The Shining: Insiprational Horror Movie

The Shining Theatrical Release Poster

There is great contrast between the simplicity and rather dullness of the theatrical release poster in comparison to the actual film itself. Perhaps this was done on purpose, to create a simple, bland poster and shock the audience when the film actually opens, but another reason could be at the time of release - 1980, the photograph editing software would be very inferior to what is in place today, hence all of the polished posters that are now implemented. The colours of yellow and black used are rather an odd choice but has most likely been used because they contrast one another. I would say that the poster subverts the typical movie poster because they are usually supposed to attract customers by using dramatic images which show excitement to intice people, and this poster does probably the opposite. The simple

black and white image of a shocked face is rather creepy and the tag line 'a masterpiece of modern horror' may intrigue and stir curiousity in the viewer, and would perhaps even evoke the reader to check out the film and see what the hype is all about.

The Shining Trailer

This trailer has been very sucessfully made because the music, camera angles and shots pull together to create a shocking and fast paced atmosphere, thus meaning that the trailer also enstills fear and horror in the audience. Other reason why this particular trailer is well made is because it gives an overview of what happens in the film but does not give the whole plot line away, and does this through including some of the most terrifying parts of the movie, but cutting off just in time so as not to give the audience the whole story.

The Shining Magazine Cover

This particular still from the movie has been chosen as a front cover for 'Empire' magazine because this image is very iconic and is almost always used when there is reference to 'The Shining' as it is associated with the fear and terror dealt with in the film. I would say that the magazine cover appeals to the target audience - fans of the film since it features the most memorable part of the movie. This magazine cover actually subverts the norm for a magazine cover since they are usually meant to attract and invite customers, not scare them away. The fact that the film is being featured as a limited edition front cover of 'The 500 Greatest Films of All Time' shows that the film is seen to be horrifying and iconic. As the image is so domineering and has a great impact on the audience, it is clear to see why this image has been used solely for the front cover. The red colour used contrasts with the colouring of the image, and could also represent 'danger' or 'blood' - in fitting with the horror film theme. The quote used 'I'm not gonna hurt ya... I'm just gonna bash your brains in!' is in fitting with the violence portrayed in the film, and warns the reader that the film is not to be taken lightly.