2. Media Theories
There are many types of media theories, however I will be focusing on three main types
of audience theories that can help us understand the connection between the audience
and media text. I believe my short film is more suited to the third category and is left to
the audience to decide whether they accept the message or not.
Theory name
Explanation
1. The Effects or
hypodermic model.
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2. The uses and
gratification model
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This is the opposite of the effects /hypodermic model.
The active audience use the media text and are not used by
it.
3. The reception
theory (Stuart Hall )
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The text is encoded with a message/meaning.
Some audiences will decode and understand the
message/meaning
Whilst others won’t be able to decode it or understand the
message or reject it altogether.
This can also be split into three types: Dominant,
Negotiated or oppositional.
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This effects or influences the audience and the passive
audience feel powerless to prevent this effect.
The messages are injected into the audience.
The effect is usually negative
For more information: www.mediaknowall.com/as_alevel/alevkeyconcepts/alevelkeycon.php?...
4. Demographics
My short film demographic social group would most probably be
B-D.
Below the table, highlights some of the more specefic factors:
Typical demographic factors
Age:
14-19
Gender:
Both
Race:
Not specific
Sexuality:
Not specific
Religion:
Not specific
Education:
GCSE, A-Level
Occupation:
Part time/ student
5. Cinema Age Rating System
BBCF
Symbol
British board of film classification
Symbol
MPAA
Motion Picture Association of
America
My film
All ages admitted, there is
nothing unsuitable for children
General Audiences – All Ages
Admitted.
All ages admitted, but certain
scenes may be unsuitable for
young children.
Parental Guidance Suggested –
Some Material May Not be
suitable for Children.
Unsuitable for very young people. Those
aged under 12 years are only admitted if
accompanied by an adult, aged at least 18
years, at all times during the motion picture.
Parents Strongly Cautioned –
Some Material May be
Inappropriate for Children
Under 13.
The content guidelines are identical to those
used for the 12A certificate. But for
VHS/DVD version
Restricted – Under 17 Requires
Accompanying Parent or Adult
Guardian.
X
Only those over 15 years are
admitted. Contains adult themes
No One 17 and Under
Admitted.
X
Only adults are admitted.
Can only be shown at licensed adult
cinemas or sold at licensed sex shops,
and only to adults, those aged 18 or
over.
X
X
X
X
