Unit 3

GenreMovie genres are stylistic categories where a particular

movie can be placed based on the setting, characters, plot, mood,
tone, and theme. A film's main genre category will be based on
where the majority of the content lands. A sub-genre is a smaller
category that fits inside a particular genre. Often this is a mixture of
two separate genres. Genres and sub-genres change over time and
are informed by one another.

How do you determine a movie genre?

 Has the ability to generate sub-genres
 Describes the style of a work of entertainment
 Can be combined with other genres if needed
Genres and sub-genres can be mixed and combined until you go
blue in the face (or fingers), so if you don’t see a sub-genre on this
list you can combine the meanings of each respective genre to make
your own.

Now that you have a better understanding of genre's definition, let’s

go over different types of movies with their sub-genres. We’ll have
popular and accurate examples that will help clear up any
confusion.

TYPES OF MOVIES - ACTION MOVIE GENRE

Action Genre
Movies in the action genre are defined by risk and stakes. While
many movies may feature an action sequence, to be appropriately
categorized inside the action genre, the bulk of the content must be
action-oriented, including fight scenes, stunts, car chases, and
general danger.

Heroic Bloodshed
This action sub-genre is defined by values like duty, brotherhood,
honor, redemption, and the protection of the vulnerable. It was
initially created in Hong Kong cinema but has since made its way
around the world.
Ex. The Killer (1989), Hard Boiled (1992).
Military Action
While some movies may incorporate various military
characters, settings, themes, and events, this particular sub-genre
focuses on their exploits and suggests these events are entertaining
rather than tragic. Some of the best Michael Bay movies come to
mind.
Ex. Commando (1985), G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009).

Espionage
Espionage action movies are similar to military action movies in
that they’re intended for excitement and entertainment rather than
focusing on the political and psychological aspects of
espionage. James Bond movies might be the most recognizable but
there are plenty of others. Ex. Casino Royale (2006), Mission:
Impossible III (2006).

Wuxia Action
This highly specific sub-genre focuses on martial arts as both a form
of excitement, but also as a chivalrous act of protection and honor.
Ex. Hero (2002), Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000).

Disaster
Disaster movies are defined by a large amount of destruction,
specifically from naturally occurring events, where characters try to
survive. If an alien force is the force of destruction, the film will be
categorized as science fiction rather than a straight disaster movie.
Ex.The Day After Tomorrow (2004), Dante’s Peak (1997).

Adventure
Movies in the adventure genre are defined by a journey, often
including some form of pursuit, and can take place in any setting.
Some of Steven Spielberg's best movies capture the essence of what
makes this genre so exciting.
Ex. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Lawrence of Arabia (1962).
Superhero
The superhero movie is defined by characters not only with
supernatural abilities but using those abilities for altruistic
purposes. If the film has superpowers that are used for questionable
purposes, it would be more of a supernatural thriller versus a
“superhero” movie. Marvel movies have been dominating of late but
they only occupy a small percentage of the best superhero
movies ever made.
Ex. Iron Man (2008), X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014).

TYPES OF ANIMATION MOVIES

Animation Genre
The animation genre is defined by inanimate objects being
manipulated to appear as though they are living. This can be done
in many different ways and can incorporate any other genre and
sub-genre on this list. For more info on animation, you can dive
deeper on the types of animation, the principles of animation or see
our list of the best animated movies of all time.

Traditional
Traditional animation is defined by hand-drawn and painted images
that are assembled to animate a cartoon that tells a story.
Ex. Robin Hood (1973), The Flight of Dragons (1982).

Stop Motion
Stop motion animation is defined by taking real objects and
adjusting them frame by frame to simulate motion and emotion.
Stop motion refers to the style of photography, while stop motion
such as claymation and sometimes puppet animation can fall into
multiple sub-genres.
Ex. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), The Fantastic Mr.
Fox (2009) and some of the best stop motion movies of all time.

Claymation
Claymation is a form of stop motion animation, except the subjects
used are built specifically out of clay.
Ex. Chicken Run (2000), Early Man (2018) and many of the best
Rankin Bass Christmas movies.
Cutout
This is where shapes are cut out and placed on top of one another
to make figures and settings, all used to tell a story.
Ex. South Park: Bigger, Longer, & Uncut (1999).

Computer Generated Imagery

CGI is the most common form of modern animation, where
modeling programs and software are used to animate cartoons.
Ex. Shrek (2001), Rango (2011) and Pixar's incredible short films.

Puppetry
Puppetry animation is where puppets, including hand, stick,
shadow, ventriloquist, and marionettes are used to tell a story.
Ex. Team America: World Police (2004).

Live-Action
Live-action animation is where animation, of any kind, is mixed with
real-life subjects to create a single world.
Ex. Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), Space Jam (1996).

