A trailer is a short film clip or advertisement that usually consists of scenes from a feature film. It is designed to attract viewers and to give them a taste of the movie. The format is also used as a promotional tool for other media. However, they are often criticized for misleading representations of films.
In the past, trailers were created to trail a feature film and were considered to be a means to draw an audience away from the theater. Today, they are highly polished pieces of advertising that have become a popular way to promote movies and other media.
Several kinds of trailers exist, ranging from short teasers to longer trailers. Many are created by agencies and studios before the film’s final cut. They are typically made to show off a particular film’s special effects or to create an impression of a film that is not included in the final release. Some of them include deleted or unseen scenes from the movie. Usually, they are accompanied by music that is not on the soundtrack of the film.
Movie trailers are edited using storyboards and other techniques that help to control the pace of the trailer. Some trailers include sound effects to liven up scenes. For example, when the film is a thriller, a suspenseful score can be used. On the other hand, for romantic comedies, a lighthearted pop song is often employed.
Featurettes, which are shorter versions of a trailer, are usually included in DVDs. While they are not as long as a full-length trailer, they often have the same three-act structure. Featurettes are typically used to promote a movie and are usually televised to fill a time slot.
Trailers are usually produced by companies in Los Angeles or New York. There are dozens of companies that specialize in making film trailers. These companies have access to the latest in technology, including high bandwidth internet connections. This allows them to make the most of digital technology and to distribute their work in any resolution they prefer.
Typically, a trailer includes a logo for the production company. Trailers also frequently include the name and logo of the distributor. Often, these logos are displayed at the beginning and end of the trailer.
During the 1940s, Paramount Pictures was the first to use its studio logo on its trailers. Other companies soon followed. Film trailers also often use voice over narration. Voice over narration can provide an explanation for a scene or set up the premise of a movie.
Today, many trailers use a three-act structure, allowing them to tell a compelling story. They also use music and other techniques to enhance the overall experience. Sometimes, they incorporate scenes from other movies. Another popular technique is a multichannel sound mix.
Trailers also often contain error-correction information. This helps the viewer verify that the data they are sending is correct. Trailers have been accused of overstating the action and presenting a film as more exciting than it is.