Insidious - Trailer Analysis

Insidious – Trailer Analysis Trailer Conventions: - The film Insidious is full of horror conventions. The horror genre is noticed straight away from the scary soundtrack and effects of the title being shown at the very start of the trailer. Another convention is of the establishing shot of the location and characters. The main location is in an American family home. This is known from the accent of the characters. An equilibrium and disruption is shown in this trailer. For example, at the start of the trailer, everything is normal and the family unit is fine. However, the disruption occurs and the shots get quicker, the sound gets louder and there are more sound effects to create suspense. The title ‘Insidious’ is shown popping in and out through the whole of the trailer to advertise the title as much as possible. The credits are shown which is very conventional and makes the film look professional. Narrative: - This trailer, like many does not follow the chronological order when putting the shots together. Instead, shows location and characters which allows the audience to connect and put together a picture of what may happen in the film. As you can see they are not giving away a lot to the audience, which is making them more likely they will want to watch it. The fact they are not giving a lot away is giving people questions of the unknown. Genre: - The trailer starts with a message revealing that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. This revealing that there will be scary scenes. This already showing that it may be a horror genre. The soundtrack and sound effects are added in the background which is establishing the horror genre. This also, creates suspense and tension. The event that takes place is not revealed which will make the viewers want to watch the film. Target Audience: - Insidious is a horror film. Therefore, horror fans would be interested in this film. I believe this film is targeted at teenagers and adults because of the harsh and inappropriate content which may distress viewers. It states that the makers from Jaws and Paranormal Activity have produced this film. Therefore, many people who like those films, would be persuaded to watch it. Although a young child has been put in this film, it is not suitable for young children, which is clearly shown from the scary music and content.