Connotation, Denotation and Signifiers [as well as preferred and oppositional reading] & a film example: Psycho (1960)

This lesson was all about, as said above, connotation, denotation and signifiers.

A connotation is - an implied of suggested idea (can also be a personal interpretation -        individual differences - and it could also mean what we are seeing).

e.g. rose → love OR rose → danger/passion [based on past memories of an individual]

However, a denotation is - an intended meaning evoked by the director for the audience (basic interpresation).

e.g. Knife → cutting vegetables/fruits etc

 ↓

Death [possible weapon] - in gloomy, dark

"mise-en-scene" so audience knows what is

coming - only if knife has had a close up

Preferred reading - when the producers'/directors' connotation are seen through the audience's eye's

Oppositional reading -  connotations producer did not intend to make

e.g. McDonald's advert:  

Preferred Reading.: "I want one of those"

Oppositional reading.: "It looks fatty and unhealthy"

______________________________

Psycho (1960)

  
SIGNIFIERS:

1. The money in the enveloppe [great amount to fill enveloppe? Stolen money?]

2. Guilty about the money [second thoughts?]

3. Leaving with money [escape from problem?]

4. Villain wants money, tried to get it [character now in danger?]

5. Shower is an isolated place, no escape?

- The derelict house on the hill → pathetic fallacy [bad environment-bad event to come]

- Music is repetitive until murder [change in rhythm and speed]