A feature film is a narrative film with a running time long enough to be considered the principal or sole presentation in a commercial entertainment program. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences defines a feature film as any motion picture with a running time of more than 40 minutes. Feature films are typically divided into different genres, such as action, adventure, comedy, drama, fantasy, horror, mystery, romance, science fiction, and thriller. They can also be further sub-divided into subgenres, such as superhero films, disaster films, and musicals.
Feature films are typically produced by major film studios, but they can also be produced by independent filmmakers. The production process of a feature film can be very complex and time-consuming, and it can involve a large number of people, including producers, directors, writers, actors, cinematographers, editors, and composers.
Feature films are typically released in theaters, but they can also be released on home video, streaming services, and other platforms. Feature films are a popular form of entertainment, and they can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Here are some of the reasons why feature films are so popular:
- They offer a variety of genres and stories: Feature films are made in a wide range of genres, so there is something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for a laugh, a cry, or an adventure, there's sure to be a feature film out there that you'll enjoy.
- They allow us to escape from reality: they can transport us to new and exciting worlds, and they can help us to forget about our troubles for a while. Whether we're watching a blockbuster action film or a heartwarming indie drama, feature films can provide us with a much-needed escape from the real world.
- They help us to understand ourselves and the world around us: films can explore complex themes and ideas in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. They can help us to understand ourselves and the world around us better, and they can challenge us to think about things in new ways.
- They are a social experience: these are often enjoyed as a social experience. We go to the movies with our friends and family to see the latest releases, and we discuss what we thought of the films afterwards. Feature films can bring us together and help us to connect with each other.
Here are some examples of how feature films have been used to explore complex themes and ideas:
- The film Schindler's List (1993) explores the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of standing up against evil.
- The film 12 Angry Men (1957) explores the importance of due process and the dangers of prejudice.
- The film The Matrix (1999) explores the nature of reality and the power of the mind.
- The film Parasite (2019) explores the themes of class inequality and social injustice.
- The film Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022) explores the themes of nihilism, existentialism, and the power of love.
These are just a few examples of how feature films can be used to explore complex themes and ideas. Feature films are a powerful medium that can be used to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences.
Money Makers
Movie studios seek to generate revenues off feature films. Blockbuster films can become money machines, often turning into franchises. We saw this with a number of films that were had a number of sequels.
Features films tend to, but not always, have large budgets. With the outlay the studios are making, actors (actresses) with name recognition are often cast in the main roles. These are stars who are known for having large followings and brining out an audience.
Over the years, the intellectual property surrounding feature films that turned into franchises have grown. The value of some of these entities such as Star Wars, Marvel, and Disney has skyrocketed. Alternate streams of revenues to these corporations comes from the licensing of the properties for merchandising.
Key Differences
A feature film is different from other types of films in a number of ways. Here are some of the key differences:
- Length: they are typically longer than other types of films, such as short films and documentaries. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences defines a feature film as any motion picture with a running time of more than 40 minutes.
- Narrative: these films are typically narrative films, meaning that they tell a story with a beginning, middle, and end. Short films and documentaries may or may not have a traditional narrative structure.
- Budget and production values: have larger budgets and higher production values than other types of films. This is because they are typically produced by major film studios and involve a large number of people.
- Distribution: they are typically released in theaters, while short films and documentaries may be released in theaters, on television, or on the Internet
In addition to these key differences, feature films also tend to be more ambitious in scope and scale than other types of films. They may feature large casts, elaborate sets and costumes, and complex special effects. Feature films may also explore more complex themes and ideas than other types of films.
Here are some examples of how feature films can differ from other types of films:
- A feature film such as Avengers: Endgame (2019) is a long, narrative film with a large budget and high production values. It was released in theaters and was a major box office success.
- A short film such as The Lunchbox (2013) is a shorter, narrative film with a smaller budget and lower production values. It was released in theaters and on television, and was critically acclaimed.
- A documentary film such as Blackfish (2013) is a non-narrative film that explores a real-world topic. It was released in theaters and on television, and was nominated for an Academy Award.