As part of my research and preparation into making a horror trailer, I thoroughly analysed 2 marketable horror trailers, in order to fully comprehend the different techniques that are used, understand which techniques are most used and to decide which approach I will take in my own trailer, in regards to types of shots, camera movement, sounds, horror iconography and any issues of representation.
When examining "The Crazies" I found that although there were some close ups (8) and extreme close ups (5), the majority of shots were medium shots (12). I also counted six long shots and four extreme long shots, which is unusual for a trailer, mostly I found that they only include one or two extreme long shots.
In regards to camera movement I found that the shifts predominately moved sideways (4), this creates an uncertain and slightly disturbing and uncomfortable feeling for the viewer.
The dialogue was mostly made up of screaming and other useless talk, thereby not relying on the dialogue to tell the story. The only other sounds that I found important were several conventional gun shots, drum beats, burning fire and heart beats. What I found interesting was that some of the diegetic sounds, such as explosions and windows smashing were silenced whilst the ironic "Mad World" plays as a non diegetic soundtrack.
The trailer incorporates many classic horror iconography including a house in a deserted location, supported by the idea of the connection with the outside world lost, shown with a mobile phone with no signal . This entrapment creates a scary, almost claustrophobic alienation and therefore presents a classic horror image. In addition another typical horror iconography in his trailer is the mysterious, unstable character who is shown with a dangerous weapon. Other conventional symbolisms in the trailer are visible, such as fire, zombies and a trail of blood. I can therefore depict that "The Crazies" is a conventional and orthodox film. This is also made obvious through the representation of gender that is made clear in the trailer. The hero is a boring, white male character. In support, the female shown is victimized and vulnerable yet comforting, this also supports the male gaze theory.
When considering "The Fourth Kind" the shot types confirmed and heightened my findings in "The Crazies", as I counted 17 medium shots. More appropriate to the genre, I also counted 14 close ups and 8 Extreme close ups. This is because the movie is intense and acute, therefore these close ups are essential to intrigue the audience.
In regards to camera movements, I found that the cameras mostly tend to move nearer. This supports my point above about the intensity of the film.
The dialogue in the trailer is very heavy, this contrasts to "The Crazies", "She's always staring at me". Also there is a lot of historical register. Furthermore the trailer creates a sense of authenticity as it includes the main actress speaking about her character and also warns the viewers about the forthcoming trepidation.
The music used is a very soft eerie sound, however mostly, throughout the trailer there is silence in order to create a sense of isolation. Other conventional horror noises are high pitched screaming and scratching, and camera movement in order to create a recognition of genuineness and unnatural happenings.
The iconography that mostly stands out to me in the trailer, is the evident attempt to convince the viewer that the events in the film are real and true, by using real footage and ancient links. Other classic horror iconography used in the trailer are alien connectivity, people having visions and isolation in a small American town.
The gender representation in this trailer challenges the conventional, as we see that the hero is female, who is a strong and scientific character. Whereas, the male participants, whilst being interviewed are driven to the edge, they are vulnerable victims.
No comments:
Post a Comment