The Evolution of Movie Trailers: A Voice Lost and Found
The iconic voice of movie trailers has faded into the background, but why?
Movie trailers have had a fascinating journey since their inception in the early 20th century. From being shown after the main feature to becoming a standalone art form, trailers have evolved significantly. However, one aspect that has caught the attention of many is the disappearance of the distinctive narration that once defined them.
But here's where it gets intriguing...
In a captivating video analysis by YouTuber Paul E.T., the mystery of this transformation is unraveled. Paul takes us on a journey through the history of trailers, breaking it down into three key phases.
It all started with Nils Granlund, a marketer who pioneered the idea of using rehearsal clips to promote the Broadway show The Pleasure Seekers. From there, trailers became a dynamic entity, constantly evolving.
The 1940s saw the introduction of narration, a technique that helped introduce audiences to the stars and the film's premise. But it was the 1980s that truly defined the era of the trailer voice, with narrators like Don LaFontaine leaving an indelible mark.
However, all trends have their lifespan, and this is where it gets controversial...
Paul E.T. suggests that the overuse of narration in the '80s and '90s led to its eventual cliché status. Comedians like Pablo Francisco capitalized on this, making a name for themselves through hilarious impersonations of these deep-voiced narrators.
Despite this decline, narration hasn't disappeared entirely. Instead, it has evolved. With the rise of distinct trailer components and the increasing popularity of trailers for trailers, editors have turned to other sound techniques to capture attention. This shift has seen a rise in licensed music and staccato editing rhythms, adding a new layer of excitement.
"What happened to narrated movie trailers?" is a thought-provoking question that invites us to reflect on the evolution of this art form. Trailers continue to dominate our cinematic world, and it's an exciting journey to witness.
And this is the part most people miss...
The evolution of trailers is a testament to the ever-changing nature of storytelling and marketing. It's a reminder that trends come and go, but the essence of captivating an audience remains the same. So, what's your take on this evolution? Do you miss the narrated trailers of yesteryear, or are you excited about the new directions trailers are taking? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
