Magazine analysis- Empire

This front cover was taken from an issue of "Empire" magazine, and features the action film "Sherlock Holmes" which was released on December 26th 2009.

The masthead of the magazine is presented in large, red capital lettered font, which makes it eye-catching against the pale blue and black background. The feature photograph on the front cover is also covering up some letters of the masthead, suggesting that the publishers are confident that the magazine's popularity will overcome this.

The headline for the main article within the magazine is situated over the top of the feature photograph and in the centre of the page where it will be most likely to capture the audience's
attention. The title of the featured film "Sherlock Holmes" has been done in capital letters, again making it more eye-catching. The name of the actor playing this starring role (Robert Downey Jr) is located above this main headline. If the audience are fans of this particular actor, this line plus the feature photograph will persuade them to buy the magazine.

Another conventional feature of this magazine front cover is the use of plugs to give the audience an insight into what other articles can be found within the magazine. These snippets will persuade the audience to buy the magazine to find out more about these other articles. The plugs are also laid out conventionally around the edge of the page so they do not
obstruct the feature photograph.

The sub-headings accompanying these plugs have been backed onto a plain white background so that they deliver maximum impact against the darker background.

The magazines strap line "Best Preview Issue Ever!" has been placed just above the magazines masthead. The fact that this sentence is exclamatory will create excitement amongst the audience and convince them that they should buy this magazine because it is 'the best'.

The font of the strap line is also eye-catching as it is in pale silver, making it stand out against the dark background. However it also does not draw too much attention away from the bright red masthead situated below.

The colours used within the front cover are also iconic of the feature films action genre. The dark blacks and blues create a sense of suspense and mystery. The bright red connotes action and blood, whilst the metallic silvers can be linked to weaponry. Therefore this issue will be particularly attractive to audience's who enjoy films of this genre.