Analysis of Genre- 12 years a slave (2013)

There are many examples of visual imagery used in this trailer. For example, the props used on screen help to convey the setting and plot of the story. The use of weapons such as whips, along with repeated references to beatings, immediately indicated that the plot of the story is based around the slave trade. Furthermore, this is supported by the multiple settings shown in the trailer, including clips of a cramped vessel and a large but remote Gregorian home which are also connotations of the slave trade era in America.

There are various shot types used in this trailer in order to convey various emotions and messages. For example, multiple close-up shots are used to convey the emotions of the characters. This is an effective device as by focusing on the eyes, it allows the audience to establish a connection with the characters and allow them to show an element of empathy for the character.

Furthermore, the technical code of music is used very effectively in this trailer. As the trailer begins, the music is very calm slow paced to present that the setting and emotions of the scene are very relaxed without suspense. However, as the plot continues, the music begins to quicken to show an heightening of emotions and a build of suspense. This is shown firstly in the opening scene, where the main character Solomon is having a conversation with who seems to be his boss, where it then proceeds to tell you briefly of his life and family. When suddenly, as he begins to describe how he ended up becoming a slave, both the pitch and tempo of the music pick-up to show both the change in his situation and his emotions.

The generic narrative structure if a beginning, middle and end is used in this trailer. This is shown when, at the beginning, we witness Solomon's life prior to his kidnapping. Then, as the middle part of the structure, we see elements of his struggle once incorporated into the slave trade. And finally, we are left in suspense when we hear his statement implying that he will find a way to get himself out of slavery.

In relation to narrative codes, binary oppositions are also used to sway the audience into making moral judgements. For example, the typical oppositions of 'good vs evil' and 'right vs wrong'. The audience will immediately recognise the slave owners as the 'bad guys' and the slaves as the victims, which will help to emphasise the moral disgust the audience should have against the slave owners as well as encouraging the empathy that they should feel for the slaves themselves.

Both narrative codes of flashbacks and flash forwards are used to jump backwards and forwards in the characters life. This is effective as it provides the audience with a quick but relevant insight as to what has happened previously and what will happen as the story progresses. This provides a hook for the audience to become attached to, reeling them in for more. Therefore, they will be more intrigued in the movie itself.

In conclusion, 12 Years a Slave includes a variety of technical codes, narrative codes and generic codes in order to entice their audience and have them become a part of the character through empathy and rage for those who put them in harm.