LIST OF COMEDY FILM GENRES

Comedy Genre
The comedy genre is defined by events that are intended to make
someone laugh, no matter if the story is macabre, droll, or zany.
Comedy can be found in most movies, but if the majority of the film
is intended to be a comedy you may safely place it in this genre.
The best comedy movies range throughout this entire spectrum of
humor.

Action-Comedy
The action-comedy sub-genre incorporates humorous actions within
the action, using the exciting events in the story for laughs.
Ex. Hot Fuzz (2007), Charlie’s Angels (2000).
Dark Comedy (Black Comedy)
Dark comedy (or Black Comedy) is defined by using attitudes and
events that would normally be objectionable to set up humorous
situations.
Ex. Very Bad Things (1998), Fargo (1996) and more of the best
dark comedy movies ever made.

Romantic Comedy
Romantic comedies (aka Rom-Coms) are defined by comedy derived
from relationship frustrations that are intimate in nature. This
includes any combination of gender or situation across the sexual
spectrum with films that include some of the best romantic
quotes ever written. Some of Woody Allen's best movies redefined
the genre.
Ex. Sleepless in Seattle (1993), How to Lose a Guy in 10
Days (2003).

Buddy Comedy
A buddy comedy is defined by at least two individuals who we follow
through a series of humorous events. Often their (platonic)
relationship is the main source of comedy in the story.
Ex. Rush Hour (1998), Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle (2003).

Road Comedy
Road comedies are defined by humorous situations derived from a
journey along a set path, and often feature a set of stops and
characters along the way that forces the protagonist(s) further
down the road.
Ex. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987), Dumb and
Dumber (1994).

Slapstick Comedy
Slapstick comedy is defined by humor derived from physical
movement, harm, or frustration that requires little to no dialogue.
Ex. The Party (1968), Mouse Hunt (1997).
Parody
I’ve decided to put parody, spoof, and satire next to one another
because they’re often thought to be synonyms, but truthfully they
are not. A parody mocks and specifically targets a single piece of art
or connected body of work. A parody is more precise, and more
limited.
Ex. MacGruber (2010), Spaceballs (1987).

Spoof
A spoof is broader than a parody because it mocks an entire genre
or collection of similar, but separate works. Where parody targets a
specific piece of art or entertainment, spoofs target the entire
genre.
Ex. The Naked Gun (1988), Not Another Teen Movie (2001).

Satire
Satire movies are the broadest of the three in that it mocks overall
ideas, vices, human nature, institutions, or any number of concepts
that don’t necessarily have a specific connection to another piece of
art.

Sitcom
A sitcom (situational comedy) is defined by a set group of people
who must navigate through humorous situations and
misunderstandings. Sitcoms in the past were very often captured
using multiple cameras on a soundstage, but it is by no means
required. For an inside look at how sitcoms are written, download
your own copy of this Seinfeld script or the The Office pilot episode.
Ex. Seinfeld (1989), It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005).

Sketch Comedy
Sketch comedy is defined by a collection of separate situations, with
no inherent connection to each other, and can include the use of
parody, satire, spoof, and many other comedy sub-genres.
Ex. Chappelle’s Show (2003), The Whitest Kids U’ Know (2006).
Mockumentary
Mockumentaries use the documentary format for parody, satire, or
spoof. They don’t mock the format, but rather use the format to
mock. Ex. This is Spinal Tap (1984), The Office (2004).

Prank
The prank genre is defined by a mixture of real-life participants who
are lead through a planned event without their knowledge. The
orchestrators often have a premeditated intention to coerce
foolishness or error from the participant for the sake of humor or
surprise.
Ex. Borat (2006), Nathan For You (2013)

CRIME MOVIE GENRE LIST

Crime Genre
The crime genre deals with both sides of the criminal justice system
but does not focus on legislative matters or civil suits and legal
actions. The best crime movies often occupy moral gray areas
where heroes and villains are much harder to define. Many
of Martin Scorsese's best movies or Quentin Tarantino's movies fall
within the crime genre.

Caper
The caper sub-genre is defined by a group of criminals, often non-
violent, who set out on a heist or job. A caper is often humorous and
less serious in nature when compared to the other crime sub-
genres. Ex. Ocean’s Eleven (2001), A Fish Called Wanda (1988).

Heist
The heist sub-genre is defined by a criminal, or group of criminals,
who set out to steal something valuable, and have a more serious
tone when compared to a caper story. The subjects must navigate a
set of obstacles and avoid law enforcement, and often the
“getaway” is incorporated.
Ex. Heat (1995), The Score (2001).
Gangster
A gangster story follows and explores the world of organized crime.
A film may include organized crime, but if the majority of the story
doesn't explore organized crime, it wouldn’t fall into this sub-genre.
Ex. Goodfellas (1990), Boyz in the Hood (1991) are just some of
the best gangster movies (not to be confused with the best Mafia
movies).

