4.3 Genre Conventions, Expectations, and Subversions
3 min read•august 6, 2024
Film genres are like recipes, with specific ingredients that make them recognizable. These include , , themes, and visual styles. Understanding these elements helps us appreciate how filmmakers use and subvert genre conventions.
Genres aren't static - they evolve and blend. Filmmakers play with audience expectations, mixing genres or deconstructing them. This keeps things fresh and exciting, allowing for new perspectives and commentary on familiar storytelling formulas.
Genre Elements
Common Components of Film Genres
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- Tropes are commonly recurring literary devices, motifs, or clichés that are easily recognizable within a genre (damsel in distress in action films, jump scares in horror)
- Archetypes are universal or symbols that evoke familiarity within a genre (wise old mentor in fantasy films, femme fatale in film noir)
- explore ideas, morals, or concepts that are prevalent within a particular genre (good vs. evil in superhero films, love conquers all in romantic comedies)
- encompasses the aesthetic elements, cinematography, and mise-en-scène that are characteristic of a genre (neon-lit cityscapes in cyberpunk, desaturated colors in post-apocalyptic films)
Structural Elements of Film Genres
- refers to the way the story is organized and presented, often following genre-specific patterns (three-act structure in romantic comedies, non-linear storytelling in mystery films)
- Character types are recurring roles or personalities that are often associated with a specific genre (quirky sidekick in buddy cop films, mad scientist in science fiction)
- These character types often have predictable arcs or functions within the story (, , )
- Casting certain actors can also evoke genre associations based on their previous roles ( as the everyman protagonist, as the wise narrator)
Genre Subversion
Blending and Deconstructing Genres
- combines elements from two or more distinct genres to create a unique or (, )
- This can lead to fresh perspectives and unexpected combinations that challenge traditional genre boundaries (Shaun of the Dead, Firefly)
- critically examines and breaks down the conventions and tropes of a genre, often to expose its limitations or absurdities (Unforgiven's realistic portrayal of the Western, Scream's self-aware commentary on horror clichés)
Playful Approaches to Genre
- is an affectionate imitation or homage to a specific genre, style, or work, often celebrating its conventions (La La Land's tribute to classic Hollywood musicals, Stranger Things' nostalgic nod to 80s science fiction and horror)
- satirizes or mocks the conventions of a genre through exaggeration, irony, or humor (Airplane!'s spoof of disaster films, Galaxy Quest's comedic take on sci-fi tropes)
- Parodies often require a deep understanding of the genre being mocked to effectively subvert expectations and deliver comedic payoffs (Scary Movie series, Austin Powers)
Audience Expectations
Familiarity and Revisionism
- with genre conventions allows filmmakers to play with expectations, either fulfilling or subverting them for emotional impact or surprise ( in thriller films, in romantic comedies)
- This familiarity can also lead to predictability or formulaic storytelling if not handled creatively (cookie-cutter slasher films, generic action blockbusters)
- involves reinterpreting or updating classic genres for modern sensibilities or social commentary ('s LGBTQ+ perspective on the Western, 's social thriller take on horror)
- Revisionist approaches can breathe new life into well-worn genres and attract new audiences ('s feminist action film, 's gritty superhero drama)
- However, revisionism can also alienate traditional fans if not executed with care and respect for the genre's core appeals (Ghostbusters 2016 reboot controversy)
Key Terms to Review (27)
Antagonist: An antagonist is a character or force in a narrative that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and driving the plot. This opposition can come in various forms, such as a villain, a rival, or even an internal struggle within the protagonist. The role of the antagonist is crucial in shaping the narrative's trajectory, as their actions and motivations often force the protagonist to confront challenges and grow throughout the story.
Archetypes: Archetypes are universal symbols, themes, or character types that recur across different stories and cultures, serving as foundational elements in storytelling. They often represent fundamental human experiences and can guide audience expectations about characters and plot developments. Recognizing archetypes helps viewers understand genre conventions and how they can be subverted or challenged within narratives.
