Total Film magazine has restructured its news coverage and increased its pagination to include more information on upcoming films, writes Ruth Addicott.
The move forms part of a complete overhaul resulting in a different logo and the introduction of a number of new sections. New art editor Richard Scott, from football magazine FourFourTwo, led the changes.
The news section, entitled “Rough Cut”, has been revamped and split into two and will adopt a more lifestyle approach to stories and interviews surrounding the latest cinema releases. A 16-page section called “Total Access” has been added, with pictures of forthcoming films, the latest news on castings and rumours about films which are about to go into production. It will also feature a monthly round-up of the celebrities at premieres and parties.
Editor Matt Mueller described Total Access as a, “mini magazine” within the main magazine. “It has become more slick and glossy. We are trying to expand the stuff we cover and appeal to more casual magazine buyers as well,” he said.
The “New Films” section has been brought to the front of the magazine to give it more prominence and “Spin”, the DVD reviews pages, has been turned into a dedicated section at the back, positioned between the new releases and classic re-releases. The “Spin” section has also been given a new look to create space for more reviews.
Future Publishing is hoping the changes will further strengthen Total Film’s position in the magazine market, having posted a 5.5 per cent increase to 90,454 in the latest ABC results. Mueller said discussions were under way about expanding the team but no changes have been made as yet.
The January issue, which went on sale on Thursday, will feature a celebrity calendar. It has a cover price of £3.10.
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
