Genre Research Activity
1. Historical Genre is a commonly watched and primed genre within the film industry. Historical film's main target is individuals of all ages curious about past and historical events. Although the historical genre has a wide age range and target audience, research states the main audience for a period drama is typically women aged 17-50. Sub-genres within historical films include costume dramas, historical dramas, war films, and films involving medieval periods of time. Often, such films cover a mythical, legendary, or heroic figure and emphasize the extravagant setting with lavish costumes accompanied by spectacle-sweeping musical entities. Common recurring themes in historical films are good vs. evil, humanity vs. a higher being, familial conflict, sacrifice for the greater good, etc. Utilizing social media and trailers, the audience is able to receive an exciting and enticing draw towards the films. "Life is Beautiful", "Shinders List", and "The Darkest Hour" are all examples of historical films.
Extensive historical research is imperative to accurately recreate the time period, costumes, and settings. Transporting the audience through the screen is measured through the skills of mirroring location settings and apparel. The utilization of appropriate props and artifacts enhances the realism of the films. Employing camera techniques and lighting that evoke that visual, sensation, and atmosphere of the time period plus hiring experts to advise on historical accuracy in dialogue, behavior, and costumes.
Life is Beautiful and Boy in the Striped Pigamas are both films set during the Holocaust, which places them within a historical context, including significant events such as the persecution of Jews by the Nazis is an evident representation of a historical film. Capturing the atmosphere of the era through its costumes, locations, and language, exploring themes of love, humor, and resilience in the face of adversity all revolves around a historical backdrop.
