Movie trailers are more than just sneak peeks—they’re an art form. Some trailers are so captivating that they leave a lasting impression, building anticipation for films that go on to become iconic in cinema history. This list highlights the best Hollywood movie trailers that grabbed our attention and made us rush to the theaters. From psychological thrillers to sci-fi blockbusters, these trailers are unforgettable in their own right.
The Exorcist
Widely regarded as one of the scariest movies ever, The Exorcist’s trailer captures the horror and shock of demonic possession. Its eerie visuals and disturbing atmosphere set the tone for a terrifying experience that haunted audiences.
Killers of The Flower Moon
Martin Scorsese’s historical epic delivers a powerful trailer, spotlighting its dramatic performances and rich cinematography. The haunting soundtrack and tension-filled moments promise a film brimming with intrigue and intensity.
Longlegs
A psychological thriller that’s shrouded in mystery, Longlegs’ trailer hints at mind games and paranoia. The trailer doesn’t give too much away but is deeply unsettling, sparking curiosity about the twisted narrative ahead.
Watchmen
Based on the famous graphic novel, Watchmen’s trailer is packed with stylized action and thought-provoking dialogue. Its moody visuals and philosophical undertones hint at a superhero story unlike any other.
Inception
This trailer is famous for its use of the now-iconic “BRRRM” sound, a forewarning of the mind-bending journey to come. The trailer of Inception masterfully built intrigue and confusion, leaving viewers eager to see what Christopher Nolan had crafted.
Nope
The eerie, slow-burn tension of Nope’s trailer created more questions than answers. Jordan Peele’s genius for horror shines through, as the trailer teases alien phenomena without revealing too much.
Dunkirk
Nolan’s war epic has one of the most tense and atmospheric trailers ever. The ticking clock, sound design, and minimal dialogue all add to the sense of urgency and survival that runs through Dunkirk.
Man Of Steel
Man of Steel’s first trailer stands out with its poetic imagery and emotional tone, promising a more introspective take on the Superman origin story. The powerful music builds to an epic conclusion that teases the birth of a hero.
Good Time
Good Time’s trailer exudes pure adrenaline, matching the film’s breakneck pace. The Safdie brothers captured the gritty, desperate energy of their lead characters in a trailer that leaves you breathless.
The Shining
The trailer for Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece is simple but chilling. Featuring only a river of blood flowing from an elevator, it is haunting and memorable, setting the tone for a horror classic.
Everything Everywhere All At Once
This trailer is a chaotic, exhilarating ride through multiple universes, giving viewers a taste of the wild and imaginative journey ahead. It hints at emotional depth amidst the madness, making it impossible to ignore.
Jojo Rabbit
With its satirical take on Nazi Germany, Jojo Rabbit’s trailer walks the fine line between humor and heartbreak. It teases both the absurdity and the emotional weight of the film, leaving a lasting impression.
The Dark Knight
The Dark Knight had one of the most anticipated trailers of all time, especially with the reveal of Heath Ledger’s Joker. The chaos and tension the trailer exudes left fans eager to see one of the greatest superhero movies ever.
Oppenheimer
The first teaser for Nolan’s Oppenheimer is a masterclass in building anticipation. Without giving much away, it conveyed the weight of its subject matter—atomic warfare—and Nolan’s signature storytelling style.
Hereditary
A nightmare-inducing trailer that captured the dark, unsettling nature of Ari Aster’s debut horror film, Hereditary builds dread with every frame, hinting at the familial terror that unfolds.
Saltburn
The trailer for Saltburn is a sumptuous feast for the eyes, filled with dramatic tension and a mysterious, aristocratic vibe. It promises opulence, betrayal, and psychological twists.
Barbie
The playful and bright visuals of Barbie’s trailer were the perfect way to introduce a live-action film that took everyone by surprise with its wit and social commentary.
Beau Is Afraid
A surreal and deeply unsettling trailer, Beau Is Afraid plays with anxiety and discomfort, making viewers feel as paranoid as the film’s protagonist. A24 once again nails the art of the teaser.
Barbarian
Packed with unexpected twists and turns, Barbarian’s trailer builds suspense by keeping viewers in the dark about the plot, making it a must-watch for horror fans.
The Batman
The Batman’s trailer gave fans a darker, grittier version of Gotham, with Robert Pattinson’s brooding performance at its center. The noir tone and action scenes make it one of the most memorable superhero trailers.
It
The terrifying teaser for It brought Pennywise back in full force, sending chills down the spines of audiences with its frightening imagery and nostalgic yet unsettling tone.
Hot Fuzz
The trailer for Hot Fuzz perfectly balances comedy and action, teasing the buddy-cop energy and high-octane sequences while showcasing the signature humor of Edgar Wright. With quick cuts, sharp dialogue, and explosive action, it promises a fun ride with plenty of laughs.
