Film genres are defined by common conventions including setting, plot, casting, and cinematography that are repeated and varied. Having a clear genre helps with film production, distribution, and marketing to a specific target audience, increasing the chances of success. Over time, genres change and hybrid genres emerge that combine elements of multiple original genres. Some of the major film genres discussed are comedy, adventure, horror, action, science fiction, musicals, and westerns.

1. Film Genre
by Marcia Wiggins

2. Definition
The genre of a film depends on the stereotypical factors it
includes. A genre is created through the use of repetition and
variation of film conventions such as setting, plot, casting,
performance, mes-en-scene, cinematography, lighting, sound
and editing.
It is important for a film to have a clear genre as this helps
within the production, exhibition and distribution of the film
to a specific target audience. This makes the film more likely
to be a success as it can be marketed correctly.
After a period of time genres change and hybrids appear.
(Hybrids are two or more genres which affiliate and create a
variation of the original genre.)

3. Comedy
Comedies have a light-hearted plot and are always directed and written to amuse the
audience. This is done by exaggerating situations, the language, action, relationships
and characters. They include slapstick, spoofs, parodies and more.

4. Adventure
Adventure films have exciting stories and often include new experiences. They are
very similar to or often paired with the action film genre. They are sometimes set in
rainforests or deserts and include expeditions or treasure hunts.

5. Horror
Horror films are created to frighten the audience. This is one of the most popular
film genres because it is designed to make the audience emotionally attached.
People usually like the adrenaline rush created by the film provoking your worst
fears and this captivates the audience for almost always the entire duration of the
film.

6. Action
These are usually big-budget films because they commonly involve stunts, fights,
special effects and star casts. They have a fast-paced storyline and typically have a
linear narrative, easy for a wide audience to understand.

7. Science Fiction
This genre often has a storyline regarding scientific discoveries and technology of
the future. It is not the most popular of film genres.

8. Musicals
Musicals include songs sung by the characters which help narrate the story to the
audience, often along with dances. They can also to develop the character or simply
aid in breaking up the storyline.

9. Western
Westerns are the major genre within the American film industry as they are one of
the oldest and long-lasting genres. They have very very recognizable plots and
characters such as Indians and Cowboys.

10. Western
Westerns are the major genre within the American film industry as they are one of
the oldest and long-lasting genres. They have very very recognizable plots and
characters such as Indians and Cowboys.