Genre in films:

1
Genre in films

• Discuss some of the ways in which formulas are
  repeated in film texts, and account for the
  popularity of this practice.

2
Genre a definition

• A genre is a type of film, but its also a system
  of signs used by filmmakers and audiences to make
  meaning.
• Specific genre can be defined by typical plots,
  characters, themes and cinematic techniques.

3
Genres exist in the film industry for a number of
reasons

• To capitalise on successful formulas by repeating
  them in slightly different format
• To differentiate the producers product target
  specific audiences
• Economic efficiency
• Audience expectation
• Framework for directors style
• Way for reviewers audiences to differentiate

4
Narrative formulas

• Films often work with narrative technique which
  is so popular it has become known as classical
  narrative structure
• Classical narrative structure is tried and tested
  method for producers
• ? Story told in chronological order with a clear
  beginning, middle and end easy to write,
  produce and act
• So common can apply lots of theorists Todorov,
  Propp, Branigan

5
Cinematic techniques

• Camera techniques re-used to establish genre e.g.
  noir unconventional angles, closed frames,
  creature feature ?

6
Iconography

• Iconography in genre develops through repetition
• Defined by Bordwell and Thompson as recurring
  symbolic images that carry meaning from film to
  film
• Refers to objects, settings, physical attributes,
  colour symbolism
• e.g. cigarettes, trench-coat, trilby
  iconographic of noirs angst-ridden hero

7
Plot

• Genre can also be defined by conventional
  storylines e.g. in Bond films, hero always
  completes a dangerous mission
• Creature features clash of man (civilised) and
  monster (uncivilised) often within Manhattan
  setting
• e.g. King Kong, Godzilla, Jaws, Alligator,
  Jurassic Park

8
Characters in genre

• A genre film also uses stock characters or types
  that fit into these plot formulas
• e.g. noir hero (Hartigan), femme fatale (Gail),
  villain (Yellow Bastard), weaker female (Becky),
  corrupt cop (Jackie Boy)
• e.g. creature feature hero (Driscoll), heroine
  (Darrow), villain (Denham)

9
Representation stereotyping

• Representation when filmmakers use character
  types to establish roles quickly giving a
  restrictive mental picture stereotype
• E.g. Driscoll feeble writer, natives savages,
  Kong savage

10
Stars

• Stars images are another generic convention
  associated with character that can be used by
  filmmakers.
• E.g. Bruce Willis as action adventure hero, Alba
  as feisty, kick ass heroine, Del Toro as
  depraved baddie