Before a new blockbuster Hollywood movie is released from the cutting room and unleashed into cinemas, there is usually a frenzy of media activity in the build-up to the initial release date.

Indeed, we may see trailers for the film up to a year before it’s even released, but this technique allows studios to generate interest before the release. And if there’s a product involved, you’re most likely to see an advertisement that ties it in with the film. Indeed, during the film itself you may very well come across references to familiar brands - from equipment that the lead characters use to brand placement in the film’s location.

A wide range of products - from soft drinks to mobile phones - are usually used to promote certain films in the run-up to their initial cinema release. This can be beneficial for those who are looking to reach a wider audience and encourage them to buy said products.

Product placement can vary depending on the type of film, in the case of technology - such as laptops and mobile phones - firms will usually target films which have an air of action about them. Indeed, films involving secret agents or futuristic undertones are more likely to help show off the technology of mobile phones - such as GPS and mobile internet - whilst those which focus on romantic stories will usually make use of a phone to communicate differently or in some cases as a fashion statement.

Exposure on television and also the cinema screen can help companies to sell both contract and pay as you go mobile phones, often offering some kind of special deal that ties in with the production - such as downloadable content or specialised payment packages in order to attract moviegoers and phone customers alike. And with cinema and mobile phone technology making leaps and bounds in recent times - including newer 3G models such as the iPhone 3G - who knows what kind of new phone models we could be seeing in future film productions?

And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to have a phone like the one James Bond uses?

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 6th, 2008 at 1:44 pm and is filed under Technology. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.