What have I learnt from my

content analysis?

Reflection

When carrying out a content analysis of ‘The Notebook’ I found that two-shots were frequently

used throughout the trailer. Two-shots generally gave the ability to see the relationship of two

characters together. In relation to our own trailer it would mean the audience could see the

developing relationship between James and Emma and how this increased romance abruptly

ends. Therefore having a balance of intrigue and tension. Many close-ups were also used in the

trailer which helps to show the emotions of the characters and more importantly how they feel

towards each other. For example during the scene where Emma and James are sat on the bench

a jump cut may be used to a close-up where they are looking into each other’s eyes.

Wide-shots are useful in showing the location of the scene. Wide shots are important as they

demonstrate the variety of locations that have been used which increase the narrative story.

Wide-shots can also promote the genre and the location could be a park with lots of flowers.

Flowers of which will connote love and romance. In the trailer I analyzed a wide-shot showed a

carnival which connotes a sense of freedom and excitement.

Over the shoulder shots were also used, I feel that these were most effective in giving

perspective to the characters. It enables the audience to see what is happening in there opinion

and how it is affecting them emotionally. Long-shot is used fewer times in the trailer and were

usually to compare the social classes of characters based on appearances. Long-shots are most

effective in a romantic genre when used as a reason to the audience while the couple cannot be

together. Finally mid-shots are used so the audience can show the emotions of the character but

also enable the audience to evaluate the appearance of the characters. Most of the shots used

are also incorporated with low or high angles which promote the superiority or dominance of

particular characters.

From my content analysis I found that these were the main shot types used within a romantic

genre. They enable the audience to study the emotions of the characters and follow the

narrative story.