Some directors think it’s key to keep audiences guessing throughout the whole film, but alas, not all marketing teams receive that memo. There have been many times when a movie’s plot is completely given away by its own marketing. Surprisingly (or maybe not), these films still managed to rake in loads of money at the box office. Here are some of the more interesting movies whose twists were totally spoiled by their marketing campaigns–and we’re not holding back on the spoilers just like these thoughtless marketers didn’t.
The Soundtrack Track List Spoiled a Major Character Death in the Phantom Menace
Here’s an example of a marketing tactic that gave away a major plot point: The Phantom Menace. Like most Star Wars films, it was highly anticipated by fans. But giving away the surprise of what Anakin Skywalker went through in his early life totally spoiled the fun.
Two weeks before the release of the movie, its soundtrack was put up for sale. Those who listened to it learned a major plot twist concerning one of the characters: Qui-Gon Jinn wouldn’t be surviving. The track list had given away the surprise with two titles: “Qui-Gon’s Noble End”, and “Qui-Gon’s Funeral.” Consequently, fans were already aware that he wasn’t going to appear in any more movies.