Imagine having no way to describe what you expect from a movie. Then try finding something to watch on Netflix with no frame of reference.
Imagine trying to market a movie with no clue about audience expectations.
Tasks like these would be impossible without movie genres.
This guide to film genres examines the narrative similarities that cause movies to be placed within a specific group. Genres are a way for audiences and filmmakers to set, manage, and fulfill expectations.
I’ve started by listing a dozen major genres. I sub-divided each of these into between 6 and 25 sub-genres. You’ll find a total of 188 sub-genres on this page.
I’ve also included at least 2 recommendations for each sub-genre.
That makes a total of almost 376 category-specific movie recommendations.
Many of your favorite films fall into multiple sub-categories. That’s not an accident. Screenwriters and studios love mixing genres. Moviemkaers want many viewers as possible to increase box office revenue and profits.
So expect plenty of overlap.
Table of Contents
Action
Action movies focus on a single hero trying to accomplish a goal while facing various forms of opposition. Challenges are resolved through physical feats, with fighting, driving, and marksmanship being among the most important. The odds are often seemingly insurmountable, and it’s common for a villain to oppose the hero at every turn (at least until they’re dispatched during a climactic showdown).
The action movie genre became notable in the 1970s, and it peaked in the 1980s and early 1990s thanks to stars such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and Bruce Willis.
Blaxploitation movies were marketed to a black audience in the 1970s and feature an African-American hero, gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, steamy love scenes, and often a white antagonist. (Shaft, Dolemite)
Buddy cop movies feature a pair of police officers, often with different ideals and motives, teaming up to take down a malevolent criminal. By the end of the film, the initially hostile partners have usually become friends. (Lethal Weapon, Tango & Cash)
Car chase movies emphasize car chases featuring a variety of supercharged vehicles, but they often also include plenty of gun-play and fist fights. (The Fast and the Furious, Gone in 60 Seconds)
Conspiracy thrillers present a lone hero who must use both physical and mental skills in order to survive against a cabal of powerful opponents who are often tied to the government. Paranoia and double agents are common in conspiracy thrillers. (Three Days of the Condor, Conspiracy Theory)
Die Hard movies take inspiration from the popular Bruce Willis movie . They feature a lone hero battling well-armed villains in order to save hostages trapped in a fixed location or confined space. (Sudden Death, Under Siege)
Girls with guns movies focus on attractive women who are proficient at firearms and martial combat. Expect torn clothing and at least one catfight. (Bitch Slap, Sucker Punch)
Heroic Bloodshed is a style of Hong Kong film popularized by director John Woo (often referred to as “gun-fu”). The “heroic bloodshed” movies sub-genre deals with themes of honor and redemption while providing opportunities for stylized violence. (Hard Boiled, Infernal Affairs)
Martial arts movies rely on hand to hand combat to move the story along. Multiple versions of the martial arts films sub-genre exist.(Enter the Dragon, Drunken Master)
Revenge movies feature a grim hero who suffers a personal attack or the loss of a loved one. Said hero begins killing off those who were responsible. (Death Wish, Death Sentence)
Samurai and ninja movies are usually set in Japan. Samurai and ninja movies feature martial arts battles and/or swordplay. They also emphasize honor and personal sacrifice. (Shogun Assassin, The Third Ninja)
Spy and espionage films present a hero who must outwit enemy agents, often in search of important data. Equally-skilled henchmen, gadgets, double crosses, and beautiful femme fatales are also common. (The James Bond franchise, The Bourne Identity)
Superhero movies are usually (but not always) adapted from comic books. They feature characters with distinctive costumes and unique powers. 21st century audiences love this genre. (Spider-Man, The Dark Knight)
Techno-thriller – A great deal of attention is given to technical matters, although techno-thrillers might otherwise include elements of science fiction, espionage, and politics. (Hackers, The Hunt for Red October)
Adventure
Adventure films contain enough action to overlap with the “action” category, but exotic locales and foreign peoples are often emphasized, with the latter usually serving as helpers or opposition to white heroes in Hollywood productions. The adventure movie enjoyed its heyday in the 1930s and 1940s, mostly because people had no other realistic means of seeing distant lands. The genre has fallen on hard times in recent years, as the Internet and cheaper travel options have taken away much of the mystique once enjoyed by distant corners of the globe.
Jungle/Safari – A group enters the jungle or desert—often on a quest—and must deal with the hostile environment, dangerous animals, and unwelcoming natives. Jungle films were especially popular in the 1950s. (Aguirre: The Wrath of God, The Emerald Forest)
Swashbuckling – Often set in the past, these films include ship-to-ship combat, sword fights, exotic islands, pirates, hostile natives, and someone swinging on a rope. (Pirates of the Caribbean, Nate and Hayes)
Treasure Hunts – A charismatic lead character and his assistants go on a treasure hunt, traveling to dangerous and exotic locales in search of a priceless artifact andoften contending with a villain who seeks the same item. (Raiders of the Lost Ark, National Treasure)
Disaster Movies – The disaster movies sub-genre is distinguished from its sci-fi counterpart by featuring a threat that originates on Earth and often involves Mother Nature. (Dante’s Peak, The Poseidon Adventure)
Man vs Nature – A lone individual or small group is stranded in an isolated location and must struggle against the elements and wild animals in order to survive. Man versus nature movies are also sometimes called survival movies.(The Edge, The Grey)
Period Action – All the standard action tropes are usually present, but the film is set in a different time period and features authentic costumes and sometimes references to real-life historical events. (Brotherhood of the Wolf, Rob Roy)
Comedies
Cinema audiences love a good laugh, which explains why the comedy genre has endured since the beginning of cinema. The methods of tickling the collective audience funny bone can vary from one movie to the next. Everything from physical to cerebral humor finds a following among certain segments of the population.
