Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 2 and how it made it's money -

See link below -
https://soundcloud.com/leatherland/harry-potter-and-the-deathly

The Raid:Redemption -

'The Raid:Redemption' is a 2011 Indonesian martial arts film which was written and directed by Gareth Evans and stars Indonesian actor Iko Uswais. The story is of a S.W.A.T. team, who become trapped in a tenement run by a ruthless mobster and his army of killers and thugs.

Budget -
The film had a low budget of only $1.1 million.

Box Office -
The film made $4,105,187 in the USA and $15 million globally.

Release Date -
This film had three different release dates. The first time it was released was in September 2011 at the Toronto National Film Festival. It was then released in January 2012 at the Sun-dance Film Festival  in Utah. The film was then released for the third and final time in March 2012, where it appeared in cinema's in both the USA and In Indonesia.

Critical Reception -
Reviews have been highly positive; based on 104 reviews collected by Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 84% fresh rating, and an average score of 7.6/10. The website reported the critical consensus as "No frills and all thrills," and labelled the film as an "inventive action film expertly paced and edited for maximum entertainment"  However, US critic Roger Ebert gave the film a single star out of four; he criticised the lack of character depth, and stated that "the Welsh director, Gareth Evans, knows there's a fan-boy audience for his formula, in which special effects amp up the mayhem in senseless carnage"

Comic Book Superheroes -

Batman -

History -
Batman is a fictional comic book character created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane.The character was first introduced into the comic book world in 1939.

Publisher -
Since it was started, the character has appeared in DC comic books.


Films -
Batman is THE most popular superhero and has appeared in many different films. The character made his debut on the big screen in 1966 when Adam West (the first ever batman) took to the stage. After a long wait, a new version of batman was released. 1989 was the year when Director Tim Burton decided to put his own spin on the character. Michael Keaton played the role of the caped crusader for Burton's second Batman film which was released in 1992. 3 Years later, in 1995 a different director and a different Batman took the role. Joel Schumacher directed the film which saw Val Kilmer make his first and last batman appearance. In 1997 Schumacher directed his second film, this time getting George Clooney to wear the famous suit. This was the last Batman film for a whopping 8 years. However, in 2005 Batman was to be re-branded as the dark, viscous character he was supposed to be. 2005 was the year that Batman officially became 'cool' again, thanks to Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale.  'Batman Begins' was Bales first film, which told the story of how the famous character came into being and featured a villain never seen before in a batman film, the notorious Ra's Al-Ghul. 3 years later, in 2008 Nolan and Bale were back for a sequel as their first film together had sparked huge success. 'The Dark Knight' featured Batman's number 1 enemy, the Joker. 4 Years later and Nolan's and Bale's time in Gotham was up. After 2 hugely successful films they released their final part of the trilogy. in 2012 'The Dark Knight Rises' was released to cinema's, this film featured the likes of Bane and Cat-woman. There are plans to make even more Batman films, the next time we see the character back on the big screen will be in 2015, where we will see Superman and Batman team up in the sequel 'Man of Steel 2' It has been confirmed Ben Affleck will play the role and the film will be directed by Zach Snyder. It has also been rumored that Batman will feature in the 2016 film 'Justice league' which may also be directed by Snyder.

Other Media -
As Batman is the most successful Comic book character/superhero ever created, the character has featured in many different aspects of media, including cartoon and television series. The character has also been marketed into things such as action figures, t-shirts, board games, video games, posters,mugs, pillows and even duvets.


Iron Man -

History -
Iron Man is a fictional superhero who first appeared in Marvel comic books in 1963. Created by Stan Lee and Larry Lieber, Iron Mans first comic book appearance was an episode called 'Tales of Suspense' and was marvels 39th edition.

Publisher -
Marvel Comic Books.

Films -
The first Iron Man film to be released was in 2008, when A-list star Robert Downey Jr. took the role. Directed by John Favreau, the film was highly successful and made the character one of the most well known, most popular comic book hero's in today's society. This success led to a sequel in 2010, where both Favreau and Downey Jr returned. This film was highly successful and made approximately $623.9m. in 2012, Downey Jr featured in Josh Whedon's 'Avengers Assemble' where he once again played iron man. 1 year later and the third installment of the iron man film series was released. The third in the trilogy was released in spring 2013. This film did not feature the directions of John Favreau but Shane Black, who made his iron man directing debut. This film was even more successful than the first 2 films and made $1,214,713,994.