Cop (Police)
The cop sub-genre follows a street cop (not a detective) who deals
with criminals, crime, and the overall lifestyle as an officer of the
law. You might find that some lists will have cop movies and
detective movies intertwined, but for our list, we’ll focus on the
beat-cops.
Ex. End of Watch (2012), Beverly Hills Cop (1984).

Detective
A detective movie follows an investigator or set of investigators,
either private or as a representative of a government, and follows
the clues and revelations of a particular case, or set of cases.

Crime Film Genre: The Whydunit • Not your typical detective film
The Whydunit, explained above, is a twist on the typical detective
sub-genre, one that is more concerned with they "why" than the
"who" like in murder mysteries. Ex. L.A.
Confidential (1997), Se7en (1995).

Courtroom
The courtroom sub-genre requires the majority of the story to take
place inside, or support the events that are connected to a court
case.
Ex. A Time To Kill (1996).

Procedural
A procedural is defined by following the established day-to-day
events of investigating, solving, and prosecuting crime. Procedurals
often end in situations where law enforcement has learned a
valuable lesson, but their lives may not be irrevocably changed from
each particular case. Ex. Law & Order (1990), Miami Vice (1984)

TYPES OF DRAMA MOVIE GENRES

Drama Genre
The drama genre is defined by conflict and often looks to reality
rather than sensationalism. Emotions and intense situations are the
focus, but where other genres might use unique or exciting
moments to create a feeling, movies in the drama genre focus on
common occurrences. Drama is a very broad category and
untethered to any era — from movies based on Shakespeare to
contemporary narratives.

Melodrama
A modern melodrama is defined by the prioritization of dramatic
rhetoric and plot over character. The events are intended to elicit
an intense emotional response. A melodrama strives for situations
used to illustrate a larger moral thesis that acts as an agent of
empathy.
Ex. Beaches (1988), The Fault in our Stars (2012).

Teen Drama
The teen drama sub-genre is both simple and redundant. It focuses
on the lives of teenagers, group dynamics, and general woes of
adolescence. Ex. The Virgin Suicides (1999), Kids (1995).

Philosophical Drama
The philosophical sub-genre is defined by an exploration of the
human condition, and the drama is derived from the questions that
are presented by mere existence and life itself.
Ex. The Razor’s Edge (1984), I Heart Huckabees (2004).
Medical Drama
The medical sub-genre focuses on the inherent drama of health
conditions, the inner workings of hospitals, the relationship
between doctors and medical staff, and the medical industry. There
are medical procedurals that follow the day-to-day life of health
care professionals. Ex. House (2004), Bringing Out The
Dead (1999).

Legal Drama
The legal-drama sub-genre is defined by lawyers, judges, and legal
complications that may be peripheral but not enveloped by the
criminal justice system or matters relating to crime and
punishment. While a legal drama may dip into criminal justice
matters, the real focus is on characters at a law firm or judges
chambers rather than a crime. Ex. The Practice (1997), The
Firm (1993).

Political Drama
The political-drama sub-genre focuses on the complications and
inherent drama that takes place inside the world of politics. This
can range anywhere from local government to national political
climates. Ex. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), House of
Cards (2013).

Anthropological Drama
The anthropological sub-genre focuses on the drama derived from
human behavior and society at large, and while the story may
feature a central protagonist, the story might focus on a specific
culture or a broad representation of society.
Ex. City of God (2002), some of Spike Lee's best movies.

Religious Drama
The religious sub-genre is similar to the previous categories in that
it focuses on the questions and inherent drama derived from
religious situations and has the ability to incorporate supernatural
events.
Ex. The Passion of the Christ (2004), Silence (2013).

Docudrama
A docudrama takes real-life accounts and recreates them in a way
that attempts to accurately represent events while also realizing the
dramatic potential of those events. Docudramas are held to a higher
standard of accuracy (not quality) than historical accounts
or memoirs.
Ex. Captain Phillips (2013), 127 Hours (2010).

EXPERIMENTAL MOVIE GENRE LIST

Experimental Genre
The experimental genre is often defined by the idea that the work of
art and entertainment does not fit into a particular genre or sub-
genre, and is intended as such. Experimental art can completely
forego a cohesive narrative in exchange for an emotional response
or nothing at all.

Surrealist
Surrealism cannot be stylistically defined, and this is the point of
the sub-genre itself. The intention of surrealist art is to act as an
activity to broaden horizons, either of oneself or of others.
Surrealist art often uses irrational imagery to activate the
subconscious mind. Ex. Eraserhead (1977), 8 ½ (1963).

