Blog Post #20: The September Issue Trailer

The September Issue is a documentary about the editor of Vogue, Anna Wintour, as she prepares the September 2007 issue of the magazine. It was released in Australia in 2009 after being screened at film festivals such as Sundance, Zurich, Silverdocs, and Sheffield Doc/Fest.


The trailer has a very high-energy and exciting tone, which is created through fast-paced editing and constant movement. The shots change quickly throughout the trailer, keeping the viewer engaged and creating a sense of urgency. Many of the shots are tracking or following shots, especially of Anna Wintour as she moves through offices and events. This makes it feel like she is always in demand and constantly on the move, reinforcing her importance and influence.

The sound design also plays a major role in building urgency. There are frequent camera and photography sounds, such as shutter clicks, which highlight her public presence and the media attention surrounding her. Phone ringing and people repeatedly calling her name add to the feeling that she is always needed and that decisions depend on her. In addition, voiceovers discussing her reputation and fame makes the audience see her as a powerful and influential figure in the fashion industry.

There is nothing really unique for the camera angles and transitions. I would say they are the basic cinematography seen in most documentaries. Tracking shots, hand held cameras, medium shots, long shots, high angle, are the main ones used.

I watched this trailer to get a feel for what is typically seen in documentaries, especially fashion ones. It also will help me if I create my own trailer or teaser.


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