 A class or type of film, such as the Western or the horror movie  Films belonging to a particular genre share narrative, visual, and/or sound conventions (the rules that films of that genre obey)  Genres are generally aimed at primal instincts in all humans, such as fear, sadness, joy, etc.

 Mainstream fictional films produced in America, roughly from the mid-teens until the late 1960s.  Efficient story-telling is the most important aspect  Clearly defined conflict, complications that intensify to a rising climax, and a resolution that emphasizes closure  Citizen Kane (1941) Casablanca (1942)

 A genre in which the plot revolves around the love between two protagonists.  The love story, or the search for love, is the main plot focus.  Many romantic films do not have fairy- tale, wistful-thinking stories or happy endings  Love Actually (2003), Pride & Prejudice (2005)

 Horror films are unsettling films designed to frighten and panic, cause dread and alarm, and to invoke our hidden worst fears  They often have a terrifying, shocking finale, while captivating and entertaining us at the same time in a cathartic experience.  Horror films often deal with the viewer’s nightmares, hidden fears, revulsions and terror of the unknown.  Frankenstein (1931), The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

 Thriller is a genre that revolves around anticipation and suspense.  Thrillers relentlessly pursue a single-minded goal—to provide thrills and keep the audience at the “edge of their seats” as the plot builds towards a climax.  The tension usually arises because the principal character is unsuspecting, or unknowingly involved in a dangerous or potentially deadly situation.  Psycho (1960), The Shining (1980)

 Drama films portray realistic characters in conflict with either themselves, others, or forces of nature.  Drama films are the largest film genre because they include a broad spectrum of films.  A drama film aims to tell an honest story of human struggles, often taken from intense, real-life issues.  Titanic (1997), Apollo 13 (1995)

 Light and humorous character with a happy or cheerful ending  Dramatic work in which the central motif is the triumph over adverse circumstance, resulting in a successful or happy conclusion.

 Epic film is a genre that takes historical events and people and interprets them in a larger scale.  Historical accuracy is not the main focus in Epics, but rather the telling of a grandiose story.  The drama of an Epic film is often accentuated by a sweeping musical score, lavish costumes, and high production value.

 Science Fiction film is a genre that incorporates hypothetical, science-based themes into the plot of the film.  Often, this genre incorporates futuristic elements and technologies to explore social, political, and philosophical issues.  The film itself is usually set in the future, either on earth or in space.

 Fantasy film is a genre that incorporates imaginative and fantastic themes. These themes usually involve magic, supernatural events, or fantasy worlds.  Unlike science fiction, a fantasy film does not need to be rooted in fact. This element allows the audience to be transported into a new and unique world.

 Western Film is a genre that revolves around stories primarily set in the late 19th century in the American Old West.  Most Westerns are set between the American Civil War.  American Western Film usually revolves around a stoic hero and emphasizes the importance of honor and sacrifice.

 A Mystery/Suspense film centers on a person of authority, usually a detective, that is trying to solve a mysterious crime.  The main protagonist uses clues, investigation, and logical reasoning.  The biggest element in these films is a sense of “whodunit” suspense, usually created through visual cues and unusual plot twists.

 Action film is a genre wherein physical action takes precedence in the storytelling.  The film will often have continuous motion and action including physical stunts, chases, fights, battles, and races.  The story usually revolves around a hero that has a goal, but is facing incredible odds to obtain it.

 Adventure film is a genre that revolves around the conquests and explorations of a protagonist.  The purpose of the conquest can be to retrieve a person or treasure, but often the main focus is simply the pursuit of the unknown.  Adventure films incorporate suspenseful puzzles and intricate obstacles that the protagonist must overcome in order to achieve the end goal.

 Children’s Film is a genre of film aimed at entertaining young audiences. (Rated G)  Most often, this genre incorporates fantasy elements and plays on the possibility that imagination holds.  Many films in this genre are animated and serve an educational purpose.  The majority of Children’s films will demonstrate some kind of moral message, cautionary tale, or contain a plot that illustrates good overcoming evil.

 Crime film is a genre that revolves around the action of a criminal mastermind.  A Crime film will often revolve around the criminal himself, chronicling his rise and fall.  This genre tends to be fast paced with an air of mystery.

 A Musical interweaves vocal and dance performances into the narrative of the film.  The songs of a film can either be used to further the story or simply enhance the experience of the audience.  These films are often done on a grand scale and incorporate lavish costumes and sets.  These films explore concepts such are love and success, allowing the audience to escape from reality.

 A Sport Film revolves around a sport setting, event, or an athlete.  Often, these films will center on a single sporting event (or athlete) that carries significant importance.  Sports films traditionally have a simple plot that builds up to the significant sporting event.  This genre is known for incorporating film techniques to build anticipation and intensity.