Radio Trailers- Research

After researching and listening to several different radio trailers I have been able to pin-point the specific features they all include. Even though every radio trailer is different the majority all includes features from a list of fundamentals. These include;
-Quotes from film
These are generally the most memorable lines from a film, and are usually taken from the protagonist and antagonist of the film. They will be the same quotes used in cinema and TV trailers, and may also be used on posters.
-25 word pitch/General Overview
The trailer will probably include a general overview of what the film is about, this could be in the form of the films 25 word pitch. This is not a necessity however, you can keep the films plot a secret and therefore make your film more alluring.
- Director, Actors, Production etc
Usually radio trailers will include the names of people involved with the film. However this will only apply if it they are a big name. Only well known and top rate directors and cast names will be included as a ploy to attract fans.
- Distributor
Similarly to the director etc, if the film has a big name distributor they may be mentioned in the trailer.
-Tag Line
This feature would usually end the trailer, as a way of keeping the listeners interested. Also if it is short and snappy, as taglines usually are, it will be memorable and help attract an audience.

Radio trailers will also involve music and/or sound from the film.


Typically a radio trailer will last for around 30-60 seconds, depending on the type of film. Shorter films, and independent films will most likely have a shorter time slot due to funding and budgets, where-as larger names and hollywood blockbusters will be able to affored a larger slot. However you wouldn't necessarily hear a big blockbuster trailer on a radio, they usually stick to advertising o the internet, TV, and posters etc. Short, independent film which will be shown in local cinema will use local radio stations as a way of contacting the audience.