Symbolic Code

This code is probably the most accurate to our own music video narrative. The symbolic code is about conflict between opposing forces. The way the narrative is normally set out represents the binary oppositions. Normally a conflict between a good side and bad side. In different types of media such as film or music videos we get this impression through different elements. For example, a slow, serious soundtrack for the bad guy, in contrast with a faster paced, high key soundtrack for a goodie. People often will recognise the different opposing forces in the narrative, for example, when they see a monster in a horror film. The audience will often believe it represents the antagonist. This can even be done with other elements such as lighting, for example, having the antagonist in dark lit location to represent being the bad guy. Apposed to having the protagonist in well lit locations, to connote the good side, being in the "spotlight".

 This screenshot if of the original Dracula, in a dark lit area, accompanied with a low key soundtrack it can create an effective image that this character should be viewed as the antagonist. This is contrast to opposing force.

This is the image of the protagonist, Van Helsing. Here we can see he is in a well lit area, which is out on the open during the day. This creates an image which looks less threatening and suggests he is the good guy. Again this sequence could be accompanied with a heroic style soundtrack which will create the representation of the good side.

When comparing these images we can see how films, music videos and many other types of media represent different opposing forces. it helps with the flow and detail of then narrative and makes things a lot more interesting.