The Phantom Menace

After some time working in the film industry, I myself have explored and taken advantage of using silence and emptiness in the marketing/promotion of movies. Essentially, using this tactic when marketing anything in general, can provide a sense of mystery and unknowingness that will most likely draw in and intrigue many viewers.

One example I love to talk about is the Phantom Menace, the first film in the prequel trilogy for Star Wars. After the success of the original trilogy, this movie had a lot to live up to, and not many people were sure of what to think. When the marketing kicked off, it garnered so much attention.

This is still, to this day, one of my favorite posters of all time. This is a great example of emptiness and silence being used. Nothing much is being said or shown, but at the same time it gives people a sneak peak at the future of Anakin, leaving people only wondering and guessing how he ultimately becomes Darth Vader.

Horror Movies

Another great example I like to use is mostly all horror movies. The main draw to horror movies is the mystery behind them, making people guess what’s gonna happen next throughout the film.

In my opinion, Hereditary and Weapons’ marketing used this method of silence and mysteriousness most effectively.

And are some of the best horror movies ever made.