A film trailer (also known as a preview) is a 2-3 minute series of clips from a feature film, that are designed to promote the movie before it is released. They do this by using synergy (e.g. posters and billboards) to create awareness of the film. A trailer is structured so that it gives a summary of the plot and shows some of the best scenes - without spoilers. This lets the audience see if the content appeals to them and if so, they will want to watch the film for those cool scenes. Trailers often use music to create a certain effect; e.g. a slow song with dark tones could create an eerie effect, which would suit a horror or mystery film. Another main feature in trailers are the captions (often accompanied with a narrator) which explains the plot and uses prompting language such as 'are you ready?' to create hype for the film.
However, some trailers can be misleading. For example, a mediocre film may have trailer which gives it an exciting impression; but this leads the audience to be let down when they watch the actual film.
Movie trailers are aimed at their target audience, which includes either males or females in certain age groups (like 16-20) who have a particular taste in films. For example, an animated film will be aimed at children, so it will be advertised on children and family TV channels during the day where they are likely to see it. Many people nowadays watch movie trailers on Youtube. Youtube will help the target audience see the trailer by recommending it on related videos.
We also see movie trailers at the cinema before a film is showcased; on social media, in internet ads, television and on the radio. Films can have 2 -3 versions of trailers. This may be because one is PG rated and one contains adult content; the latter will be shown later at night. More reasons for multiple trailers is to preview more clips from the film and to generate more hype from the audience as the film's release date draws closer.
The date in which the trailer is released often depends on how much anticipation there is for the film. For example, the trailer for 'Suicide squad' (an anticipated superhero film with an all star cast) was released an entire year before the movie's release. During that year, the film has accumulated a large fan base through interviews with the cast, articles, discussions and predictions of the storyline. This is more effective than releasing the movie soon after the trailer as the hype would quickly die down.
A message will appear before the video, which shows which audience the trailer is meant for. A film can have a PG trailer, as well as one with more adult content. 
Here is a screenshot of a movie trailer, with a matching poster. This advertises the film on multi media platforms. This is called 'synergy' or 'cross media convergence'. 
Promotional material such as; interviews, exclusive posters and news articles help to raise awareness and build hype for the movie; even months before its release date.
Good insight shown.
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