Film - Jungle Book Trailer Analysis

 


The media language of the Jungle Book (2016) trailer is very effective in intriguing the audience to watch the film. The trailer begins with the non-diegetic voiceover of the snake (Scarlett Johansson) talking to Mowgli. Her sinister, soothing and deceitful tone of voice causes the audience to feel uneasy, especially when she is shown to be talking to Mowgli with low-key lighting. The use of lighting indicates that she has negative intentions and can create a sense of dread for the character. The actress Scarlett Johansson is very well known for other action films and therefore her fans (teenagers and young adults most likely) will also want to see the Jungle Book. As well as this, King Louie is portrayed by Christopher Walken who has been in many old films and therefore will be able to invite his adult fans to the Jungle Book. At 0:29, a low angle-shot of the tiger is used to convey him as sinister. It is clear this is the antagonist of the story as he presents himself as aggressive which creates the threat of conflict. Similarly, at 1:09, a low-angle shot is used to convey the snake's character as powerful and threatening, which can show she is convincing to her victims. This shot only lasts for 2 seconds therefore the audience do not know what happens after. The use of fast editing also makes the trailer more exciting as it conveys lots of action. This conveys that Mowgli is often in danger which can build tension and mystery for the audience. The audience may also feel fear for Mowgli, especially in moments such as the one at 0:50, where a panning shot follows Mowgli as he discovers King Louie. This causes the audience to feel like they are also on this adventure, and can relate to emotions that the protagonist feels. This is enhanced by the verisimilitude of the set; the jungle appears real to the audience and therefore they are more likely to feel scared while watching. 

At 1:06 of the trailer, Mowgli is being chased by the antagonist and as a result jumps off of an edge, A quick fade to black transition is used which creates the effect of the unknown. Not only does Mowgli not know where he will go next, but also the audience don't know what is going to happen. This intrigues them to watch the film as the tension is left unresolved.
Towards the end of the trailer, the title of 'The Jungle Book' is shown to the audience. The use of serif font creates the effect that it is still the traditional story, especially as the old cartoon and book used this font. After this, there is an intertextual link to the 1967 cartoon as Mowgli and the bear are shown together in a positive light. This highlights to the audience that it is still the same story, despite the increased tension. Although the cartoon's target audience was strictly young children, the 2016 adaptation seems to exclude this group through its scary nature. Therefore, it is more aimed towards people who had watched the cartoon as a child and want to see the remake as it is a sentimental story.