Movies are films that tell stories through moving images and sound. They can be fictional or non-fictional and span a wide range of genres, from drama to comedy, action to horror, romance to science fiction. Some movies are entertaining, others educate and still others cause debate or raise awareness about important issues. Movies can be based on true events, historical figures or imaginary characters.
Filmmakers use a variety of techniques to create movies including acting, camera work, editing and soundtracks. They usually write a script which provides the framework for the entire movie. The script includes the characters and the story, and may also include the dialogue. A good script will have a clear arc and make sense when read out loud. The movie’s director, producers and cast help shape the direction of a movie. They also set the tone and style of a movie, which can affect how a viewer reacts to the movie.
The movie’s emotional tone can vary from light (comedies) to dark (tragedy and drama). Horror movies use fear to excite the audience. Music, lighting and sets (man-made places in movie studios) are designed to add to the effect. Romantic comedies use the element of surprise to entertain the audience. Family movies are made for children and are often wholesome. Sci-fi movies use the element of fantasy and may feature machines that can’t be built in real life. Crime or mystery movies usually feature a detective or two trying to solve a problem.
Some movies are independent, meaning they are made without the backing of a big movie studio. Independent movies may have a more creative or unusual story. They may also have sad endings or a different point of view that does not appeal to the majority of the public. These movies may have less of a commercial value.
Movies can have a profound impact on society and culture. They can educate the audience about historical tragedies or they can entertain them with a blockbuster action film. A movie can inspire a social movement like the Black Panther movie or they can be a source of escapism such as a funny comedy.
Some movies become cultural touchstones, such as Schindler’s List or Saving Private Ryan. A movie can also teach the viewer about a new culture or way of life, or they can raise awareness about an important issue such as the environment or discrimination. A movie can even have a religious or spiritual message. For example, The Passion of the Christ is a movie about the Crucifixion of Jesus. Some movies are so popular they have spawned a franchise, such as Star Wars or The Lord of the Rings.