Movie Poster

Movie Poster

What is the difference between a movie poster and a film poster? This question needs to be answered with another question; what is the difference between a movie and a film? For most of us, we would say there is no difference. But for people with an invested interest in cinema, the level of artistry defines the difference.

A film is usually thought of as something that has a depth of worth, culturally or artistically. A movie on the other hand is sometimes used as a derogatory term for a vapid blockbuster. We will mention no names. So by default a movie poster can be seen as advertising for the latest blockbuster. But this does not mean it is not without worth.

A blockbuster movie poster will deploy highly developed techniques of image manipulation, iconography, design and perspective to capture our attention and before we realize it, we have a ticket in hand. Think of your favorite movie, now try and recall the poster (a quick search on goggle will jog your memory) see how the movie poster completely compliments the theme of the movie? Look at the colors used as well.

The Jaws poster uses blues to represent the water, with the typeface in blood red. Look at Star Wars. How the hero is standing and protecting the girl on what appears to be the last piece of land before infinite space. Looming behind him is the evil Darth Vader flanked by evil spaceships. Before we have even seen the movie, we know what it is about. We know the hero, we know the villain and we have some idea of the quest as well. A good movie poster will say much more than a synopsis ever could.