Codes and Conventions of film trailers

Conventions of Film Trailers

1.     Voiceovers are used to tell the story and give credit information

2.     The stars of the film are showcased

3.     Key points are sometimes conveyed through titles (words on screen)

4.     Conversations between characters often consist of one-liners

5.     Dramatic camera angles may be chosen to show events or characters

6.     Action is interspersed with actor or director credits on screen

7.     Music plays an important role in creating atmosphere

8.     The film’s title may not appear until the end

9.     The trailer builds to a climax, where it ends

10.  Montage (a series of shots from different points in the film, edited together) is often used to highlight the most dramatic, humorous or fast-paced aspects of the film