The genre has seen a decline in the last decade, although disappointing box office results are only partially responsible. Hollywood has become increasingly focused on financing pictures that can turn a profit at the global box office, and the definition of “funny” still differs greatly from one country to the next.
Explosions, meanwhile, seem to be universal.
Action Comedy – While plenty of jokes are present, the action comedy sub-genre also includes car chases, gun battles, and fistfights. (Midnight Run, Big Trouble in Little China)
Anarchic Comedy – In order to thumb its nose at authority, this type of comedy frequently uses heavy doses of satire, physical gags, black humor, and stream of consciousness. (National Lampoon’s Animal House, Monty Python and the Holy Grail)
Animals – Instead of humans in the lead roles, this sub-genre focuses on cute animals that get into adorable situations. (Ice Age, Happy Feet)
Buddy Comedy – A pair of mismatched pals try to extricate themselves from a difficult situation, often while being pursued by a not-at-all-amusing bad guy. These usually have more laughs than romantic comedies. (Trading Places, Stir Crazy)
Comedy of Manners – First appearing in ancient Greek comedies, comedies of manners satirize one or more social classes. (Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Beverly Hillbillies)
Dark Comedy – Employs farce and satire while often dealing with serious subjects not traditionally found in a comedy, such as nuclear war and death. (Monty Python’s Life of Brian, Heathers)
Fish-Out-of-Water – In a fish out of water comedy, someone is placed in an unfamiliar land or situation, and the laughs are usually derived from their attempts to fit in. (Crocodile Dundee, Beverly Hills Cop)
Gross-Out Comedy – The aim of the gross out comedy is to shock and amuse viewers by including elements such as toilet humor, various bodily functions, explicit discussions of sex, and frequent nudity. (The Hangover, There’s Something about Mary)
Political Satire – These films skewer the political process, using humor to point out the corruption and hypocrisy within the system. (Bulworth, Dr. Strangelove)
Romantic Comedy – Romantic comedies often feature a likable leading character in search of love. In other versions, a jerk finds their attitude changing when they fall in love. In either case, there are obstacles to overcome, often in the form of misunderstandings or rival lovers. (Pretty Woman, Roman Holiday)
Sci-Fi Comedy – Features the usual comedic tropes, although the setting is in outer space. Bizarre alien races and action sequences may also be included. (Galaxy Quest, Spaceballs)
Screwball Comedy – Courtship and marriage are a central theme, although the woman often takes the dominant role in the relationship. Screwball comedies often feature elements of farce, as well as snappy banter between the two main characters. (His Girl Friday, It Happened One Night)
Sex Comedy – Similar to the romantic comedy, although there’s more of an emphasis on sexual encounters and a greater likelihood of nude scenes. Often sex comedies focus on teenagers.(American Pie, Superbad)
Slapstick – The most notable trademarks of slapstick are absurd humor and exaggerated physical action. Especially popular during the era of black and white cinema. (Animal Crackers, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective)
Spoofs – Spoofs make fun of another movie genre by introducing and subverting many of their most common tropes. (Blazing Saddles, This Is Spinal Tap)
Stand-Up Comedy – A professional comedian performs his act on stage. (Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip, Raw)
Zombie Comedy – Also known as a “Zom Com,” these films feature a likable protagonist, hordes of undead, lots of gore, and frequently a romantic subplot. (Fido, Dead Alive)
Crime
Crime films have been around since the silent era, and they’ve managed to enjoy a respectable amount of popularity ever since. Much of this is because most people either:
- know someone who’s broken the law
- have broken the law themselves
- have fantasized about committing some form of felony.
Laws were enacted to keep social order, but there’s long been a fascination with those who blatantly disregard societal norms. These films often act as a form of catharsis by allowing otherwise honest viewers to vicariously live out the life of a degenerate—and frequently charismatic—crook.
Some works follow a crime from the planning stages all the way through to the aftermath, while others limit their scope to a single event like a trial. Then there are those that focus on the individual, whether showing the rise (and fall) of a criminal or the hardships endured by an honest cop.
