Genre Research | Drama

 

CAMS:

A variety of camera angles, movements, and shots are used to portray different feelings and actions of characters in drama films. Some of these common CAMS are a variety of close-ups, long-shots, high angles, low angles, and more. There doesn't seem to be a specific type of shot or angle used regularly, it depends on what story you're telling with this genre.

EDITING:

Just like with CAMS, the editing used is really dependent on the type of story you're telling when writing drama. However, some repeated techniques are used. Zoom-ins/outs are popular, especially with older drama movies. Dramatic jumps and cuts are also pretty popular in the genre to create suspense and drama.

SOUND:

Dialogue is pretty necessary in drama films, as they give other characters context to situations, even if misunderstood. Since drama films tend to focus on what's happening to/around the characters, diegetic sound is often used for a majority of the time in a drama film. Non-diegetic sound can also be used when playing a song for the scene.

EXAMPLES:

Some examples of movies in this genre are:

• Whiplash (2014)

• Lady Bird (2017)

• Bring It On (2000)

FAVORED ELEMENTS:

I like how in drama, the plot focuses on both the characters' internal and external conflict. Drama and action isn't always violent or aggressive, it can be passive, and this genre conveys that. I love how a variety of different techniques can be used in this genre and still fit. You can really get creative with drama.

DISFAVORED ELEMENTS:

Drama can occasionally come off as corny, and it's heavily based on who the audience roots for. Without likeable characters, it's hard for the audience to care about what happens to them, and will easily bore them. With drama, you can't only focus on what happens to the characters, but also why the audience should care. Without understanding people, it's hard to understand this genre and how to create something for it.