This chapter focuses on ways films can be categorized. Each category, called a genre, consists of a set of conventions that define it. While most films can be classified into at least one genre, many fit the criteria for multiple genres and the lines between them can be blurred. Popular genres include the western, horror films, and musicals.

After reading this chapter, you should be able to understand:

1. Frequently, people choose to go to the movies to see a certain type of film. Genres are used by industry officials in deciding what kinds of films to make and as a simple way to characterize film.

2. Many films do not fit into just one genre category because they contain elements of many different genres.

3. Genre can be analyzed in terms of the genre conventions: some type of common identity which reappear in film after film. Genre conventions can be plot elements, specific types of characters, icons, and themes.

4. Genre conventions change over time. Their conventions change, and by mixing conventions from different genres, filmmakers create new possibilities from time to time. The mixing of genre conventions makes it possible for genres to borrow elements from one another. Though each genre is formulaic to a certain extent, they must constantly be evolving, as they generally don't remain successful for very long, rather they experience periods of popularity called cycles.

5. Often, genres provide a basis for social analysis. By exploiting social values and attitudes, genre harmonizes with public attitudes. Genres often reflect the attitudes and values of the society in which they are produced. Sometimes, they also rely on their conventions to make larger social commentary and challenge prevalent beliefs and assumptions.

6. The Western is categorized by the conflict between civilized order and the lawless frontier. Complete with stock characters and stock scenarios, Westerns emerged early in the history of cinema. Breaking away from standard melodrama conventions, contemporary Westerns often deal with emotional turmoil than with external conflict.

7. Because a horror film can create its emotional impact with make-up and other low-technology effects, the horror genre has long been favored by low-budget filmmakers. Relying on eerie lighting, shadows, unnatural creatures and heavy make-up, the genre has been popular for over 30 years. Horror films usually evoke their desired emotional action by providing an agent of fear that somehow perverts or defies the laws of nature.

8. Starting out as musical revues, the musical is categorized by its use of song and dance. Two early typical plot patterns were the backstage musical plot and the let's put on a show! plot, although straight musicals where people may sing and dance in everyday situations were also popular. The musical has often been associated with children's stories, such as The Wizard of Oz. The range of subject matter in musicals is so broad that is it hard to pin down specific iconography associated with its genre. Along with children's stories, musicals have also dealt with more serious, tragic stories.