Analysis of Magazines

The main image is unusual for the magazines typical style, conventionally a long shot of the main character is used, and their head is normally slightly overlapping the masthead as shown in the X-men addition. This is because the brand name is and colour is so recognisable that the image overlapping has become a typical feature, bringing visual hierarchy to the image. In this instance unconventionally for the magazine, a close up shot has been used from a high angle, with the character turning the head down to create a daunting, scary effect. The masthead however is not overlapped by the actors head as seen in X-men this could be because the head would completely consume the masthead taking away the title of the magazine, however, it could also due to the change in colour scheme. Due to the fact the iconic red of Empire has not been used they could have intentionally not used overlapping in order to make the brand name more obvious and easily seen in a crowd, making it easier for the audience. In the X-men edition however a cool blue background has been used contrasting with the Red, and the Green edition contrasts with the black background and the red lips. This shows that contrasting colours are used in each edition to make the brand name stand out, enhancing their brand identity.

Empire magazine is a leading film magazine conglomerate in the UK, and is included in the top ten most popular film magazines of the world. Published monthly since 1989, and produced by one of the leading publishing companies in the world: Bauer Publishing. This particular issue as said at the top of the magazine comes as a matching pair where the reader can choose its ‘alliance’ either buying the magazine featuring the Joker (the villain) on the front cover or, Batman (the hero). This is a unique selling point for the magazine as it targets both audiences of the film meaning the magazine is appealing to a wider audience, as well as, intriguing their already existing target audience of film magazines. The other magazine a more typical issue advertising X-men.

Interestingly the typical bold colour scheme has been adapted using the colours of the Joker. The masthead and main article cover line typically on this magazine would be red to create a brand identity; the colours are associated with the magazine. However, in this unique issue the colour scheme has been changed to a bright green the masthead has been changed to black with green lines and the cover lines also in the same shade of green. This draws more attention to the film whilst, uniquely contrasting with the typical colour scheme it makes the audience focus more on the magazine as it stands out by being in luminous green. The colour green is associated closely with the film and the character shown; however, it also creates a haunted horror feel.