Other Media -
Like most well known superhero's, iron man has featured a lot in other forms of media. The most recognizable items would be action figures, comic books, cartoon series and even children's dressing up costumes.


Captain America -

History -
Captain America is a fictional comic book character who was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby. The character made his first comic book appearance in 'captain america comics' #1 which were published by marvel. Edition #1 was released in March 1941.

Publisher -
Marvel Comics

Films -
The first time Captain America burst onto the television screen was in the year of 1979. The  television film was directed by Rob Holcome and featured Reb Brown, the first man to wear the famous red, white and blue costume. This was followed by a sequel which was released later in the same year, however this was directed by one Ivan Nagy, and was substantially shorter than the prequel. That was to be the end of Captain America, until director Albert Pyun took charge of the character in 1990, when Captain America played by Matt Salinger made his first cinema appearance. 21 years later, Captain America was back. 'The first avenger' was released to cinema's in July 2011. Directed by Joe Johnston, and starring Chris Evans as the captain himself, this was the most successful Captain America film to date, making a total of $368,608,363.

Other Media -
Captain America has also featured in comic books and cartoon series, as well as making an appearance at Disney world Florida. Action figures and Children's costumes have also been made in the style of Captain America, as well as T-shirts and other fans memorabilia such as mugs, pillows and furniture etc.



The Flash -

History -
The Flash is a name shared by several comic book superheroes. Created by Gardner Fox and Harry Lampert, Flash first appeared in DC comic books in January 1940. 

Publisher -
DC Comics 

Films -
The Flash has not yet featured in a blockbuster film, which is unlike any other superhero. However, according to various websites and articles, The flash will appear in a movie which is rumored to be released to cinema's in 2016. 


Other Media -
Although the character has never appeared on the big screen, the idea was put onto television in 1990. 'The Flash' was a live action Television series which appeared on CBS and starred John Wesley Shipp as the flash as well as Amanda Pays. This series did not prove to be popular with audiences in America and so only lasted until 1991.  A version of the flash also appeared on the US show 'Smallville' although the character only made two appearances, the first in 2004, the second 2006.
It was announced on 30 July 2013 that American TV channel 'The CW' would be creating a TV series titled 'FLASH' and will feature American actor Grant Gustin as the flash himself. 
As The Flash is not one of the most well known superheroes, his image is not that popular with the buying public and so material objects such as T-shirts, mugs and other commercial products do not exist with the image of the flash. 



Green Lantern -

History -
Green lantern is the name of several superheroes from DC Comics.  The first green lantern, Alan Scott, was created by writer Bill Finger as well as artist Martin Nodell. The character first appeared in 'All-American Comics #16' in July 1940. 

Publisher -
DC Comics 

Films -
In June 2011, the green lantern made his first appearance on the cinema's big screen. Ryan Reynold's played the part of Hal Jordan who then becomes the green lantern. The film was directed by Martin Campbell, who famously directed 'Casino Royale' in 2006 as well as 'The Mask of Zorro' in 1998. However, the film did not prove to be as popular as first thought as it only made $219,851,172, which is just a mere total profit of $19,851,172. It also only received an average rating of 4.6 out of 10.

Other Media -
The green lantern has appeared in many different types of media since it was created in 1940, these include television animation series such as 'Justice League' and 'Super-friends' The Green lantern has also featured in many different video games including 'Justice League Heroes' and 'Batman The Brave And The Bold'



Thor -

History -
Thor is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 (Aug. 1962) and was created by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber and Jack Kirby.

Publisher -
Marvel Comics

Films -
The only Thor film to ever be released as a blockbuster starred Chris Hemsworth as the main role and was directed by Kenneth Branagh. The film 'THOR' was released to cinemas in spring 2011. The film was given a good reception and made $449,326,618. It also got Hemsworth the role of Thor again a year later, when the character featured in the 2012 movie 'Avengers Assemble.' A sequel to the 2011 film 'THOR' is scheduled to be released in October 2013 and will again see Hemsworth return to the role, it is rumored the film will be titled 'THOR: THE DARK WORLD' Thor will once again feature in the sequel to 'Avengers Assemble' as well. The second Avengers film is scheduled to be released in March 2015.


