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Trailer (promotion) Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: The Evolution and History of Movie Trailers

Cheat Sheet:
The Evolution and History of Movie Trailers Study Guide

Origins and Early History

The promotional film segment, initially termed a 'coming attraction,' was principally conceived to offer an exhaustive synopsis of the film's narrative arc.

Answer: False

Explanation: The initial purpose of a 'coming attraction' was not to provide a detailed plot summary, but rather to highlight key scenes to generate audience interest.

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Nils Granlund is credited with producing the inaugural trailer exhibited within an American cinema, specifically for the Marcus Loew theater circuit.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical accounts indicate that Nils Granlund developed the first trailer for the Marcus Loew theater chain in 1913.

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The nomenclature 'trailer' purportedly arose from the practice of exhibiting these promotional films subsequent to, rather than preceding, the primary feature presentation.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'trailer' originated because these promotional segments were historically shown after the main feature film, effectively 'trailing' it.

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The inaugural cinematic trailer was produced to advertise the Broadway musical production titled 'The Pleasure Seekers'.

Answer: True

Explanation: The first trailer was created in 1913 to promote the musical 'The Pleasure Seekers' on Broadway.

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According to the provided source material, what is the principal function of a cinematic trailer?

Answer: To highlight key scenes from upcoming films to entice audiences to watch them.

Explanation: The primary function of a movie trailer is to showcase key scenes from upcoming films to generate audience interest and encourage attendance.

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In which year and under what specific circumstances was the inaugural trailer exhibited in an American motion picture theater?

Answer: 1913, to promote the musical 'The Pleasure Seekers' on Broadway.

Explanation: The first trailer was shown in 1913 to advertise the Broadway musical 'The Pleasure Seekers'.

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What is the etymological basis for the designation 'trailer' applied to early promotional films?

Answer: Because it was shown after the main feature film concluded.

Explanation: The term 'trailer' originated from the practice of showing these previews after the main feature film had concluded.

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Evolution of Trailer Function and Placement

Although initially positioned after the main feature, the placement of trailers in this manner proved to be an ineffective strategy for audience retention.

Answer: False

Explanation: The practice of showing trailers after the main feature was ultimately deemed ineffective, as audiences frequently departed before these previews were exhibited.

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In contemporary cinema exhibition, elaborate trailers and advertisements have substantially supplanted preceding forms of pre-feature entertainment within multiplex venues.

Answer: True

Explanation: Modern multiplexes predominantly feature extensive trailers and commercials, largely replacing earlier forms of pre-show entertainment.

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The initial strategy of exhibiting trailers subsequent to the main feature presentation was not regarded as successful.

Answer: False

Explanation: The practice of showing trailers after the main feature was initially implemented but proved to be an unsuccessful strategy.

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Describe the evolution in the placement and functional role of trailers within cinematic programs over time.

Answer: Initially shown after the feature, they evolved to become part of a broader program and now often dominate pre-feature entertainment.

Explanation: Trailers transitioned from being shown after the feature to becoming integral to pre-feature programming, now frequently dominating the pre-show period.

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What was the impact on the effectiveness of trailers when they were placed after the main feature presentation?

Answer: It proved ineffective because audiences often left before seeing them.

Explanation: Placing trailers after the main feature proved ineffective, as many audience members departed before viewing them.

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Key Figures, Companies, and Stylistic Innovations

Prior to the conclusion of the 1950s, National Screen Service (NSS) held a dominant position as the principal producer of cinematic trailers.

Answer: True

Explanation: National Screen Service (NSS) was the predominant entity responsible for the creation of movie trailers throughout much of the mid-20th century, up until the late 1950s.

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Stanley Kubrick's innovative trailer methodologies during the early 1960s were characterized by deliberate pacing and a reduction in textual overlays.

Answer: False

Explanation: Stanley Kubrick's trailer techniques in the early 1960s were noted for their quick-editing and textless montage styles, not slow pacing and minimal text.

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Pablo Ferro is acknowledged for pioneering novel graphic design methodologies that exerted a substantial influence on trailer production throughout the 1960s.