Audience Familiarity: Audience familiarity refers to the degree to which viewers recognize and understand the conventions, themes, and tropes commonly found in film genres. This recognition plays a vital role in shaping their expectations and interpretations of the film, allowing filmmakers to either meet or subvert those expectations through familiar elements.
Brokeback Mountain: Brokeback Mountain is a 2005 film directed by Ang Lee that tells the poignant love story between two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, over several decades. This film is significant as it subverts traditional genre conventions of the Western by placing a romantic narrative between two male characters at its center, challenging the expectations of both Westerns and romance films.
Character types: Character types refer to the categories or archetypes that characters fall into within films, often defined by their roles, behaviors, and relationships with other characters. Understanding these types helps viewers recognize genre conventions, expectations, and subversions, as characters often embody specific traits that align with or challenge audience expectations based on genre norms.
Comedy-horror: Comedy-horror is a film genre that blends elements of comedy and horror to create a unique viewing experience, often using humor to undercut the tension of scary situations. This genre plays with audience expectations by mixing the thrill of fear with laughter, allowing viewers to engage with both emotions simultaneously. The duality of comedy and horror can lead to a more complex narrative that explores themes like fear, death, and the absurdity of life in a light-hearted manner.
Comic relief: Comic relief is a literary and cinematic device that introduces humor into a serious or dramatic context to alleviate tension and provide a break from the emotional weight of a narrative. This technique not only lightens the mood but also serves to enhance the overall storytelling by juxtaposing comedic moments against more intense scenes, making the latter even more impactful.
Genre blending: Genre blending is the practice of mixing elements from different genres to create a unique narrative or style, often resulting in innovative storytelling and fresh audience experiences. This approach challenges traditional genre conventions and expectations by combining familiar tropes, themes, and aesthetic qualities, leading to new interpretations and subversions of existing genres.
Genre deconstruction: Genre deconstruction is a critical approach that analyzes and breaks down the traditional conventions and expectations associated with specific film genres. This method examines how these elements can be subverted or altered, allowing filmmakers to challenge the norms and create innovative narratives that provoke thought and discussion. By exploring the boundaries of genres, genre deconstruction reveals the limitations and assumptions inherent in genre classifications.
Genre Revisionism: Genre revisionism refers to the process of reinterpreting, subverting, or altering established genre conventions to create new meanings or perspectives within a film. This technique often challenges audience expectations by flipping traditional narratives on their heads or mixing genres in unexpected ways, leading to a fresh take on familiar stories. It allows filmmakers to critique or play with the norms associated with specific genres, paving the way for innovation and a deeper exploration of themes.
Genre-specific themes: Genre-specific themes refer to the recurring ideas, motifs, and messages that are commonly found within a particular film genre. These themes help establish the tone and emotional resonance of the films, guiding viewers' expectations and interpretations. By understanding these themes, audiences can better appreciate how filmmakers convey deeper meanings while adhering to or subverting genre conventions.
Get Out: Get Out is a 2017 horror film directed by Jordan Peele that cleverly combines elements of social commentary with the conventions of the horror genre. This film challenges and subverts traditional expectations of horror by addressing themes of racism, exploitation, and identity, using its genre framework to explore deeper societal issues while maintaining suspense and tension throughout the narrative.
Ghostbusters (2016): Ghostbusters (2016) is a reboot of the original 1984 film, featuring a new all-female cast of paranormal investigators. The film subverts traditional genre conventions by flipping expectations related to gender roles in the action-comedy genre, as well as how supernatural elements are portrayed and handled in comedic contexts.
Happily-ever-after endings: Happily-ever-after endings refer to the narrative conclusion in stories, especially in romance and fairy tales, where characters find resolution and happiness, often culminating in marriage or unity. These endings align with audience expectations for closure, idealizing a perfect outcome that signifies hope and fulfillment. They play into genre conventions by reinforcing a sense of completion and joy, while sometimes subverting these expectations by introducing twists that challenge the notion of a perfect ending.
Hybrid Film: A hybrid film is a cinematic work that combines elements from different genres, creating a unique narrative and aesthetic experience. This blending allows filmmakers to challenge conventional genre boundaries, meeting audience expectations while also subverting them, leading to innovative storytelling techniques and visual styles.
