Semiotics

Semiotics

This is the analysis of signs. When analysing media texts. We analyse the signs we see, there4 are the aspects of media language that communicate with the audience – the colours , lighting, set designs , facial expressions , costumes etc.

Signifier (the text itself) + signified (the meaning) = the sign

The signifier is a denotation which is the literally meaning, what can you see /hear

Signified is a connotation which is the symbolic meaning, what does it suggest to you?

There would be a very good analysis of a horror film as the sounds, lighting , set design ,facial expressions and costumes are a very significant part of a horror film as it what has the biggest effect on the audience.

Semiotic sounds –

Diegetic sound – Sound on set whilst filming

·         Dialogue – emotional state of character though the tone and intonation

·         Knock at the door – something unexpected / a narrative twist

·         Crashing sound – danger / emergency

Non-diegetic sound – Sound effects that have been added afterwards

·         Sound track – to create mood and atmosphere

In the horror genre I believe that both diegetic and non-diegetic sound is very significant as a soundtrack (non-diegetic) would create the tense mood which helps to intrigue the audience. On the other hand and diegetic sounds of a horror film help to intrigue the audience as it could lead to what is going to happen next also it builds up the tension.

An example is ‘The shining’

This is a suitable example as it linked into the horror genre and this is the genre I have chosen to focus on.

Diegetic sound –

• Dialogue - including screaming (shows her fear) and a worried girls voice.
• The dialogue refers to the 3 little pigs this creates fear to her as she knows what is going to happen, Due to this being very well known.
• Heavy breathing
• Door being cut down
• Foot steps
• Wind
• Window opening

Non-diegetic sound –

• High pitch backing track
• There is no structure which signifies kayos on scene
• The soundtrack was in time with the dialogue
• It becomes louder and faster to build up suspension