British Genre School

The British Genre School is a film theory approach that emphasizes the importance of specific film categories, or "genres," such as horror, comedy, or westerns. It argues that understanding a film’s genre helps viewers interpret its meanings and conventions, as genres come with established patterns and audience expectations. Instead of focusing solely on individual directors or stories, this approach studies how genres evolve over time, reflecting cultural trends and societal values. By analyzing genres, scholars gain insight into how films communicate with their audiences and reinforce or challenge cultural norms.