Absurdist
The absurdist sub-genre focuses on characters who experience
situations that suggest there is no central purpose to life. Another
way to frame it is a set of experiences that catalyze a descent into
nihilism. Ex. The Exterminating Angel (1962), Brazil (1985).

LIST OF FANTASY MOVIE GENRES

Fantasy Genre
The fantasy genre is defined by both circumstance and setting
inside a fictional universe with an unrealistic set of natural laws.
The possibilities of fantasy are nearly endless, but the movies will
often be inspired by human myths.

The genre often adheres to general human psychology and societal

behavior while incorporating non-scientific concepts like magic,
mythical creatures, and supernatural elements.

Contemporary Fantasy
A contemporary fantasy story introduces elements of fantasy into or
around a world that closely resembles the time period when it was
conceived. Urban fantasy can serve as contemporary fantasy but
must take place in an urban setting whereas contemporary fantasy
can be set anywhere that resembles the corresponding time period.
Ex. Harry Potter series (2001-2011), The Chronicles of
Narnia (2005).

Urban Fantasy
An urban fantasy is a story introduces elements of fantasy and is set
entirely in an urban environment. The urban environment can be
real, fictional, modern, or inspired by history, but the story must
take place and deal with concepts and themes related to an urban
environment. Ex. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV)
(1997), Supernatural (TV) (2005).

Dark Fantasy
A dark fantasy is a story where elements of fantasy are introduced
into a hostile and frightening world. If a significant portion of the
story takes place in a world that has a range of
circumstances, mood, and tone it would most likely be categorized
as a high fantasy or general fantasy. Ex. Pan’s
Labyrinth (2006), Solomon Kane (2009).

High Fantasy
High fantasy can also be referred to as epic fantasy, and introduces
elements of fantasy in a fictional setting, and will include romance,
battles, and mythical creatures. High fantasy is the fantasy genre
equivalent of a historical epic or a science fiction space opera.
Ex. The Lord of the Rings (2001), Game of Thrones (2011).
Myth
A myth is defined by a story that often plays a fundamental role in
the development of a society, which may include the origin story for
humanity and existence. Often this will include characters that are
gods, demigods, and supernatural humans. As noted by Joseph
Campbell theory on The Hero's Journey, myths have similar
characteristics despite an apparent lack of influence, which gives a
myth the ability to be universally accepted.
Ex. Jason and the Argonauts (1963), The Monkey King (2014).

HISTORICAL MOVIE GENRE LIST

Historical Genre
The historical genre can be split into two sections. One deals with
accurate representations of historical accounts which can include
biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs. The other section is
made up of fictional movies that are placed inside an accurate
depiction of a historical setting.

The accuracy of a historical story is measured against historical

accounts, not fact, as there can never be a perfectly factual account
of any event without first-hand experience.

Historical Event
The historical event genre focuses on a story that creates a
dramatized depiction of an event that exists in popular accounts of
history. This is different from a biography in that it focuses on an
event.
Ex. Apollo 13 (1995), Lincoln (2012)

Biography
A biography (or biopic) is a story that details the life and is told by
someone other than the subject.

What makes a good biopic movie?

A biography will often span a large portion of the subject's life, but
in some rare cases, it may focus on the time period where that
person’s life had the greatest effect on history and society.
Ex. A Beautiful Mind (2001), Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Historical Epic
A historical epic is the dramatized account of a large scale event
that has an attached historical account. They often feature battles,
romance, and journeys, and will commonly revise history or provide
assumptions that fill in gaps in the account of the historical event.
Ex. Ben-Hur (1959), Troy (2004)

Historical Fiction
Historical fiction takes place during a historical time period, and
will often take a more liberal approach to representing history for
the sake of drama and entertainment. Historical fiction may use
real-life events and people to build context, but they’re meant to be
accepted as a supposition rather than serve as an accurate
historical account. Ex. Spartacus (1960), Titanic (1997)

Period Piece
The difference between a period piece and historical fiction is
slight, but the main difference is a general omission or a lack of
necessity for real-life characters or events to provide context.
Period pieces are merely defined by taking place in, and accurately
depicting the time period as opposed to specific lives, events, or
accounts.
Ex. The Age of Innocence (1993), Barry Lyndon (1975)

Alternate History
Alternate history is defined by the rewriting of historical events for
the sake of speculative outcomes. These movies commonly focus on
important, highly influential moments that often lead to alternate
futures. Some of these movies may even include supernatural
elements. Ex. The Man in the High Castle (2015), Inglourious
Basterds (2009)

HORROR SUB- GENRES

Horror Genre
The horror genre is centered upon depicting terrifying or macabre
events for the sake of entertainment. A thriller might tease the
possibility of a terrible event, whereas a horror film will deliver all
throughout the film. The best horror movies are designed to get the
heart pumping and to show us a glimpse of the unknown.
Ghost
A ghost movie uses the spirit or soul of a deceased creature to
introduce elements of horror. These movies can take place in any
time period and are only required to evoke terror through the use of
ghosts.
Ex.The Frighteners (1996), The Others (2001)