Joker
Joker’s trailer took a bold approach, diving into the origins of one of cinema’s most notorious villains. The melancholic tone, haunting score, and Joaquin Phoenix’s unsettling transformation hooked viewers, leaving them eager to witness this dark character study.
Godzilla
With its atmospheric buildup and sense of scale, Godzilla’s trailer made it clear that the King of the Monsters was back in a big way. The anticipation builds as you only catch glimpses of the towering creature until the final, awe-inspiring reveal.
Midsommar
Midsommar’s trailer successfully captured the unsettling nature of this folk horror film. The bright daylight visuals contrast with the growing sense of dread, making it one of the most memorable horror trailers in recent years.
The Lighthouse
The eerie, black-and-white visuals of The Lighthouse paired with unsettling sound design made its trailer as hypnotic as the film itself. The growing tension between the two isolated characters teases psychological horror at its finest.
Logan
Logan’s trailer was a departure from typical superhero fare, opting for a grounded, emotional tone. With Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” playing in the background, it revealed a raw, vulnerable Wolverine that promised a powerful final chapter for the beloved character.
The Conjuring
As one of the most chilling horror trailers, The Conjuring teases the terrifying events of a haunted farmhouse without giving too much away. Its effective use of jump scares and atmosphere sets the tone for the supernatural horror experience.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
The return of the Star Wars franchise was marked by a trailer that captured the perfect balance of nostalgia and excitement. The soaring music, familiar faces, and epic space battles left fans brimming with anticipation for the next chapter in the saga.
Avengers: Infinity War
The trailer for Infinity War was a masterclass in building hype. Featuring nearly every major Marvel character, the intense action sequences and the looming threat of Thanos made it clear that this would be an epic showdown like no other.
10 Cloverfield Lane
10 Cloverfield Lane’s trailer came out of nowhere, dropping hints of mystery and tension without revealing much about how it connected to the original Cloverfield. The suspenseful, claustrophobic vibe drew viewers into its isolated world.
Avengers: Endgame
Following the devastating events of Infinity War, the Endgame trailer is filled with emotional weight and high stakes. The teaser pulls at the heartstrings as it sets up the final battle between the Avengers and Thanos, making it one of the most anticipated films in history.
Suckerpunch
The visually striking trailer for Sucker Punch was packed with fantasy elements, action, and surreal dream sequences. It promised a visually unique and action-packed spectacle that stood out with its bold, imaginative visuals.
Thor: Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok’s trailer injected humor and colorful visuals into the Thor franchise, presenting a completely fresh tone. The upbeat vibe, paired with Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song,” set the stage for a quirky, fun adventure.
Suicide Squad
The first Suicide Squad trailer, set to Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” captured the chaotic energy of this anti-hero film. The colorful visuals, offbeat humor, and action-packed scenes promised an unconventional take on the superhero genre.
Babylon
Babylon’s trailer hints at the debauchery, glamour, and chaos of 1920s Hollywood. With its high-energy pacing, dramatic visuals, and star-studded cast, it sets the stage for a wild ride through the golden age of cinema.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner Of Azkaban
This trailer marked a tonal shift in the Harry Potter series, with darker, more mature visuals and a sense of foreboding that perfectly captured the essence of the third book. The trailer teased fans with new magical creatures and higher stakes for Harry and his friends.
Possession
The trailer for Possession is an intense experience, filled with emotional breakdowns and haunting imagery. It’s a disturbing preview of a psychological horror film that leaves audiences unsettled and curious about its twisted narrative.
Don’t Look Now
Don’t Look Now’s trailer is a masterclass in building dread. Its ominous atmosphere and quick flashes of disturbing imagery create a sense of impending doom that perfectly reflects the psychological horror of the film.
Brazil
Brazil’s trailer presents a dystopian world filled with surreal visuals and dark humor. It gives viewers a glimpse into Terry Gilliam’s unique vision, filled with bureaucratic madness and dreamlike sequences that make this sci-fi film so memorable.
Black Swan
The trailer for Black Swan teases a psychological thriller filled with tension, obsession, and transformation. Natalie Portman’s intense performance is front and center, building anticipation for this dark, twisted take on the pursuit of perfection.
Network
Network’s trailer emphasizes the chaotic energy and biting social commentary of the film. Its satirical tone and focus on media manipulation still resonate today, as it teases a powerful critique of television culture.
Silence
The trailer for Silence showcases Martin Scorsese’s epic exploration of faith and persecution. The lush cinematography and emotional performances promise a gripping and meditative historical drama.
