A trailer is a short promotional film that lays out the story of a feature-length movie. It is a key component of the marketing process and, when done well, can generate excitement and anticipation for the film. The trailer can also serve as a useful tool for promoting a film to audiences outside of the theaters, where it can be used as a means of gauging audience reaction.
The first step in creating a trailer is to decide on the type of message you want it to deliver. A movie trailer should tell the story of the film, but it is important to remember that you can’t give away too much about the plot or characters.
Traditionally, the film industry has relied on three act structure when constructing trailers for films. The beginning sets up the premise, the middle builds up the story and ends with a dramatic or emotional climax. Typically, the end of the trailer includes a montage of powerful moments from the film and uses music that evokes emotion – often, a recognizable song or a sweeping orchestral piece.
Movie trailers can be a complex and tricky art form. They need to set up the story, create tension, and convince audiences that they will get the full experience at the theater. Moreover, a trailer needs to be engaging enough to convert viewers into eager patrons lining up at the box office on opening day. To accomplish this, filmmakers must understand the psychological principles that drive audience response.
A great way to begin your trailer is with a “cold open.” This involves an exciting, humorous or dramatic scene that requires little context to understand. It should grab the viewer’s attention and provide them with a hook that they can use to identify with the character.
Another effective method is to include a voiceover that describes the story in a brief and concise manner. This narration can be in the style of a monologue or a news broadcast, and it can help to build up suspense. It can also be used to introduce the main characters and their motivations.
Many trailers also utilize a “signature moment.” These are powerful scenes that stand out from the rest of the footage and make a memorable impression on viewers. These moments can be a key element of the plot, or they can simply be an iconic image or sound that can be used to draw in viewers. Lastly, it is helpful to create a call to action at the end of your trailer – telling viewers what to do next. This could be visiting the film’s website, buying tickets, or following the film on social media.
Increasingly, trailers are being utilized as marketing tools for television shows and other types of media. The popularity of online platforms like YouTube has allowed creators to release trailers that are tailored for specific audiences. These trailers can be viewed in conjunction with the show’s premiere or as standalone clips.