Answer: True

Explanation: Pablo Ferro's innovative graphic design and filmmaking techniques significantly shaped the aesthetic and production of movie trailers during the 1960s.

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National Screen Service (NSS) contracts stipulated that cinemas were obligated to return or destroy trailers after their initial exhibition, not retain them indefinitely.

Answer: False

Explanation: NSS contracts required the return or destruction of trailers, not indefinite retention by cinemas.

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The illicit salvaging and resale of trailers, purportedly destroyed under NSS contracts, prompted NSS to implement an increase, rather than a decrease, in rental charges.

Answer: False

Explanation: The issue of salvaged trailers led NSS to increase rental charges to mitigate financial losses, not decrease them.

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Contemporary trailers frequently employ rapid editing and textless montage sequences, stylistic innovations largely pioneered by filmmakers such as Stanley Kubrick.

Answer: True

Explanation: Techniques like quick-editing and textless montages, prominent in modern trailers, were significantly influenced by Stanley Kubrick's work in the 1960s.

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Pablo Ferro's contributions to trailer creation were significantly influenced by the aesthetic principles of experimental short films.

Answer: True

Explanation: Pablo Ferro's innovative trailer techniques drew inspiration from experimental short films, contributing to his distinctive style.

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Identify the principal entity responsible for the creation of movie trailers until the late 1950s.

Answer: National Screen Service (NSS)

Explanation: National Screen Service (NSS) was the dominant producer of movie trailers until the late 1950s.

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What stylistic innovations did Stanley Kubrick introduce to the domain of movie trailers during the early 1960s?

Answer: Textless montage trailers and quick-editing techniques.

Explanation: Stanley Kubrick pioneered textless montage trailers and rapid-editing techniques, significantly influencing trailer aesthetics.

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Identify Pablo Ferro and elucidate his significant contributions to the field of trailer creation.

Answer: A graphic designer and filmmaker known for innovative montage and quick-editing styles.

Explanation: Pablo Ferro was a pioneering graphic designer and filmmaker recognized for his innovative montage and quick-editing styles, which greatly influenced trailer production.

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What was a direct consequence of cinema personnel salvaging and selling trailers designated for return or destruction under NSS contracts?

Answer: NSS increased its rental charges due to financial losses.

Explanation: The practice of salvaging trailers led to financial losses for NSS, prompting them to increase rental charges.

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Stanley Kubrick's innovative trailer techniques during the 1960s were influenced by which of the following factors?

Answer: Television trends and experimental short films.

Explanation: Kubrick's trailer innovations were influenced by contemporary television trends and experimental short films.

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Production Techniques and Industry Standards

Trailers produced by NSS characteristically incorporated descriptive textual elements, musical scores sourced from studio archives, and frequently employed a resonant, authoritative voice-over narration.

Answer: True

Explanation: NSS-produced trailers commonly utilized descriptive text, library music, and a distinctive, deep voice-over style.

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The selection of scenes for a trailer is not invariably arranged in the chronological sequence they occupy within the final film.

Answer: False

Explanation: Trailer editors often rearrange scenes for dramatic effect, meaning they are not always presented in the chronological order of the film.

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The Motion Picture Association (MPA) establishes a standard maximum duration of two minutes and thirty seconds for movie trailers.

Answer: False

Explanation: The MPA's standard maximum length for trailers is 2 minutes and 30 seconds, not 2 minutes.

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An industry guideline proposed in 2014 recommended that trailers adhere to a maximum length of two minutes, representing a decrease from prior conventions.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 2014, Cinema United suggested a maximum trailer length of two minutes, a reduction from the established norm.

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'Special shoot' footage denotes material specifically produced for trailer advertisement purposes, which is subsequently omitted from the final cinematic release.

Answer: True

Explanation: 'Special shoot' footage is created solely for trailers and is not included in the final film.

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The promotional trailer for Alfred Hitchcock's 'Psycho' included a segment featuring Vera Miles, which was filmed subsequent to the principal production phase.

Answer: True

Explanation: A scene with Vera Miles, filmed specifically for the 'Psycho' trailer after principal photography concluded, was used to enhance its promotional impact.

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Trailer editors do not exclusively utilize final cut footage when films are undergoing the editing process; they often work with earlier cuts or raw material.

