Friday 10 September 2021

RESEARCH: Why is a film trailer made?

I researched why trailers are made on the Teaching Trailers resource supplied by the FDA online to further my understanding on the purpose of trailers and how they signal the film's genre. 

I watched 3 trailers: The Mustang, Hobbs and Shaw (fast and furious) and Artemis Fowl


The Mustang:



The Mustang gave me the impression that it was a drama. This genre was evidently signalled through mature themes, such as redemption and adversity. It was clear in demonstrating the narrative that revolves around the life of a hardened prisoner, who is given the opportunity to join a rehabilitation programme involving training a wild mustang. The trailer communicates a strong sense of hope as it follows him move from a low point to forming a deep connection with the horse, and then his daughter. From this, audiences can infer the film is a feel-good film with a heart-warming story line, but alongside high tensions and stakes for the central character Roman - creating intrigue. 


Fast and Furious:



Fast and Furious films are very distinctly of the action/adventure genre, signalled through extremely fast paced editing and dynamic action shots and stunts shown throughout, the violence included in which would often be more suited to adult audiences. High intensity non-diegetic music also help communicate the intense nature of the action genre, creating the immersive feel that target audiences crave. The Hobbs and Shaw film is a part of the larger fast and furious franchise, so has to engage established audiences that have previously enjoyed fast and furious films. Therefore the trailer engages in high budget action conventions including explosions, technology guns and fast cars, as well as elements of comedy that are conventional of the franchise. The comedic elements come from the dynamic between the duo - American Agent Hobbs and British Mercenary Shaw who are forced to get over their rivalry and competitive relationship to combat a supervillain, this good vs evil theme is conventional of the genre, and the immature behaviour of the duo is light-hearted and therefore appealing also to younger audiences

Artemis Fowl:



Artemis Fowl comes across as a children's fantasy film. This is evidently shown through the protagonist being a young boy, who takes on an adventure to discover dark truths. The quest narrative is conventional of the fantasy genre, along with themes of magic and adventure and beautiful, engaging sets and costumes which are eye-catching. The high production values create awe and spectacle, which is attractive to audiences of all ages - in particular children. The trailer spot lights the boys magical power through special affects, which is appealing to children as they might feel they can identify more with a child.
The mystical nature of the trailer is amplified by the lack of information given on the central character, making his character seem more interesting to audiences. As the genre is fantasy, audiences can infer that anything is possible, meaning that there is a higher level of investment into what is going to happen. As the film is Disney, it is highly trusted by families as being family-friendly and of wholesome value suitable for children. As a Hollywood big six, the production company ensures high quality CGI, immersing audiences in this magical fantasy to make them feel they are also on an adventure. 

1 comment:

FILM TRAILER

ELLIE SMART 1859 I worked with Millie Wyatt 1874, Charlotte Coppellotti 1812 and Jess Foster 1820.  We produced a film promotion package for...