Feature Film

Definition

A feature film is a full-length motion picture typically running 90 minutes or longer, created primarily for theatrical release and intended to tell a story through visual and auditory means. Feature films encompass various genres and styles, providing audiences with a complete narrative experience that may include complex characters, multiple story arcs, and emotional depth. They play a central role in the film industry as the primary form of cinematic storytelling and showcase the collaborative efforts of various artists, including screenwriters, directors, and actors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature films are typically categorized into various genres such as drama, comedy, horror, and action, each with its own conventions and audience expectations.
2. The process of making a feature film involves multiple stages including development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.
3. Feature films often require a significant budget for production, which can include costs for cast, crew, locations, special effects, and marketing.
4. The length of a feature film allows for more complex storytelling than short films, enabling deeper character development and intricate plotlines.
5. Many feature films are based on original screenplays or adaptations from books, plays, or other media, showcasing the versatility of storytelling in cinema.

Review Questions

• How does the format of a feature film allow for more complex storytelling compared to other types of films?
  • The longer runtime of a feature film, usually 90 minutes or more, provides filmmakers with ample time to develop complex characters and intricate plotlines. This extended duration allows for deeper exploration of themes and character arcs that might be challenging to convey in shorter formats. The ability to weave together multiple storylines and develop subplots enhances the overall narrative experience for the audience.
• In what ways do screenwriters contribute to the overall success of a feature film during its production?
  • Screenwriters are crucial to the success of a feature film as they create the screenplay that serves as the foundation for the entire production. Their role involves developing compelling characters, crafting engaging dialogue, and structuring the narrative in a way that resonates with audiences. Collaboration with directors and producers throughout production ensures that the writer's vision aligns with the final product while also adapting to creative changes that may arise.
• Evaluate how audience expectations influence the development and marketing strategies of feature films within different genres.
  • Audience expectations significantly shape both the development and marketing strategies of feature films across various genres. Filmmakers must consider what themes, tropes, and narrative styles resonate with viewers to create compelling stories that draw audiences to theaters. Marketing teams leverage this understanding by promoting elements like star power, genre conventions, and relatable themes to attract potential viewers. As trends evolve in cinema consumption, filmmakers adapt their approaches to meet changing preferences while still aiming to deliver quality storytelling.

Related terms

Short Film: A short film is a motion picture that is significantly shorter than a feature film, usually under 40 minutes, and often focuses on a single concept or story.

Screenplay: A screenplay is a written script for a film that includes dialogue, character actions, and scene descriptions, serving as the blueprint for the production of a feature film.

Box Office: The box office refers to the commercial success of a film, measured by its ticket sales and revenue generated during its theatrical run.