Magazine Research - Empire

The masthead of the magazine is at the top centre of the page. It is in a large, bold text and has a simple yet interesting font which is clear and easy to read. The colour of the text on the cover is white and red that stands out against the background. The masthead and sell line have a gradient effect that works in catching the audiences eye and also aids towards the narrative as it looks quite futuristic and metallic, suggesting that the film might be set in space. The colour red may also connote danger, which may be a theme in the film. The main image on the cover covers a bit of the masthead, which suggests the magazine is high status and confident that its audience will know which magazine it is without having to show the masthead, providing the audience with a sense of trust.  Covering the masthead is also a common feature on popular magazines. Above the masthead is the skyline, reading  'Incredible 2013 Preview Issue!' the aim of which is to entice the audience into buying the magazine.

The main image is of the main protagonist in the film ‘Star Trek’ as we can see from the anchorage text in the centre of the page. The anchorage text allows enough information about the main article but not enough to give it all away. The main image is effective as the protagonist is looking directly at the camera, drawing in the audience and giving the impression that the protagonist is looking directly at them and inviting them to read the magazine. Also, the positioning of the anchorage text  grabs the attention of the audience and informs them of the name of the film.

The sell lines are on the right side of the magazine, making the cover look neat and in order. The hints to the topics in the sell lines succeed in enticing the audience into purchasing the magazine. The font is professional and easy to read, and the colours used stay true the colour scheme of the cover, making the cover much more appealing to the eye. Also, the topics help to identify the target audience of which the magazine is trying to attract.

The Mise-en-scene shows the protagonist wearing a futuristic jacket and has some sort of handcuffs on, also looking quite futuristic, which further influences what is included in the film. There is also a piece of text saying 'The planets only access to the years biggest sequel'. This is used as a way of promoting the film, giving it a positive review which influences the magazines audience to go and see it. It also confirms the film as a Sci-Fi, as it mentions planet, which is a convention of Sci-Fi films.

This magazine contains a date, price and website in a small text size just above the 'M' of the masthead and a barcode at the bottom right of the cover. The use of small text allows the main image and sell line to remain the main focus of the cover. This is a common convention on magazines to inform the audience about these aspects.