Genre: blog tasks

 Task 1: Genre fact sheets

Read Media Factsheet 03 - Genre: Categorising texts and answer the following questions:

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

Genres are essentially categories or types of media texts that we recognize through common codes and conventions. These codes often come from familiar visual and sound elements. For instance, techniques like mise en scène and high-key lighting help define certain genres, making them instantly recognizable. This use of specific styles allows audiences to connect with and anticipate the themes and moods of the media they’re engaging with.

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

Genre can also be reflected in how a story is told, including its narrative structure and plot, the events that take place within it. Different genres often feature specific types of storylines. For instance, in a romantic comedy, it’s common to see a plot centred around two characters who initially clash but eventually find themselves falling in love, often amidst humorous misunderstandings and heartfelt moments. This familiar structure allows audiences to anticipate the ups and downs of the characters’ journey toward love.

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

 

According to Bordwell, films can be categorized in several ways, including:

Period or Country  For example, Italian films of the 1950s.

Director / Star = Such as films starring Meryl Streep.

Technical Process=  For instance, films made using stop-motion animation.

Style=An example would be Surrealist cinema.

Series =Such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Audience =For example, teen drama films.

4) List three ways genre is used by audiences.

1. Anticipation of Enjoyment = audiences draw on their prior knowledge of a genre to gauge whether they are likely to enjoy a particular text.

2. Comparison = They compare a text with others through its shared characteristics, helping them understand its themes and styles.

3. Rejection = Audiences use their understanding of a genre to decide against engaging with a text that doesn't align with their expectations or preferences.

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

Production is the process of bringing a film or media text to life, from writing the script to filming and editing, all while ensuring it aligns with the creator’s vision.

Attracting an audience means using various strategies, like social media campaigns and engaging trailers, to spark interest and excitement about a film before it’s released.

Marketing texts are the promotional materials, such as posters and trailers, designed to highlight a film's appeal and connect with potential viewers.

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.

Here’s a list of the films you mentioned:

1. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

2. Elektra

3. Spider-Man

4. Sin City

5. V for Vendetta

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

 

Events of 9/11 

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

1. Innovation - In the 1940s, the world of comic books and early TV and film adaptations laid the foundation for superheroes, creating the visual and storytelling templates we recognize today.

2. Classical -  By the 1950s, superheroes started to take on a more serious tone, reflecting the conventions established by earlier films and shows, focusing on themes of heroism and moral dilemmas.

3. Parody - The 1960s brought a humorous twist to the genre, especially with the campy *Batman* series (1966), which not only entertained but also influenced animated shows like *Spider-Man* and *Mighty Mouse*, showing that superheroes could be fun and lighthearted.

4. Deconstruction -  The 1978 film *Superman* took a more serious approach, using impressive special effects and a touch of irony, which added depth and complexity to the way we viewed superheroes.

5. Cycle Continues - After the less successful  Batman and Robin (1997), the genre shifted again with darker films like Batman Begins(2005). At the same time, Marvel breathed new life into the genre by mixing traditional storytelling with humor in hits like *Iron Man* (2008) and *Guardians of the Galaxy* (2014), showcasing how superhero narratives continue to evolve and resonate with audiences.

Task 2: Genre analysis case study

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

"Tees Maar Khan" is a unique blend of comedy and action, featuring a popular actor and director, making it an interesting case study for genre analysis.

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

Action-comedy

3) What is your experience of this genre?

Familiar with several Bollywood action-comedies, enjoying their mix of humor, action sequences, and vibrant storytelling.

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

Themes of deception, crime, and the pursuit of dreams, with a focus on the heist genre and comedic elements.

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

Very typical; it includes heist plots, comedic misunderstandings, and over-the-top action sequences
6) What expectations do you have about texts in this genre?

Expect humor interspersed with action, larger-than-life characters, and a happy resolution.
7) Have you found any formal generic labels for this particular text (where - try imdb.com if unsure)?

 Classified as a "Comedy" and "Action" film on platforms like IMDb. 
8) Which conventions of the genre do you recognize in the text?

Quirky characters, comic timing, elaborate heists, and a blend of romance with humor.
9) To what extent does this text stretch the conventions of its genre?

It pushes boundaries with its absurd comedic situations and satirical take on Bollywood itself.

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

Incorporates meta-commentary on film-making, diverging from typical narrative structures.
11) Which conventions seem more like those of a different genre (and which genre(s))?

The use of self-referential humor and satire aligns it with the parody genre. 
12) What familiar motifs or images are used?

 Iconic Bollywood dance numbers, colorful settings, and exaggerated villainy.

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)?

Primarily a young adult audience familiar with Bollywood; typical for action-comedies aiming for broad appeal.
2) What assumptions seem to be made about your class, age, gender and ethnicity?

Assumes a middle to upper-class audience, young adults, with a Asian cultural background
3) What interests does it assume you have?

Assumes interest in humor, action-packed plots, and cultural references related to Bollywood

Relationship to other texts

1) What intertextual references are there in the text you are analysing (and to what other texts)? Intertextuality is when a media product references another media text of some kind.

 References to other heist films and Bollywood tropes, along with nods to famous film dialogues.
2) In terms of genre, which other texts does the text you are analysing resemble most closely?

Films like "Dhoom" series and "Golmaal" series.
3) What key features are shared by these texts?

High-energy action, comedic elements, ensemble casts, and elaborate heist sequences.
4) What major differences do you notice between them?

"Tees Maar Khan" has a more satirical and self-aware vibe, while "Dhoom" focuses more on action and thrills, with less emphasis on comedy.