The term genre has been around for a long time, and is often associated with the analysis of classical literature. More recently, the term genre has been become associated with describing the general characteristics that are present within films. However, it is almost impossible to define a movie under the strict terms of any one genre, especially since the majority of films take different aspects from a variety of categories as a basis of their storyline.
Generally when one thinks of a genre, a specific category or topic will come to mind. Some of the most commonly referred to genres are the horror, western, film noir, comedy, melodrama, and action categories. Yet almost every movie is in some way a hybrid as it takes aspects from many different categories. Even the most genre strict movies have certain elements that were taken from another category. Take for example the movie The Searchers (1956). This movie strictly follows the basic outline of a western movie, and includes iconic features such as the stoic cowboy, the marauding Indians, the majestic landscape, and the expansive distances. However, The Searchers also includes elements from other genres. The romantic relationship between Martin and Laurie serves as a critical sub-plot throughout the story. Therefore, although the main theme of the movie is a western, The Searchers also takes elements of romance from other genres as well.
This example shows how even the most genre specific film contains aspects of other film categories as well. The hybrids created by this merging of characteristics allow directors to create films that are both more diverse and different from other movies within the same genre. It is this difference that allows directors to take the basic framework of a certain genre and mold in into a unique story that builds upon the foundations of the existing genre characteristics. Arguably, it is this ability to make something unique out of a basic genre template that has allowed Hollywood films to be so successful.
-David Zwick
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