Movie Genres

Comedy Comedic movies need a ‘hook’ to begin the hilarity Hooks are sometimes created by combining unlikely elements Basic story line should be very simple, summed up in a sentence or two Events should be reasonable (if not realistic) Hero has a character flaw that he/she is not aware of, but that audience can relate to Funny can be sarcastic, parody, physical, nonsensical, dry, intellectual, etc.

Romantic Comedy Involve the main character in a romantic pursuit. Make the hero relatable, someone they can identify with, trying to win the love of the object of his or her desire: a best friend, a high-school sweetheart or a co-worker. Give the hero another desire that may even conflict with his or her pursuit of love. It can create comedic situations as the two desires create humorous confrontation and conflict. REMEMBER: the main character never think the situations are funny. Show that the two lovers belong together, even against all odds. Include a happy ending. A romantic comedy screenplay must end with the two lovers together

Action Create a situation where the stakes are high, involves moral interplay between good and evil, where the conflicts are resolved through physical violence and interaction Strong characters must be created with conflicting characteristics (good guy/bad guy) Hero often is reluctant, and has character flaws that make him/her endearing and relatable The dialog for an action screenplay should not only enhance the story, but reveal humor, depth of emotion and a certain vulnerability in your characters. The lines should be quotable.

Suspense Write an opening that generates many questions Suspense writing should leave the audience with something to worry about, particularly the main character (who is flawed and relatable) Main character needs a strong motivation to try to figure out the mystery (love, ambition, survival, etc.) Give the protagonist highly motivated antagonists In each act, particularly the second, the stakes need to keep increasing , but there also needs to be small triumphs to make sure the audience has hope it will all work out Pacing is very important in suspense, and should build as you reach the climax