Theatrical Trailers vs. Teaser Trailers

Trailers

The purpose of a film trailer is a marketing device to display the film to a potential audience in the most positive light. Scenes from the film are cut and edited into a short sequence, usually illustrating the most action-filled, exciting parts of the film.

What does the trailer need to portray?

• Key characters - a trailer usually introduces the protagonist and antagonist of the films, giving an overall reflection of the characters. The audience are also able to recognise any well-known actors/actresses, which further markets the film.
• Time period - the audience are informed when the film is set.
• Essential aspects of the plot - however the resolution of the story must not be given away.

The Motion Picture Association of America (The MPAA)

• The Motion Picture Association of America state that every trailer has to be less than 2 and a half minutes long.
• However, each film distributor or studio are allowed to exceed this limit once a year for films in which it is deemed necessary.
• Internet-only trailers do not have to stay within these time constraints are they are not to be shown in cinemas.

Theatrical Trailers vs. Teaser Trailers

The purpose of a teaser trailer is to simply 'tease' the audience by giving short snippets of the film. Very little plot is given away, whereas in a theatrical trailer the general storyline is hinted at.

Teaser trailers rely more heavily on editing processes, as in such a short space of time a lot of material has to be shown. More creative editing techniques are necessary to give a better 'feel' for the film.

Teaser trailers are much shorter - they tend to be between 1 and 1.5 minutes.