The Concept of Film Genre

The Concept of Film GenreDespite the fact that the history of the cinema presents many discussions about genre as a distinguishing feature that characterises films or groups of films, this concept continues to compel discussion and thought among those with knowledge of film studies. Perhaps a reason for the previously mentioned is the fact that the production of film, its textual features and social expectations arising out of popular culture remain in flux, fixing new ideas

Despite the fact that the history of the cinema presents many discussions about genre as a distinguishing feature that characterises films or groups of films, this concept continues to compel discussion and thought among those with knowledge of film studies. Perhaps a reason for the previously mentioned is the fact that the production of film, its textual features and social expectations arising out of popular culture remain in flux, fixing new ideas for filmmaking, new texts and evolving expectations for spectators. However, genre is not something that is subject to rigid rules and it can be difficult to classify a film. The noir films have presented much controversy related to genre and film scholars present arguments for and against accepting the Film Noir as a genre. This essay presents a discussion about film genre and considers the 1949 Nicholas Ray film ÔThey Live by NightÕ, which is considered to be a noir film with a romantic twist.