Filmmakers use trailers to market their films and spark audiences’ interest in a movie. They are often shown before the feature film in a theater, but can also be viewed on TV and online. A movie trailer is a short promotional clip that gives an overview of the film and its themes and plot. It is usually accompanied by music and sound effects, and features actors or celebrities in action scenes.
Movie-goers typically have short attention spans, so a movie trailer must grab their attention quickly. It should convey a sense of excitement and anticipation, while avoiding giving away too much of the movie’s story. A compelling tagline is essential to a successful trailer, and can be developed using language techniques such as alliteration and rhyme.
Creating a film trailer is a challenging task that requires the perfect combination of art and science. Filmmakers must carefully select and arrange shots, craft a captivating narrative, and communicate vital film details in just two or three minutes. The resulting sneak peek can inspire emotion, from fear to love, and leave audiences wanting more.
The trailer’s first scene is usually a quick introduction to the main characters. This establishes the audience’s point of view and provides a glimpse into their emotional journey. The trailer then delves into the movie’s plot, revealing conflict, character goals, and other narrative intricacies. A classic example is the 1960s thriller Psycho, which features Alfred Hitchcock leading viewers through a tour of the Bates Motel, culminating in Vera Miles’s bloodcurdling scream.
A final element of a movie trailer is a cast run, which is a list of the film’s principal actors and actresses. This is a key marketing tool for movies, and it is often printed on posters and other promotional materials. Many trailers also include a production company logo, which is displayed at the end of the clip.
In the age of social media, the trailer has become a powerful marketing tool. It can inspire memes and challenges, and amplify a film’s reach through influencer collaborations. For example, the director of Avengers: Endgame partnered with social media influencers to tease the film’s plot and engage fans.
Despite the complex demands of a movie trailer, the process begins with a simple concept – making a short clip that is engaging, intriguing, and memorable. The art of trailermaking is a delicate balance, but it can be achieved with strategic selection and arrangement of shots, an evocative soundtrack, and a catchy tagline. Follow the advice of masters such as Hitchcock, Spielberg, and Kubrick, and your film trailer will be a crowd-pleaser.