Logan: Logan is a 2017 film that serves as a significant entry in the superhero genre, particularly as a subversion of traditional expectations surrounding comic book adaptations. It features an older, weary Wolverine in a gritty, realistic setting, shifting away from the typical bright and action-packed narratives usually associated with superhero films. The film’s focus on themes of mortality, legacy, and emotional depth marks it as a critical departure from genre conventions, challenging audience expectations about character arcs and storytelling within the superhero framework.
Love interest: A love interest is a character in a film or story who serves as the object of affection for the protagonist or main character. This relationship often drives the narrative forward, creating emotional stakes and engaging the audience with the dynamics of romance, desire, and personal growth. Love interests can embody various archetypes and often reflect genre conventions and audience expectations.
Mad Max: Fury Road: Mad Max: Fury Road is a post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller, known for its high-octane car chases and stunning visuals. The film pushes genre conventions by focusing on female empowerment, subverting typical action tropes while still delivering intense, adrenaline-fueled sequences. It stands out in the cinematic landscape due to its minimal dialogue and emphasis on visual storytelling, making it a remarkable example of modern filmmaking.
Morgan Freeman: Morgan Freeman is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker, known for his distinct voice and commanding presence in a wide range of film genres. He has become a cultural icon, often associated with roles that embody wisdom, authority, and depth, making him a significant figure in the discussion of genre conventions, expectations, and subversions.
Narrative structure: Narrative structure refers to the organized framework that outlines the sequence and progression of events within a story, determining how a film's plot unfolds and is experienced by the audience. It shapes the way stories are told, impacting character development, thematic exploration, and viewer engagement. Understanding narrative structure helps in analyzing how films manipulate time, space, and perspective to enhance storytelling.
Parody: Parody is a humorous or satirical imitation of a particular genre, work, or style, often exaggerating its characteristic features to create a comedic effect. It relies on audience familiarity with the original material, allowing the parody to comment on, critique, or celebrate the source material by twisting its conventions and expectations. This technique serves to both entertain and provoke thought about the nature of the genre it mimics.
Pastiche: Pastiche is a creative work that imitates the style or character of another work, often blending elements from various sources to create something new. This technique allows filmmakers to pay homage to their influences while also subverting traditional genre conventions and expectations. By mixing styles and themes from different genres, pastiche can comment on cultural phenomena and challenge viewers' perceptions, making it a powerful tool in storytelling.
Plot Twists: A plot twist is an unexpected development in a story that changes the direction or outcome of the narrative, often leading to a surprising or shocking revelation. These twists can redefine characters, challenge audience expectations, and alter the understanding of previous events, making them essential for keeping viewers engaged and invested in the story. They often play on genre conventions, leading to subversions that can enhance the overall storytelling experience.
Sci-fi western: A sci-fi western is a hybrid film genre that combines elements of science fiction with the traditional western, often set in futuristic or alternate versions of the American West. This genre juxtaposes the iconic motifs of westerns, such as cowboys, outlaws, and frontier justice, with futuristic technology, alien life forms, and advanced societies. The blending of these genres creates a unique narrative space where familiar themes are reinterpreted through innovative storytelling techniques.
Tom Hanks: Tom Hanks is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker known for his versatility and ability to connect with audiences through his performances. His career spans decades, and he has played a wide range of characters in various genres, from heartfelt dramas to lighthearted comedies, shaping audience expectations and subverting genre conventions along the way.
Tropes: Tropes are common themes, motifs, or clichés that recur in storytelling, often providing a shorthand for certain character types, plot developments, or emotional beats. They help establish genre conventions and set audience expectations, while also allowing filmmakers to subvert or play with those expectations in creative ways.
Visual Style: Visual style refers to the distinctive aesthetic and design elements employed in a film, shaping how the story is perceived and understood by the audience. This encompasses aspects such as color palette, composition, lighting, camera angles, and overall imagery that contribute to the film's mood and atmosphere. Understanding visual style is crucial for analyzing genre conventions, expectations, and subversions, as it helps to highlight how filmmakers use specific visual techniques to either conform to or challenge traditional genre norms.