If it were possible for anyone to be more attractive than Christian Bale, then I am secretly a crime-fighting, food-hating, leaf.
Equilibrium. Kurt Wimmer. R. 2002
In in a futuristic city where emotion is illegal, John Preston (Christian Bale) is a figurehead for law enforcement; however, after the state betrays him, Preston joins the underground movement to destroy the system he once trusted.
The trailer for Equilibrium (2002) clearly establishes the setting of the film as a dystopia through professional shots, climactic and violent scenes, and and altogether high quality editing. The trailer begins with shots of the dystopia itself- a world where everyone dresses in the same gray clothing and no one shows emotions. This makes it clear that independence is restricted and citizens must conform. It also flashes to shots of Preston, the protagonist, performing his duty as a Cleric.
As the trailer continues, Preston becomes more and more cynical about the society he lives in. When "the state betrays him," arresting his wife, it makes the audience feel sympathy towards Preston. The trailer shifts to shots of Preston fighting against the government rather than for. The trailer uses text to stress the negative aspects of the dystopian world, such as "freedom is a thing of the past." It is edited to match the rhythm of the music, which helps create suspense.
After watching the trailer for Equilibrium, I think that I will use similar editing techniques- for example, I will match my clips to the rhythm of an intense music to create a certain emotion. I will also organize the clips in a similar mannerism, beginning with establishing shots of the society before shifting to dramatic, climactic shots to incite excitement and interest in the plot.
