Genre: Introduction

Defining Genre
'Genre' is a french word with the meaning 'type'. Different genres of film then are different types of film, set on a repitition of characteristics. Steve Neale stated that 'genres are instances of repitition and differnce', meaning they all have the same fundamental traits (plots, characters etc.), however contain subtle differences. Film genres include romance or action/adventure, with hybrid genres such as rom-com.

Use of genre for audiences
Genres are useful for audiences in multiple ways. Different genres suit different audiences, so being able to identify between separate genres is vital to consumers, as they know what to expect from a film. Audiences will also stick to a particular genre, as they are akin to the familiar. Anticipation, expectation and prediction are what audiences seek in a film. They are attracted to being able to predict what the outcome of a film, and know what to expect during the film.

Use of genre for Institutions
Genres are useful for instutions as they help identify marketing materials (advertisement), so that it is easy for consumers to identify the genre of the film. Genres allhave their own set of conventions when it comes to imagery/plot/characters etc. The conventions help the industry predict audience expectation.

'Repertoire of elements'
Each genre has a fixed set of elements, all based around narratives, characters and iconography. For an example I will highlight the typical conventions of different films:

• Narrative Structure and Themes

A romance film would typically include a heterosexual couple falling in love, before a dilemma keeps them apart. This dilemma can include some sort of ex-lover, problem within friends or family, or one of the two lovers could develop an illness. This dilemma is usually resolved by the end of the film, and the couple live 'happily ever after'.

• Characters

Any film would usually include two main characters, the protagonist and the antagonist. This means the good and the bad character respectively. These characters can be identified by things such as contrasts in costume (light is good, dark is bad) etc. Then we have stock characters which include people such as friends, love interests and so on.

• Iconography

Iconography is a group term for traditions in certain films within locations, costumes and props. For example, a western film will typically be shot in the desert, or in any small town in a dry landscape. Traditional costumes include the stetson hats and cowboy boots. Props will also include shotguns or any sort of gun, along with horses (if these can be classed as props). Those are the conventions of a Western film's iconography.