Genre

  GENRE:

1) What example is provided of why visual iconographies are so important?

Generic codes and conventions are the aspects of a text which the audience recognises as the shared characteristics of a genre. Most, commonly codes and conventions are considered as coming from the iconographies.  

2) What examples are provided of the importance of narrative in identifying genre?

• Visual and aural iconographies.
• Genre can also be indicated in the way the story is told  via its narrative and plot.

3) What is the difference between character representation in action movies and disaster movies?

• Represented as a 'lone wolf'
• action movies are presented as 'heroic'

4) What are the different ways films can be categorised according to Bordwell? 

• Period or country
• Audience
• Technical Process
• Style
• Series
• Director/Star

5) List three ways genre is used by audiences.

Audiences have a set of expectations linked with different genres; from these expectations they know whether they will gain pleasure from a specific genre or not, they will also gain pleasure from identifying elements within the narrative and predicting outcomes.

6) List three ways genre is used by institutions or producers.

• Audience Targeting: Institutions and producers often use genre to target specific audiences. By categorizing their content into genres, they can effectively market it to individuals who have shown an interest in that particular type of content. For example, a movie studio might release a horror film to attract fans of the genre who enjoy being scared, while a publishing house might focus on releasing romance novels to appeal to readers who enjoy love stories.
• Creative Framework: Genre provides a framework for creators to work within, offering conventions, tropes, and expectations that audiences are familiar with. This framework can guide the creative process, helping creators make decisions about plot, character development, setting, and other elements of their work. For instance, a filmmaker making a comedy might draw upon established comedic techniques and themes to craft a story that will resonate with audiences who enjoy that genre.
• Commercial Viability: Institutions and producers often use genre as a means of assessing the commercial viability of a project. They may look at trends within specific genres to determine which types of content are currently popular or have the potential to be successful. This information can influence decisions about which projects to greenlight, invest in, or distribute. For example, a streaming service might prioritize acquiring science fiction series if data shows a high demand for that genre among subscribers.

7) What film genre is used as an example of how genres evolve? What films and conventions are mentioned?

The film genre often used to show how genres evolve is the Western. Classic Westerns like "Stagecoach" and "High Noon" featured clear heroes and villains. However, modern Westerns like "Unforgiven" and "Django Unchained" introduced morally ambiguous characters and explored deeper themes, challenging traditional Western conventions. This evolution demonstrates how genres can adapt to reflect changing cultural values and storytelling trends.

Read Media Factsheet 126 - Superheroes: A Genre Case Study and answer the following questions:


1) List five films the factsheet discusses with regards to the Superhero genre.

• "Superman" (1978) directed by Richard Donner
• "Batman" (1989) directed by Tim Burton
• "Spider-Man" (2002) directed by Sam Raimi
• "The Dark Knight" (2008) directed by Christopher Nolan
• "Black Panther" (2018) directed by Ryan Coogler

2) What examples are provided of how the Superhero genre has reflected the changing values, ideologies and world events of the last 70 years?

The factsheet provides several examples of how the Superhero genre has reflected changing values, ideologies, and world events over the last 70 years:

• Superman (1978): Reflects the optimism and idealism of the post-World War II era, with Superman embodying American values of truth, justice, and the American way.
• The Dark Knight (2008): Reflects a more cynical and morally ambiguous worldview post-9/11, with Batman confronting issues of terrorism, surveillance, and the erosion of civil liberties.
• Black Panther (2018): Reflects the growing demand for diversity and representation in media, with its predominantly Black cast and exploration of themes like identity, colonialism, and social justice.

3) How can Schatz's theory of genre cycles be applied to the Superhero genre?

Schatz's theory of genre cycles can be applied to the Superhero genre by recognizing its pattern of emergence, growth, stagnation, and revitalization. Initially, superheroes were popularized in comic books during the Golden Age, then reached a peak in popularity with films like "Superman" (1978) and "Batman" (1989). After a period of saturation and decline in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the genre experienced a revitalization with the success of films like "Spider-Man" (2002) and "The Dark Knight" (2008). This pattern mirrors Schatz's theory of genre cycles, where genres undergo phases of innovation, consolidation, and renewal over time.

