X Factor (analysis)

Reality TV shows are a popular way of marketing for the music industry, a world wide example being 'X Factor'. This ITV show was created by Simon Cowell, who currently runs the UK Version, and was first created as a show similar to the very popular, Pop Idol. X Factor is a show based around the idea of the search for a new star with something different, with the 'X Factor', allowing the audience watch the transformation of the contestants. It consists of 4 stages including the conventionial auditions with the judge panel and the live show, of which the remaining contestants sing live to gain the viewers votes. The most popular part of X Factor are the auditions, allowing the audience to watch the contestants compete and watch the judges opinions (and reactions in some cases). When it comes to the live shows, the competitors have to sing a song chosen from a specified theme, with the help of their mentor (one of the four judges). The audience are highly involved as not only is it the audiences votes that state who will leave the competition, but also the studio audience, as many of the camera angles are establishing shots of the audience, showing their excitement, emotions and posters of their favourite acts.