Sarah's A2 Media Blog

POSTERS

- The appeal of the film used as the main image, this could be the stars, genre or a tagline.

- Months before the release of a film there will be a teaser poster to announce the arrival of a film.

- Banners, window clings and mini posters are also provided to advertise a movie in cinemas.

TRAILERS

- Teaser trailers are shown a long time before a film is released, these are about 30-90 seconds long.

- Full trailers are shown shortly before the film release which shows a lot more of the film to make the audience want to see more.

- Exhibitors select trailers which are similar to the film that is about to be shown, to be played before it starts.

- Some trailers are shown at the beginning of DVD's that relate to the movie.

- Trailers are also seen online on official movie websites or youtube.

ONLINE

- The internet is the perfect place to advertise new releases, some films have thier own official website which features trailers, behind the scenes footage etc.

- Teaser images of films may be released which captures the audiences interest.

SCREENINGS/PREVIEW SCREENINGS

- Screenings are held for critics to write reviews on a movie before it is open to the public.

- For example the movie Paranormal Activity is shown as the scariest movie of all time because the audience reaction is filmed during a screening of the movie.

MERCHANDISING

- Clothing, soundtracks, games, books, calenders, screen savers, ringtones etc are created as a way to promote a movie.

FESTIVALS

- Distributors may meet with agents, producers, studios when looking to get a product.

- Films can be shown before release on a platform.

A small staff with specialist roles are supervised by a film distributor's managing director, these are:

- Marketing - expected to justify their ideas to other collegues.

- Publicity - this person should be able to remain calm even under pressure so experience as a journalist or press officer is handy.

- Sales - have the ability to get on with a variety of customers and good negotiation skills.

- Technical - have knowledge of digital formats, 3D and IMAX presentation. Films have to be presented to the public in the best quality possible.

- Acquisitions and legal

- Finance and accounting

- Administration - paying suppliers, ordering and checking film prints, trailers and posters and be able to have materials delivered at the right place at the right time.