What is the purpose of a film's trailer?

The purpose of a film's trailer is primarily to promote the film and generate audience interest. Trailers are crafted to create anticipation and excitement among potential viewers, typically by highlighting key scenes, showcasing notable performances, and providing a glimpse of the film's themes and style without revealing the entire plot. The goal is to entice viewers to go see the film in theaters by making it appealing and informative, all while maintaining an element of mystery.

Trailers focus on capturing the essence of the film through compelling visuals and audio, often using dramatic music or voiceovers to evoke emotions. They serve as a marketing tool intended to reach a broad audience, making it crucial for trailers to be engaging and impactful in a short amount of time.

Other options—such as summarizing the entire film, providing a detailed analysis, or showcasing behind-the-scenes footage—do not align with the primary intent of trailers. While they may include snippets of the plot or production elements, their primary function is not to provide comprehensive insights or exhaustive content about the film itself. Instead, trailers concentrate on stirring interest and excitement that encourages moviegoers to watch the film.