Codes and conventions of

a magazine!Focusing more keenly on a film

magazine.

Masthead Mastheads appear on all magazine covers as the title of the magazine. Usually, the masthead appears across the top of the magazine to attract the readers attention, especially whilst on shelves in shops.

The masthead utilises what the magazine is about; film magazines use connotations to film, for example; total film – the reader is instantly aware what the genre of the magazine is.

The text of the masthead is kept the same throughout all issues keeping with the house style of the film magazine.

The masthead appears to be the largest text on a magazine front cover suggesting the magazine is selling themselves as a brand as well as the issue itself.

ImageUsually, magazines, including film magazines, have only one main image – this image is likely to be of the main actor starring within the movie and so helps to attract a niche audience for the film and the magazine.

The actors on the front cover often make direct eye-contact with the reader directly requesting them to read and buy the magazine. Effectively using a mid-shot of the model helps the appearance of the front cover.

The main image has to follow the house-style of the magazine while also indicting the theme and genre of the film they’re promoting.

Small imaginary can also be included on the front cover of film magazines promoting other, maybe smaller, films.

Headline – the main statement or feature on the front cover, large and bold font used to highlight this article to the reader. This is the issues selling point.

Pugs – include the logo or slogan and prices are placed here, usually in the top right hand corner aimed to catch the readers eye.

Splash – this is the main story on the front cover which is accompanied by the headline and main image.

Strapline – a subheading positioned underneath the main headline.

Tag – a fixed promotional feature usually reading; ‘exclusive’ or ‘new’ to intrigue the reader into the magazine.

By-line – the name of the reporter or journalist is printed on the front cover.

House-style – colours, font, language and layout all contribute to the house-style of a film magazine. The house-style is kept constant.

Examples of puffs and other features included on film

magazines effectively used to create a buzz about the

magazines issue.