Initial Genre Research

Conventions of a Drama Film

Drama films are usually serious representations of real life and/or stories and do not include fantasy in the plot. Hence they show emotions and events at their true height and perhaps exaggerate them.

The most recognisable convention of this genre is that these films tend to focus on the lives of the individual central characters. For example, films like Black Swan, focus on the life of the main character and how they are directly affected by the events of the plot.

Black Swan (2010) - Darren Aronofsky

Dramas can be fictional, but can also be biopics based on the lives of real historical or cultural figures.

This genre focuses on the obstacles, conflicts, and struggles that the main character faces. Some themes involved in the drama genre include social, political and religious turmoil. Characters can also struggle with personal issues including addiction, poverty or mental and physical illness.

The plot of a drama film usually revolves around the main character attempting to overcome the obstacles they face. Characters may or may not succeed in this mission, but there is often a strong moral message arising from the conflict in drama films that speaks to the audience on a personal level. Drama films can move the audience to tears or even have therapeutic qualities by showing how the protagonist overcame difficulties.  

A Perfect World (1993) – Dir. Clint Eastwood - The only film to ever have made me genuinely sob.

Animated Film Conventions

Animated films can feature a wide range of visual styles, from traditional hand-drawn animation and stop-motion to computer-generated imagery (CGI) and experimental techniques.

Exaggerated Features: Characters often have exaggerated facial expressions and body movements to enhance emotion and storytelling, making their personalities immediately recognizable.

Universal Themes: Animated films often aim to be accessible to both children and adults, balancing humour, adventure, and lessons in a way that appeals to a broad audience. They frequently explore universal themes such as friendship, courage, self-discovery, and the battle between good and evil.

Memorable Soundtracks: Music plays a crucial role, with many animated films featuring original scores and songs that enhance the narrative, develop character arcs, or become iconic elements in their own right. Sound design is often whimsical and exaggerated, enhancing the animation with playful effects that complement the visuals, such as comical sound cues for actions or movements.

Cultural References: They frequently include pop culture references, puns, and in-jokes that add another layer of enjoyment for the audience.

Clear Moral Lessons: Stories often include clear moral lessons or messages, whether about kindness, bravery, teamwork, or the importance of being true to oneself.

Magical Elements: Many animated films incorporate magical or fantastical elements, even when set in the real world, which allows for a wider range of plot possibilities and creative storytelling.

Flexible Reality: The genre embraces a flexible reality where the impossible becomes possible, such as objects coming to life or characters performing superhuman feats.

Character Arcs: Common themes include personal growth, redemption, or transformation, whether it’s a physical change (like a cursed character) or an emotional journey (overcoming fears, accepting oneself).

Relatable Struggles: Characters often face relatable struggles, such as finding one’s place in the world, dealing with loss, or understanding the importance of family and friendship.

Creative Freedom: The medium allows for more creative freedom in terms of visual style, narrative approach, and character design, often resulting in highly unique and innovative films.

Franchise Building: Many animated films are designed with the potential for sequels, spin-offs, or even multimedia franchises, expanding the story world across different formats like TV series, books, or video games. While some animated films are self-contained stories, others are part of a larger series that builds on the characters and universe introduced in earlier films.

 Stuart Little 2 (2002) - It is very important to add Hugh Laurie, yes.