What makes this Batman Poster so Iconic?

Why this Dark Knight Rises Poster is so Iconic:

He doesn’t want to be a hero, but is:  Perhaps the most stand-out feature of the image is the contrast between the ears of Batman’s suit and the angle of his face. His face points downwards, a body language gesture of defensiveness which gives the impression that Batman feels the burden of being a hero. This contrasts with the ears, which point to the heavens, providing an angelic image. Together, Batman’s down-turned face and the ears of his suit serve to tell the viewer that he plays the role of a hero, but beneath the mask is a life full of burden.

Chest Open, Legs Apart: Batman’s chest is bared for the world to see and his legs are held far apart, taking up a lot of space. This is a very clear signal of strength and dominance and is largely the element which makes Batman so masculine.

Big. .  .thing: It’s no coincidence that one of the most highlighted areas of his suit happens to be just above his privates. Any body position which highlights this regions sends a signal of masculinity, confidence and sexuality. Any sex appeal of Batman in this image is largely thanks to this one Bat-tool.

Facing away and shrouded in darkness: The black robe enveloping Batman is more than just an extension of his suit. It’s used to shroud him in secrecy and privacy, to hide a part of his body and in doing so suggest that much of Batman’s character is hidden behind the scenes, giving him an air of mystery. Combine this with his body angle, which is turned away from the camera as though he himself is focussed on some other place, and you get a very mysterious and secretive character.

Other elements making this image iconic: 

Batman’s arms are peculiarly stiff and unnaturally symmetrical. They serve to frame his body, and in doing so make him more like an action figure and less like a human being.

Batman’s eyes are almost completely black but for the tiniest little dot of light. The eyes being the windows to the soul, this give the impression that Batman’s inner character is buried deep within, like a glistening jewel at the bottom of the ocean.

What stands out to you? Have I missed any elements here? If so, let me know on facebook or twitter (links on the right).

And if you’d like to know more about body language, check out the following articles:

Body Language: Explained     Body Language: Hands        Body Language: Handshakes          Body Language:smiles

    Body language: Genuine Smiles            Body Language: Arms              Body Language Gestures

 Understanding Body language Meanings          Body Language Eyes