Narrative Graphics Plan

After doing research into narrative graphics, I found a key element was for the lines of text to be presented boldly and kept short.  A working narrative we have is "Three men; Two choices; One decision". We liked the idea of a countdown to build the tension and the simplicity of the sentences.  

I began with a modern sans serif font in black against a white background.  Although simple, if shown correctly, black against white can create a powerful bold effect, especially if shown in a predominately dark colour palette trailer. I then experimented with a much bolder font which evoked a more classical action film feeling. I prefer the more modern font as I believe it leaves the audience with less presumptions about what the film will be about and allows them to decipher it themselves.  Furthermore, our action thriller is set in the present day and I believe that a lighter looking font will reflect this. 

I also wanted to experiment with what the effect would be with a different colour. I choose a dull blood red to signify the possible death and dark nature of the film.  This colour will also connect with our title, being shown against flowing ink, which itself could be seen to resonate blood.  I did like this look however I felt it lacked the impact factor we are looking for.  

To contrast, I later experimented with white against a black backdrop.  I liked this overall look the most due to its punchy and eye-catching nature. The white also lifts off the black making sure that  the audience sees the text even though it will only be visible for a limited number of seconds.  However, if our trailer ends up have a predominately dark colour palette, this may cause the narrative graphics, if they were in this style, to blend in with the visual images.  We would not want this as the narrative graphics break up a trailer and feed the audience vital information about the core plot of the story.

We know that we want to keep the graphics clean and with bold colours. However, when we approach our final narrative graphics, we need to first consider the overall colour palette of our recorded footage that will allow us to make a judgement upon the backdrop.  

EJ