The average moviegoer endures roughly 20-25 minutes of previews, trailers, and advertisements before the main feature begins. However, this time frame can fluctuate significantly based on the cinema chain, the film’s target audience, and even the time of year.
Decoding the Pre-Show: A Deep Dive into Movie Preview Length
While that 20-25 minute figure serves as a useful benchmark, the reality of movie preview length is far more complex and nuanced. Several factors contribute to the duration, turning a simple question into a fascinating exploration of the movie industry’s strategies and economics. We’ll explore those factors and answer some commonly asked questions to illuminate this often-overlooked aspect of the cinematic experience.
The Key Players: Studios, Cinemas, and Advertising Agencies
Understanding who dictates the length of previews requires recognizing the key players involved. Film studios produce the trailers to promote their upcoming releases. They aim to capture audience interest and generate buzz. Cinema chains are responsible for curating the pre-show experience, deciding which trailers and advertisements to screen. Finally, advertising agencies sell commercial slots within the pre-show reel, adding another layer of complexity.
The cinema chain has the most direct control over the pre-show length, balancing the desires of studios to promote their films with the audience’s patience and the potential for advertising revenue. However, studios often pressure cinemas to show specific trailers, particularly for blockbuster releases.
The Psychology of Previews: Hooking the Audience Before the Main Event
The purpose of movie previews isn’t just to show upcoming movies; it’s to create excitement and anticipation. Trailers are meticulously crafted to highlight the most compelling aspects of a film, often using dramatic music, fast-paced editing, and carefully selected scenes to elicit an emotional response. The goal is to leave the audience wanting more, prompting them to consider seeing the film upon its release.
The length of the pre-show also plays a role in setting the mood. A longer pre-show can allow for a more gradual build-up of excitement, while a shorter one aims for a quicker, more direct impact. This is why the length often varies depending on the genre and target audience of the main feature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Movie Preview Length
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about movie previews, providing a deeper understanding of this cinematic ritual.
FAQ 1: Does the genre of the movie affect the length of the pre-show?
Yes, absolutely. Action-packed blockbusters often have longer pre-shows, filled with trailers for similar high-energy films. Conversely, smaller, independent films may have shorter pre-shows, with fewer trailers and perhaps more targeted advertisements.
FAQ 2: Do IMAX or 3D screenings have longer pre-shows?
While not always a hard and fast rule, IMAX and 3D screenings can sometimes have slightly longer pre-shows. This is partly due to the higher ticket prices, which may justify the inclusion of additional advertising. Furthermore, these premium screenings often attract a more dedicated movie-going audience, potentially making them more receptive to trailers.
FAQ 3: Are there different preview lengths for matinee versus evening showings?
The length of the pre-show typically remains consistent regardless of the time of day. However, some theaters may slightly adjust the content, tailoring advertisements to the demographics expected at specific showtimes. For example, matinee showings might feature more family-oriented advertisements.
FAQ 4: Can I skip the previews and arrive late to the movie?
Technically, yes, you can arrive late to skip the previews. However, it’s crucial to check the scheduled start time carefully, as some theaters start the movie closer to the advertised time than others. Also, arriving late might mean missing crucial establishing scenes or having to navigate a dark theater to find your seat.
FAQ 5: Why are there so many advertisements before movies?
Advertisements are a significant source of revenue for movie theaters. The money generated from advertising helps offset operating costs, keeping ticket prices more affordable. While many moviegoers find them annoying, advertisements are essential to the financial viability of cinemas.
FAQ 6: Does the theater chain influence the length of the pre-show?
Definitely. Larger cinema chains often have standardized pre-show formats across their locations, maintaining a consistent experience for moviegoers. Smaller, independent theaters may have more flexibility to customize their pre-shows, potentially resulting in shorter or more curated experiences.
FAQ 7: How is the content of the pre-show determined?
The content of the pre-show is determined through a combination of factors, including studio partnerships, advertising contracts, and the cinema chain’s own marketing strategies. Studios pay theaters to show their trailers, while advertising agencies sell commercial slots to various businesses.
FAQ 8: Are there regulations on the length or content of movie previews?
There are few formal regulations governing the length or content of movie previews. However, the Motion Picture Association (MPA) has guidelines regarding the rating of trailers, ensuring that they are appropriately aligned with the target audience.
FAQ 9: Why do some previews reveal too much of the movie?
This is a common complaint among moviegoers. Some trailers are criticized for revealing too much of the plot or showcasing key scenes, potentially diminishing the viewing experience. This can happen when studios are trying to maximize initial interest and guarantee a strong opening weekend, prioritizing immediate impact over long-term enjoyment.
FAQ 10: Is it possible to give feedback about the length or content of the pre-show to the theater?
Yes, most theaters have customer service channels where you can provide feedback. While individual complaints may not lead to immediate changes, consistent feedback can influence future decisions regarding the pre-show experience.
FAQ 11: Do streaming services have similar “preview” periods before movies?
Streaming services typically do not have pre-show experiences in the same way as traditional cinemas. However, they often recommend other movies and TV shows that viewers might enjoy, effectively serving a similar purpose of promoting content. They also have auto-play trailers.
FAQ 12: Will movie preview lengths increase or decrease in the future?
The future of movie preview lengths is uncertain. As streaming services gain popularity, cinemas may need to re-evaluate their pre-show strategies to attract and retain audiences. Some theaters might opt for shorter, more engaging pre-shows, while others may continue to rely on advertising revenue to maintain profitability. The key will be striking a balance between revenue generation and audience satisfaction.
The Final Cut: Understanding and Navigating the Pre-Show Experience
Ultimately, understanding the factors that influence movie preview length allows moviegoers to better navigate the cinematic experience. While the 20-25 minute average provides a general guideline, being aware of genre, theater chain, and potential for advertising can help you plan your arrival time and mentally prepare for the pre-show. Whether you view previews as an exciting glimpse into upcoming releases or a necessary evil, knowing the “why” behind their duration can make the experience more bearable, or even enjoyable. Embrace the trailer, critique its content, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll discover your next favorite film.