A trailer is a device used to transport heavy loads such as boats, cars and equipment. It can also be pulled by a vehicle to facilitate the transport of livestock, such as horses or cattle. Trailers are available in a range of sizes and designs to suit different types of cargo, with a variety of options for customization and safety features. In addition, they can be towed with a range of vehicles, including cars, trucks and 4x4s.
Most modern trailers are composed of scenes from the movie they are promoting, with music and sound effects added to enhance them. The trailer is typically shown before the feature film it advertises, and can be seen either in theaters or on television. In addition to the actual movie, many trailers contain deleted scenes from the feature film. The trailer is a key element in the marketing and promotion of a movie, and it can make or break its box office success.
In some cases, a studio will release a second trailer to build anticipation for the movie before its premier. This trailer is often shorter in length than the original, and it contains more scenes from the film. Depending on the film, the trailer may also include more character introductions, plot details and action scenes.
Historically, movie trailers have been produced as separate pieces from the films they promote. This was due to the need for film marketers to create a trailer with a distinct look and feel in order to appeal to different audiences. For example, the trailer for a romantic comedy would typically be edited to have more romantic and lighthearted scenes than an action-adventure movie trailer.
The trailer was also the ideal place to show off new technology, such as computer graphics or special effects. As DVD and Blu-ray players became more popular, film trailers started to be released as stand-alone products.
Traditionally, most movie trailers are presented in Dolby stereophonic sound. However, as high-speed Internet connections have become more commonplace, it is now more common for movie trailers to be presented in 5.1 surround sound.
A good trailer should be able to tell the story of the movie in a highly compressed, comprehensible manner. It should also set the tone and capture the movie’s main themes. This is why it is important to keep the trailer under two minutes in length, and to avoid using any spoilers in it.
Trailers should also have a clear call to action. For example, a thriller trailer should pique the audience’s interest in the film by highlighting the key characters, the conflict and the tension. The best trailers will give viewers a reason to lean forward in their seats, start conversations with friends and mark the movie’s release date on their calendars.
A trailer should be regularly maintained to ensure its durability and proper operation. Lubricating moving parts can prevent rust and corrosion. In addition, it is important to inspect the hitch and towing equipment for damage or wear, especially if it is used in an exposed environment. It is also important to regularly wash a trailer and to check for signs of moisture in the body or chassis.