RESEARCH AND PLANNING - Sherlock holmes trailer analysis

The composition of shots in this trailer is very cleverly constructed so as to mirror the pace of the film. The start of the trailer is pieced together in a way which makes it clear to the audience the genre of the film as soon as the trailer begins. The music played in the background from the start adds to the effect of the transition from blank screen to the opening shot. It is eerie and unsettling and the deep voice which is played in the voice over take you by surprise. As soon as the words "Sherlock Holmes" are spoken everyone is instantly aware of what they are watching as this is a well known name. The composition of flash shots which follow are designed to make the audience jumpy and exited as they have heard a name they recognise and now need to be impressed. the quick beats Incorporated into the continuing background music match the flashes in the shot transitions and add to the overall effect. To start with the lighting is dim and creepy, adding to the atmosphere and putting the audience on edge. However as the film progresses it lightens to match the mood, as more comical scenes are shown. All sound effects are emphasised and played loudly to add to some of the shocking images which are revealed. Action shots are shown to entice those who are perhaps more interested in action films than typical "Murder Mysteries", and there is even a flicker of the occasional love scene, hinting that the film would be appropriate for both men and women. Comical elements are also interjected to lighten the dark impression of the film which is first left upon the audience. Familiar names of actors and actresses also flicker onto the screen towards the end of the trailer, and after the succession of dramatic action scenes, involving attractive women and shocking stunts, the trailer closes on a comical scene, leaving the audience with a lighthearted memory of the upcoming film. Since the film is so well known the producers are able to end with a set date of the film, rather than needing to leave the audience in suspense.

Lucy :)

The trailer can be found through this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUQbmFAE5WI&feature=related