Trailer Analysis AS Media Studies

Key Questions… Why is a trailer important? How does a trailer establish the genre of the film? How does a trailer show that a film is worth going to see? How has new media such as the internet impacted on trailers?

Trailers – media form The trailer is a powerful weapon in the marketing campaign. They convey the excitement and atmosphere of the film in order to attract an audience. Aims to give the audience information about the film – such as what the story is about, who the stars are and what genre it is.

Features of a Trailer They are a genre in their own right and have easily recognisable conventions. Designed to capture our attention and hold it for a short time. They create mood and atmosphere and heighten our anticipation of what is to come within the film. Enigma and action codes are established. Fast moving Sound is often used to manipulate our emotions and create a specific atmosphere. Often a voiceover is used to summarise the story. Approximate length – 2 minutes in cinema

Codes and Conventions Voiceovers Stars of film are showcased Key points are sometimes conveyed through titles. Conversations between characters often consist of one liners Dramatic camera angles Action interspersed with actor/director credits Music to create atmosphere Trailer builds to a climax Montage often used Unconventional narrative structure

Voiceover Helps us make sense of the narrative Tells us who the characters are Showcases the stars Gives us information about director etc Helps to build a sense of anticipation Reinforces the title Sets the tone for the film Summarises the story

Cop Out “From Warner Brothers Pictures, the studio that brought you the acclaimed police dramas Dirty Harry, Training Day and The Departed comes a film that carries on the tradition…A new team is hitting the streets…From Warner Brother Pictures…Bruce Willis…Tracey Morgan…Cop Out.”

Grown Ups “Thirty years ago they were the best of friends, now they’re getting back together and they’re all grown up. They’re meeting each other’s families…learning about their kids…and re-living their glory days. In two thousand ten…From Columbia Pictures comes a comedy…that proves growing up is optional…Adam Sandler…Kevin James…Chris Rock…Rob Schneider…and Salma Hayek…Grown Ups!”

TEXT Representation Institution Audience Ideology Genre Narrative Technical Codes/ Language

Media Language/ Technical Codes COLOUR SOUND Diegetic Non-diegetic LIGHTING High key Low key CAMERA ANGLES CU, ECU, MS, LS, ELS Pan/tilt/zoom Low/high EDITING Rapid/montage/ repetition MISE EN SCENE Costume, body language, facial expression, setting

Sound Diegetic Sound that comes from a source within the film. Sound characters can hear. Eg. Car stereo or jukebox in bar Non diegetic Sound that comes from a source outside the film. Sound characters cannot hear Voiceovers Music to create atmosphere

Editing Wipe Dissolve Fade Cut Rapid Iris in iris out Montage refers to a series of shots edited together to show a longer activity evolving in a shorter amount of time. Eg. Butch Cassidy sepia New York montage

Camera

The Da Vinci Code

Homework Complete an in depth analysis of a trailer of your choice. It should be relevant to your coursework. Use the key concepts to structure your answer. Be prepared to discuss your findings with the class.