In today’s class, we highlighted some of key differences in trailer design and intent, comparing methods from the 1980s with current methods. We first reviewed the trailer for Top Gun (1986), which showed a straightforward presentation of the film’s narrative, including a clear establishment of the characters (Maverick, Iceman, etc.), the setting (the elite fighter pilot school), and the central conflict (competition, achieving greatness). Music was featured throughout and was indicative of the soundtrack, but not the specific top-40 songs from the film. The editing was paced to build excitement but with a more gradual rhythm than today’s trailers.
We then compared this to the trailer for Black Bag (2025), which employs a more rapid and fragmented style. This includes modern signature styles like quick cuts, emphasizing intense moments that create a sense of urgency. The music was more dramatic and impactful, using a blend of modern scoring techniques and a sound effect-manipulated version of the score –which featured the signature buzzsaw sound effect so common in today’s trailers. Character dialogue snippets were prioritized over a traditional 3rd party voiceover, drawing focus towards the central mystery, alluding to key plot details to maximize engagement. There was also a strong emphasis on the film’s stars (Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett) and the director (Steven Soderbergh) to draw in specific viewers.
Movie trailers have evolved to become more dynamic annd emotionally driven, and tailored for a faster-paced, digitally connected audience. While 80s trailers often focused on clear storytelling, modern trailers prioritize creating a visceral and memorable experience in a short amount of time, sometimes at the expense of plot clarity.
Discussion Slides
1986’s Top Gun
2025’s Black Bag