Y9 MEDIA STUDIES KINGSBURY HIGH SCHOOL 09/3/18

Title: ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ Textual Analysis TaskObjective: to analyse a film sequence discussing its visual codes and representations

1

DenotationThe establishing shot of a Mercedes Benz pulling up outside Runway headquarters…

Connotation…shows how upper class the metropolitan city of New York is. It seems that it is a place where serious business happens.EffectThe representation of upper class working culture is highlighted by the mise-en-scene in this shot.

2

DenotationA medium two-shot featuring Nigel scanning the desk and Emily doing her make-up in a mirror.ConnotationThis highlights how important fashion and appearances are to this culture. Emily is making sure that she looks perfect for her boss’s arrival.EffectThe stereotypical attitude towards female representation is reinforced by this shot, where beauty and appearance is prioritised over character.

3

DenotationA medium close-up of Andy checking her breath with Runaway offices in the background.ConnotationAndy is shown as naïve and unaware of how stressful this working environment is. She seems relaxed and then suddenly self-conscious when she realises she has bad breadth.EffectThis shot showcases the clash of cultures. She is used to a different working environment, finding the intensity of the metropolitan context overwhelming.

DenotationThe close up of Miranda’s high-heeled red stiletto as she steps onto the pavement out of the parked Mercedes.Connotation

Y9 MEDIA STUDIES KINGSBURY HIGH SCHOOL 09/3/18

4

The high heels are an example of ‘power dressing’ where strong woman will use their clothing to emphasise their cultural influence. Miranda Priestley dresses like a CEO on a mission here.EffectThis subverts typical gender representation where women are treated as housewives rather than empowered businesswomen.

5

6

DenotationThe tracking shot featuring Miranda’s body, handbag and Runway magazine folder outside of work headquarters.ConnotationThis shot is enigmatic because we haven’t seen Miranda’s head. First her shoes and now her coat and handbag.EffectSuspense and anticipation is built up by this shot. The representation of class is reinforced by the build-up before revealing her face.DenotationThe close-up of a Runway colleague changing her crocks and putting on high-heeled shoes…

Connotation…illustrates the high business expectations on appearance within the fashion industry. She wants to wear comfortable shoes when the boss (Miranda) is away and quickly puts on high heels when an announcement is made about her arrival. EffectThis shows how attitudes towards class motivate the industry. High society standards are expected from colleagues and Miranda has a zero tolerance attitude towards any errors or standards that don’t fully represent the Runway brand.DenotationThe direct address medium close-up of the elevator doors opening to reveal Miranda in sunglasses with her head held high.ConnotationAfter the anticipation of her ‘big reveal’, this introduction reinforces her as the most powerful and influential character in the narrative.

Y9 MEDIA STUDIES KINGSBURY HIGH SCHOOL 09/3/18

7 EffectThis reinforces an empowered representation of women, albeit a white woman.

8

DenotationThe tracking medium shot of Emily running through Runway corridors to catch up with Miranda.ConnotationEmily is younger than Miranda and runs after her every whim for fear of losing her job. EffectThis highlights the power dynamic shown by age gaps.

9

DenotationThe tracking medium two-shot of Miranda and Emily discussing tasks set in the workplace.ConnotationThis shot shows how work in Runway is always ‘on the move’.

EffectThe representation of class is highlighted by a strong work ethic.

Denotation sentence starters

The establishing shot of…The long shot of…The medium shot of…The close up of…The tracking shot of…The Steadicam shot of…The over-the-shoulder shot of…The designer label clothing of…The interior décor of Runway…Miranda steps out of the car…Two pairs of shoes…Bright fluorescent lighting…The elevator…

Connotations – symbolises, shows, signifies, illustrates, depicts, represents, highlights, reinforces, suggests…

Key characters in this sequence – Miranda and Andy

Y9 MEDIA STUDIES KINGSBURY HIGH SCHOOL 09/3/18

- Emily and NigelEffect - The effect on the spectator is… The producer’s intention is… The purpose of this shot is to…