Evaluation 5: Audience Research

Evaluation 5: Audience Research

How we changed the opening sequence to tailor needs for audience:

We increased the volume of the production so that it delivered a larger impact, as well as taking on board the audience feedback in order to suit their needs. We had also added a heartbeat sound to build tension so that the audience felt the music bought more suspense when watching the opening sequence. We had also tried to brighten the start of the sequence where the setting was rather dark, however this had created a static effect and blurred the image on screen that had slightly detracted from the higher quality footage. It was difficult in order to follow all the feedback as some of those who were interviewed were not fond of the thriller genre of the sequence, so we had left the sequence how it had been in order to not contain too many genres within the same production. 

Genre Signifiers:

We used genre signifiers throughout the sequence in order to portray a realistic representation of a horror/thriller genre. We included the generic conventions of the colour ‘red’ within the sequence, a connotation of danger, blood and fear. In addition, the photographs were printed within black and white, creating a mysterious tone as the absence of colour makes the sequence generate narrative enigma. The ominous music overlaying the sequence, created a foreboding tone which generated fear within the audience, a common convention of other films within this genre. The general dark setting and shadows also are conventional of the thriller/horror genre, further creating more signifiers in order to clearly show the audience what the opening sequence genre is. 

How was the opening sequence engaging: 

Within the clip, we asked the respondents whether they wanted to keep watching the film, most of which had replied yes. This was due to the several narrative enigma codes that was present within the film, leaving the audience questioning what may occur next. For example, the shot of the axe makes the audience wonder why he has it as well as whether it may be used within the end of the film. The various photo to camera shots give an indication as to where the film may also developing, making the audience wonder what may happen within the sequence later on. However, some respondents said the opening sequence was perhaps not very engaging, purely due to that fact that they are not interested within the genre of the film, which we could not change. 

Audience Theory:

The uses and gratifications can be found within our opening sequence, it provides escapism from their normal boring lifestyle, with something to in capture their attention, however it may also fulfil entertainment needs as the sequence may seem to have suspense and tension. Our sequence also falls into the Social interaction aspect of the theory as the audience gain an insight into the circumstances of others, in this case, the teenage victim that is being stalked upon, allowing the audience to identify with others and empathise with them. The opening sequence could also satisfy information needs as they audience are informed about serious issues, in this case, stalking. The fact present at the start of the sequence further emphasises this. 

Audience Feedback: 

Using the focus group, as seen within the video, we were able to gain feedback about our opening sequence from a range of genders who were the target audience. We had further asked more people within our class to watch the opening sequences and made changes in order to minimise the weaknesses of the production. Though the production had also been added onto YouTube, there had not been much feedback surrounding the comment box, however, we had people from the school further tell us about the opening sequence during lunch time.

- Filmed by Manisha Dhokia, Lucy Parsons and Alexandra James

- Written by Manisha Dhokia and Lucy parsons