For discussion:
- The trailers are designed to create a 'buzz' around the film. What do you think will be the main talking points from these trailers?
The main talking points will likely revolve around the story plot. Online forums often discuss their theories surrounding the details of the storyline and film predictions. For Toy story 4, it is likely that toy story fans will be feeling nostalgic. This feeling is heightened by 'God only knows' by Beach boys playing in the background of the trailer. The idea of old school music and 'old friends' creates a senses of familiarity. Not only is Toy story made to appeal for younger audiences, but for those that watched the original toy story as a young child, their inner child may be drawn to the film.
Another talking point, is the role of Little Bo Peep. In contrast with the original film where she is portrayed as a damsel in distress, we see her as a hero in the Toy story 4 trailer. This character development is a strong talking point before the film release. This character role is also designed to inspire young girls to be brave and independent.
- Most of the film trailers on this site are due to be released in the UK over the spring and summer months. From the trailers you have seen, why do you think the distributors have chosen this time of year to release these films?
For Toy Story 4, it is effective to release the film in the summer. Alongside the Beach Boy's soundtrack, a summer atmosphere is created through the action on screen. A fun fair and sunny weather connotes ideas of a summer holiday. Therefore, the producers chose to coincide the release with school summer holidays.
A nostalgic atmosphere is again created through the camper van heading off into the sunset. This will resonate with audiences young and old, reminding them of their own holidays.
Film example 2:
Yesterday
This film has a unique selling point. A world where everyone forgets about the Beatles existence apart from one man creates for a comedic and light-hearted story line. The open ended trailer will leave audiences with many unanswered question, such as, why has the word forgotten some of the best musicians of all time? and will they ever remember them? In addition, Ed Sheeran's star feature will leave the audience feeling hyped and excited for the prospect of this star packed film.
The main talking point is likely to be the music soundtracks in the trailer. Similarly to Toy Story's Beach Boys soundtrack, the sound of the Beatles will feel nostalgic for older audiences who miss the hype surrounding old school style music. The Yesterday film have taken a modern twist on the music which has a similar effect in the film 'Blinded by the Light' by Gurinder Chadha.
The film also has a 'summer feel'. For example, some of the scenes are shot at the beach in LA. Combined with the sunny weather, the upbeat tempo of the Beatles music creates for a sunny theme. It creates a summer feel-good festival ambience.
Film example 3:
The Brink
This film will stimulate talking points as it is based on real life political events. The film acts as a documentary following a nationalist far-right wing candidate. The protagonist is presented as a villain who appears to lure in liberal-film makers for suckers as a charming-twinkly eyed politician. The Guardian journalist Paul Lewis is presented as the hero of the film alongside other left-wing journalists who see through the sweet talk of the Nationalist opposition.
I turned to Peter Bradshaw of the Guardian to learn more about the film. I read the article after my first viewing of the trailer. Bradshaw scorned the right-wing protagonist, and as a left wing writer it is evident that he would've scorned at the events unfolding in the trailer and the rising fascism presented. Bradshaw rated the film 4**** but felt the film was untrusting and could be viewed as a fly on the wall. The director only observed, not interrogated. It does not offer up tough questions it just provides evidence with how a far-right politicians thinks.
The time of year the film is released is less important for this film. One thing that should be considered though is when are the elections, and should the film line up with this to create more buzz. The trailer would have created a buzz for those interested in politics. However, for other audiences, it is unlikely that this would interest them as it includes political topics that are hard to comprehend.
Very good.
ReplyDeleteTOY STORY You make thoughtful observations about the nostalgic appeal to parents of the familiarity of the sequel, the characters and the music. You understand the appeal of Bo to girls and the evocation of the summer holiday camper van road trip.
YESTERDAY You are right that this trailer targets audiences through the twin appeal of the Beatles music, with the promise of summer festival freedom, and the glimpses of stars like Cordon and Sheeran. Helpful genre comparison with Chadha's 'Blinded By The Light'.
THE BRINK This was the hardest trailer to engage with but you did well to consider the views of film critics from The Guardian and The Observer.