Meeting core genre promises

Definition

Meeting core genre promises refers to the necessity for a film or story to fulfill the expectations and conventions associated with its chosen genre. This concept is crucial for engaging the audience, as it ensures that viewers receive the narrative elements and thematic undertones they anticipate based on the genre's established norms. Successfully meeting these promises builds trust with the audience, while also setting the stage for potential subversion of those expectations, which can lead to fresh and innovative storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Meeting core genre promises is vital for establishing a connection with the audience, as it aligns the story with their preconceived notions of what to expect.
2. Genres like horror, romance, or action each have unique conventions that need to be addressed for a story to be effective within that category.
3. Failure to meet core genre promises can lead to audience disappointment and disengagement, as viewers may feel misled about the film's intent.
4. When filmmakers meet core genre promises effectively, it can provide a strong foundation for later subverting those expectations in creative ways.
5. The balance between meeting these promises and introducing innovative twists is essential for keeping stories fresh and engaging in a saturated media landscape.

Review Questions

• How does meeting core genre promises affect audience engagement and their overall experience with a film?
  • Meeting core genre promises is essential for engaging an audience because it aligns with their expectations regarding themes, character types, and narrative arcs. When a film delivers on these established conventions, viewers are more likely to invest emotionally in the story. On the flip side, if a film deviates too far from what the audience anticipates without adequate justification, it risks losing their interest and satisfaction.
• In what ways can filmmakers creatively subvert core genre promises after initially meeting them?
  • Filmmakers can creatively subvert core genre promises by first establishing familiar tropes and then introducing unexpected twists that challenge those conventions. For example, in a horror film, a director might meet initial expectations by incorporating classic jump scares but then shift the narrative focus to character development or societal commentary. This not only surprises the audience but also enhances the depth of the storytelling, making it more memorable.
• Evaluate the role of audience expectations in shaping the success of a film within its genre and how this can impact broader industry trends.
  • Audience expectations play a critical role in determining the success of a film within its genre because they establish the baseline for what viewers consider satisfactory storytelling. As audiences become more discerning and exposed to various narrative forms, their expectations evolve, influencing filmmakers to innovate or adhere to traditional conventions. This dynamic can drive broader industry trends as creators adapt to shifting viewer preferences, leading either to revitalized genres that push boundaries or to formulaic productions that prioritize meeting established norms over originality.

Related terms

Genre Conventions: The specific traits and elements that define a genre, such as themes, settings, character types, and plot structures.

Audience Expectations: The anticipations and desires that viewers have regarding a film's narrative style, pacing, and thematic content based on its genre.

Subversion: The act of challenging or overturning established genre conventions or audience expectations, often to create surprise or provoke thought.