Media Studies: Genre Research: Fantasy

Genre Conventions for fantasy

Content:
The conventions used for the fantasy genre focus on the use of magic and fictional stories as well as elements of original magical creatures. It takes the audience to netherworld, fairy-tale places where events are unlikely to occur in real life. Fantasy films are often in the context of the imagination or dreams of a character or storyteller in the film. In most cases, the hero undergoes some sort of mystical experience and must seek help from a superhuman force.
EX: Avatar

Avatar is the prefect example of a film falling under the fantasy genre. This new world that the characters see is a netherworld all in each person's mind. The use of original magical creatures created by the figment of their imaginations create a story relying heavily on the supernatural and thus making it fictional.

Production Techniques:
Production techniques are used in the fantasy genre to capture the essence of the film and to be able to transmit the idea that the magical elements fit in with the narrative world. Mise-en-scene has a crucial role in achieving these goals. From the set design to the costumes used, this is a crucial element in making fantasy films whimsical. Heavy editing and special effects are used as well, especially the use of original sound effects and props.
EX: Maleficent

The mise-en-scene and special effects were the key contributors to this film's success in making it a fantasy. The costume design of the woman was specially made to create the idea of a different entity other than human living in the narrative world. The editing and special effects also came into play whenever Maleficent flew away or became angry. Without the editing she would not look like a magical creature with unique powers but instead a mere human playing dress up.

Institutional:
Fantasy films are mainly targeted at families, teenagers and young adults. They are marketed in a way that the movie will either end in a predictable happy ending, or become a film series.

Additional Examples:

-Harry Potter series