All film posters are used as a promotional tool. The existence of them is to encourage the film to sell and encourage people to want to view the film. There are many codes and conventions to help do this.
- Film posters need to be eye catching, alluring and absorb the viewers attention
- They usually have a focal image, which can be one person in the centre or a group of main characters
- The main image often consists of the main star persona which is a unique selling point, which encourages fans to see the actor or actress in that particular film and help promote it
- The audience can also understand what type of genre the film will be, just from looking at the star persona. For example, Will Farell and Zach Galifianakis are automatically associated with comedy, so you would assume the film would be a comedy film if these two actors were on the poster
- A large title which is bold and striking so the audience are immediately aware of the films name and can also help to spread by word of mouth
- Depending on the target audience, colours, costumes, gender and atmosphere intended to be created will be decided upon the genre of the film
- The age certification is often displayed to help attract the appropriate target audience
- Release date previewed to make the audience aware of when they can see the film
- Directors and production companies may also be shown to help as another part of the promotional package
