear. Subjects are nearly always using direct mode of address to interact with the audience and entice them, making them want to pick up and read the magazine.
• The masthead of the magazine - sometimes embedded behind the characters in the main image if the magazine is well known as the audience should know what it is called based on its house style. In a contrasting colour to the background colour. 
• Title of the film - the name of the film is normally in the centre of the page so that it stands out and can be seen and read easily. The style is either a clear, bold sans serif font or written in the style of the film's own house style. 
• Cover lines - a different colour is usually used for these to make them stand out and add contrast to the page. Typical colours are red, yellow or blue. Main cover lines will relate to the feature film that is shown on the front cover.
• Extra information - this will be about other features in the magazine including other films that are written about and possible competitions or incentives that could interest the audience. 

When researching I also compiled a list of specific features from magazine front covers that I like and may want to include in my final print product: