The trailer is the introductory clip for a movie, or television show. It is often shown before the main feature, and may include character introductions, a synopsis of the storyline, and important scenes from the film. It can also be used to advertise the film, with logos for the production company and distributor displayed on screen. A good trailer will hook the viewer within a few seconds and encourage them to watch the film, or go to the website for more information.
Many of the best trailers are sexy, fast-paced, and full of action. This style of editing is perfect for thrillers, which often use a lot of cutting to ratchet up tension. However, it is not always appropriate for comedies. The fast editing can make it difficult to follow the dialogue, and it can be hard to understand what is being said. This is a problem because comedy relies on the audience being able to connect with the characters, and understanding their motivations.
Using a voice over that sounds like the main character is another popular technique for creating a trailer. This helps the viewer feel more connected to the character, and makes them more likely to want to see the film. It is especially effective for younger audiences, as they tend to be more attracted to characters that look and sound like them. The voice over in this trailer is done in a soothing tone that makes it easier for the viewer to become attached to Charlie, and understand her motivations.
One of the most common elements in a trailer is press quotes from reputable publications. This gives the film or product social proof that it is worth watching, and can help increase sales. It is important to choose quotes that are believable, and avoid putting out fake positive reviews.
Another common aspect of a trailer is the soundtrack. It is very important to choose a soundtrack that fits the tone of the film, and that will make it stand out from other trailers. It is also a good idea to have the soundtrack available before the film is released, so that it can be used in promotional materials.
It is a common practice for trailers to be edited before they are finished, so that they can be used in film festivals and other events. It is a great way to get feedback from potential viewers and to make sure that the trailer is on point.
As the internet has grown, so have trailers. YouTube and other video sites have become a new sandbox for editors, who can create short clips that show only the best parts of a film. They can also post red-band trailers, which are not allowed to be shown on TV, and create extensive campaigns for their movies that include countdowns, and trailers that give the movie a different theme or genre.