Deconstruction Task - Production Companies

Dark Castle Entertainment


It is an American film production label formed in 1999. The production's name came from a man named William Castle who was a horror filmmaker, so the ambition was for Dark Castle Entertainment to remake his horror films. As it progressed, their own original horror films were created and now there are even different genres made by Dark Castle. 

Here is a video of Dark Castle's company logo and opening which appears before its films:

Since Dark Castle Entertainment’s main genre of film-making is horror, these are some of the most known;

House on Haunted Hill

Gothika

Orphan

The Reaping

Ghost Ship

Additionally, here are some more films of different genres;

The Loft – Thriller

Journey to the Centre of the Earth – Sci-fi

Ninja Assassin – Thriller

Unknown – Action

Whiteout –Thriller

I think the Dark Castle Entertainment’s logo is really effective for the genre because it shows a very creepy looking castle silhouette against a full moon. This is a common theme within many classical horror films, and shows tension and fear during the night time. Before this appears though, thunder clap sounds are used to create the tense and creepy effect of storms. Additionally the lightning bolt that strikes down enhances this and creates a sense of uncertainty for the viewer. 

Furtheremore, the typography used for the title is sans serif, creating a sharp, edgy effect. It is also in a bold font and appears to be slightly smudged and blotchy, again creating a rather chilling feel.

School Made Production 

This is a school-made production logo I analysed:

I think this logo is really effective because it is quite simple but looks very professional. The letters have been edited to fly down in chronological order to create the title ‘Ardleigh Media’ which is probably a play on the students’ names. I thought this was a really good idea as it is a basic effect but it works in making the opening look polished.

The design is a white background, but the added colour makes it look very effective without being too over the top. The colours behind the letters ‘AM’ seem to gently spiral and glow which again is a really well-thought through effect and makes it more interesting.

I like the way it is a very basic but professional looking design, and it is unclear what to expect next as it does not give away much, creating anticipation. I think this logo was probably made through the use of different lighting to create a shiny surfaced look.