After Hours
After Hours’s trailer sets the tone for a nightmarish and absurd journey through New York City. With its surreal twists and escalating chaos, it promises a darkly comedic ride with plenty of surprises.
Prisoners
The trailer for Prisoners is an intense, nail-biting preview of the emotional and psychological thriller. Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal’s powerhouse performances take center stage, as the tension builds around a high-stakes kidnapping case.
The Banshees Of Inisherin
The trailer for The Banshees of Inisherin captures the darkly humorous and melancholy nature of the film. With its stunning landscapes and quirky characters, it teases a unique and heartfelt exploration of friendship.
Dream Scenario
Dream Scenario’s trailer taps into the surreal and bizarre, setting up a film that explores the strange world of dreams and reality. Its mysterious tone and oddball humor pique curiosity, making it hard to look away.
Swiss Army Man
Swiss Army Man’s trailer is as weird and wonderful as the film itself. With its quirky visuals and offbeat premise of a man stranded with a flatulent corpse, it offers a mix of dark humor and heartfelt emotion.
Men
Men’s trailer teases a haunting and atmospheric psychological horror film. The eerie, isolated setting and strange occurrences hint at a deep and unsettling narrative, filled with terror and symbolism.
Moonlight
The trailer for Moonlight beautifully captures the emotional depth of the film, showcasing its poignant exploration of identity, love, and masculinity. Its lush visuals and heartfelt performances promise a moving, powerful experience.
The Witch
The chilling trailer for The Witch builds a slow sense of dread, using atmospheric visuals and unsettling sound design to create an eerie preview of the supernatural horror film.
Promising Young Woman
The trailer for Promising Young Woman mixes dark humor with a powerful message of revenge. Its stylish visuals and Carey Mulligan’s fierce performance hint at a bold and provocative story.
The Menu
The Menu’s trailer blends dark comedy with horror, teasing a twisted, high-stakes dining experience. The unsettling tone and eccentric characters make it a captivating and eerie preview.
Split
The trailer for Split highlights James McAvoy’s chilling performance as a man with multiple personalities. The psychological horror and suspense are front and center, making it impossible to look away from this gripping thriller.
Isle Of Dogs
Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs trailer features his signature visual style and quirky humor. The stop-motion animation and whimsical story of a boy searching for his dog promise a unique, heartwarming adventure.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show had a trailer filled with musical numbers, wild costumes, and a sense of rebellious fun. It teases the outrageousness and campiness that made the film a cultural phenomenon.
Shaun Of The Dead
Shaun of the Dead’s trailer perfectly balances comedy and horror, showcasing the film’s clever take on the zombie genre. The sharp wit and gory fun promise a unique blend of laughs and scares.
The Silence Of The Lambs
The trailer for The Silence of the Lambs is as chilling as the film itself, featuring brief glimpses of Hannibal Lecter and building suspense around Clarice Starling’s investigation. It sets the tone for the psychological thriller that became a classic.
Uncut Gems
Uncut Gems’ trailer is a chaotic, fast-paced preview of the high-stakes world its characters inhabit. Adam Sandler’s intense performance drives the tension, as the trailer teases a whirlwind of drama, greed, and danger.
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
This trailer teases the whimsical and emotional journey of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, focusing on the dreamlike visuals and heart-wrenching premise of erasing memories of a lost love.
Carrie
The Carrie trailer builds tension by showcasing the horror of high school bullying and telekinetic revenge. Its eerie visuals and slow-burn pacing promise a terrifying adaptation of Stephen King’s classic.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
The trailer for Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas captures the psychedelic chaos of the film. Its wild, surreal visuals and offbeat humor create a madcap preview of a drug-fueled adventure.
Alien
Alien’s trailer remains one of the best in the sci-fi horror genre, with its minimalist approach that builds terror through isolation and suspense. The tagline “In space, no one can hear you scream” sealed its legacy as an unforgettable teaser.
Mad Max: Fury Road
The trailer for Mad Max: Fury Road is a thrilling, adrenaline-pumping experience, with its fast-paced action, stunning visuals, and sense of chaos. It promised—and delivered—a non-stop, high-octane cinematic ride.
Nightcrawler
The trailer for Nightcrawler is a haunting, intense glimpse into the dark world of crime journalism. The trailer is masterfully edited, starting with a calm, almost motivational tone as Bloom speaks about success and ambition, only to shift into something far more sinister as the camera captures the chaos and horror of Los Angeles at night.
These trailers have gone above and beyond in creating excitement, suspense, and anticipation for their respective films. Whether through spine-chilling horror, thought-provoking drama, or heart-pounding action, they’ve left lasting impressions on viewers and set the standard for what great trailers can achieve. Each one gives just enough to make us yearn for more, solidifying their place in movie marketing history.
