Trailer Conventions

Trailers have their own set of conventions, although trailers differ from one another, they tend to abide by certain rules, and stick to certain conventions, in order to be successful in their purpose. Below is a list of the different conventions of a trailer.

• The film title is shown at the end of the trailer - The purpose of this being the audience is already interested in the film after watching the trailer, and therefore the name is more likely to be remembered. Below is an example of a film title being shown at the end of a trailer.

• The Sting - The sting is an extra clip shown after the titles. In the case of a horror film, the intention of the sting is to give the audience one final scare, leaving them thinking about the film.

• Music - The music of a trailer says a lot about the trailer. It often gives away the films genre, for example in horror films the music may be eerie and creepy, then it may quicken simultaneously with the editing pace creating tension.

• Narratives - Commonly trailers have some form of narrative, whether it's a voice over, or inter-titles. The purpose of this is to involve the audience by talking to them, and to ensure they know what is happening. 

• Billing Block - This is the block of writing which appears at the end of the trailer. It consists of the production companies involved, the directors, the musicians etc. Below is an example of a billing block.