Sunday, December 15, 2013

TOW #13- Visual Text: Catching Fire Movie Poster

The Hunger Games: A national phenomenon of books-turned-movies centered around the female warrior Katniss, "Girl on Fire." Jennifer Lawrence's blunt personality if a perfect match for Katniss's ferocious temperament, as displayed by her vicious stare on the front of this poster, clutching her famous bow-and-arrow. The Hunger Games experienced rapid success, due to the book's strong fan base. Catching Fire did not disappoint audiences and raked in hundreds of millions at the box office opening weekend. This poster was used to advertise Catching Fire before its release. 
The top of the poster reads: "Remember who the enemy is" in the trademarked font used on all Hunger Games movie merchandise, futuristic and industrial-looking. This piece of advice placed a smidgen above Katniss's head implies that the audience is part of Katniss's world: Panem. This phrase invites audiences to submerge themselves into Panem and root for Katniss, as she knows who the real enemy is.
Those who have read The Hunger Games trilogy, are aware the mockingjay pin Katniss wears while in the Hunger Games becomes a symbol of rebellion throughout Panem. If looked at closely, it is realized that Katniss appears to be emerging from a fiery red mockingjay pin, grasping a bow-and-arrow: her weapon of choice. The bow-and-arrow, combined with flaming pin portray Katniss in a battle-ready state of mind. Her fierce gaze only helps to establish an intense and almost dangerous mood.
This poster strategically uses mainly black and different shades of red and orange. These colors, almost synonymous with Halloween, convey a dramatic tone and help to draw the viewer's eye to Katniss herself. Catching Fire was a runaway success and their sharp visuals used to promote this cinematic masterpiece deserve some credit.

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