Q&A for How to Make a Movie Trailer

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How do you become a movie trailer editor?

Melessa Sargent
Film Producer
Melessa Sargent is the President of Scriptwriters Network, a non-profit organization that brings in entertainment professionals to teach the art and business of script writing for TV, features and new media. The Network serves its members by providing educational programming, developing access and opportunity through alliances with industry professionals, and furthering the cause and quality of writing in the entertainment industry. Under Melessa's leadership, SWN has won numbers awards including the Los Angeles Award from 2014 through 2021, and the Innovation & Excellence award in 2020.

Melessa Sargent

Film Producer

Expert Answer

You need to learn how to edit first—there are programs that you can check out on the internet that can help you learn, like Movavi. From there, you have to figure which parts are best-suited for the short trailer that will draw people into the movie.

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Question

Isn't it possible to show the menacing bad guy in a couple of scenes without giving away the plot? Since he is a central character in the movie, I believe he should be seen in the trailer.

Community Answer

You could show clips of this character when he is not speaking or just show him speaking a few lines instead of a whole scene.

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Question

What are movie trailers for?

Community Answer

Trailers help build interest in movies before they are released.

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How many sequels are in a movie trailer?

Community Answer

None. Only the movie you are advertising should be shown in the trailer. Scenes from the sequels should only be shown in the trailers for the sequels.

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What is the best software to use to make a movie trailer?

Community Answer

Basically any editing tool. Motion 5 is good for titles, while Final Cut Pro X is great for everything else.

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How long is a trailer?

Community Answer

Most trailers range from 2-5 minutes long, depending on how many scenes are included.

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Question

I'm planning to make a trailer, but my budget is not high. What can I do?

Community Answer

Many cell phones have excellent cameras, but many cheap camcorders can be found at electronics and video stores. You could also try a pawn shop or used goods store.

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Question

If I make a movie trailer about the 17th century, should I use music that fits the time or can I also use a modern song?

Cafebandito

Community Answer

It depends on the artistic quality/tone you want to convey with your movie. A case could be made for either.

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How do I make a movie on Minecraft?

Community Answer

You will simply need to do what you need to do in the game and film it with a program, such as fraps, bandicam, or a screen capture card.

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Where are some good sites to find movie trailer music?

Gregcorn

Community Answer

A great site is epidemicsound.com. It's $15 per month and you get access to really good music. If you want cheap royalty-free music, you can go to the YouTube Creator Library, or freesound.com.

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