Wednesday 12 June 2013

Trailer Terminology and Definition

Definition
Trailers are used to advertise a film and are made up of shots from the film itself (usually the most exciting/ funny/ noteworthy clips). They usually do not include spoilers, and the scenes from the film do not necessarily have to follow the order that they appear in the film. Trailers are usually under two and a half minutes (this is the maximum length a trailer can be - usually only one extended trailer from each film studio a year) and some even include 'special footage' (such as the famous trailer for Alfred Hitchcock's 'Psycho').

Plot summary
Most trailers follow a three-act structure, similar to the structure of a film with a beginning that lays out the premise of the story, a middle act which usually ends with a dramatic climax and a third act, which features a piece of 'signature music', which sometimes can include a montage of powerful clips of the film or a cast run (if there are noteworthy stars).

Voice-over
A voice-over narration is also used to set up the premise of the story or even provide an explanation for certain parts of the trailer. This can be used to develop the audience's understanding of the plot of the film.

Music
Music is usually an important part of setting the mood of the trailer and does not usually have to from the actual film score. It may be music from other movies, popular music, specially composed music, 'library music' (previously composed by an independent composer) or even songs that are similar to originals which may be too expensive to license.

Cast, crew and studio information
Usually within there is a cast run of the list of stars that appear in the movie, and also the director if he is well known. Also, most trailers include a billing block at the end. This is a list of the cast and crew and this list appears on posters, publicity materials and usually on screen at the beginning or end of the film. As well as the billing block and cast run, studio production logos are featured in trailers (usually placed at the beginning, since the 1970s). There are often logos for the production company and the distributor of  the film.

Technical elements
Sound mix: most movie trailers are presented in Dolby Digital or another multichannel sound mix. Stereophonic sound enhances any sound effects or music, which makes it one of the focus pints of modern trailers. 
Video resolution: trailers are usually presented in the same format as the actual film, whether it is in 35mm film or digital format. Improvements in internet connection means that many trailers can be distributed at resolutions up to 1080p HD quality. 

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