Monster
A monster movie uses a deformed or supernatural creature or set of
creatures, to introduce elements of horror. These movies can also
take place in any time period or setting, and their only real
requirement is that the antagonist is can be categorized as a
monster. Ex. The Babadook (2014), Pumpkinhead (1988)

Werewolf
A werewolf movie introduces elements of horror through the use of
a human or set of humans that transform into a wolf-like creatures.
Sometimes these werewolves have the ability to shape-shift at will,
but in other cases, their transformation is dictated by a full moon.
The only requirement is the use of the werewolf as the antagonist.
Ex. An American Werewolf in London (1981), The Wolfman (1941)
are just some of the best werewolf movies ever made.

Vampire
A vampire movie introduces elements of horror through the use of
undead, immortal creatures that drink blood. They can be set in any
time and place and must only use vampires as the antagonist. Some
vampire movies feature vampires as the protagonist, but this is
often used to build sympathy rather than as a device for terror.
Ex. Near Dark (1987) is one of the best '80s vampire
movies while Nosferatu (1922) is one of the best vampire movies of
all time

Occult
Occult movies are defined by an extension of pure reason and use
paranormal themes to introduce elements of horror. Occult literally
translates into “hidden from view” and involves the study of a
deeper spiritual reality that extends scientific observation.
Ex. Hereditary (2018), Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

Slasher
A slasher story introduces elements of horror through an antagonist
or set of antagonists who stalk and murder a group of people, most
commonly through the use of a blade or a sharp weapon. The
slasher movie is so engrained in our movie culture, even non-
slasher movies use some of the same techniques and tropes.
Ex. Halloween (1978), The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

Splatter
A splatter story introduces elements of horror by focusing on the
vulnerability of the human body, and an emphasis on gore. Splatter
movies often involve torture and attempt to present gore as an art
form. Ex. Day of the Dead (1985), Jigoku (1960)

Found Footage
Found footage can be used for any genre, but it is most commonly
used in horror and features footage that appears to be an existing
and informal recording of events with the purpose of simulating
real-life horrific events.
Ex. The Blair Witch Project (1999), V/H/S (2012)

Zombie
The zombie movie has roots all the way back to the '30s but it didn't
really kick into high gear until the late 1960s. The general plot of
the best zombie movies involves a group of characters trying to
survive in a world overrun by zombies. The specific cause for the
event ranges from infectious disease to experimental drugs gone
wrong. Ex. Night of the Living Dead (1968), 28 Days Later (2002)

TYPES OF ROMANCE MOVIES

Romance Genre
The romance genre is defined by intimate relationships. Sometimes
these movies can have a darker twist, but the idea is to lean on the
natural conflict derived from the pursuit of intimacy and love.
Romance Drama
The romance-drama sub-genre is defined by the conflict generated
from a romantic relationship. What makes a romance-drama
different from a romantic-thriller is both the source of the drama
but also the intentions and motivations that drive each character’s
perspective. Ex. Revolutionary Road (2008), Blue Valentine (2010)

Romance Thriller
The romance-thriller sub-genre is defined by a suspenseful story
that includes and is most likely based around a romantic
relationship. Some romantic thrillers can divert into psychological
thrillers where the relationship is used to manipulate, but most
focus on the characters attempting to make it out of events so that
they may be together. Ex. The Saint (1997), Unfaithful (2002)

Period Romance
A period-romance story is defined by the setting and can include
and incorporate other romance sub-genres. The setting must be a
historical time period, and often will adhere to the societal norms of
the specific time period, though some movies have taken a more
revisionist approach.
Ex. Pride & Prejudice (2005), Jane Eyre (2011)

LIST OF SCI-FI GENRES

Science Fiction Genre

Science fiction movies are defined by a mixture of speculation and
science. While fantasy will explain through or make use of magic
and mysticism, science fiction will use the changes and trajectory of
technology and science. Science fiction will often incorporate space,
biology, energy, time, and any other observable science. Most
of James Cameron's best movies lean heavily on science fiction.

