Here we are again back on the radar for motion posters for the upcoming films of this year. We have the first Star Wars prequel, Episode I:The Phantom Menace 3D, and The Hunger Games.

First, we have Star Wars returning to theaters this year as 3D is the main selling point here. They do a great job highlighting the most memorable character from that episode; Darth Maul.

Bookending the animation with the appropriate logo, you instantly know it's a Star Wars poster. Darth Maul brandishing his infamous double-lightsaber then freezes to reveal the rest of the plot elements/characters meets the requirements for an exciting motion poster. It constantly has movement, and the main subject certainly drives the attention.

Is it crazy with effects and blows your mind? No.

Does it capture your attention and remind you of your favorite action scenes? Yes.

My Rating: B+

We also have The Hunger Games headed to theaters this year, which, if you haven't heard, is gaining more and more attention based off it's growing popularity surrounding the release of it's movie trailer, topped with its already popular fan-base with the novels. We have seen their original motion poster that has the films iconic 'MokingJay' pin on fire, however these posters stray from the traditional approach and are portrayed as cosmetic marketing ads. These viral product placements ads from The Hunger Games universe are clever ways to show the characters of this film but also communicates the gilded image of a very dark and grim contest that these ads support.

I enjoy any kind of advertising(not just digital) that take clever approaches that aren't traditional; that are MEANT to be engaged with. Yes, some would fear that it would "take away from the marketing", or "retract the audience reach from its fullest potential". Providing that your viral ad has that excessive element that pushes the viewer's curiosity (17 Blades for Precision Styling) or having full-screen shots of your a-list actors, you're going to connect with your audience. The style/makeup of each actor is the first viewpoint of these posters, making the product the second viewpoint in this hierarchy.

My Rating: A

With all types of films that take place in the future that have video advertising in them (mostly digital out-of-home in its most potent form), they're not too different from how they are today. They may look and sound sharper and more futuristic, but the core foundation (especially for cosmetic ads) of making the audience feel captivated, informed, and trusted will always be relevant.

However when it relates to a subject so intense like a battle to the death, like it is here for The Hunger Games, it undoubtedly casts a dark shadow - and for the fans of the books, I'm sure it's parallel to their expectations for the film.

Nick Sears - Creative Director / Designer - rVue