The Shallows (2016) Theatrical Trailer

We start with an establishing shot of a large and spacious beach that is presented as idealistic in the opening shot, which immediately creates an inviting setting. However we do take note of the black mists that almost plague the crystal clear water, perhaps this is foreshadowing the potential danger within the water. This could be a case of appearance- especially as some would argue that some patches are in the shape of a shark which is evidently heading towards the isolated and small character- shown through the small shot composition which makes the female character seem  weak in comparison.






However this is immediately contrasted with a short sequence of clips which show this particular female character to be confident and in control, this is shown firstly with the slow motion shot as she calmly stays on her board.





Then we see her become engulfed by a huge and daunting wave (shown through a wide shot) yet she manages to hold the board steady. And the use of continuity editing allows the audience to consider this characters ongoing power.



It is worth noting also that there isn't any non-diegetic sound at this point, it is however the overpowering diegetic sound of waves.






Furthermore, later on in the trailer we experience a Point of view shot from the view of the shark, this creates fear , as not only is the camera moving at a fast pace, but it is also accompanied by non-diegetic sound which increases its volume the closer we get to the female.
Before cutting to an action match of her eating an apple, the loud crunch which is representing the shark bite.

                    






And after a sequence of short takes the audience are invited to consider the setting, in the sense that it is made to be paradise. This is shown mainly through the natural lighting used up until 0:49 seconds as then we see a change in lighting






- as it becomes darker, also the female character seems to be struggling which is portrayed through the constant and rigid camera movement.






 The red filter  transmits a message that the female character is in danger- as in this case it is representing blood which therefore highlights her pain.



Additionally when we are told what the danger is, even though the point of view shot and location hinted at it anyway, it comes as a surprise. At 1 minute 10 seconds we see the large shark leap out of the water and kill a man, this short take emphasises the potential danger- which encourages the audience to empathise with the female character as she is seen as isolated and vulnerable

Overall I think this trailer is effective as I like the wide variety of locations and camera angles/movements used, this is something I would like to emulate when making my own trailer and I believe that I can achieve this. This trailer has also highlighted the effectiveness of a theatrical trailer in terms of really allowing the audience to engage thoroughly with one character and see how either the setting or the actual character themselves could dramatically change within a short period of time.