In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?

I discovered codes and conventions of the zombie horror genre through research. For example I analysed the first 5 minutes of the film '28 Days Later' (Dir Danny Boyle 2002). Through researching into this film I became aware of horror conventions such as low key lighting and the iconography of blood. I used this research to then apply to my own film 'Z-bola'.

Iconography within 28 Days Later.

During the first 2 minutes of our zombie horror genre film the narrative is restricted. This is common within horror films as it ensured our audience only knew the same amount of information as our characters. This heightened the fear factor as the audience were shocked with new information such as the 'zombie' appearing. They were previously unaware and this sudden change in plot created tension, the restricted narrative allowed them to then question what would happen next or who would be the next victim. The opening scene finalises with the diegetic sound of a police car, added in post production. This event adds mystery to our scene as the audience is unaware of what will happen next, they are then urged to continue watching.

Our genre is specifically represented through iconography. For example the use of blood throughout. Blood within film holds connotations of death and danger therefore signifying to the audience that the genre is horror and will feature tense situations. The iconography of blood is shown on our 'zombie' character through mise en scene. A close up is used to emphasise the use of make up on the actor to symbolise their infected state. The genre is also conveyed through the use of 'eery' music during the opening titles of the scene. This use of non diegetic music signifies the genre of the film as it is 'creepy'.

A high angle shot is used showing the 'zombie' after being killed. This shows the inferiority of the character and foreshadows to the audience that man will beat the infected. In addition to this hand held shots are used within the fast paced fight scene. This creates urgency within the clip as well as emphasising frantic movements in an attempt of survival. Overlaying the hand held shots is a red hue. The colour red holds connotations of danger and represents the 'zombies' eyes as it is also a point of view shot.

Continuity editing as learned from our preliminary exercise is used throughout. For example as 'Steve' enters the setting of a family home a match on action edit is used. This allows the clips to flow. In addition to this shot reverse shot as well as the 180 degree rule is used. This created realism and therefore verisimilitude within the clip.