Bad Girls – While this often refers to film noir movies with murderous or adulterous women, it can also be used for any work that focuses on females with loose morals and a violent streak. (Double Indemnity, Chained Heat)
Cops & Robbers – As a series of crimes (usually robberies) are committed, the film shifts its focus between the crooks and the cops. (Heat, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three)
Courtroom Drama – The crime (if shown) if often committed in the opening scenes, leaving the rest of the film to focus on the trial phase. The main character in most courtroom dramas is a defense attorney or their client, and the unfolding story often reveals details not initially known to the audience. (Primal Fear, A Time to Kill)
Crime Comedy – Bumbling crooks are a staple of the crime comedy, although some films use darker subject matter to create a black comedy. (Snatch, Analyze This)
Crime Thriller – The lead character of a crime thriller is usually involved in the investigation of a crime, although they may also be the perpetrator. The motives behind the act are given substantial weight, as is the planning and execution of the deed. (Silence of the Lambs, Memories of Murder)
Heist Movies – In heist movies, a group of criminals come together to pull off a lucrative job, often with unexpected problems popping up along the way. “Caper films” fall into this category, although they tend to be lighter in tone. (Reservoir Dogs, Ocean’s Eleven)
Hood Films – Set in urban inner cities, these films usually center on African-American characters and their daily struggles with drugs and violence. One character often manages to “get out of the hood” by the end of the film, while another winds up dead. (Menace II Society, Boyz n the Hood)
Juvenile Delinquents – Popular in the 1940s and 1950s, juvenile delinquent films focus on underage criminals. There’s often a mentor who tries to help, although the results aren’t guaranteed. (Blackboard Jungle, Bad Boy)
Mob Movies – These films, also called gangster movies, follow the lives of a crime family, often showing their rise to power and eventual collapse. Italian characters are traditional subjects, and these works are filled with sudden violence, hot-headed individuals, nagging wives, mistresses, and lots of rich food. (The Godfather, Goodfellas)
Mystery or Whodunit– A private eye, amateur sleuth, or cop tries to solve a mystery, and the film focuses on the gathering of clues and interrogation of witnesses. Agatha Christie adaptations usually fall into this category. (Murder on the Orient Express, And Then There Were None)
Police Procedural – A group of cops methodically work on a case or series of cases. They frequently deal with resistance from their superiors, and their frustration with the system is often evident. (L.A. Confidential, The Naked City)
Private Eye – The lead character is a private investigator, and the private eye film follows the progression of his latest case. Expect the hero to get roughed up by goons at least once, as well as engage in shootouts, car chases, and romance with dangerous women. There’s often a major twist in the closing minutes of the film. (Chinatown, The Long Goodbye)
Road Films – Wanted criminals take to the road to avoid the law, often committing more crimes along the way. By the end of the film, one or more of the crooks are usually dead. (Thelma & Louise, Badlands)
True Crime – Based on the events surrounding an actual crime, although fictional characters may be added to drive the narrative. (Zodiac, In Cold Blood)
Undercover Cop – A cop—often young and idealistic—goes undercover to catch felons or crooked members of law enforcement. Their faith in the system is usually shaken along the way. (The Departed, Serpico)
Dramas
Dramas approach their subject matter in a sober manner, often dealing with problems endured by an individual or society as a whole. This can range from someone navigating the treacherous waters of romance to an examination of genocide, although characters within the tale are almost always afforded the opportunity to make thought-provoking speeches and evoke some of the more primal emotions.
Dramas appeal to a wide segment of viewers given their diversity, and the genre has managed to maintain a steady level of appeal despite the fickle nature of cinematic trends. They also tend to be successful during awards season, allowing actors and directors ample opportunity to show off their skillset.
Addiction – The perils of drug and alcohol addiction are dealt with in these often bleak films, although some offer a ray of hope after the lead character hits rock bottom. (Clean and Sober, Requiem for a Dream)
Coming-of-Age – A teen transitions into adulthood, often with an emphasis on sexual growth and a more mature outlook on the world. Sometimes told in the form of a flashback, the film usually includes character types such as the “best friend” and “bully.” (Dazed and Confused, Almost Famous)
Disability & Disease – The lead character is afflicted with a disease or disability that threatens to take away their life or dignity. Their struggle to overcome forms the basis of the plot. (My Left Foot, Still Alice)
Documentary – Documentaries examine some aspect of real life. Dramatic versions tend to deal with more serious subject matter. (Roger & Me, Waco: The Rules of Engagement)
Erotic – The sexual awakening or growth of a character is explored, and this may be tied to other genres such as crime. Violence and jealousy are common themes. (Nymphomaniac, Shame)
Gay/Lesbian/Transgender – Focuses on the challenges faced by the LGBT community, especially as they relate to romance, the HIV epidemic, and intolerance. These films are frequently uplifting in tone, despite an ending which may include the death of the main character. (Philadelphia, Milk)
Historical Period Drama – Period dramas present a realistic depiction of a historical character or series of events. Period costumes are almost always present, while appropriate accents and sets lend a greater degree of authenticity. (Gangs of New York, The Last Valley)
Holocaust – The World War II persecution of Jews and other groups is featured in Holocaust movies. Nazi officers are a must, as are themes of perseverance, hope, and tolerance. (The Pianist, Sophie’s Choice)
