Media Theory

One media theory that will clearly be in our film opening is cultivation theory. Cultivation theory in media is gradually shapes viewers' perceptions of social reality to align with the media's portrayals, creating a shared "mainstream" worldview, like heavy TV viewers believing the world is more violent. 

We use Cultivation Theory in the very beginning of our movie when we contrast a typical life of a teenager and something much more frightening and hidden. In the beginning part, the audience is introduced to some more familiar and recognizable and teen film settings such as cheer practice and basketball practice that are usually perceived as the typical high school life. These scenes are a continuation of what the viewers already know of in teen dramas and sports movies and routine is reinforced. By starting the opening in the such a way, we create the belief that the characters are ordinary teenagers among millions of others. 

Cultivation Theory is also supported by the very mysterious look exchanged between the cheerleader and the basketball player. Though it is not a romantic moment, it leaves a feeling of tension and curiosity, and makes the audience assume that there is something deeper or a secret between them. Media usually triggers viewers to believe that characters that exchange a glance of some sort are somehow related in some manner and we exploit this fact to get the audience to watch.

Overall, our film introduction uses Cultivation Theory to shape the way viewers see the details of the teenage life fusing what can be seen as natural with the elements that cannot be anticipated. This mixture causes the viewer to question appearances and believe that what might be viewed as normal at the surface might be a more truth behind it.