Answer: False

Explanation: Trailer editors frequently work with footage that is not yet finalized, such as dailies or rough cuts, as films are still in production.

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The conventional narrative architecture of a movie trailer typically comprises an introduction, a developmental phase, and a concluding montage sequence.

Answer: True

Explanation: Most movie trailers adhere to a three-act structure: introduction of premise, development of plot, and a concluding montage.

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The prevalence of distinctive, stentorian voice-over narration in trailers has demonstrably declined in recent years.

Answer: False

Explanation: The use of traditional, stentorian voice-over narration in trailers has decreased, partly due to the passing of prominent artists in the field.

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Cinematic trailers frequently employ musical selections derived from existing film scores, popular music tracks, or original compositions created specifically for the trailer.

Answer: True

Explanation: Trailers commonly utilize music from various sources, including other film scores, popular songs, and specially commissioned pieces.

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A 'cast run' within a trailer is designated for listing the principal actors, not the crew members or technical staff.

Answer: False

Explanation: A 'cast run' specifically enumerates the main actors featured in the film, distinct from the crew or technical personnel.

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The MPA permits studios to exceed the standard trailer length limitation on a case-by-case basis, not without any restrictions.

Answer: False

Explanation: The MPA allows studios to exceed the standard trailer length limit only once per year, under specific circumstances.

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The demise of Don LaFontaine, a prominent voice artist, is considered a contributing factor to the diminished utilization of traditional stentorian voice-over narration in trailers.

Answer: True

Explanation: The passing of influential voice artists like Don LaFontaine has been linked to a decline in the use of traditional stentorian voice-over narration in trailers.

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A common design principle for trailers is the deliberate omission of major plot spoilers.

Answer: True

Explanation: Trailers are generally constructed to entice viewers without divulging critical plot points or spoilers.

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What is the primary objective guiding the selection of scenes for inclusion in a movie trailer?

Answer: To showcase the most exciting or noteworthy parts without major spoilers.

Explanation: The principal goal is to entice the audience by highlighting exciting or significant moments without revealing major plot spoilers.

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What is the standard maximum duration stipulated by the MPA for a movie trailer?

Answer: 2 minutes 30 seconds

Explanation: The MPA sets the standard maximum length for movie trailers at two minutes and thirty seconds.

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What specific guideline concerning trailer duration was promulgated by the industry in 2014?

Answer: Suggest distributors supply trailers no longer than two minutes.

Explanation: In 2014, Cinema United suggested that distributors limit trailers to a maximum length of two minutes.

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In the context of trailer production, what is the definition of 'special shoot' footage?

Answer: Footage exclusively created for advertising purposes and not in the final film.

Explanation: 'Special shoot' footage refers to material filmed specifically for trailers that does not appear in the final movie.

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Describe the typical three-act structure employed in the construction of most movie trailers.

Answer: Premise introduction, plot development/climax build-up, and a montage/cast run.

Explanation: Movie trailers commonly follow a structure involving premise introduction, plot development leading to a climax, and a concluding montage or cast run.

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What factors have contributed to the diminished use of traditional, stentorian voice-over narration in cinematic trailers?

Answer: The passing of prominent voice artists like Don LaFontaine.

Explanation: The decline in traditional stentorian voice-over narration is partly attributed to the passing of influential artists such as Don LaFontaine.

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Identify the option that is NOT cited as a common source of music utilized in movie trailers.

Answer: Live orchestral recordings from theatrical stage plays.

Explanation: While trailers use music from film scores, popular songs, and original compositions, live orchestral recordings from stage plays are not typically mentioned as a source.

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What is the typical function of a 'billing block' within movie marketing materials, such as trailers?

Answer: To list the principal cast and crew members, often at the end of a trailer.

Explanation: A 'billing block' is conventionally used to list the principal cast and crew members, frequently appearing at the conclusion of a trailer.

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As stated in the source material, what is the principal objective in selecting scenes for inclusion in a movie trailer?

Answer: To entice the audience by showing exciting or noteworthy parts.

Explanation: The main purpose of selected trailer scenes is to captivate the audience by showcasing exciting or noteworthy elements of the film.