Inspirational – Inspirational drama films document a character’s perseverance over extreme difficulties in order to find fulfillment and happiness. Actors in these productions often find themselves nominated for industry awards. (Good Will Hunting, The Pursuit of Happyness)
Journalism/Investigative Reporting – The lead character is a journalist in search of truths that are being concealed, often by parties who are willing to use violence. (All the President’s Men, Veronica Guerin)
Marital Drama – The difficulties of marriage are examined, often with divorce, infidelity, and custody battles as accompanying elements. (Kramer vs Kramer, A Streetcar Named Desire)
Political – The genre deals with political ambition and behind-the-scenes machinations. Characters often become disillusioned or suffer blows to their career along the way. (Frost/Nixon, The Contender)
Prison – The main character is sent to prison and must then contend with the brutality and isolation of life behind bars. A number of stock characters are present to help or hinder, and an escape attempt is common during the final act. (Escape from Alcatraz, The Shawshank Redemption)
Race Relations – The problems between people of various ethnic backgrounds are examined, often with violence and inhumanity acting as a pivotal catalyst. (12 Years a Slave, Do the Right Thing)
Road Films – A single character or duo hit the road in search of love, enlightenment, or a good time. They encounter unexpected events and people along the way, and their life usually ends up changed by the end of the movie. (Nebraska, Sideways)
Romance – While the main characters deal with issues of love, they must also navigate a number of obstacles in order to achieve happiness. (The Notebook, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind)
Sports Drama – Follows an individual or team in their quest to become a champion. Injuries are a common element, as are obsessed parents and coaches who range from helpful to tyrannical. In recent years, agents and members of the front office have also been included as main characters. (Raging Bull, Friday Night Lights)
Tragedy – Characters run afoul of unexpected hardships in the form of accidents, diseases, or the loss of a loved one. How they react often makes up the bulk of the film. (Mystic River, Dallas Buyers Club)
True Story Adaptation – This form of drama is derived from a real-life incident, often one that has been adapted from a work of non-fiction. (Foxcatcher, Changeling)
Epics
Epic storytelling has existed since the earliest days of cinema, with silent-era directors D.W. Griffith and Cecil B. DeMille blazing a trail was later followed by more contemporary artists such as Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. This genre is fond of spinning narratives from the past, injecting historical events with visual flair thanks to special effects, lavish costumes, exotic locations, and a stirring musical score.
Due to the expense associated with such productions, you’re unlikely to see more than a couple of epic films released each year (a far cry from the genre’s peak in the 1960s). Advances in technology have allowed for cost-cutting measures in certain areas, though, as a hundred extras can now be turned into hundreds-of-thousands thanks to the magic of CGI.
Biopic – The life of a historically important character is examined in detail, with all events in the narrative being driven or influenced by the individual. Some show only the positive traits of the character, while other works strive for a more even-handed approach. (Braveheart, Michael the Brave)
British Empire – The rise or fall of the British Empire is examined in detail, often through the eyes of an Englishman. Themes of colonialism are often touched upon, although recent films tend to be more critical of foreign occupation. (Lawrence of Arabia)
Dark Ages – This period started after the fall of the Western Roman Empire (5th to 15th centuries) and was marked by economic disaster and general barbarism among the population. (Kingdom of Heaven)
Greek Myth – Heroes and events from Greek mythology are examined, often through the use of elaborate sets, grand battle sequences, and fictional creatures. (Ulysses, Troy)
Historical Epic – A grand retelling of history, with scenes often centered on military or political upheaval and the people affected by these events. A massive cast of extras and elaborate sets are often employed for such films. (Spartacus, Titanic)
Literary Adaptation – These epic films are inspired or directly based on a previously-released work of literature. (Schindler’s List, The Aviator)
Religious – Any film that deals with a religious figure or movement in a grand fashion. If the storyline involves Christian personalities or ideals, then it’s known as a Biblical epic. The latter was huge in the 1950s, with actor Charlton Heston frequently appearing in productions. (The Ten Commandments, The Mahabharata)
Roman Empire – As the name would imply, events in these films are set during the era of the Roman Empire and feature intrigue, treachery, and large-scale battles. (The Fall of the Roman Empire, Gladiator)
Romantic Epic – The emphasis is on a love story, but the tale is set against a major event such as a war or political movement. The background event often threatens to keep the characters apart, and their struggle is paramount to the narrative. (Gone with the Wind, Doctor Zhivago)
Sci-Fi/Fantasy Epics – These films deal with large-scale events that impact most people within the fictional world or galaxy. Massive battles are a common element, as well as a core group of heroes struggling against an oppressive evil. (The Empire Strikes Back, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King)
Sword and Sandal – Often produced in Italy during the 1950s and 1960s, sword and sandal films try to recreate the success of the blockbuster Hollywood epics. The main character is often a male of superhuman strength who’s tasked with rescuing a princess and overthrowing a tyrant or fighting mythological creatures. (Atlas against the Czar, The Rebel Gladiators)
Fantasy
Fantasy films were present throughout the 20th century (especially in the 1980s), but they’ve exploded in popularity with the dawn of the new millennium. While often bleeding over into the realm of science fiction, these tales can be distinguished by the presence of magic and myth. Swordplay and armor are also crucial components, as are fictional races and locations.
