Instant Family Genres by Abeer Fatima

Comedy

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 13:07:59 UTC

One of the main genres is comedy, which is shown through dialogues and many humorous scenes. Often, the settings of such films are bright and have a welcoming atmosphere. In this film, the locations mainly include the home(s), school, and parks. The main characters' home itself is decorated in a very modern, yet comfortable style, using various props. In the scene where the foster kids move in, the house is decorated with a Christmas tree and many other holiday decorations, making the place more lively.

Comedy - Camera

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 18:30:29 UTC

The camera movements, shots, and angles are usually kept very natural, to add authenticity and focus more on the comedic aspects. Two-shots, close ups, and mid-shots are most common to establish relationships between the characters. In Instant Family, since it is centred around 'family', the relationships within the film are showcased clearly. Specifically, the journey of the relation between the parents and the foster kids is conveyed, allowing the viewers to get fully engaged.

Comedy - Sound

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 18:38:39 UTC

Sound is very important in comedy films. As for diegetic sound, dialogues have to be delivered very clearly and at a good pace in order for the jokes to be understood as intended, making viewers laugh and enjoy (along with the characters). Moreover, non diegetic sound is also important, especially the extra laughter and sound effects that emphasise the humour of the scenes' events. In the scene above, the dialogue "Let me go check in the back, and see what we have in stock (referring to kids)" is said when the room is silent and all attention is towards the speakers. There is also laughter from the group right after, which adds to the comedy, making the audience feel involved.

Drama

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 18:59:58 UTC

Another genre in this film is drama. This genre involves slightly duller lighting which can be seen in some of the scenes. However, the overall lighting is quite bright to put add to the authenticity of the setting and journey. This genre also includes the use of many peaks and troths in the tension, to keep the viewers attached (emotionally) to the film and its events. In the scene above, the black walls and gloominess of the room add to the dramatic manner of the events. Despite being grounded, Lizzy hangs out with her friends. Upon seeing that, Ellie (foster mom), kicks them out, leading to Lizzy getting angry and storming out.

Drama

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 19:08:37 UTC

This scene shows one of the first mishaps during the journey of parenting. The daughter only wants to eat potato chips and refuses to eat dinner, leading to het throwing a tantrum. This is an over-the-shoulder shot, which is one of the types of camera shots used often for this genre (drama). Other than that, long shots and high angle shots are also taken frequently.

Drama - Sound

abeeriff — 2024-03-14 19:17:03 UTC

The plot of this film is very realistic and focuses on actual problems that are faced, not only in terms of family but also experiences that average teenagers go through. Therefore the film focuses on diegetic sound with little use of non-diegetic sound (soundtrack). This makes the viewers experience the true storyline and emotions carried within in. However, non-diegetic sound can be used, especially in films with both drama and thriller/mystery as genres. For those films many sound effects and tension inducing music can be used to heighten the fear and suspense.