The trailer begins by setting the plot and introduces the main character. It then picks up pace through more intense clips and unsettling music. In the final frames, it depicts the main character laughing psychotically before an axe is plunged through a door as his wife screams. This shocking ending is meant to stick in viewers' minds. The trailer also advertises that the film is based on a Stephen King novel and directed by Stanley Kubrick to attract audiences based on their reputations.