Scream Trailer Analysis By Adam Parks

Opening The opening shot is on screen for 4 Seconds. In the scene diegetic dialogue and a diegetic ring of a phone can be heard. Also the beginnings of ominous drumming can be heard. The initial dialogue of “hello” does not reveal much however the scene is a convention of the horror genre. This prohibits initial recognition by a horror audience. The intertitle reading “Dimension Film” fades in on a black background for 6 seconds. Again non diegetic eerie sounds can be heard. This informs the viewer of the studio that is making the film and that they are watching a horror movie trailer.

Opening On screen for a mere 2 seconds this shots purpose is to set the scene. It also makes reference to the horror film convention of a lone house in the woods. The night time setting also adds to the layers of convention and creates a tone of fear. Close up shot of text on a screen 1 second long. Higher pitched, faster tempo than before. Tells us that there is a “KILLER IN HOUSE”. Subtle although on further inspection a hint towards the nature of the movies antagonist. Voice over talks about how someone who has seen too many scary movies is taking their love of fear “ONE STEP TOO FAR” revealing for the first time that the movie may contain elements of parody and self awareness.

Development of problem On screen for a short amount of time (1 Second) as the tempo of music and jump cuts speeds up. Voice over making reference to scary movies – self referential. Shows that the product is poking fun at the established horror genre. Voice Over – “He didn’t make the rules”, “Just kills by them”. Scene on screen for 1 second however voice over (non diegetic) overlaid and continues subsequent to this scene. Music reminiscent of Psycho, the famous horror film. Diegetic sound of woman crying, contrasts with corny humour of overarching voiceover.

Development of problem Hectic music continues. Shows woman locking a door shortly after the narrator states “Don’t try to hide” this utilisation of irony again showcases the trailers use of dark humour/irony. (2 seconds in length) This section is very brief showing a male and female character dive out of the way of a moving vehicle on a deserted road. There is no dialogue and the action is incredibly fast paced and sporadic. However this evidences a wider use of locations than previously

Last shots Convention of horror/slasher film. Chase scene showing a woman running to escape assailant who cannot be seen. Fast paced/hectic music. (2 Seconds) 2 seconds in length. Police officer stating “Not scared are ya’” Perhaps to directly taunt/tease the audience. This further evidences the self aware nature of ‘Scream’ The music at this point begins to come to close.

Trailer end Use of intertitles Name of the film 3 seconds long. Colour red reflective of horror genre – blood Bold large text – easily remembered one word 2 seconds in length detailing companies and individuals involved with the film in order to convey the style of the movie (Horror) Wes Craven is a well known horror director. Primarily used for marketing purposes.