Codes and conventions

What is a code?
A code is a communication system which contains elements which have an agreed meaning.

There are three different types of codes that may be used to convey meanings in media messages, these codes are:

• Technical codes: These include camera techniques, framing, depth of field, mise en scene, editing, lighting and sound.

• Symbolic codes: These refer to objects, setting, body language, clothing and colour.

• Written codes: These are in the form of headlines, captions,speech bubbles and language style.

What is a convention?
Conventions are generally accepted patterns of code that communicate a particular message.

The purpose of a film opening is to begin to grab the interest of the audience so they get hooked into the film. The film opening also clearly show the audience what the genre of the film is and show either the protagonist or antagonist.

Timing conventions: the length of most film openings are around 2 minutes long, however some major blockbusters can take up to 5 minutes.

Set the scene: This means showing the audience the year, the location, what is going on and so on.

Introduce the key characters: The key characters are the protagonist, the antagonist, the sidekick.

Introduce pre plot or beginning narrative: This establishes the platform/scene

Key Credits: Such as the production company. the director, the actors, the logo.

The opening usually starts with a Equilibrium where a key event occurs.