Wondering mow long are previews for a movie at the theater? Read about it here!
As the lights dim and the anticipation builds in a darkened theater, moviegoers eagerly await the main event – the feature film they’ve been eagerly anticipating. However, before the opening credits roll, audiences are often subjected to a parade of movie previews, movie trailers, and advertisements.
So how long are previews for a movie at the theater?
AMC states that their previews typically span approximately 20 minutes. This duration can encompass anywhere from 5 to 8 movie trailers. Ultimately, the total number of previews presented depends on the length of each trailer. However, we have found that lately, this time has been closer to about 30 minutes.
This also depends on where you’re seeing the movie. IMAX and 3D options are said to have shorter previews, while Dolby, which has its own set of advertisements, seems to stay around 30 minutes.
So does the movie’s run time include the previews?
No, a movie’s posted run time does not include the previews but does include the ending credits. This means that the run time will start from the first scene of the movie until the posted run time is over. For example, if a movie has a run time of 120 minutes and it starts at 6 pm, it will be over at 8:20 instead of 8 pm.
Evolution of previews
In the early days of cinema, movie trailers were concise and primarily served the purpose of generating excitement for upcoming films. However, over the years, the landscape of movie marketing has transformed. Theatrical trailers have become a crucial element in a film’s promotional strategy, often released online even before they hit theaters. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, filmmakers and studios have recognized the need to create captivating trailers that can go viral and generate buzz long before the movie’s release.
Why do they show previews before a movie?
While audiences might find the extended previews tedious, it’s essential to understand the economic motivations behind this trend. Studios view the pre-movie slot as prime advertising real estate. With the high cost of producing and marketing films, the additional revenue generated from selling advertising slots in theaters is a lucrative business. This practice not only helps offset the expenses but also ensures that trailers reach a captive audience in a theatrical setting, providing a unique and immersive experience that cannot be replicated through online platforms.
The Business Behind the Previews
While the economic rationale is clear, the impact on the audience experience cannot be ignored. Moviegoers often express frustration at the seemingly endless stream of trailers, particularly when they have arrived promptly for the advertised movie start time. The extended previews can diminish the overall enjoyment of the cinema experience, leading some patrons to avoid the cinema altogether in favor of streaming services where they can skip directly to the main feature.
That being said, many enjoy watching the previews before a movie starts. Sometimes, you can feel more of the impact of a movie trailer by seeing it on the big screen rather than seeing it on a device like a phone or the TV.
I think that just means you need to have an even balance between showing the trailers and getting to the start of the movie. The length of previews before a movie starts in theaters has undeniably increased over the years, driven by economic considerations and changes in the way movies are marketed. While the business motivations are clear, it is essential for the film industry to consider the impact on the audience experience. Finding a balance that satisfies both the economic needs of the industry and the expectations of moviegoers is crucial to ensuring the continued success and appeal of the theatrical experience.
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