Empire Magazine Front Cover Analysis

This is the front cover of Empire Magazine. Oddly enough, it isn't the masthead that I notice first it is the main article that reads 'INCEPTION' and placed above it the directors name, Christopher Nolan. This is perfect bait for readers for Inception was a box office hit getting nominated for multiple academy awards, and also the director Christopher Nolan is a critically acclaimed director. So this would entice readers, making them want to read this issue. The words used on the sub heading are wisely picked, they entice the reader. 'THE MATRIX MEETS 007 "ON STEROIDS!". The Matrix and 007 (James Bond) are both huge franchises that both received much critical acclaim, so saying that this film is better than the both would one, make the reader want to watch the film, and two read about it in this issue. "Steroids" is very effective for steroids makes you bigger and stronger, giving the impression that this film dwarves James Bond and the Matrix which is some feat. Behind the main article is the main image or the films protagonist played by actor Leonardo DiCaprio. He is not making direct dress with the audience, but instead looking away. His character looks calm and reserved, but at the same time an underlying menace. This gives the reader an insight into the film, one simple photo can reveal a lot about a characters nature and this certainly does. Also notice he is holding a gun in his right hand, this also lets the reader know before even knowing anything about the film there will be violence and perhaps death, add that with the suit and the determined look on his face it gives you the impression he is out for revenge or has an important job to do that involves killing someone. The EMPIRE masthead is in the same place as always, top and centre, big red block capitals. And despite being situated a little behind the main image it still stands out and grabs your attention.The main image covers the masthead and this is somewhat uncommon in magazines, but not in issues of empire, most of the time the main image partially covers the masthead and this is because with empire the main article and image dictates the whole front cover. Yes there is sell lines and cover lines placed around, but generally the whole front cover is based around the main article. For example look at the cover lines, 'TOY STORY 3' BATMAN 3', 'JONAH HEX' all of them seem to be going into the centre of the magazine, and the disorientated background with all of the buildings is visually appealing. And this is based off the film Inception. The basic idea is Inception is going into someones dream, multiple reality and universes so he cover is giving off the idea that it is in a way, 'going in'.