Comic Fantasy – Set in bizarre or imaginary worlds and sometimes featuring non-human characters, this light-hearted style of film often pokes fun at more serious works of fantasy. (Shrek, Being John Malkovich)
Contemporary – While set in the present day, this genre may still retain a number of the characteristics shared by high fantasy. (Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters)
Dark Fantasy – Combines elements of fantasy with a creeping sense of dread and an ominous atmosphere. Scenes of violence and suffering are often present. (Solomon Kane, Snow White and the Huntsman)
Fairy Tales – Movies either based on classic fairy tales or developed from original material. Curses, enchantments, and battles are often present, and the stories may be significantly altered to appeal to a modern audience. (Maleficent, Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters)
High Fantasy – In high fantasy, forces of good and evil employ armies and sorcery in order to determine the future of a fictional world. Heroes and villains tend to be larger-than-life, and perilous quests must often be completed in order to obtain victory. (The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Willow)
Low Fantasy – Often set in the real world, this genre focuses on realism instead of the fantastical. Magic and the supernatural are often sparse, with greater weight given to the laws of nature. (Pan’s Labyrinth, Jumanji)
Magical Girl – Animated Japanese films (“anime”) that focus on female heroines who wield magical powers or have other amazing abilities. Some characters work alone, but team-based storylines are also popular. (Sailor Moon R: The Movie)
Musical Fantasy – Often set in a fantastical world and aimed at both children and adults, these films include singing and dancing alongside elements of magic. (The Wizard of Oz, Into the Woods)
Paranormal Romance – The romantic element is all important in paranormal romance movies, although at least one of the characters is likely dead, reincarnated, suffering from a curse, or a spirit. (Ghost, Beauty and the Beast)
Romantic Fantasy – Social and political relationships play an important role in this genre, and you can expect one or more characters to fall in love along the way. Romantic impediments may include social class or a powerful antagonist. (Legend, The Princess Bride)
Sword & Sorcery – In sword and sorcery movies, heroes wield bladed weapons and struggle against dark forces. The latter often employing sorcery and armed minions. A romantic subplot is often present, with the female often serving as a damsel in distress. (Conan the Barbarian, Excalibur)
Steampunk – Steampunk movies feature clothing and technology inspired by the industrial steam-powered machinery of the 19th century, this genre often provides a revisionist history of the American Old West or Britain during the Victorian era. (Time After Time, Wild Wild West)
Urban Fantasy – The elements of fantasy are brought into a city, allowing viewers to see what happens when magic and the supernatural collide with the order of traditional society. (Highlander, Ghostbusters)
Wuxia – This popular Chinese genre focuses on wandering heroes (often with almost superhuman powers) who serve no lord and risk their lives protecting the weak and righting wrongs. Honor and sacrifice are important elements, and fighting with swords and fists are common. (Finger of Doom, Hero)
Horror
The main goal of horror films is to scare its audience, whether they jump out of their seats on a few occasions or spend the next several days with a creeping sense of dread. This is accomplished by preying on a wide range of fears, from being flayed alive by a demented killer to having a normally safe place or object subverted into something sinister.
The earliest form of horror cinema appeared in silent shorts from the late 1890s, and the medium has continually evolved in order to keep up with changes in censorship and general standards of taste. While early examples of the genre relied on subtle scares and psychological horror to strike a nerve with viewers, modern filmmakers can also call upon gory special effects to get the job done. Both methods continue to prove effective, as what terrifies one person may prove laughable to the next.
With Hollywood seemingly running out of fresh ideas, horror remakes have also become popular as of late. While these works can often bring in box office numbers that far outstrip their source material, most are derided by critics and fans as lacking what made the original worth remaking (or rebooting) in the first place.
Aliens – Extraterrestrials encounter humans, and their intentions are not positive. While full-scale invasions are common to sci-fi films, this version often features a single alien antagonist. (Altered, Alien)
Body & Transformation Horror – The lead character often undergoes a frightening metamorphosis that sees them lose control over their own body. It’s hard to mention body horror without mentioning David Cronenberg. (Tetsuo: The Iron Man, Cabin Fever)
Cannibals – The villains in these cannibal horror movies aren’t content with killing their victims. Instead, they prefer to serve them up with a side of coleslaw. (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, We Are What We Are)
Classic Monsters – These works focus on old-school monsters like those presented by Universal Studios from the 1920s through the 1960s (vampires and werewolves, for example). While lethal, the creatures are often presented as tragic and misunderstood. (Frankenstein, The Creature from the Black Lagoon)
Comedy Horror – This hybrid combines elements of humor with the more traditional aspects of the horror genre. (Dead Snow: Red vs Dead, Shaun of the Dead)
Demons & Devils – The primary evil in movies about demons and devils is a denizen of Hell, and it’s often Satan himself. The baddies may take a corporeal form or rely on possession. (Fallen, Mr. Frost)
Evil Kids – Otherwise cute youngsters turn on adults and engage in bloodletting. (Village of the Damned, Children of the Corn)
Found Footage – Presents the film as footage that was shot by an unlucky victim and recovered later for viewing. These movies have been popular since the turn of the century. (The Blair Witch Project, The Last Exorcism)
Giallo – This sub-genre refers to murder mysteries produced in Italy that combine elements of horror, suspense, and erotica. Their popularity hit its peak in the 1970s. (Four Flies on Grey Velvet, Suspiria)
