Following in the increasingly popular theme of glamorized aggression and violence in the media, the new issue of VMAN magazine features Hollywood star James Franco shooting a large weapon on its cover.
The weapon shooting cover is the latest in a series of editorials, ad campaigns and magazine covers that glamorize violence and aggression. The fact that James Franco is a famous actor and not just a model makes it even more disheartening.
Implications - Consumers are intrigued by violence because of its primal nature, which vicariously empowers people. It hearkens back to the days when physical superiority was essential of human beings for survival purposes. Corporations looking to evoke a sense of power may consider using violent imagery in promotional campaigns.
Weapon-Wielding Covers
James Franco VMAN Fall 2009 Issue Glamorizes Violence
Trend Themes
1. Glamorized Aggression - The media's increasing glamorization of aggression and violence appeals to consumers who are intrigued by violence and empowers them vicariously.
2. Celebrity Weapon Covers - Magazines featuring famous actors or celebrities shooting weapons on their covers contribute to the glamorization of violence in media.
3. Violent Imagery in Promotions - Corporations can tap into the primal nature of consumers by utilizing violent imagery in their promotional campaigns to evoke a sense of power.
Industry Implications
1. Media and Entertainment - The media and entertainment industry plays a significant role in glamorizing violence through editorials, ad campaigns, and magazine covers.
2. Celebrity Endorsements - The market for celebrity endorsements can be explored by magazines and brands to leverage famous actors' appeal in promoting their products or services.
3. Advertising and Marketing - The advertising and marketing industry can capitalize on the fascination with violence by incorporating violent imagery in promotional campaigns for various products and services.