Great Example of Documentary Film Trailer
Filmmakers are always asking me for examples of well-cut trailers, so I am delighted to offer this gem:
Directed by award-winning director Tiffany Shlain (The Tribe, 2006), the trailer for her new film, Connected, is witty, smart, and exceptionally short. With a total TRT of 1:25, this sneak preview leaves you intrigued and wanting more. In the spirit of self disclosure, I am working as a story consultant on this documentary. But I had nothing to do with the trailer, which was edited by Shlain and co-editor Dalan McNabola.
So…what makes this trailer so great? In addition to stunning visuals and high production values, the trailer’s structure – built around three single titles – seduces you into seeing the world in a new light. What I’m about to explain may not make a lot of sense if you don’t watch the trailer, so please do.
The first title sets up images of addiction with a liberating classical music track (a great use of “contrary music”). The second title introduces humor with a parade of iconic images nudging you to make associations and getting those cognitive wheels oiled. The third title, 40 seconds into the trailer, reveals the film’s central theme.
At a breathtaking speed of 1:08, the trailer begins to wrap up with a sequence of titles including a “coming soon” announcement, the director’s credits and a call to action.
As new technology invites shorter formats, this cleverly edited trailer for the documentary film Connected reveals what’s possible in less than ninety seconds.
If you are interested in a free half-hour documentary story consultation, please email Karen@newdocediting.com.