Giant Monsters – One or more massive creatures lay waste to a city or region, while a group of terrified survivors try to cope with the situation, often using cunning and technology. (The Mist, Cloverfield)
Gothic Horror – Often set in the 19th century, gothic horror films combine horror, romance, and a pervasive sense of gloom. (Dracula, The Woman in Black)
Haunted House – Instead of dealing with a mobile spirit, the unlucky characters are tormented by a building. Look for bleeding walls and doors that close unaided. (The Amityville Horror, House)
Horror Romance – Combines standard horror tropes with a tale of supernatural romance, often resulting in tragedy. (Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Twilight)
Isolation & Madness – Characters deal with the psychological stress of prolonged isolation or mental illness. These films usually feature a lower body count than many horror flicks. (Repulsion, Frozen)
J-Horror – This relatively new term refers to horror movies filmed and set in Japan. These works have enjoyed greater success in Western countries over the last few decades. (Ring, Audition)
Killer Hillbillies & Rednecks – Often depicted as cannibals, as well, these deranged killers live in isolated areas and prey on anyone unlucky enough to stray into their domain. (Wrong Turn, Just Before Dawn)
K-Horror – This sub-genre refers to Korean horror films, many of which are known for their extreme violence and gory special effects. (R-Point, A Tale of Two Sisters)
Modern Monsters – While classic movie monsters are often depicted as tragic, this new breed of modern terror frequently enjoys evil and mayhem. (Feast, The Descent)
Nature & Animals – Mother Nature lashes out at humanity, often with substantial help from the animal kingdom. (Jaws, Grizzly)
Religion and the Occult – Witches and religious fanatics are the bread and butter of this film type. It can often incorporate elements of the ghost or slasher sub-genre. (Bad Dreams, Drag Me to Hell)
Slashers & Serial Killers – Massively popular throughout the 1980s, slasher movies feature a methodical—and often unstoppable—killer who dispatches teenagers and anyone else he comes across. (Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, Halloween)
Spirits & Ghosts – The main characters must contend with a vengeful spirit looking for payback, often because of some wrong they inflicted on the spectre in life. (Ju-on: The Grudge, Ghost Ship)
Splatter – Plot and characterization take a backseat to special effects, usually in the form of severed limbs and buckets of blood. A deranged killer is often responsible for the carnage. (Blood Feast, Nekromantik)
Torture – A brutal sub-genre known for lengthy depictions of physical and psychological torture against bound victims. Recent years have seen the rise of the term “torture porn.” (Hostel, Guinea Pig)
Zombies – Creature rise from the grave and feast on the living. Older zombies tend to shamble about, while newer versions run at breakneck speeds. Expect lots of gore. (Dawn of the Dead, Cemetery Man)
Musicals
The movie musical was a natural offshoot of the stage musical, and it was immediately popular following the advent of “talkies” in the late 1920s. The golden age of the genre came in the 1930s through the 1960s, although it’s experiencing a resurgence in the 21st century.
Musicals includes multiple musical numbers, with dancing often being incorporated, as well. It’s common for songs to advance the storyline or provide character depth, although some movies may view the singing and dancing as nothing more than a transitional break between scenes.
Backstage Musical – The plot revolves around the production of a musical or stage play. The musical numbers are often part of the show being produced, so they don’t serve to advance the plot. (Dames, Gold Diggers of 1937)
Beach Party Films – A popular genre in the 1960s, beach party movies feature surfing, teen romance, dancing, bikinis, and musical performances. (Beach Party, Gidget Goes Hawaiian)
Broadway Musical – These films are adapted from popular and long-running Broadway shows. While the songs often remain the same, the scenery and elements of the story are often altered to appeal to a broader viewing audience. (Annie, Damn Yankees)
Concert Films – While an individual artist or band performs their songs for a paying crowd, the film captures every conceivable angle. Backstage footage is common, as well as candid interviews with the performers and their fans. (Stop Making Sense, The Last Waltz)
Dance Films – While it retains a traditional plot, the narrative is often driven by elaborate dance sequences. While older viewers associate the genre with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, modern tales often involve a form of hip-hop dancing. (Top Hat, Stomp the Yard)
Folk Musicals – Combines folk music with tales of social issues, the working class, or just musicians who happen to play tunes from the genre. (A Mighty Wind, O Brother Where Art Thou?)
Hip-Hop – The struggles of urban life play a central role, but the frequently black lead character also has the ability to improve their life by using a talent for dancing or singing. (Beat Street, Hustle & Flow)
Musical Biography – Films that present the life story of a band or solo artist, often focusing on the hardships they faced before making it big. (Selena, Ray)
Musical Comedies – Whimsical tales that include singing and possibly dancing, although the rest of the plot can vary a great deal. Several modern tales focus on performers, allowing the musical sequences to seamlessly blend into the story. (Pitch Perfect, The Blues Brothers)
Musical Dramas – While the music can still manage to be uplifting, the overall tone of the film is more dramatic and thoughtful. (Chicago, All That Jazz)
Musical Romance – All of the usual complications of a romantic relationship are explored, but the characters are prone to express their deepest feelings though song and dance numbers. (Grease, West Side Story)
Rockumentary – A documentary focusing on rock music in general or a specific performer, these films often include full performances of well-known tunes. (Gimme Shelter, Shut Up & Sing)
Science Fiction
It might seem that the rapid growth of technology in the 21st century should diminish the success of the science fiction movies, but that hasn’t been the case. This style of storytelling has been around since the silent era, and it continues to thrive thanks to an audience fascination with elements that are just outside the realm of accepted science.
