Research & Planning: How to Edit a Movie Trailer

Over the weekend I have conducted some personal research into how to properly edit a movie trailer. I decided it would be a good idea to get some advice from a professional with experience, as I need all the help I can get as I will be editing the second draft of the trailer (once we have re-shot).

I have included a link to the blog post I read below, and have made list of tips/advice which will help me.

http://www.chrisjonesblog.com/2012/02/how-to-edit-a-trailer-for-your-movie…-but-the-guy-who-cuts-trailers-for-movies.html

Advice taken from the blog post:

• Choose the story line and stick to it.
• Don’t introduce too many characters.
• The end of the trailer should leave a lasting impression on the viewer.
• The trailer doesn’t have to be as linear as the film – often better if it isn’t.
• Don’t have random moments that come out of nowhere.
• Voice overs aren't always necessary, if struggling with a script just stick with captions.
• Don’t let shots and moments out stay their welcome.
• Say something once, for example you may have two characters saying pretty much the same point in two different ways, cut one out, the other one isn't needed.