A trailer is a piece of equipment that is pulled by another vehicle, typically a car. The object is commonly used to transport goods, materials or large items. Trailers are also sometimes used as advertisements.
There are several types of trailers, including flatbed and open box trailers. They are generally designed to carry a heavy load, though the capacity is limited by the tow vehicle and the tongue weight. Some may not have a suspension, but the weight is still managed through the use of disc brakes.
In the United States, there are a number of trailer manufacturers headquartered in Los Angeles, California, or New York City. Trailers can be purchased directly from the manufacturer or from a dealer. Many manufacturers abide by the specifications and requirements of the state of California, which includes having license plate lights, tail lights, reflectors and brake lights.
A trailer’s biggest selling point is its ability to deliver content in a polished and professional way. As a result, there is a large industry dedicated to the marketing and distribution of movie trailers. These trailers are often a multimedia mix of video, audio and text. Depending on the content, these may be shown in cinemas or on television. For example, trailers for films can be accompanied by music not featured on the movie’s soundtrack.
There are dozens of companies that specialize in the production of film trailers. These are usually tasked with the job of making the best trailer possible. While most trailers contain a few well-placed clips from the film, others include footage that is not in the actual film. Using footage from a different take or source can be useful for artistic or practical reasons.
The most successful trailers are able to deliver the movie’s most salient points in a concise and effective manner. This is often achieved by utilizing a clever three-act structure. Most trailers are accompanied by a wacky gimmick such as a simulated helicopter chase or a scene with stereophonic sound. Even poor films can be presented in an appealing light thanks to trailers.
It’s not uncommon to see a trailer containing an award-winning ad campaign, which is especially enticing to moviegoers. Among the awards given to trailers are the Golden Trailer Awards, sponsored by The Hollywood Reporter.
Of course, there are also the countless trailers whose main purpose is to promote a specific film. Trailers can be viewed on the internet, if the content is suitable for the platform in question. To ensure that trailers are up to par with other media, they should be inspected, cleaned and adjusted before each trip. Having a properly inflated and maintained coupler is key, as is a clean engine and brakes.
However, the best trailers are often the ones that are made by filmmakers who understand the need for polish and realism. They are also able to display the best parts of the film in a clear and attractive manner. Using a trailer can be an enjoyable way to move freight, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of your options.