Movie Posters: Promotional tools that aim to capture the aesthetic, plot, and tone of the movie they are advertising. You might think that a movie poster just has to look cool and appealing; however, there is so much more to it. A picture can tell a thousand words.
Cars (2006)
Cars is a classic. For many of us, it’s a childhood defining movie. Created by Pixar Animation Studios, this film is a heartwarming animated story that takes audiences on a journey into the world of living vehicles. It’s celebrated for its charming characters, witty humor, and stunning animation, making it a beloved classic in the world of animated film, and arguably one of the best childhood movies of all time. The movie poster features the film’s protagonist, Lightning McQueen, a sleek red race car, set against the backdrop of scenic Route 66. The vibrant colors and dynamic composition of the poster capture the spirit of adventure and excitement that defines the film.
Jaws (1975)
The straightforward nature of the movie Jaws is reflected beautifully and accurately by the simple yet striking poster. The four letters in the background, accentuated by being in a bloodlust shade of red, give off a vibe of danger yet excitement. Below the title, a woman can be found swimming unaware that a large shark is looming under her, encapsulating the film’s opening sequence perfectly.
Blade Runner (1982)
The poster for Blade Runner is a masterpiece of design with the past meeting the future, echoing the film’s theme of futuristic noir. The poster features a striking image of Harrison Ford’s character, Rick Deckard, above a backdrop of the futuristic cityscape full of flying cars and towering skyscrapers. The use of lighting and shadow creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, drawing the viewer into the dark and complex world of the film. Furthermore, the combination of the lighting, visible weapons, and cigarette all add to the neo noir vibe. The overall design of the poster is sleek and stylish, mirroring the film’s visual aesthetic and capturing the essence of its dystopian world.
Back To The Future (1985)
Back to the Future, a timeless classic directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a movie which many people consider to be a staple in comedy. The movie poster, featuring Marty McFly’s shocked face as he steps out of the iconic DeLorean time machine, perfectly encapsulates the film’s thrilling and humorous tone. The dynamic composition of the poster combined with its sense of motion and excitement immediately draws viewers in, inviting them to join Marty on his time-traveling adventures. The poster has become an iconic image, synonymous with the film’s enduring popularity and universal appeal.
Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
Something about this poster is so nostalgic, whether it be the promise of an epic space opera, the first appearance of the characters we all know and love, or perhaps even the dichotomy of good vs. evil. This poster is immediately brought to mind as soon as Star Wars is mentioned.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
During Arnold Schwarzenegger’s peak stardom, epitomized by Terminator 2, his influence was unparalleled. The film’s iconic poster, featuring Schwarzenegger as the Terminator, exudes coolness, becoming one of the most influential in cinematic history and inspiring countless imitations and parodies. From the combination of the motorcycle with the sleek glasses, the poster remains a staple when it comes to iconic movie posters.
Jurassic Park (1993)
During its peak, Jurassic Park captivated audiences worldwide. The movie poster, featuring a T-Rex skeleton towering over the title, is a masterpiece of suspense, managing to be both chilling and exciting. Its design perfectly captures the film’s premise of resurrecting dinosaurs and the awe-inspiring spectacle that follows. This iconic poster became an instant classic, symbolizing the film’s groundbreaking visual effects and thrilling narrative, inspiring a generation of filmmakers and moviegoers. It remains a timeless symbol of cinematic excellence, continuing to captivate audiences.
Scarface (1983)
“Say hello to our little friend” is what most people think of when they hear the name Scarface. This iconic poster, featuring Al Pacino’s intense gaze, is one of the best-selling movie posters ever. The release of Brian De Palma’s gangster picture coincided with the rise of hip-hop music, and its influence is still huge and tangible to this day.
Raiders Of The Lost Ark (1981)
Raiders of the Lost Ark, starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, is a classic adventure film that has captivated audiences for decades. The movie poster, featuring Jones with his iconic fedora and whip, is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most iconic images in cinema history. The poster’s adventurous spirit and sense of mystery perfectly encapsulate the film’s thrilling narrative. Raiders of the Lost Ark remains a timeless classic, continuing to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Vertigo (1958)
Vertigo, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The movie poster, with its mesmerizing spiral design combined with the bright attractive orange, perfectly captures the film’s themes of obsession and psychological suspense. This iconic image has become synonymous with the film itself, symbolizing its interesting plot and haunting atmosphere. Vertigo continues to be celebrated as one of Hitchcock’s greatest achievements, with its poster remaining a distinct symbol of its enduring legacy in cinema history.