Other Media - 
The character of Thor has featured in many different aspects of media over the years, these include animated series as well as Film TV series 'The Incredible Hulk Returns' The role of Thor was given to American actor Eric Kramer. Thor has also appeared in many different superhero video games such as 'Marvel Superhero Squad' and 'Marvel Alliance 1 and 2'

Connotations and Denotations -

Apple -

Denotation -

A fruit which grows on tree's and is usually red and/or green in colour.

Connotation -

To the younger generation of people, the word 'apple', or the slick silver symbol connotes one thing and one thing only, technology. The brand has created many new and exciting modern pieces which the younger generation uses everyday e.g. the Iphone, the Ipad, the Ipod and the mac-book pro. However, this is not the case for everyone, as e.g. the older generation may not associate the word 'apple' with technology at all, as (stereo-typically) they do not use any of the items the brand has created, therefore they may still connote the word with the actual meaning. Another example would be people who live in quieter areas such as the countryside, as they are less likely to see the image of the apple or it's products advertised as often as people who live in more built up, urban areas, such as towns and cities, therefore their connotation of the word may be different again.

Citroen -

Denotation -

A major French car manufacturer.

Connotation -

The word 'Citroen' may mean different things to different people. To the older generation (people who are able to drive) 'Citroen' may mean something purely unique to them. Imagine that a driver had bought a Citroen, and it was the best car they had ever had e.g. cheap to run, comfortable, no problems etc. their connotation of 'Citroen' may be 'reliable' or 'comfort' However, the word may mean something completely different to a driver who may have had a bad experience of a Citroen e.g. uncomfortable, unreliable, not stylish.Their connotation would most likely be 'awful' 'basic' 'appalling' etc. The word may also have a different meaning to very young people, like children, who do not have an interest or understanding in cars. They may not even know what the word means or what it is associated to, but may recognise the symbol if e.g. their parents have a Citroen. To people from a wealthy background who have large amounts of money, they may connote Citroen with the words "bog standard" and "cheap" as they are most likely used to driving more high quality, up-market, stylish cars such as Porches and Ferrari's etc.

Male -

Denotation -

The sex that produces small, typically motile gametes, with which a female may be fertilized

Connotation -

The word 'male' may mean different things to different people, although unlike other words, it does not have a hidden meaning, as everybody on the planet can recognise a male as a male, and a female as a female. However although everybody can tell who is a male and who is not, the word has specific, personal meanings to different people, for example, to an existing parent, the word may mean 'son'. However children may connote the word to their father and so to them the word 'male' will most likely be recognised as 'dad' or 'daddy'. To the women of the world, the word is most likely interpreted as 'husband', 'boyfriend' or 'partner'. Males may connote the word with either themselves, 'friends' or 'mates'.

McDonald's -

Denotation -

The worlds largest chain of fast food restaurants.

Connotation -

To the younger children of the world, the name McDonald's or the huge yellow 'M' may be associated with the words 'treat' or 'surprise' as usually parents only take their children to fast food restaurant's once every blue moon, maybe after a cinema trip. Therefore, to young children, the thought of tucking into a delicious batch of chicken nuggets and getting their hands on a brand new Happy Meal toy is extremely exciting. However, all words, names and symbols change depending on the person, so, to an older child e.g. a teenager, the name 'McDonald's' may be recognised as a 'social' meeting place, somewhere to see friends, as well as eat quick and easy food. To someone of the older generation, the name McDonald's may send shivers down their spine as they may connote the word to 'noise' or 'disruption' as they may have had a bad experience of the restaurant.

No Entry -

Denotation -

To keep out of a particular area which may be private or dangerous etc.

Connotation -

To most people this red and white circular sign is very recognisable, as it is used in many places including on the roads and in places people should not enter. Due to it's red colouring it tends to connote 'danger' or 'warning.' However, young children who may not recognise the sign may connote it with the words 'circle' or 'red and white' as this is what catches the eye.

Rolling Stones -

Denotation -

The body opening through which an animal intakes food and water.