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What is the specific purpose of a 'cast run' as it appears within a movie trailer?

Answer: To list the main stars appearing in the movie.

Explanation: A 'cast run' serves to list the principal actors featured in the film.

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Modern Distribution and Specialized Trailers

On optical media formats such as DVDs and Blu-rays, trailers are typically presented as supplementary features, accessible independently from the primary film playback.

Answer: False

Explanation: Trailers on DVDs and Blu-rays are usually selectable bonus features, allowing separate access rather than being integrated into the main film playback.

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The summer of 1993 marked the initial period when major film studios commenced distributing trailers through online services, including CompuServe and AOL.

Answer: True

Explanation: In the summer of 1993, major studios began utilizing online platforms like CompuServe and AOL to distribute movie trailers.

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A 'micro-teaser' or 'bumper' is characterized as an abbreviated preview, not a lengthy one, and is not designed to reveal substantial plot developments.

Answer: False

Explanation: A micro-teaser or bumper is a very short preview (typically 5-10 seconds) intended to capture attention quickly, not to provide extensive plot details.

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Contemporary trailers are frequently subjected to multichannel audio mixing, employing formats such as Dolby Digital, to augment the auditory experience.

Answer: True

Explanation: Modern trailers leverage advanced audio technologies, including multichannel formats like Dolby Digital, to enhance their impact.

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The designation 'trailer trash' programs referred to cinematic presentations comprising exclusively trailers, devoid of any accompanying feature film.

Answer: True

Explanation: 'Trailer trash' programs were screenings that exclusively featured trailers, without the exhibition of a main feature film.

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Cinematic trailers for video games are not invariably produced utilizing the game's native engine; they often employ separate CGI.

Answer: False

Explanation: Cinematic video game trailers frequently use CGI distinct from the game engine, unlike gameplay trailers which are typically in-engine.

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Gameplay trailers, alternatively termed 'in-engine' trailers, are rendered using the game's engine and theoretically depict authentic gameplay footage.

Answer: True

Explanation: Gameplay or 'in-engine' trailers are designed to showcase actual footage rendered by the game's engine.

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Book trailers employ visual narrative techniques analogous to those found in movie trailers, with the objective of fostering readership.

Answer: True

Explanation: Book trailers leverage visual storytelling methods, akin to movie trailers, to encourage engagement and readership.

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DVDs compiling collections of trailers, particularly those concentrating on exploitation genres, are not typically designated as 'trailer trash' programs; this term historically referred to cinema screenings.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'trailer trash' programs historically referred to cinema screenings consisting solely of trailers, not necessarily DVDs of trailer compilations.

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The video game 'Cyberpunk 2077' is cited as an instance where its gameplay trailers exhibited footage substantially divergent from the final product.

Answer: True

Explanation: 'Cyberpunk 2077' is presented as a case study where gameplay trailers demonstrably differed from the actual game experience.

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Book trailers predominantly employ visual storytelling techniques rather than relying primarily on author readings or interviews for promotion.

Answer: False

Explanation: Book trailers utilize visual and narrative techniques, distinct from direct author readings or interviews, to promote literary works.

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In what manner are trailers typically presented as supplemental features on DVD and Blu-ray releases?

Answer: They can be accessed separately from the main film content.

Explanation: On DVDs and Blu-rays, trailers are usually offered as bonus features that can be accessed independently of the main film.

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In which year did major motion picture studios commence the distribution of trailers via online channels?

Answer: 1993

Explanation: Major movie studios began offering trailers online in 1993, utilizing platforms like CompuServe and AOL.

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Define the term 'micro-teaser' or 'bumper' as it pertains to contemporary trailer formats.

Answer: A very short preview (5-10 seconds) shown at the beginning of a trailer.

Explanation: A micro-teaser or bumper is a brief preview, typically lasting 5-10 seconds, presented at the commencement of a trailer.

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Describe the evolution of sound mixing techniques employed in contemporary cinematic trailers.

Answer: They emphasize multichannel formats like Dolby Digital for enhanced audio effects.

Explanation: Modern trailers often utilize multichannel sound formats, such as Dolby Digital, to enhance their auditory impact and immersive quality.