Task 2: Genre analysis case study

Carry out your own genre analysis using the model provided by media theorist Daniel Chandler. Choose a film or TV text and answer the following questions - brief answers/bullet point responses are fine:

General
1) Why did you choose the text you are analysing?

Because one interesting aspect of "The Hunger Games" is its exploration of complex themes within a dystopian setting. The story delves into issues such as inequality, government control, media manipulation, and the consequences of war. Additionally, the character development throughout the series, particularly protagonist Katniss Everdeen, is compelling as she grapples with moral dilemmas and personal growth in the face of adversity. The world-building in "The Hunger Games" is also noteworthy, as author Suzanne Collins creates a vivid and chilling portrayal of a society divided by wealth and power. Furthermore, the series' impact on popular culture and its ability to spark discussions about social and political issues make it a significant work in contemporary literature and media.

2) In what context did you encounter it?

Through browsing the internet and having it suggested to me by a family member.

3) What influence do you think this context might have had on your interpretation of the text?

Considering the context of societal and political issues explored in "The Hunger Games," it's likely that an audiences interpretation of the film would be influenced by a heightened awareness of themes related to power dynamics, social injustice, and the impact of media manipulation. This context might lead to an analysis of the characters' actions and motivations through a critical lens, examining how they navigate oppressive systems and confront ethical dilemmas. Additionally, understanding the broader cultural and political climate in which the story was written could deepen their appreciation for the author's commentary on contemporary issues and the parallels drawn between the fictional world of Panem and real-world societal challenges.

4) To what genre did you initially assign the text?

Dystopian and action film.

5) What is your experience of this genre?

I really enjoy it as it is very different from romantic and horror genres as it portrays how power can be used to manipulate a whole population.

6) What subject matter and basic themes is the text concerned with?

• Survival 
• Social Injustice 
• Resistance and Rebellion 
• Media Manipulation 
• Social Dilemmas

7) How typical of the genre is this text in terms of content?

"The Hunger Games" deviates somewhat from typical dystopian fiction by featuring teenage protagonists and focusing on themes like media manipulation, but it still embodies many core elements of the genre, such as oppressive regimes and social inequality.

8) What expectations do you have about texts in this genre?

That the people in power are very corrupt and try control the civilization by putting in place rules and punishments to try and deter any form of riots or outbreaks.

9) Have you found any formal generic labels for this particular text (where)?

• Young Adult Fiction: The series primarily targets teenage readers, featuring themes and characters relevant to that demographic.
• Dystopian Fiction: It portrays a society characterized by oppression, deprivation, and often a totalitarian government.
• Science Fiction: The narrative incorporates futuristic elements, advanced technology, and speculative societal constructs.

These labels are commonly used by libraries, bookstores, and literary critics to categorize and describe the series.

10) What generic labels have others given the same text?

• Action & Adventure: The series is known for its intense action sequences and thrilling adventures as the characters navigate the dangerous landscape of the Hunger Games arena.
• Survival Fiction: With its focus on Katniss Everdeen's struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment, the series falls into the category of survival fiction.
• Social Commentary: Many readers and critics have recognized the series for its exploration of themes such as inequality, oppression, and the consequences of political power, categorizing it as a form of social commentary.

11) Which conventions of the genre do you recognize in the text?

• Dystopian Setting
• Strong Protagonist
• The "Chosen One" Narrative
• Love Triangle
• Survival Challenges
• Themes of Rebellion and Revolution
• Exploration of Social Issues

12) To what extent does this text stretch the conventions of its genre?

• Introducing a strong female protagonist who challenges traditional gender roles.
• Blending elements of dystopian fiction with themes of reality TV and media manipulation.
• Incorporating complex moral dilemmas and ethical questions into its narrative.
• Focusing on the psychological effects of violence and trauma on its characters.

13) Where and why does the text depart from the conventions of the genre?

• Departing from a traditional love triangle trope with nuanced character relationships.
• Introducing a strong emphasis on social commentary and political allegory within a dystopian framework.
• Emphasizing the psychological impact of violence and trauma on characters, rather than solely focusing on action and adventure.

14) Which conventions seem more like those of a different genre (and which genre(s))?

The conventions of social commentary and political allegory in "The Hunger Games" series resemble those of political fiction or speculative fiction genres.

15) What familiar motifs or images are used?

