Semiotics

Semiotics is the study signs, symbols and significations and how we read or perceive them.

On this film cover of Pirates of the Caribbean, there are many different things to analyse such as the creator's choice of color scheme. The black against the orange creates a contrast and makes the scene seem more intensified. The orange makes the objects within the background stand out more.If you have seen these films, you will know the name of the ship is The Black Pearl, and the moon in the backdrop links to the ship as it resembles a pearl, round and white. The smoke or mist in the background creates a mysterious setting and links to certain parts of the film, which for someone who hasn't seen this film, gives them an insight on to what the film will be about. 

The placement of people on this film cover indicates the importance of each role within the film. This can also be seen as Johnny Depp is holding a gun and a knife, showing that he is in control as the rest of the cast are stood behind him. This implies that they follow him and are in his power. This is also indicated by the size of Johnny Depp's head as it is significantly larger than the rest. At the top of the film cover, we can see that there is the cast's name and that they are listed left to right, of importance; Johnny Depp is at the beginning as he is the most important and Keira Knightly at the end, showing that she is inferior. Even though this goes against the layout of the actors, it is simple to understand, and if you didn't know who the actors/actress are, it could be easily worked out. 

The title of the film cover links with the content of the film, as it signifies the time in which the film is set. It is placed on a scroll or piece of parchment which is what pirates would use as maps etc at this time. The skull within the title also gives an impression of darkness and death, giving insights to what may happen in the film.

The layout and size of the actual film companies name (Disney) is still on the cover of the film but it is placed at the top as it is still an interest to the audience but it probably isn't the first thing they look at when wanting to purchase/watch this film. The size of the logo indicates it's importance also.