Regarded as something of a novelty genre for decades, science fiction gained a measure of respectability thanks to the works of George Lucas and Stanley Kubrick in the 1960s and 1970s. It’s been a cinematic mainstay ever since, providing viewers with tales of aliens, space travel, robots, and distant planets. In the hands of a skilled director/screenwriter team, the film may also examine a wide range of social and political issues amidst the laser blasts.
Alien Invasion – When extraterrestrial forces attempt a takeover, a group of heroes must band together to thwart their machinations. Expect lots of explosions and at least one noble sacrifice in most alien invasion films. (Independence Day, Cowboys & Aliens)
Alternate History – Set in the real world, although some important historic event played out differently and altered everything that came after, often with less-than-ideal results. (District 9, Fatherland)
Atomic Age – Films made in the 1950s and 1960s that demonstrated the wonder and potential horrors of atomic energy. Giant monsters and atomic annihilation are common themes. (Them!, On the Beach)
Cyberpunk – Cyberpunk movies are often set in a dystopian near future. This kind of tale features free-thinking heroes, hackers, cyborgs, AI beings, and a modified social order. (Johnny Mnemonic, Strange Days)
Disaster Films – When the planet is threatened by something outside of Earth, a group of heroes are called upon to stop the disaster, often through self-sacrifice. (Armageddon, Sunshine)
Dystopian Future – A futuristic society in decline, as evidenced by poor living conditions, a totalitarian government, and the general dehumanization of the population. (Blade Runner, Escape from New York)
First Contact – Humans and aliens interact for the first time. These films may be optimistic on tone, or the inter-species meeting may lead to disaster. (Contact, The Day the Earth Stood Still)
Hard Science Fiction – These films incorporate a healthy dose of actual science and accuracy into their narrative, ensuring that depicted events might one day be possible. (Silent Running, Moon)
Lost Worlds – A group of intrepid explorers set out to chart hidden or alien worlds, often resulting in adventure and danger. (Journey to the Seventh Planet, The Lost World)
Military Science Fiction – Similar to the war movie genre, but with an emphasis on advanced weapons and spacecraft, as well as alien opponents. (Starship Troopers, Space Battleship Yamato)
Monsters/Mutants – Whether due to evolution or extraterrestrial origins, one or more creatures appear to menace humanity. (Tremors, Godzilla)
Post-Apocalyptic – Concerned with the possible end of humanity, these films often focus on individuals trying to survive as civilization crumbles. Violence is optional, although it’s become increasingly common. (The Road Warrior, The Road)
Sci-Fi Horror – Alien worlds and advanced technology may be present, but the film is equally concerned with frightening the audience (often by introducing homicidal aliens). (The Thing, Pitch Black)
Space Opera – Large-scale sci-fi adventures featuring a heroic central character battling for the fate of the galaxy with high-tech weapons and vehicles. (Star Wars, Guardians of the Galaxy)
Sword & Planet – Adventure stories set on alien worlds, often with an Earthling in the role of the hero. Despite advanced technology, fight scenes often feature melee weapons. (John Carter, Masters of the Universe)
Time Travel – An individual must journey to the past or future, often in a race to undo the efforts of a less scrupulous time traveler. The fish-out-of-water genre is sometimes applied for laughs, although time travel movies can also be deadly serious. (Timecop, Back to the Future II)
Virtual Reality – Advanced technology is used to create virtual worlds or people, often with an emphasis on action scenes. These were popular in the 1990s. (Gamer, The Matrix)
War
One of the easiest genres to identity, the war film takes place during a large-scale military conflict. Scenes of fighting and dying are common, although some films simply use the carnage as a backdrop to tell a more personal story.
These films were at their peak during the World War II era, although the continuation of conflicts around the globe has ensured that there’s never a lack of subject matter. While many early tales glorified combat, it’s become common for works to focus on the psychological toll endured by military men and women.