Connotation -

To many people this distinctive red and white 'open mouth' is a symbol of classic rock music, as it is the sign of English rock band the Rolling Stones. To people who grew up in this era who listened to their music may connote the symbol with the words 'youth', 'party', 'concerts' or maybe even the era when it was most recognisable - 'the 70's'. However, to people who may not have enjoyed the stones' music, the symbol may be connoted as 'noise' or 'terrible' However, to people who have never heard of the stones or do not take an interest in classic rock music, the sign may just appear to be exactly what it is - a brightly coloured, cartoon style mouth.

Olympic Rings -

Denotation -

A number of sporting events which take place in different countries around the world every 4 years.

Connotation -

To people who follow sport, this symbol is extremely recognisable and will mean one thing, and one thing only, the Olympics. These specific people may see this symbol and think of connotations such as 'sport' 'pride' or 'gold medal' they may also pick out a connotation of their favorite event at the Olympics, such as 'long jump' However, to people who are not interested in sport, they may see this symbol and connote words such as 'circular' or 'colourful' as this is what they see.

Union Jack/Great British Flag -

Denotation -

The national flag of Great Britain 

Connotation -

To people from the UK, this flag may be referred to with powerful connotations such as 'pride','homeland' or 'patriotic'.These words are commonly used when people from that specific country or nation see their flag waving high in the sky, as they are proud of what it means to them. Also, it may give them a feeling of being 'united' as it brings together millions of people from that nation. However, to people from a different country or even continent, it may connote things such as 'elegant' or 'riches' as it may be associated with Buckingham palace, as the union jack flies above it's roof. It may also be connoted as 'bright' or even 'red, white and blue' as these are the colours used within the flag. 

The Star Of David -

Denotation -

The religious symbol for Judaism. 

Connotation -

To the Jewish community, this is a sign of religion and may be connoted with the words 'peace' and 'hope', just as the cross is to Christians. To a Jew, this symbol may also be connoted with words such as 'Synagogue' or 'Bar Mitzvah' as these are some of the main parts of being a Jew. However, it may also be connoted with the words 'death' 'mass murder' and 'holocaust' as this was the sign Jewish people were made to wear during Hitlers Nazi revolution in the second world war. To people who have no association with the religion or any religion at all, the symbol may connote 'star' or 'triangles.'

The Business - Film Making

Scene 1, the Idea –

Inspiration is all around us. It can be found in newspapers, books, plays, films and even in a normal conversation. Films which are based on real life events such as ‘calendar girls’ show that they can capture the imaginations of audiences. Film makers are always on the lookout for true stories which can be filmed. Ideas for films can also come from adaptations as well as completely new and original ideas. Most adaptations come from successful books and so make successful films, as the book has already generated lots of publicity it can virtually guarantee that the film will make a return on the investment. Many great films can also come from original ideas; these can sometimes be the most valuable in the film business. A moment of inspiration may come from a chance conversation or even a dream. However, protecting these ideas are crucial. Most producers often take out omissions insurance which help cover them if sued for e.g. copyright etc.

The person who makes the idea into reality is the producer. The producer needs to be sure that the idea will be a hit on the big screen and will make money. After they have identified that the idea will sell, they develop the project by getting it made and released. To make the film creative and look good on the big screen a director is needed. The director and producer work together to develop the idea further, if the director is well known, audiences re likely to flock and watch the film. The producer then needs to get a writer on board; the writer defines each idea, the plot and the characters. The producer, director and writer are the 3 most creative in the film business. The writer then writes a treatment, this is a one page description of the main story and the characters of the film.  The idea then has to be pitched to financiers in order to make a script.

Examples -

UK: Harry Potter book series, remade into a film franchise.
US: Batman, originally a comic book character, remade into a number of blockbuster films.

Scene 2, Development Finance –

First, a producer approaches a film production company for the development money. The producer can offer sales and broadcaster rights to the film in return for money, and then they can develop the script further. The producer can also apply for further funding from a UK film council; the film council will usually give the producer a development grant.

Examples –
UK: The Lord of the Rings, British book remade into a film trilogy.
US: Spider-man, a comic book character remade into a number of films. 

