Volume 7, Number 3, 38-56, DOI: 10.1007/s12119-003-1002-x

Judging a movie by its cover: A content analysis of sexual portrayals on video rental jackets

Mary Beth Oliver, Omotayo Banjo and Jinhee Kim

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Abstract

A content analysis of video rental jackets was conducted to examine the prevalence and nature of sexual portrayals. While sexuality in the general photo themes and written descriptions (teasers) on the jackets was relatively uncommon, attractive characters and characters in sexy clothing and with skin exposed were more frequently observed. Female characters on the jackets were more likely than male characters to be portrayed in sexual ways. Interestingly, films for violent genres were particularly likely to feature sexual portrayals. Implications of video packaging on viewers’ entertainment selections are discussed, and directions for future research are suggested.

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