Post-Apocalyptic
Post-apocalyptic movies are based around the occurrence, effects,
and struggle generated by an apocalyptic event. While a dystopian
story may incorporate a large war or apocalyptic event in its
narrative history, it will include a centralized government that was
formed after the event. Apocalyptic movies will not have a
centralized government but may feature smaller societies and tribes
as part of the story. Ex. 12 Monkeys (1995), 28 Days Later (2002)

Utopian
The utopian genre is defined by the creator’s view of an idyllic
world since each person has a unique view of what they deem to be
the absence of struggle and incident, but generally, themes
included in the movies are peace, harmony, and a world without
hunger or homelessness. In the past, utopian movies have been tied
to satire because the nature of a story is often conflict, and a
utopian society is viewed as an unrealistic concept.
Ex. Gattaca (1997), Tomorrowland (2015)

Dystopian
A dystopian story is one that features a world or society that serves
as a contradiction to an idyllic world. Often there is a centralized
and oppressive government or religion that dictates the value of
citizens on a dehumanizing level, and may or may not incorporate a
destructive event that drove the creation of that centralized
institution.
Ex. Children of Men (2006), Equilibrium (2002)

Cyberpunk
The cyberpunk sub-genre is defined by a mixture of a desperate
society oversaturated with the crime that takes place in a high tech
world that includes cybernetic organisms, virtual reality, and
artificial intelligence. Ex. Blade Runner (1982), Elysium (2013) are
just two of the best cyberpunk movies.

Steampunk
The steampunk sub-genre is inspired by technology created during
the 19th century and the industrial revolution and may be set in a
speculative future, alternate universe, or revision of the 1800s.
Ex. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), Mortal Engines (2018)
Tech Noir
Tech noir is similar to dystopian but defined by technology as the
main source behind humanity's struggle and partial downfall. There
is no requirement for a centralized government, and the only true
aspect that places a story in this category is that technology
threatens our reality. Ex. The Terminator (1984)

Space Opera
A space opera is defined by a mixture of space warfare, adventure,
and romance. The genre got its name from similarities to “soap
operas” and “horse operas” due to their collective connection to
melodrama. The term “space opera” has no connection to the music
of any kind.
Ex. Star Wars: A New Hope (1977), The Fifth Element (1997)

Contemporary
A contemporary science fiction story is set in the actual time period
of its conception and introduces some form of a theoretical
technology or scientific concept to serve as the story’s main source
of conflict. This is different from tech-noir both due to scale and a
strict time period.
Ex. Ex Machina (2014), Arrival (2016)

Military
A military science fiction story is defined by a strict focus on the
military conflict in a speculative or future setting. While other
movies may include space warfare, a military science fiction story
will be limited to themes and events directly tied to military service
and battle.
Ex. Starship Troopers (1997), Aliens (1986)

THRILLER MOVIE CATEGORIES

Thriller Genre
A thriller story is mostly about the emotional purpose, which is to
elicit strong emotions, mostly dealing with generating suspense and
anxiety. No matter what the specific plot, the best thrillers get your
heart racing.
Psychological
A psychological thriller focuses and emphasizes the unstable
psychological state of the characters inside the story. Often there is
a mysterious set of circumstances, and a paranoia, warranted or
otherwise, that catalyzes extreme actions from the characters.
Many of Darren Aronofsky's best movies explore the dark depths
inside the broken psyche of his protagonists. Ex. Gone
Girl (2014), Memento (2000)

Mystery
A mystery story can often be connected to the crime genre, but may
not involve or use law enforcement or the justice system as the
main characters or backdrop for the story. A mystery story is
defined by the plot, and both the character’s and the viewer’s
relationship with the motivations and reality behind the events that
occur.

If you've seen any of M. Night Shyamalan's movies, you know how

mystery plays a part. Ex. Prisoners (2013), The Gift (2015)

Techno
The techno-thriller sub-genre is defined by a conflict that takes
place for or through Various forms of technology. What makes a
techno-thriller different from various action sub-genres is the level
of detail paid toward the underlying technical aspects of the
technology and its effects.

Film Noir
Some consider the definition of film noir to more of a style than a
genre, because there is no requirement to be connected to a crime.
There is, however, a natural overlap between style and genre in
the best Film Noir movies. The central theme behind the noir sub-
genre is a psychic imbalance that leads to self-hatred, aggression,
or sociopathy. Recently, Neo-Noir movies have modified
these themes to the modern day.
WESTERN MOVIE SUB- GENRES

Western Genre
Westerns are defined by their setting and time period. The story
needs to take place in the American West, which begins as far east
as Missouri and extends to the Pacific ocean. They’re set during the
19th century, and will often feature horse riding, military
expansion, violent and non-violent interaction with Native American
tribes, the creation of railways, gunfights, and technology created
during the industrial revolution.

Epic Western
The idea of an epic western is to emphasize and incorporate many if
not all of the western genre elements, but on a grand scale, and
also use the backdrop of large scale real-life events to frame your
story.

Empire Western
These movies follow a protagonist or a group of protagonists as they
forge a large scale business based on natural resources and land. It
can also follow the creation of the railroad, or large scale
settlement.

Marshal Western
A marshal western is where we follow a lawman as they attempt to
track down, apprehend, and punish a criminal or group of
gangsters.

