Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Goodwin and Dyer

 

Goodwin 

His theory includes a list of features needed to make a successful music video. He says they must have:

- genre characteristics

- lyrics and vocals

- music and visuals

- close ups and motifs

- intertextual references 

These features are all crucial in order for audience members to stay and become engaged with the video. For example, the inclusion of intertextual references makes audiences feel part of a fan base, and if they recognise the reference, it will make them feel clever for knowing it. Additionally, the more striking the visuals and music are the more effective the video will be. 


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1G4isv_Fylg

An example that includes most of this is: Paradise by Coldplay.

This video has typical genre characteristics of a comedy or a parody, as not includes a man in an elephant costume. Th video includes clear and recognisable lyrics and very engaging and eye catching visuals, including scenes from African safari to London Underground. The video contains vocals and music by Chris Martin who is singing about a wider reference. This links to the intertextuality of the London Underground that is repeatedly featured throughout as it is a very recognisable destination. The elephant in the Underground makes a harsh contrast. 


Dyer

His theory is the 'Star Blueprint Theory' 

He suggested that stars are built:

1) as a construction - carefully manufactured persona 

2) as a commodity - a product designed to make money 

3) as an ideology - stand for specific beliefs in society 

Paradox of the star: 

they must be relatable but extraordinary 

they must be present and absent 

This theory explains why we as a society feel so drawn towards celebrities even though they are still people. This theory has been known for almost 100 years, and it says that those in the public eye have two different personas. One for their private life when not in the spotlight, and a completely different one when performing. 


Someone like you - Adele 

Adele - Someone Like You (Official Music Video)

This music video fits into the requirements for Dyer's star theory especially as Adele as a person is so relatable yet so talented. The video showcases a previous break- up which many people who enjoy her music can relate to, as well as the fact that the music video is quite simplistic with her walking down familiar roads in London. However, she makes it extraordinary when she sings the chorus and she has an incredible singing ability unlike most people.  


Thursday, 18 December 2025

Big Issue front cover

 



I have chosen to do this front cover because the recent story of Milly Bobby Brown's adoption could be used to inspire others to do the same, promoting The Big Issue's altruistic qualities, especially as it is growing issue this Christmas. I have also included a cultural code by making 'issue' upside down, linking to a theme in the show, readers who recognise this code may feel happy with themselves for recognising this, and part of a community as a stranger things fan base. 

Thursday, 23 October 2025

SHSG AD





 This advert was an introduction to new photoshop skills. For example how to delete the background on an image, and adding it to the advert. I used skills such as layering and collaging different pictures. Additionally, adding text was very important for the add, and changing the font made it look more formal and suitable to a school advert. 

The aim of this advert was to positively represent the school, so it involved selecting the best photos for the advert, and putting them together in a way that looks best to display the different areas of the school. 

Beauty AD



The target audience for this beauty product will most likely be a young female, interested in perfumes and luxury brands. 
This means that I have chosen a pink, soft, floral background, signifying femininity. Additionally, the flowers connotate beauty and freshness, appealing to a young target audience. The slogan is uplifting, resonating with younger women seeking self expression, reflecting the zeitgeist of women who are becoming more empowered and confident, which this advert speaks to.  



 

Goodwin and Dyer

  Goodwin  His theory includes a list of features needed to make a successful music video. He says they must have: - genre characteristics -...