Thursday, September 20, 2012

Three levels of meaning

In this rendering of a poster for the movie "The Spirit", an art school student from the Art Institute of California - San Diego did a great job in combining elements from bot representational, abstractions, and symbols to create an effective means of communicating the essence of this movie.

First of all the use of the city skyline works well to convey the big city scenery in which this story unfolds. Although the skyline has been slightly abstracted through photo manipulation it still clearly communicates in what environment this movie is taking place. Without it the poster would be more arbitrary and less distinct. But this representational image is not the main focus of this poster. It also becomes enhanced what seen in relationship with the abstracted form of a man and the symbolic use of text and logotype to create a cohesive expression of danger and action.

The main focus is given to the abstracted silhouette of a man in a trench coat, hat, and red tie. This abstracted visual of a man takes center stage and instantly communicates a sense of mystique and danger. The folded up collar and lack of pupils in the eyes gives a sense of covert affairs and cruel intentions. The man also communicates a sense of daring and boldness, especially with the red tie that is easily recognizable as a trade mark for this shadowy figure, and he is flying his colors bravely. Furthermore, the poster is laid out much like a wanted poster, giving the impression that we are dealing with some sort of crime or vigilantism. Something that is further explained by the symbols of the poster, and given a setting by the representation of the city.

To further enhance the meaning of the poster, there are also symbols to explain its meaning further. The use of letters to form words like "warning" and "this city is protected by" in capital letters further explains the meaning of the poster and also uses a play on words for a Wanted poster. The explanation for who this movie is about is given by the logotype for The Spirit, which for someone who is familiar with the comic book by Frank Miller would instantly recognize. This logotype, combined with the use of the abstracted red tie and the skyline of the city sends a clear message of what this movie is about, and who it is intended for.

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