What does the term "genre" refer to in film studies?

The term "genre" in film studies refers to a category of films that share similar conventions and themes. Genres serve as a way to classify films based on their narrative elements, stylistic features, and thematic concerns, allowing audiences to have a clearer expectation of what a film may entail. For instance, common genres include horror, comedy, drama, romance, and action, each with distinct characteristics that define the storytelling approach and emotional impact.

This classification also helps film scholars, critics, and viewers alike analyze and discuss films within a structured framework. By understanding the conventions associated with each genre, viewers can appreciate the creative choices filmmakers make within those boundaries and how they might innovate or subvert genre expectations. The other options provided do not accurately define what genre is; a director's style is more about individual artistry than categorization, while time period and production quality are separate factors that do not define a film's genre.