Genre

Each genre follows its own kinds of conventions - language, characteristic signs and sign systems. However, genres are fluid and not fixed and under constant renegotiation between media industry and audience through the combination of the familiar and the unexpected


Why is genre important?

•Gives a pattern for construction, a template
•Genre pieces have an established audience who are easy to market to
•Certain personnel can develop their skills working within a particular genre (e.g. horror make up specialists)
•Stars can associate themselves with a particular genre e.g. Jennifer Aniston is known for a certain type of romance comedy, and her facial expressions on a poster instantly tells audiences what kind of movie they are likely to see if she is in it.
•Fans of a genre know the codes, so you don't have to reinvent the wheel all the time.

Why is audience important?

Audience is a very important concept throughout the media environment. All media texts are made with an audience in mind. Media is the first question producers should answer before making any other move. They need to plan what type of audience the films going to aim for, for example adults’ teens or children. After the question is been made, the producers need to ensure that it reaches the audience it is intended for. All media texts will have some sort of marketing campaign attached to them.