2.3 Trailer Structural Analysis and Timeline

Examine	How the Trailers are structured around Narrative (Todorov, Binary Opposition, Engima Code)
Deconstruct	Sequence the Structural Elements on the Timeline and consider pace/rhythm etc (ie what and when)
Identify and Outline	Recognise the content (Iconography of the genre, Characters, Titles, Sections of the film, Sound ie what)

Framework 3:

Teaser and Trailers structural analysis of a current campaign looking closely at the conventions of form and narrative (not genre)

Example: Conjuring 2

Starter: What are the differences between a Theatrical Trailer and a Teaser Trailer?

• Establish character (Propp)
• Aggressor vs Victim/Hero (Levi-Strauss)
• Narrative - 3 act structure (Todorov)
• Montage 
• Titles 
• Enigma Code (Barthes)
• Climax eg jump scare, 
• Significant plot moments (5 scenes)
• Pace (calm, build, climax) 

Task 1: Timeline Structure - Teaser Trailer Conjuring 2

Cut up the Teaser Trailer in Final Cut using the Blade tool. Be precise in cutting the start and end of each clip.

Plot out the structure of the Trailer as below by making a Timeline map (see below you can download template here)

• Note down the timings and what you see, in what order including what Title Slates 
• How many Title slates are included and what order do they come in
• Note down any sound effects/soundtrack (such as Booms)
• Split this up into Todorov's 3 Acts structure
• Note which scenes
• What is the Enigma Code
• What do you notice about the Pace of the cuts?
• Which transitions are used?
• Time the average shot duration and note when it begins to change (twice?)

Task 3: YOUR OWN TREATMENT TEASER - Final Assessment for R&P (graded coursework): 

Get video footage Shutterstock (search 'Horror') to re-create a Teaser Trailer - you must ensure it matches the structure of Conjuring 2 EXACTLY

Use the Map Provided (timings) 

Select footage for your own Horror film Treatment you will be pitching next lesson.

Using your Timeline Map, place your new shots and Titles ON TOP of the original ones from the Conjuring in the timeline above in Final Cut 

Create a Trailer - consider where the footage and the Titles ought to go

Homework: 

Complete your trailer and upload to Youtube and embed to your blog

Evaluate your trailer on your blog - make notes on HOW and WHY Trailers are structured in this way

Extension practice using http://www.filmeducation.org/teachingtrailers/secondary/make_a_trailer/

Prepare for terminology test - next lesson

D describe the term

C apply the term to an example

B explain purpose/effect in an example

A justify its role in your trailer