Semiotics , Denotations and Connotations

Semiotics is a key phrase used in conjunction with media A -level. Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols and their use of interpretation. This is how we read images and pictures to decode them and make sense of what they mean to us as a consumer. Semiotics are made out of two main techniques, Denotations and Connotations.

Denotations are what we see from the image e.g. A rose is red
Connotations are what we feel/understand from the image e.g. The colour red connotes love and thats why we use roses as a symbol for love.

Analysis of the Guardians of the Galaxy using Denotations and Connotations:

We can see from this poster that very bright and luminous colours are being used to make the movie poster stand out and make it unique, making people want to see the film hoping it will be something new to the genre of superhero films. In addition to this, the bright colours connote the 1970s and 1980s , with extravagant and bright fashion, which the film is heavily based around, making people want to see it if they loved the 70s and 80s, they feel they will like this film as well. We can also see the lead character wearing a red coat to make him look appealing. However this jacket also connotes feelings of power and leadership from him, confirming to the audience that he is the main lead character.