Cultural Codes

     Going through all the media theories we have learned about this year, I already know that one of Ronald Barthes' Narrative Codes, Cultural Code, will be effective in establishing character in my opening. Felluga (2015) explains all 5 codes, Cultural Code being when a piece of media refers to something outside the production that audiences will recognize, such as history and pop culture. The point of including these references is to be relatable and utilize them to facilitate the audience's understanding of context, character, etc. Specifically, I will include references to the most famous detective in history, Sherlock Holmes. By including references to Sherlock not only do they demonstrate how the main character is completely invested in being a detective, but also suggests she might have a fantastical  approach to the work. During the opening she will be carrying the books below around or they will be a part of the set design to imply she refers to them as part of her research. From this the audience can also recognize how the main character tries to copy how Sherlock would carry himself, fully immersed in the case at hand.     

 

   I believe that incorporating pop culture references into the opening will establish character values as well as tone. Instead of looking up to real detectives and cases, the main character's interest in fictional mysteries adds another reason to treat her investigations with contempt. Even referencing more "childish" mystery pop culture like Scooby Doo will contribute to the difference between attitude and perception. The goal of using cultural code in the opening is to introduce the audience to a familiar character and conventions seen in previous mystery movies then use it to create dynamics and conflicts.

Felluga, Dino. "Modules on Barhes: On the Five Codes." Introductory Guide to Critical Theory. Purdue U.               <http://www.purdue.edu/guidetotheory/narratology/modules/barthescodes.html>.