Conventions – GCSE Moving Image Arts CCEA Revision

Conventions in film and moving image arts refer to a set of predefined rules or standards that have been established over time.
They act as guidelines that filmmakers generally follow when producing content within a particular genre.
This may include anything from specific character archetypes, settings, and plot devices, to filming techniques, sound design, and editing styles.
For example, horror films often use low-key lighting, creepy soundtracks, and suspenseful scenes to create a sense of fear and tension.

Narrative conventions relate to the way stories are structured within a genre. This can include plot patterns, character development, and themes.
Technical conventions refer to the specific filming techniques, such as camera movement, angles, and shot types, as well as editing styles, typically associated with a genre.
Symbolic conventions deal with the use of imagery, sounds, and other sensory cues to conveys meaning or evoke emotional responses within a specific genre.
An example of a technical convention in the action genre could be the use of fast-paced editing, while a symbolic convention in thriller films could be the use of shadows and darkness to signify danger.

Genres have specific conventions, and understanding these is crucial in analysing and appreciating the rich tapestry of moving image art.
In terms of representations, conventions help establish consistency with how characters, groups, or themes are depicted in a genre.
For instance, crime dramas often have a distinctive visual style, featuring low-key, high-contrast lighting, and character archetypes such as tired detectives and ruthless criminals.

While conventions provide a framework, they are not rigid; filmmakers often play with conventions to evoke surprise or offer new perspectives.
Straying from conventions, or mixing conventions from different genres (genre-blending), can lead to unique, creative results.
This can result in deconstructed genres, offering fresh and complex representations and storytelling techniques.

As genres evolve, so do their conventions. Changes in society, technology, and filmmaking practices often drive these developments.
The continual evolution of conventions allows filmmakers to explore new narrative paths or reimagine established genres in inventive ways.