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Benedict Coulter, founder of a trailer agency and creator of a children's app, shares his journey from a Parisian musician to a Hollywood trailer editor. He discusses the intricate art of trailer editing, emphasizing the emotional impact of music and how it shapes audience perception. The evolving role of AI in creative industries garners significant attention, as he navigates the balance between innovation and human storytelling.
Movie advertising is heavily influenced by audience testing, which dictates what content goes into trailers. Studios rely on feedback from different demographic quadrants to optimize viewer response, often resulting in trailers that reveal too much of the plot. This trend compromises the mystery of filmmaking that some directors prefer, as they may opt for teasers that excite without revealing critical story elements. Consequently, audiences may feel trailers spoil the entire film experience, leading to frustration and a decline in trailer viewership.
The speaker transitioned from a music career in Paris to movie trailer editing in Hollywood after moving to California. Initially working mundane jobs, a chance opportunity led to an entry-level position at a trailer company, where the speaker's musical background proved advantageous. By incorporating rock music into trailers, the speaker distinguished themselves in a field still dominated by traditional movie scores. This innovative approach helped redefine trailer styles, showcasing the importance of personal experiences in shaping a career.
The speaker draws parallels between music and trailer editing, emphasizing that rhythm is a crucial element in crafting compelling narratives. Editors often start with music to guide the emotional flow of the trailer, as it helps to dictate pacing and structure. By cutting scenes in sync with the selected music, trailers can resonate more deeply with audiences, drawing them into the story. This rhythmic approach enables editors to create an engaging experience that captures viewer attention in a short timeframe.