Genre Research: Other Genres

    In my PowerPoint, used in the previous blog, I researched conventions of horror films. I gathered different camera angles, movements, props, and other aspects of that genre that you could find in most horror movies. In addition, I looked at more further generalities of that genre, but in more detail. For example, I found the common sounds and costumes used in the horror genre and its films. After reviewing that PowerPoint and finally coming up with my pitch for the final project, I decided that I should research other genres outside of horror to get a better idea of how it compares to different films.

    The first genre I decided to further research was the "action" genre. The action genre uses a lot of tracking and moving shots. Mainly, these are used to follow characters running or car driving, for example. Additionally, lighting plays an important role in action movies, as it showcases the setting for scenes like any other genre would. CGI and special effects are common in action movies, as many of the stunts in these movies cannot be done by a person. Additionally, special effects may be used for explosions or other shots other than those including an actor. High angled shots may be used to emphasize the power of a character, and most of the time, that character is the protagonist. Props in action movies may include cars, handguns, knives, and other "gadgets".   Common sounds in action movies are really limited to what the character doesn't hear, but what the audience does, like a soundtrack for the film. However, the sounds of cars running or explosions may be prominent in action movies as well. Some examples of good action films include the Indiana Jones series, Die Hard, Terminator, and Lethal Weapon. My favorite element of an action movie is the feeling it gives when you watch it. Good action movies are able to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat and make them feel as if they are in the scene with the protagonist.

    The second genre I chose to research was the "thriller" genre. A thriller film is one that uses suspense to keep the viewer wondering what is going to happen next. For the most part, thrillers often have a horror or crime theme to them as well. Common camera angles in thriller films include tilt shots as they attempt to create discomfort in the viewer. Additionally, close-ups and extreme close-ups are used to highlight the main protagonist in important scenes or sequences. High angle shots of the protagonist are also used to show dominance over the antagonist of the film. For sound, slow and eerie music may be used to create uncertainty and suspense in a scene. Moreover, silence plays a big role in the thriller drama to heighten the suspense of sequences. Violence, blood, and such are used in this genre as almost a character in itself. Violence is almost always used within the thriller genre. Low-key/dim lighting is used to make a scene more gloomy and mysterious. Some examples of thriller movies include Silence of the Lambs, Psycho, and The Birds. I really enjoy thrillers, because of the horror aspect to them. I love not knowing what will happen next in a film and being surprised with the effect of a scene.