Movie Posters: From Simple Promotion to Art Form

Movie posters have changed over the years from simple advertising tools to true works of art. They not only show films but also provide an impression of their time’s social and political changes.

The Early Years of Movie Posters

The first movie posters appeared around 1900 when the film industry emerged. These were often simple and text-based. As films became more popular, posters began to reflect the norms and values ​​of their time, such as traditional gender roles and styles.

Movie posters in the World Wars

Movie posters were used as propaganda during the First and Second World Wars. They displayed patriotic images and national symbols to gain support for the war. An example of this is the poster of Casablanca (1942), which both promoted a romantic drama and supported the Allied cause.

Cold War and Ideology

In the Cold War, movie posters reflected the tensions between the East and West. In the West, science fiction posters, such as the one from Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), the fear of communism. In the East, posters emphasised socialist ideals.

1960s and 1970s: Change and Rebellion

The 1960s and 1970s were dominated by social revolutions such as feminism, civil rights and anti-war movements. Movie posters from this era, such as Easy Rider (1969), used bright colours and creative designs to symbolise the counterculture.

Globalisation and Diversity

Due to globalisation, movie posters have become more diverse. They combine styles from different cultures, such as Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon (2000) posters, which show both Eastern and Western influences.

Technological Developments

The first posters were drawn by hand, but technological innovations such as offset printing and digital techniques made complex designs and mass production possible.

The Future: Digital Revolution and NFTs

Digital movie posters now include animations and interactive elements. With the rise of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), digital posters are traded as unique collectables.

Iconic Examples

• Jaws (1975): The poster with a large shark symbolised fear of the unknown and environmental problems.
• The Silence of the Lambs (1991): The butterfly with a skull on the poster referred to themes such as silence and oppression.

Conclusion

Movie posters have always done more than just promote movies; they provide an image of society and the spirit of the times. They will continue to play an essential role in the future as a reflection of cultural and social changes.

Check out Studio Boronski’s collection for more inspiring movie posters!