• Mockingjay Symbol: The mockingjay, a hybrid bird, becomes a powerful symbol of rebellion and hope throughout the series.
• The Capitol: As the centre of power and excess in Panem, the Capitol represents opulence and tyranny.
• Districts: The various districts of Panem, each with its own specialty and socio-economic status, symbolize the inequalities and divisions within society.
• The Arena: The arena, where the Hunger Games take place, is a recurring motif representing the cruelty and spectacle of the Capitol's control over its citizens.
• Katniss's Bow and Arrow: Katniss's weapon of choice symbolizes her strength, resourcefulness, and defiance against oppression.
• The Three-Finger Salute: A gesture of solidarity and defiance adopted by rebels, mirroring real-world resistance movements.

Mode of address
1) What sort of audience did you feel that the text was aimed at (and how typical was this of the genre)?

"The Hunger Games" series is primarily aimed at young adult readers, typical of the genre's target audience. However, its widespread appeal across age groups is less typical, indicating broader thematic resonance beyond traditional fiction.

2) How does the text address you?

I am a young adult and enjoy very action and dystopian based films.

3) What sort of person does it assume you are?

A person who likes to read and enjoys the adrenaline rush when fight scenes occur.

4) What assumptions seem to be made about your class, age, gender and ethnicity?

assumptions made about my class are that we have just enough money to be able to buy ourselves nice things while paying rent, my age is seen to be as very rebellious and parents are constantly treating me like an adult and child, my gender apparently defines me more as a person than my physical personality since I am a woman and my ethnicity receives a lot of criticise as you get called an immigrant and job stealer. 

5) What interests does it assume you have?

cooking and being a stay at home mum with lots of kids and a husband that drinks a lot and always goes out to the pub with his mates.

Relationship to other texts
1) In terms of genre, which other texts does the text you are analysing resemble most closely?

"The Hunger Games" series closely resembles other dystopian young adult fiction texts such as "Divergent" by Veronica Roth and "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner.

2) What key features are shared by these texts?

Key features shared by "The Hunger Games," "Divergent," and "The Maze Runner" include:

• Dystopian Settings: All three novels are set in dystopian futures where societies are characterized by oppression, control, and division.
• Strong Protagonists: Each series features a strong and resourceful protagonist who challenges the status quo and fights against injustice.
• Themes of Rebellion and Survival: Rebellion against oppressive systems and the struggle for survival in harsh environments are central themes in all three series.
• Young Adult Focus: The target audience for these novels is primarily young adults, with protagonists who are teenagers or young adults themselves.
• Action and Adventure: The plots of these novels are driven by action-packed sequences, dangerous challenges, and high-stakes conflicts.
• Exploration of Social Issues: All three series delve into social issues such as inequality, identity, and the consequences of power, offering commentary on real-world issues within their fictional settings.

3) What major differences do you notice between them?

Some major differences between "The Hunger Games," "Divergent," and "The Maze Runner" include:

• Dystopian Societies: While all three series depict dystopian societies, they have different structures and systems of oppression. "The Hunger Games" features a society divided into districts controlled by the Capitol and subjected to the annual Hunger Games. "Divergent" portrays a society divided into factions based on personality traits. "The Maze Runner" depicts a society of survivors trapped in a maze controlled by mysterious forces.
• Plot Focus: Each series has a different central plot focus. "The Hunger Games" centers around the titular deadly competition and the rebellion against the Capitol. "Divergent" focuses on the protagonist navigating the complex faction system and uncovering secrets about her society. "The Maze Runner" revolves around the characters' attempts to escape the maze and uncover the truth about their situation.
• Character Dynamics: The dynamics between the main characters differ across the series. "The Hunger Games" explores themes of love, friendship, and loyalty amidst the brutality of the Games and the rebellion. "Divergent" delves into identity, belonging, and betrayal within the faction system. "The Maze Runner" focuses on teamwork, trust, and survival as the characters confront the challenges of the maze.
• Tone and Atmosphere: Each series has a distinct tone and atmosphere. "The Hunger Games" balances elements of action, romance, and political intrigue with moments of darkness and despair. "Divergent" blends action with introspection and philosophical questions about human nature. "The Maze Runner" creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere within the maze, emphasizing mystery and suspense.