Media Theory

 

Hello!

The media theory I am looking to integrate into my project is Roland Barthes's symbolic code. I absolutely love the use of symbolism through objects in film, and I love having to pay attention so closely to the small details in order to figure it out. Here are some of my favorite examples of this:

In Coraline, the contrast between the real world and the "Other World" is hugely represented not only through the button eyes of Coraline's other parents, but also by the color palete, difference in soundtrack, and overall mood. By depicting Coraline's real room in dull, gray colors, it automatically looks worse in comparison to her lively, purple, warm-lit room in the "Other world." Matching the other room to Coraline's brightly-colored palete as well, the Other World is made to seem like she fits into it more than she does in her true reality. This manipulation is genuis because it convinces even the audience that despite an undertone of uncertainty, the Other World makes Coraline happier and feel more accepted than hers does.

The Devil Wears Prada serves as an amazing example of symbolic code through costuming and character design. In the begining of the film, the main character Andy is very awkward and out of touch with her femininity. She has not explored any forms of self-expression and seems comfortable in her familliar lifestyle. She sticks to the same sweaters and unflattering silhouettes and doesn't "care about fashion." However, after getting a secretary job at Vogue by attempting to expand on her journalism degree, she begins to self-reflect and undergo a series of changes in order to adapt to the style and expectations of her new enviornment. Throughout the film, it's evident that the more dedicated Andy is to her career, the more out of touch she becomes with the girl she used to be. This juxtaposition through costuming represents Andy trading in her old lifestyle and morals to fit into a more confident, career-driven persona. This also spikes a large debate of whether Andy lost or found herself when comparing her confidence VS her happiness at each end of the film. (Unrelated but this look LIVES in my head.)

My take on it: The overall message of my opening is to show what happens when a kid tries to grow up too fast. Besides me looking young, I also plan on collecting a costume that looks like someone trying to seem older than they are- small dress, makeup, etc. The item in particular that I'm seeking out is specifically high heels that are too big for my foot (which shouldn't be hard since I'm a size 5.) I'm trying to make my character look like she literally and figuratively has not grown into herself yet. Putting a close up on my heels will symbolize the space between where my character is and where she wants to be. This physical depiction of forced maturity acts as a metaphor for the loss of childhood innocence and the dangers of growing up too fast. Through these high heels, I plan to tell a lot about the character, and how she is desperately trying to fill a role she is not yet ready for.