R+P Post 5: How We Plan to Attract/Address Our Target Audience

Our film will attract adults of both genders but certain aspects may appeal to the genders separately. For example, men may find the revelation of the gun more interesting than women, as it foreshadows themes circulating action, conflict and murder; some principle conventions of neo-noir that they expect to see. Furthermore, the lead female character has sex appeal and a seductive nature which is common for femme fatales. For example Catherine's leg cross from 'Basic Instinct' is a more extreme version of our protagonist putting on her stockings.

Ann Savage as Vera in 'Detour' (1945)

Our sequence will appeal to young women as the lead role is a strong-willed, crafty female whom perhaps they can relate to. Some will feel directly addressed. They are also likely to be attracted to the idea of common female stereotypes being challenged. The gun is an arguably male associated object, but in our opening sequence and many other neo-noir films, crime is a convention for femme fatales. However, stereotypical feminine actions such as our protagonist putting on make-up is also relatable to women of this ages (early twenties) as many of them have this daily routine.

The fast paced, mysterious music throughout the opening sequence will appeal to adults and teenagers because it is exciting and creates an atmosphere full of suspense and hints at the interesting and compelling story to be told. Fast paced music is supposed to engage them and I think 'Pump It,' the choice of music for the opening sequence to 'Pulp Fiction' achieves this.

Teernagers and younger adults (15-30 year olds) will be attracted to film opening through the modern twist of the film noir genre, which is communicated through the contemporary, innovative graphics and up to date technology such as the iPad. Sometimes it is easier for this age group to relate to a modern day film as they will be able to see everyday, real life situations. It is realistic to them.

Finally, our older target audience of 40+  will be attracted to our opening sequence as it contains several conventions of the film noir genre, despite it having a modern twist. This is beneficial as some would remember the early days of film noir and those that liked those films should like ours; as long as it stays true to key concepts and conventions.  We believe we have done this through the portrayal of a femme fatale, cigarettes, gun, low key lighting and suspense music.