What makes a double page spread An evaluation

What makes a double page spread? An evaluation and analysis of the double page spread in the media. By Harry Clarke 13 RAS

The purpose? �The purpose of a double page spread is for publishers of magazine to convey interesting and exclusive content that may entice readers across a two page spread. �This content will usually have relation to a certain film or actor/actress who is popular in today's society. If a publisher exploits the popularity of said film or actor, then they have a unique selling point that other publishers will not produce, therefore obtaining a larger reader list and therefore more revenue.

The purpose? �Double page spreads also give exposure to a film to help promote them to potential viewers and also give an insight to already obtained fans of the sort of content they can expect to see in the near future. �Whether this be with a renounced film company/actor or simply an up and coming director/actor, double page spreads simply promote, inform and excite readers and give early access to content that is only available from that publisher.

What content can you expect? � While we now know the reasons behind a double page spread production, how exactly do these publishers accomplish their goals? � The most common feature seen in a double page is an interview with director, cast member or producer of a film. These interviews usually tease certain aspects or scenes from an upcoming film and will usually persuade potential viewers that the content is worth viewing. If the reader happens to be a particular fan of said actor/director then they may feel the need to read further into an interview even if the genre of film they are promoting does not particularly interest them. This is smart marketing in which wider audiences are acquired and content exposure is increased. � The other expected feature scene from a double page spread is simply a film feature. This is where exclusive shots or actors, set pieces, location shots and costumes etc will be shown to readers. This helps build anticipation for excited fans, it also gives film critics/journalists the chance to dissect these images frame for frame, as they then proceed to give their initial thoughts and predictions before the initial release of the film. � Once more, this all builds on the film exposure to audiences from various groups.

The examples and similarities The ‘Film Feature’ The ‘Actor Feature’ The ‘Interview Feature’

The examples and similarities � Large Images- When promoting content it is essential it is eye catching and clearly visible. In most cases, the larger the image the more people will want to read. As you can see, all three examples include a large image of either a solo example or set shot, both work well in contrast of backgrounds and colours. � Quotation- The use of a quotation is important in highlighting key information or information that the publishers believe would be of particular interest to the reader. In film magazines, this will usually be a funny or emotional quote from the actor, or even a short but impactful line that describes why this film is like no other. � Colour- Much like a film poster, double page spreads tend to follow a corresponding colour scheme. This works well if these colours pop against background images. However publishers must make sure that these colours fit the tone of the article, and that certain pieces of text do not over dominate a page.

The examples and similarities � Alternating text- While the interview or feature text primarily stays the same throughout double page spreads, title texts, sub headings, and highlighted information will usually look different. This is to add variety to the text and to clearly identify certain parts in the texts that help separate the page into sections. Publishes may also the alter the text to help connote to a certain genre or style. To evenly divide text across two pages, publishes will usually include two or more columns in which to place the text so it maintains a compact and professional appeal. � Structured format- It is very unlikely that a reader will see a double page spread without standard publishing features. These include simple directions across the page such as page numbers, arrow indication, or separate highlighted features. These direct the reader through the article and make reading the large article seem less daunting.

Double page spread conventions vs. my own product � When creating my own product, I hope to maintain the impression that my product could be perceived as a professional product that consumers can buy in shops. I want in to successfully represent an interesting article that film fanatics would be enticed to read, and to achieve this, I must apply these conventions of current products analysed previously. �Thanks for watching!