Scene 3, Script Development –

The writer creates a synopsis. This includes choosing where or not to include key scenes and events. After this stage, many writers create a step by step outline of the script. The writer pays the delivery of the script to the producer. If the producers are happy with the drafted script which has been produced it is sent to the financiers who may add their own ideas to the script. Once everybody is happy with it, the script is ‘locked off’ and so it becomes ‘unchangeable,’ the writer is then paid. The final stage of the script development is the process of the sales treatment.

Examples –
UK: Skyfall, British made Jams Bond film.
US: Pacific Rim, American sci-fi film. 

Scene 4, Packaging –

The Producer and the director must now package the script into a proposition in reading for budgets and financing. The most popular way to make the project more commercialised is to include well- known actors (A list stars) in the film, then, successful heads of departments carry out deals with financiers. The film must then be broken down appropriately for a business proposition; the producers will want to know the cost of how much the film is. Investors always want to know how the producer plans to raise the money; this will then allow the producer to plan how to pay the investors back. The producer then ‘packages’ the film into a visible proposition. They will now need to find out the views of others.

Examples –
UK: The Hobbit, British film, adaptation of R.J.Tolken’s novel.
US: The avengers, originally a group of comic book characters, remade or adapted into a blockbuster film. 

Scene 5, Financing –

Financiers can be found anywhere on the planet and the producer must travel anywhere to ensure the film has an investment. Private individuals, production companies and public bodies invest in the film, the producer’s lawyer must create contracts to complete the deal. The producer can then raise money by creating ‘pre-sales’ selling the rights to films before I has even been made. Departments of banks that specialise in the film industry can offer loans or invest in the project although most investors insist that completion bond is in place as insurance from the production. Once all the funding is in place the film can get the ‘green light.’

Examples –
UK: Slum-dog Millionaire, British film, directed by Englishman Danny Boyle.
US: E.T, American film, directed by Steven Spielberg. 

Scene 6, Pre Production-

Once all the heads of departments are hired, the shooting script is sent round and pre-production begins. The casting director and producer identifies and casts the actors. Next, storyboards are created, they show where every shot of the film is planned in advance with the director. The production designer plans all aspects of how the film will be set, professionals are then hired to create each part, however, effects shots are planned months before normal shots because they take a longer amount of time to create. The first AD, the line producer and the production manager make up the key logistic triangle of production.

Examples -
UK: Trainspotting.
US: Titanic.

Scene 7, the shoot –

The first day of principle photography is the key moment in production, shooting begins and funding is released. The camera department must ensure that all the footage is shown  so that the director and editor can tell the story properly. Once the hair and make-up has been checked and sound and lighting is in place, shooting can begin. During filming actors must create an atmosphere and draw the audience in. Special effects must be filmed carefully in case of any film injuries, film productions are run precisely if they fall behind schedule financiers and insures step ins.

Examples –
UK: Shaun of the dead, British comedy adaptation of ‘dawn of the dead’
US: Iron man, adaptation of the famous comic book character.

 Scene 8, Post Production –

As the footage begins to take place the editor assembles it into a narrative scene, once the picture is locked and no changes can be made, the sound department works on the audio track and edits the sound. Digital effects are added by effects and titles are added in a composing suite, the final stage of the picture edit is to adjust colour and make the film interesting for the viewers. After the final film is complete it reaches the ‘full lock’ stage, now it is ready for duplication.

Examples –
UK: The Kings Speech
US: Star Wars

Scene 9, Sales –

To ensure that the producer’s film can be sold to distributors, the producer secures a sales agent that specialised in film sales. To help the film sell, a trailer is made, this will show the films target audience a ‘sneak peak’ of the film.  The producer and the sales agent gather together the key details in order to sell the film. The producer must make sure that the film is interesting and unique so it will attract the attention for the product. Screenings at top film festivals can also be a good way to create an atmosphere and allow viewers to see the stars and become attached to the film. If the film gets a good response the producer can negotiate a deal with the distributors around the world.

Examples –
UK: Les Miserables, British film, adaptation of the famous play.
US: The Wolverine, adaptation of the comic book character. 