Outlaw Western
An outlaw western is where we follow a criminal or group of
criminals as they attempt crimes and evade the law. Often, these
movies will portray the outlaws in a somewhat favorable manner.
Revenge Western
This genre is defined by a singular goal and will incorporate the
elements of the western genre while the protagonist seeks revenge.

Revisionist Western
A revisionist western challenges and often aims to disprove the
notions propped up by traditional westerns. Early westerns often
had their own agenda, and revisionist westerns attempt to dissolve
and cast aside a commonly one-sided genre.

Spaghetti Western
The Spaghetti Western genre was named such because the films
were initially made in Italy or produced by Italian filmmakers.
Because these films are defined by their ‘heritage’ they can also fall
into many of the other western genres as long as they are Italian
built. Here are our picks for the best Spaghetti Westerns of all time.

MOVIE GENRE LIST

Musical Genre
Musicals originated as stage plays, but they soon became a favorite
for many film directors and have even made their way into
television. Musicals can incorporate any other genre, but they
incorporate characters who sing songs and perform dance numbers.

WAR MOVIE GENRE

War Genre
The war genre has a few debatable definitions, but we’re going to
try to be as straightforward and impartial as humanly possible.
Movies in the war genre center around large scale conflicts
between opposing forces inside a universe that shares the same
natural laws as our own.

War movies can be historical accounts, fictionalized events, or

future speculations that incorporate civilian interaction, political
interaction, and espionage that takes place alongside a large scale,
violent conflict. Some of the best WWII movies include all of those
elements.

They are not intended to act strictly as a form of entertainment, but

rather to create a deep sense of empathy toward the reality of war.
Movies in the war genre may romanticize aspects of military action
and camaraderie, but the purpose is to convey the reality that war
brings.

They can be set in any time period or setting, but the central theme
and bulk of the content must incorporate war to remain in this
genre.

FILM AUDIENCE ANALYSIS

These are the following questions we need to make

● What you need to do is look at your script and define the following:

● What is the age group that wants to see my film

● Are they male or female ● What hobbies or interests do they have (that
relates to the subject of your film)

The categorisation by ‘attitudes’ seeks to identify the small but highly

important group of enthusiastic cinemagoers. Apart from being regular
attenders these individuals are often the opinion leaders who influence
other less committed people to attend

FILM AUDIENCE ANALYSIS

Life-stage categories

● Teens (<16 yrs)

● Teens / singles / couples (<25 yrs)
● Those with young families
● Those with older families

Attitude categories

● Cinema enthusiasts / regulars

● “If nothing else to do…” (socialites)
● Reluctant
● Non-attenders

Of course, you may confound received wisdom and expectation by attracting

pensioners to Star Wars and teenagers to an archive presentation on land army
girls. Indeed, from time to time films are released that buck the trend and have
genuinely wide appeal.

There is absolutely no reason why any audience segment should not enjoy any
film. The fact that a certain type of audience tends not to attend foreign
language films for example and conform to type could be seen as an immense
marketing challenge. Filmmakers and marketers are becoming increasingly
savvy at blurring traditional boundaries and appealing to broader audiences
through both film content and marketing. However, you will still have to work
very hard at getting people to change their viewing habits and overcome their
prejudices about certain kinds of film. In order to broaden audiences, you will
need to invest in audience development activity. There is a range of tools and
techniques but it can be costly and the effect difficult to measure. For example,
young people notoriously avoid subtitled movies

The concept of Audience Development has become more broadly defined during
the past decade, and encompasses aspects of marketing and education. The
main considerations for audience development can be summed up as follows:

Audience retention

Keeping existing

audiences Added value

Enhancing the experience of audiences; providing audiences with opportunities

to develop knowledge and better understanding of film

Frequency

Making existing audiences attend more often

New audiences

Bringing to the programme/venue people who haven’t attended before

1.
o A new audience means groups of people who were not the traditional or
expected viewers, but still connected with the film because of certain elements
(theme, casting, marketing, global reach, streaming platforms, etc.).

Examples

 RRR (2022): Though made for Indian audiences, it found a new audience internationally,
especially in the U.S. and Japan, because of its action spectacle and emotional storytelling.

 Frozen (2013): A children’s film, but it gained a new audience among adults due to its
music, themes of sisterhood, and viral popularity.

How to Analyze New Audience

When writing a film + audience analysis, under audience you can add:

 Intended Audience (original target group).

 New Audience (unexpected groups that connected with the film).
 Reasons for Expansion (streaming, global recognition, relatable themes).
 Impact of New Audience (higher box office, awards, cross-cultural influence).

