Portfolio Project Genre #1

 

Drama! 

In class, we have started our research and introduction to our portfolio project. The freedom given to us allows a lot of flexibility and a wide range of imaginative ideas. Ive been struggling to decide whether to do drama, suspense, and coming of age. Although very different genres ive decided to focus my research on drama and suspense. I feel as though they will showcase my ideas the best and allow for my vision to be put in motion. 

What is Drama?

The drama genre in film is when human experiences are heightened and portrayed more dramatically. Popular drama films are Little Women (2019), Beautiful Boy (2018), and Boys Don't Cry (1999). What these films have in common is that they are all realistic events that have been dramatized. 

  

  

Audience

The range for the audience is relatively broad but geared more towards adults, and focuses on people who want an emotional draw and deep characters that sometimes may be relatable. They do sometimes carry heavy and mature topics not suitable for younger audiences, yet the teenage group may find some films enjoyable. 

Conventions with Content + Techniques

Common conventions in drama films are their realistic settings, close and tight shots, conflict, and character development. They also have a tendency to include climaxes and anti-climaxes in order to keep their audience invested and allow for the suspense of what will happen next. 

An idea I was thinking about including in my film opening is going against the common conventions while still keeping the drama genre. The film Titanic (1997) is a prime example. The audience already knows what will happen to the ship, yet they add a genre of romance to it between Rose and Jack. Although their love story isn't probable, the added layer of romance enhanced the drama genre. 

    

In dramatic films, popular techniques are:

- voice-overs

- dramatic music

- darker lighting or natural lighting 

- close-up shots/ tight close-up shots

- climax/ anti-climax

- stream of consciousness of inner dialogue within characters

Institutional Conventions

These are tactics that are accepted by a wide range of audiences who can easily identify the genre of a film. They are the bones of what every genre of film should have that audiences can interpret. Some examples are:

Scene/setting: a realistic daily life place like offices, homes, playgrounds, schools, etc.

Character relationships: family dynamics, intimate relationships, social struggles, etc.

Themes: mental illness, traumatic events, politics, class struggles