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What are the distinguishing characteristics between cinematic trailers and gameplay trailers in the context of video games?

Answer: Cinematic trailers often use CGI separate from the game engine; gameplay trailers use the game engine.

Explanation: Cinematic trailers typically employ CGI distinct from the game engine, whereas gameplay trailers are rendered using the game's engine.

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How does a 'book trailer' diverge from other forms of promotional content for literary works?

Answer: Book trailers use visual storytelling techniques rather than direct speech.

Explanation: Book trailers utilize visual and narrative techniques, distinct from direct author readings or interviews, to promote literary works.

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Ethical Considerations and Recognition

The utterance 'OK, you asked for it!' attributed to Rick Blaine within the 'Casablanca' trailer is notably absent from the film's final release.

Answer: False

Explanation: The line 'OK, you asked for it!' spoken by Rick Blaine in the 'Casablanca' trailer does not appear in the final version of the movie.

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A frequent criticism leveled against trailers is their tendency to mislead audiences through the overstatement of a minor actor's prominence or the film's intensity of action.

Answer: True

Explanation: Trailers are sometimes criticized for misrepresenting a film by exaggerating actor roles or the level of action depicted.

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The 'bait and switch' strategy employed in trailers is not exclusively intended to disappoint audiences; it can also be used to attract viewers who might otherwise avoid a film.

Answer: False

Explanation: While 'bait and switch' tactics can lead to disappointment, they are also used to broaden a film's appeal by presenting it in a way that attracts a wider audience.

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Legal action was initiated against the producers of the film 'Drive,' predicated in part on allegations that its trailer misrepresented the cinematic content.

Answer: True

Explanation: The film 'Drive' faced a lawsuit, with one of the grounds being that its trailer allegedly misrepresented the movie's actual content.

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The Golden Trailer Awards and the Key Art Awards represent significant accolades bestowed upon exemplary cinematic trailers.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Golden Trailer Awards and the Key Art Awards are notable events that honor excellence in the field of film trailer creation.

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The Film Informant bestows the TFI Awards, recognizing achievements in movie marketing media, with a specific focus on trailers.

Answer: True

Explanation: The TFI Awards, presented by The Film Informant, acknowledge outstanding contributions in movie marketing, including trailers.

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Which line of dialogue, spoken by Rick Blaine in the trailer for 'Casablanca,' is notably absent from the film's final cut?

Answer: 'OK, you asked for it!'

Explanation: The line 'OK, you asked for it!' spoken by Rick Blaine in the 'Casablanca' trailer is not present in the final movie.

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Identify a common criticism directed towards movie trailers.

Answer: They sometimes misrepresent the film's content, such as actor roles or genre.

Explanation: A frequent criticism is that trailers may misrepresent a film's content, including the significance of actors' roles or the overall genre.

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Identify a prominent awards ceremony specifically dedicated to recognizing excellence in the creation of film trailers.

Answer: The Golden Trailer Awards

Explanation: The Golden Trailer Awards is a significant ceremony that specifically honors outstanding achievements in film trailer production.

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What potential risk is associated with the 'bait and switch' tactic occasionally employed in cinematic trailers?

Answer: The film might fail to meet the expectations set by the trailer, leading to disappointment.

Explanation: The primary risk of the 'bait and switch' tactic is that the film may not meet audience expectations generated by the trailer, resulting in disappointment.

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Ancillary Information and Metadata

Links to Wikimedia Commons offer access to multimedia assets, such as images and videos, pertaining to the history of film trailers, rather than original textual documents.

Answer: False

Explanation: Wikimedia Commons serves as a repository for media files (images, videos), while Wikisource provides access to original texts.

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What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section typically found at the conclusion of scholarly articles or entries?

Answer: To link to external databases for cataloging and further information on the subject.

Explanation: The 'Authority control' section serves to link to external databases, facilitating cataloging and providing access to further information about the subject.

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Which hyperlink provides access to related visual media, such as images and videos, pertaining to the subject of film trailers?

Answer: The Wikimedia Commons link.

Explanation: The Wikimedia Commons link directs users to a repository of multimedia files relevant to film trailers.

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