Cultural diversity

Increased take-up from minority ethnic and social groups;

Expanding audience knowledge and taste through programming of a broader

range of cultural forms and traditions

Cultural Diversity in Film & Audience Analysis

1. In the Film Itself

 Representation: How different cultures, languages, ethnicities, traditions, or religions

are shown.
 Storytelling: Use of myths, folklore, historical events, or multicultural characters.
 Casting: Actors from diverse backgrounds appeal to wider audiences.
 Production Style: Fusion of music, costumes, food, or rituals from different cultures.
2. In the Audience

 Global Reach: Diverse audiences interpret the same film differently based on their
culture.
 Cross-Cultural Appeal: A film may target one culture but attract a new global audience.
 Cultural Identity: Audiences often connect with films that reflect their values, struggles,
or representation.
 Cultural Exchange: Films become bridges, letting people experience unfamiliar
traditions and perspectives.

Examples

 Coco (2017): Rooted in Mexican culture (Día de los Muertos), but loved worldwide for
universal themes of family and memory.
 RRR (2022): Deeply Indian in context (colonial struggle, folk traditions), yet gained
global fandom for its universal storytelling.

Social inclusion

Increasing audiences from deprived areas and communities

Social inclusion in film means representing groups that are often marginalized,
underrepresented, or excluded.

 Representation of minorities: Gender, caste, class, race, disability, LGBTQ+,

indigenous groups.
 Breaking stereotypes: Showing diverse characters with depth and dignity instead of
clichés.
 Themes of equality: Storylines focusing on justice, acceptance, and empowerment.
 Accessibility: Films made in regional languages, with subtitles, or adapted for
differently-abled audiences.

2. In the Audience

 Inclusive Audience Reach: Films with inclusive themes often attract new audiences
from marginalized groups who feel represented.
 Broader Acceptance: Mainstream audiences are exposed to diverse experiences,
creating empathy.
 Debates & Awareness: Inclusive films can spark public conversations about rights,
discrimination, and social change.
  Global Audience Impact: Inclusion makes films resonate with international viewers
who see similar struggles in their own cultures.

example

 Jai Bhim (2021)

 Inclusion: Focuses on the Irular tribal community, giving voice to marginalized people
who face systemic oppression.
 Impact: Sparked nationwide debates on caste, justice, and representation.

 Raatchasi (2019)

 Inclusion: Highlights the importance of quality education for rural children, breaking
barriers of class and privilege.
 Impact: Encouraged discussions on equal opportunities in education.

Rural inclusion

Increasing audiences from isolated rural areas

In short (Audience View):

 Rural audiences feel seen and empowered.

 Urban audiences gain empathy and awareness.
 Global audiences connect to universal struggles and diversity.
 Together, they make rural inclusion films more impactful, crossing beyond local borders.

Examples

 Pariyerum Perumal (2018)

 Focus: Caste discrimination in rural Tamil Nadu, showing how social hierarchies affect
education and identity.
 Inclusion: Gave a voice to rural Dalit youth and their struggles.

 Asuran (2019)

 Focus: Land rights, caste violence, and generational oppression in villages.

 Inclusion: Rural farming families and their resilience are at the center of the narrative.
Geographic reach

Achieve awareness of programme/venue across a particular geographic area

Geographic reach = how far a film travels from its place of origin to audiences
across regions, nations, and the globe.
It shows cinema’s ability to cross cultural and language barriers.

Stages of Geographic Reach

1. Local Reach
o The film first connects with its home audience.
o Example: Pariyerum Perumal was deeply rooted in Tamil Nadu’s caste and rural
issues, so its initial impact was local.
2. National Reach
o Through dubbing, subtitles, and wider distribution, films expand across India.
o Example: Asuran was dubbed in Telugu and Hindi, gaining a pan-Indian
audience.
3. International Reach
o Films break boundaries via OTT platforms, film festivals, awards, and cultural
appeal.
o Example: Jai Bhim (Tamil) was released on Amazon Prime and sparked
conversations on human rights globally.
o Anime film Your Name started in Japan, but universal themes of love and destiny
gave it massive success worldwide.

Audience Perspective

 Local Audiences: Feel pride when their culture reaches the world stage.
 National Audiences: Gain exposure to regional diversity (Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu
films reaching all of India).
 International Audiences: Discover new cultures while still connecting with universal
emotions.

Factors That Expand Reach

 OTT Platforms (Netflix, Amazon Prime) → instant global availability.

 Subtitles & Dubbing → breaking language barriers.
 Cultural Universality → stories of love, justice, family resonate everywhere.
 Awards & Recognition → Oscars, Cannes, etc., increase visibility.
 Diaspora Communities → spread local cinema to new regions.
Example (Tamil + Anime):

 Asuran (2019) → Tamil Nadu (local) → Across India (national) → Film festivals abroad
(international).
 Your Name (2016) → Japan (local) → Asia-wide hit (regional) → Global blockbuster
through cinema + streaming.