Research & Planning: What is a trailer?

What are trailers? A film trailer is made up of clips usually taken from the final cut of the film.

Why are they made? Film trailers main purpose is to advertise the film. They do this by creating a buzz around the film making people wanting to go a see the film.

How do they work? Film trailers work in two ways, firstly a film trailer can give enough information about the film so that the audience get the plot without giving away the ending to the film. Alternately they can give very little information about the film, making audience want more information.

Who are they for? They are aimed at the general public to persuade people to watch the new release.

Where do we see them? Film trailers are shown almost everywhere cinemas, YouTube, social media and on TV.

When are they released? Film trailers are released anytime up to a year before the release of the film. Teaser trailers are generally shorter and realised up to 2 years before release without showing actual clips from the film.