The trailer uses effective iconography, sound, and editing to summarize the plot and generate interest in the Halloween film. Iconography includes the killer's mask, knife, and other Halloween props that set the scene. Non-diegetic music and diegetic sounds like screams build tension and danger. The narrative jumps back and forth in time through flashbacks and quick cuts to explain the killer's motives from childhood trauma and show he has returned seeking revenge through suspenseful scenes.