Scene 10, Marketing –

To help make sure that the film sells to distributors, the producer secures the services of a sales agent who specialises in films. The film is then shown at screenings to see the audience’s response. The audiences are targeted by potters and other films in addition to promoting the film television and radio can help create and positive word of mouth about the film. Digital media enables the audience to discover details about the film and also ensures that the film is marketed well. Distributors will negotiate a deal with the cinemas to screen it.

Examples -
UK: Alien
US: Star Trek, into the darkness. Adaptation of the TV series.

Scene 11, Exhibition –

A premiere is uses to launch the film, covered by the media. Distributors supply exhibitors with prints of the film. The more screens, the more prints are needed. Exhibitors take their share of the box office receipts; distributors’ will recoup their marketing costs, and once they have been paid financiers can recover their investments. Also, hospitality sales can bring in millions of extra revenue. People spend money on DVD’s, cinema tickets as well as television, which brings in additional revenue as the rights are sold separately. Rights to computer games and other product licenses can be other sources of revenue. Once the film has made a profit people can be rewarded. The final stage is unknown, as distribution continues.  

Examples -
UK: Alan partridge, alpha papa. Adaptation of the original TV series.
US: The Lone ranger

5X5

5 Bands - 

Oasis - In my opinion one of the greatest bands to grace the musical stage. Just normal young lads who started out with nothing and transformed themselves into one of the biggest bands in the world. 

Arctic Monkeys - undoubtedly one of the best bands out at this current moment in time. They have an original style and use creative and effective lyrics. I also like the way every song is sung in a Sheffield accent. 

Kasabian -  Brilliant. Have written and performed some great songs over the years. 

The Stone Roses - Pure Class. 

The Smiths - Another one of the greats. Influential front man. Have inspired many musicians.

 5 songs - 

Arctic Monkey's; Dancing Shoes

Miles Kane; Don't Forget Who You Are

Kasabian; Fast Fuse

Oasis; Morning Glory

  

Ian Brown; F.E.A.R

 5 films - 

Harry potter and the goblet of fire - I enjoyed the Harry Potter film series, however this is my pick of the bunch because it is action packed and features many different challenges in which Harry has to face. It also features new characters and is the turning point for the films, as Voldemort regains his power so now the films become more serious. 

The Shawshank redemption - Anything with Morgan Freeman in is more a less always a good film. the best part is when Dufresne escapes after being wrongly imprisoned for 20 odd years then escapes through a tunnel he had made over that time. 

Step brothers - Will Ferrell is one of the funniest actors out there, but add in John C. Rieley and together they make a hilarious film!

Avatar - the idea of the film is brilliant. The alien world looks amazing and if it existed i would try to buy a house there. After watching the film i wished i could be an Avatar!

Forrest Gump - "slow burning" film. You experience his life and see everything he goes through, by the end of it you feel as if he is a real person. 

5 Books -

The very hungry catterpilla - the first book i ever read

The cat in the hat - like doctor Seuss books, but this one for me is the best. I also like how the whole book is written so that it rhymes.

Charlie and the chocolate factory - Enjoyed reading Rhoal Dahl books when i was younger but this one was my favourite.

We're going on a bear hunt - one of the first books i ever read.

The BFG - another Rhoal Dahl book, a magical story and an enjoyable read. 

5 TV Programmes - 

Soccer AM - football themed breakfast show, funny sketches. As a football fan i am bound to enjoy it. 

The Inbetweeners - one of the funniest series ever created, never met a person who dislikes it.

Top Boy - "gritty" British drama about the life of drug dealers and gangsters on an estate in London. 

Max & Paddy's Road to Nowhere - Peter Kay is a genius! Every episode makes me laugh. 

Russell Howard's Good News - Think Russell Howard is one of the best comedians out at the minute, enjoy his take on the current news. 

Film Analysis -

The Hobbit -
The film i most recently watched at the cinema was "The Hobbit." I wanted to go and see this film because i have seen the entire "lord of the rings" trilogy and wanted to see what took place before that story had even begun. Also, I enjoy "magical" or "fantasy" types of films as i think it takes a large amount of skill for the actors to play characters which have previously only been created through the thoughts and imagination of people whilst reading the books. It also takes a large amount of skill for the directors to make fantasy worlds look real on the big screen. I enjoyed the film as there is lots of adventure, also, it is left on a cliffhanger, which makes me want to go back to the cinema and watch the next film in the series.