Research into Similar Film Advertisement

The Cabin in the woods is a horror film of the supernatural sub-genre. The film was advertised in numerous ways such as with trailers, film posters and websites, which increased its popularity when it was released in 2012.

Poster

The film poster denotes a cabin which appears to be twisted and distorted. I think this suggests that strange and twisted things are going to happen in the cabin. The cabin is floating in mid-air which could suggest supernatural activity. The wood in the background is faded in what looks like fog but the cabin is sharp and clear which suggests that that is the main location and it also creates a sense of isolation. The poster includes the line ‘you think you know the story’ which suggests that the film may not be what the audience think it will be, this may entice the viewer because they want to see if the story surprises them. The date is included on the poster so that the viewer knows when they can go and see the film.

Trailer

Trailers are used to give viewers a basic idea of what upcoming films are going to be about and to intrigue people to watch the film when it is released. The Cabin in the Woods trailer shows an equilibrium, according to Todorov’s theory, quickly followed by a disruption. The editing gets faster as the trailer progresses which builds up tension; this is a horror film convention commonly used. I think this is an effective film trailer because, after watching it, I knew what the film was going to be about but I was left wanting to know what happens in the end.

 

Website

The film has its own website which would allow people to explore more into what the film is going to be about. Small clips are shown from the film as you progress through the website which is meant to intrigue the viewer and make them want to see what happens in the full film. There is a link to the trailer on the home page which will give the viewer an insight into what the film is about without being told the ending. There is an ‘about’ page which gives a brief synopsis of the film which, again, acts as a ‘teaser’ and intrigues the viewer to watch the full film. There is a gallery page showing pictures of the film. If actors are recognised when people look through the gallery, fans of the actors’ previous work are more likely to want to see the film. All of these pages are there to let viewers get to know the type of film Cabin in the Woods will be. There are links to social media so that people can share the page with other people which will make the film known to a wider audience. This is an example of convergence which is an effective way to promote films.