Genre Selection

     In class, various interesting genres were presented that I had only (previously) had minimal information about. The three that I found most intriguing were mafia films, road films, and science fiction films (specifically those about alien invasions).

MAFIA FILMS

•  Within this genre, there are prominent elements of camaraderie amongst characters. This, of course, leads to loyalty due to family oriented dynamics. Unfortunately,  due to corruption within law enforcement some characters may betray others in order to help another character get the revenge they desire.

• In regards to location, these films generally take place in gritty or urban areas. 
• By the end of the film, the overarching message generally seems to be that "crime pays".
• Notable examples of these types of films are Goodfellas (1990), Scarface (1983), and The Godfather (1972).  
  

 SUPERNATURAL COMEDIES 

•  Generally, supernatural comedies are centered around unrealistic situations (hence the classification of supernatural). In some films, there is one antagonist, whereas in others there many various obstacles -- the more prominent example would be zombies. Many storylines utilize folklore or perhaps even religious traditions with supernatural elements to explain the film's happenings.
• Many of the conventions within this genre are also of the horror genre. There are isolated areas in which scenes occur and also shadowy lighting. Exaggerated digetic sound can be used to build suspense of emphasize comedic points within the film.
•  Two of the most notable films within this genre are Shaun of the Dead (2004) and Evil Dead (1981).

 HEIST FILMS

•   This genre focuses on heists, just as the title suggests. There always seems to be a stereotypical squad that the movie centers on - each with their own specialty. Plots generally take place in three acts. In terms of themes, the idea of "honor among thieves" tends to lead to important bonds and friendships throughout the duration of these types of films.
• Heist films have similar conventions to action: amplified sound, life-threatening situations, and fighting and/or chase scenes.

•  Notable films of this genre are Oceans Eleven (2001), Reservoir Dogs (1992), and The Usual Suspects (1995).
  
  
  The genre that most interests me is heist films. While I find that many of these films tend to go down in the same manner, I think twists could be put on the regular "formula" to make them more intriguing. I love that this genre intertwines friendship with both crime and potential violence. Two contrasting themes come together to make films rid with tension but also underlying messages about friendship and loyalty. These types of movies keep me personally on the edge of my seat, so I would love to be able to emulate a director like Steven Soderbergh who worked on Ocean's Eleven. Filming a short on this would be so much fun, especially when casting characters in "stereotypical" roles.