The title of the film in which the magazine is promoting certainly stands out, reading “green zone” in white bold text. The use of white in this text clearly stands out from the fiery colours, which seem to dominate the page. Denotation: Following the conventions of a typical magazine, ‘empire’ magazine has deliberately placed the main image in the middle, almost overwhelming the page. This will entice the audience.
The image has partially covered the title of the magazine, thus stressing the importance of the image, making it the primary focus. Connotation: the focal purpose of this magazine front cover is to promote the film. With an engaging image, depicting the icon matt Damon, it certainly succeeds in doing so. Additionally, the use of such contrasting colours allows the cover to grip the attention of the reader, as, even in a still frame, the magazine succeeds in portraying it as the action-packed film it is. Finally, its fiery colour scheme suggests the films explosive nature.
Additionally, the image itself seems exciting and intense. The seriousness of Mat Damon’s face creates this almost heroic figure; this is emphasized by his military-like uniform and the explosive fire in the background. Despite being partially covered; the title is in no way undermined. The brightness and boldness of the title is recognisable to audiences. People will straight away know what magazine it is.
Skylar Brady 