Aerial Combat – Instead of the ground fighting traditionally favored in war movies, this sub-genre focuses on pilots and airborne combat. (Red Tails, Memphis Belle)
American Civil War – This brand of film is set during the American Civil War and follows forces from either the Union or Confederacy. Impressive battles scenes are often included. (Glory, Gods and Generals)
Anti-War – Often features intense combat, with an emphasis on the human cost of war and disregard for the rank-and-file troops. (Paths of Glory, Born on the Fourth of July)
Documentary – These works provide a non-fiction view of large or small-scale events during a war, often through the use of interviews and stock footage. Some are more unbiased than others. (Hitler’s Children, Goodbye Holland)
Gulf War – Features Americans fighting against Iraqi forces during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s. (Jarhead, Three Kings)
Korean War – Movies set during the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953. Most focus on battlefield action, although comedies also exist. (MASH, Hell in Korea)
Men on a Mission – A group of soldiers banter and bicker while crossing enemy territory on the way to accomplish a dangerous mission. (The Dirty Dozen, Inglorious Basterds)
Military Comedy – These works range from poking gentle fun at military life to skewering the futility of war and the incompetence of those in charge. (Catch-22, No Time for Sergeants)
Military Horror – Soldiers or mercenaries are confronted with supernatural terrors and must fight for their lives. Werewolves and zombies are popular opponents. (Outpost, Dog Soldiers)
Prisoner of War – The lives of POWs take center stage in these films, often depicting brutal treatment, harsh conditions, and an eventual escape attempt. (Rescue Dawn, The Hanoi Hilton)
Propaganda – Films released by a specific nation to advance their political agenda, often during times of war. While the truth is sometimes presented, these works have become synonymous with false information. (Tunisian Victory, Triumph of the Will)
Resistance Movie – Focuses on men and women who fight occupying enemy forces using guerilla tactics. (Defiance, Flame and Citron)
Revolutionary War – Set during the American Revolutionary War, which lasted from 1775 until 1783. The main character is usually fighting against British forces. (The Patriot, Revolution)
Submarine – Set in the claustrophobic confines of a submarine with frequent underwater battles and last-second escapes. (U-571, Torpedo Run)
Vietnam War – Films that usually depict the American involvement in Vietnam during the 1960s and early 1970s. Due to the unpopular nature of the conflict, most depictions can be regarded as anti-war pictures. (Platoon, Full Metal Jacket)
War on Terror – These films often deal with military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan following terrorist attacks against America on September 11th, 2001. (Lone Survivor, American Sniper)
War Epic – Sweeping stories featuring diverse casts, multiple battles, numerous locations, and a longer-than-usual runtime. (Das Boot, The Longest Day)
War Romance – Despite a war raging in the background, two people manage to meet and fall in love. The end result is often tragic, however. (From Here to Eternity, The English Patient)
Wartime Spy – The focus is on a spy or double agent, often hiding amidst the enemy and feeding vital information to the other side. Getting caught means torture and death, and there are numerous tension-filled scenes that play upon this possibility. (Black Book, 5 Fingers)
World War I – Movies set during the events of the First World War. (All Quiet on the Western Front, Gallipoli)
World War II – While the type of story can vary, movies in this sub-genre always take place during World War 2. (Saving Private Ryan, Cross of Iron)
Westerns
The Western was one of the most successful genres in Hollywood from the 1920s through the 1960s, although it has declined sharply since that period. Films are often set in American Old West during the latter half of the 19th century, although modern stories may offer updated locales. Common elements include cowboys, Indians, soldiers, and outlaws, and it’s not unusual to see one or more shootouts during a film’s runtime.
Acid Western – Acid westerns exhibit a counterculture sensibility that may involve hallucinations and a series of bizarre characters and situations. (El Topo, Dead Man)
Biographical Western – The film focuses on a well-known figure from the Old West, often attempting to present a realistic assessment of their life. (Wyatt Earp, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)
Cattle Drives – Characters must overcome a variety of challenges (nature, bandits, etc.) in order to move a herd of cattle from one location to another. (Cattle Drive, The Cowboys)
Contemporary Western – Also known as “Neo Westerns,” this sub-genre combines modern settings with elements such as shootouts and individualistic anti-heroes. (Desperado, The Getaway)
Epic Western – A sprawling tale that features a large cast, multiple action sequences, an ambitious storyline, and plenty of panoramic vistas. (Once Upon a Time in the West, How the West Was Won)
Historical Western – A film dealing with real-life historical events from the Old West, although details may be altered or subverted to suit the narrative. (Little Big Man, Tombstone)
Horror Western – The horror western introduces some manner of supernatural/monstrous killer into an Old West setting. (Billy the Kid vs Dracula, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter)
Martial Arts Western – Uses standards themes and settings, but also includes kung-fu fighting to go along with traditional shootouts. Elements of the fish-out-of-water story may also be present. (Shanghai Noon, The Warrior’s Way)
Meat Pie Western – All the usual themes are included, but the setting is changed to the Australian Outback. (The Proposition, Quigley Down Under)
Musical Western – Gunfights and horse riding are interspersed with songs about life in the Old West. (Paint Your Wagon, Calamity Jane)
Revisionist Western – The revisionist western presents elements not often present in traditional Westerns, such as heroic Indians and more capable female characters. (Dances with Wolves, The Last Wagon)
Romantic Western – Shootouts and other Western tropes are likely present, but a love story is also central to the narrative. (Open Range, Angel and the Badman)
Space Western – Set in outer space but including Western themes such as exploration, shootouts, and rugged individualism. (Outland, Serenity)
Spaghetti Western – Italian Westerns produced during the 1960s and 1970s are called spaghetti westerns. The most notable examples are heavy on style and feature plenty of morally ambiguous characters. (A Fistful of Dollars, Django)
Weird Western – Weird westerns introduce supernatural or fantastical elements into a Western setting. (Ravenous, The Burrowers)
Western Satire – The basic conventions of a Western are used, but the film often mocks tropes of the genre in order to generate a comedic tone. (Maverick, Blazing Saddles)
Zapata Westerns – Zapata films are set in and around Mexico that deal with themes of politics and revolution. (A Bullet for the General, A Fistful of Dynamite)
Conclusion
You’ll notice that some “genres” have been left out. These include:
- Animation
- Cult
- Foreign
- Noir
None of these are actual genres. Instead, they’re descriptions of films that could fit into literally any other genre.
Also, there’s no indication that any of the above genres are going to fade away in the foreseeable future, but there’s always the exciting possibility that new ones may emerge in the coming years.
All it takes is a visionary director, a willing audience, and (of course) lots of cash for the boys from Beverly Hills.
