Total Recall is a very stereotypical representation of a Sci-fi movie, it adheres to the majority of the genres codes and conventions such as being set in the future, the inclusion of futuristic technology and complex ideas such as a machine that can implant fake memories, creatures, monsters, aliens and mutated humans, space travel, different planets and an apocalyptic theme. The misé en scene as well is very typical with its use of simple robes, vibrant exaggerated colour design, the use of make up and monster masks, all of which are unmistakably Sci-fi orientated. The use of simple cuts and techniques such as jump cuts, panning shots and zooms works to great effect as this simplicity always appears to highlight the main subject(s) on screen, similar to the rule of thirds. This technique is often used in Sci-fi movies. The sound effects used are also very Sci-fi in the method they are presented.
Total Recall (1990) - Watch 50s from Watch 50s on Vimeo.
The movie is set on both earth and mars, both have futuristic set designs, emphasised by the warm colour schemes. While on mars the contrast is clear as there appears to be also an apocalyptic theme, often used in the Sci-fi genre. The opening of this movie shows the warm colour scheme of mars, with the stereotypical space suit concept, as shown above.
The video above shows a scene in which various cuts and panning shots are used, while all the subjects remain centered in the cameras line of perception. The futurist technology is also presented to the audience here in the X-ray machine which highlights objects of danger. We hope that the inclusion of our drug that we may be able to convey a futuristic nature or at-least a slight advancement in technology with it in our movie, we wish to also include the implantation of memories into a subject, similar to Inception.
The film has a designated targeted audience of 15 and above, the use of famous actors such as Arnold Schwarzenegger is also used to attract an audience, the alluring factors of this film is that it was based of a book, fans of the book will be more inclined to watch this movie as a result, the use of a unique plot and futuristic setting as well as the apocalyptic themed mars. Typical of the Sci-fi genre. Post production was also a large factor in attracting an audience similar to the other films I've analysed, the huge sums of money spent in advertisments would have attracted more people.
Total Recall was distributed by TriStar Pictures, a subsidiary of Columbia Pictures, a well renowned company, this means there is a greater likelihood of the film reaching a larger audience.
Groups such as drug attics, upper class, middle class, businessmen military and aliens are represented in this film, they are used to portray certain elements of the film and at times retain a stereotypical view of certain social groups i.e. businessmen being greedy etc. The audience expects to see an action Sci-fi movie with futuristic elements and a clear link to the book in which it is derived from.
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