The most common name for a movie poster is, quite simply, a movie poster. However, depending on the context, size, and historical period, these iconic pieces of cinematic advertising can also be referred to as one-sheets, lobby cards, window cards, or even advance posters.
A Visual History of Cinematic Promotion
From the earliest days of cinema, film studios have sought creative ways to entice audiences into theaters. The movie poster, in its various forms, quickly became a cornerstone of that effort. It’s more than just an advertisement; it’s a piece of art, a cultural artifact, and a collectible item. Its evolution mirrors the evolution of cinema itself, reflecting changes in technology, artistic styles, and marketing strategies. To truly understand what a movie poster is called, we must delve into its diverse history and nomenclature.
Early Origins: From Handbills to Lithographs
Before the widespread use of photography in poster design, early movie advertisements were often simple handbills or small window cards, relying heavily on text to convey information about the film, its stars, and showtimes. As printing technology advanced, particularly with the development of lithography, posters became larger, more colorful, and more visually appealing. This period saw the rise of artistic posters, often designed by talented illustrators who captured the essence of the film in striking imagery.
The Golden Age of the One-Sheet
The one-sheet format, typically measuring around 27 x 41 inches (though this size has varied over the years), emerged as the dominant form of movie poster. This size provided ample space for showcasing artwork, title information, and cast credits. The “golden age” of the one-sheet, spanning roughly from the 1930s to the 1970s, produced some of the most iconic and sought-after movie posters in history. During this period, posters were often printed in multiple sections and assembled, leading to variations in folding and condition that impact their value today.
Beyond the One-Sheet: Other Poster Formats
While the one-sheet remains the most recognizable format, other poster types played a crucial role in movie promotion:
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Lobby Cards: Smaller than one-sheets, typically 11 x 14 inches, lobby cards were displayed in the theater lobby to further entice moviegoers. Often sold in sets featuring different scenes from the film, they provide valuable visual context.
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Window Cards: Similar in size to lobby cards but designed for storefront windows or other public spaces, window cards often included a blank space for exhibitors to add local showtime information.
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Advance Posters: Released well in advance of the film’s premiere, advance posters aimed to generate buzz and anticipation. These often featured minimalist designs, focusing on the title and release date rather than specific imagery from the film.
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International Posters: Different countries often commissioned their own poster designs, leading to fascinating variations in artwork and typography. These international posters can be highly collectible.
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Teaser Posters: Similar to advance posters, teaser posters are released early and often feature intriguing, incomplete imagery designed to pique the audience’s curiosity.
The Art and Science of Movie Poster Design
Creating a successful movie poster involves a delicate balance of art and marketing. The poster must capture the essence of the film, appeal to its target audience, and effectively communicate its message. Factors like color palette, typography, and imagery all play a crucial role in creating a memorable and impactful visual.
The Rise of Photoshop and Digital Art
The advent of digital art and Photoshop has revolutionized movie poster design. While traditional illustration still has its place, digital tools have allowed artists to create increasingly complex and visually stunning posters, often incorporating photographic elements and special effects. However, some collectors lament the loss of hand-painted artwork and the unique aesthetic of earlier posters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Movie Posters
Here are some frequently asked questions about movie posters, exploring their history, value, and more.
FAQ 1: What is a “teaser poster” and how does it differ from a regular movie poster?
A teaser poster is a type of advance poster released early in the marketing campaign to generate excitement. They often feature a minimalist design, a key image, or a tagline that hints at the film’s plot without revealing too much. Regular movie posters typically feature more comprehensive artwork and information, including cast credits and release dates.
FAQ 2: What are the standard sizes for movie posters?
While sizes can vary, some common movie poster sizes include: One-Sheet (27 x 41 inches), Half-Sheet (22 x 28 inches), Three-Sheet (41 x 81 inches), Six-Sheet (81 x 81 inches), 24-Sheet (104 x 234 inches), Window Card (14 x 22 inches), and Lobby Card (11 x 14 inches). Note that older posters may deviate slightly from these dimensions.
FAQ 3: How can I tell if a movie poster is original or a reprint?
Identifying an original poster requires careful examination. Key indicators include the National Screen Service (NSS) number (often printed in the lower corner), the printing method (lithography vs. digital printing), the paper stock, and the overall condition. Reprints often lack the NSS number, are printed on different paper, or have a lower print quality. Consulting a reputable poster dealer is always recommended.
FAQ 4: What is the National Screen Service (NSS) and what role did it play in movie poster distribution?
The National Screen Service (NSS) was a central distribution network for movie posters and other advertising materials in the United States from the 1930s to the 1980s. The NSS printed a unique number on each poster, which helped theaters track and return posters after the film’s run. The NSS system largely faded away with the rise of independent distribution methods.
FAQ 5: How should I store my movie posters to prevent damage?
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the value and condition of movie posters. Store them flat in acid-free folders or sleeves, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Consider using a professional framing service with UV-protective glass for posters you wish to display.
FAQ 6: What factors influence the value of a movie poster?
Several factors contribute to a movie poster’s value, including its rarity, condition, the popularity of the film, the presence of iconic artwork, and the demand from collectors. First edition prints in excellent condition are generally the most valuable.
FAQ 7: Where can I buy authentic vintage movie posters?
Authentic vintage movie posters can be purchased from reputable poster dealers, auction houses, and online marketplaces specializing in collectibles. Always do your research and verify the authenticity and condition of the poster before making a purchase.
FAQ 8: What is linen backing, and why is it important for preserving vintage posters?
Linen backing is a conservation technique where a poster is adhered to a linen canvas. This process helps to flatten wrinkles, repair tears, and strengthen the paper, providing long-term protection and enhancing the poster’s aesthetic appeal.
FAQ 9: Are rolled or folded movie posters more valuable?
Generally, rolled movie posters are considered more valuable than folded posters, as folding can cause creases and damage. However, many vintage posters were originally issued folded, and a professionally linen-backed folded poster can still be quite valuable.
FAQ 10: What are some of the most valuable and sought-after movie posters of all time?
Some of the most valuable movie posters include those for classic films like “Metropolis” (1927), “Frankenstein” (1931), “Casablanca” (1942), and “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (1951). First editions in excellent condition can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
FAQ 11: How has digital technology impacted movie poster design and distribution?
Digital technology has revolutionized movie poster design, allowing for greater creative freedom and the integration of various artistic styles. It has also streamlined the distribution process, enabling studios to create and disseminate posters electronically to theaters and online platforms worldwide.
FAQ 12: What role do movie posters play in film marketing and branding?
Movie posters are essential tools for film marketing and branding. They create a visual identity for the film, attract attention, and communicate its genre, tone, and target audience. A well-designed poster can be a powerful factor in influencing a moviegoer’s decision to see a particular film. They serve as a lasting visual representation of the movie itself.