Studio Practice: OUGD603 - Fences Movie Poster Research

Some of the themes found in this film can be used for the general aesthetic of the design, meaning the layout and colours used in the poster will depend on the tone of the movie. The film itself revolves around the main character Troy, played by Denzel Washington, and his relationship with his family. The film mostly focuses on Troy's relationship with his son Cory and it questions how a father should raise his children, morals of the family and attitudes of the 1950s. The tone of the film is uplifting at times, but also includes several instances of domestic conflict between Troy, his wife Rose and son Cory. Throughout the film there are several references to baseball and how the rules of the game can be applied to real life situations. For example, Troy tells his son that he has 'three strikes' until he is out, meaning he only allows Cory three chances to live in his house before he is sent to live elsewhere. This reference to baseball gave me the idea to replicate the strikes visually in some way.

The audience are also aware of Troy's alcohol dependency throughout the film and how it affects his relationship with his family and friends. One idea that came to mind from this would be to visualise the gin bottle that Troy is seen with in many scenes. As a result of Troy's alcoholism, he often mentions how he 'wrestles with death' and can be seen at several points talking to 'death' as if in a fight. This could also be shown through the design stages as a theme of the film.

reviews

Empire - A simply extraordinary film without crashes, bangs and wallops but full of towering performances delivered with intelligence, power and heart.

NY Times - What is most remarkable about this film is how thoroughly — how painfully, how honestly, how beautifully — it answers the question "What about my life?"

Common sense media - Wilson's screenplay, based on his own award-winning play, is a potent brew that warms your stomach upon the first swig and then simmers to a boil. It's intense, exhausting, and worth it.

Rolling Stones - "One of the best films of the year"

Quotes

You ain't gonna find me going and asking nobody for nothing.
Some people build fences to keep people out, and other people build fences to keep people in.
Don't go through life worrying about if somebody like you or not.

Layout Research