Storytelling on film
Screen stories
There are thousands of films made every year, so where do filmmakers find their inspiration? Are there certain story types that are more suited to the screen?
The most popular film genres are comedy, action and adventure. Other film genres include:

- drama
- thriller
- crime
- horror
- romantic comedy
- documentary
- science fiction
- western
- musical
and more besides. Some films might combine two or more genres within their main storyline.
Key questions:
- Carry out an Internet search for the films released this month, then try to categorise them by genre, going on the films’ synopses.
- What is your favourite film genre and why?
- Why do you think there are so many comedies, action movies and adventure stories made?
- Think of the most recent film you have seen at the cinema. What type of story was it? Look at imdb.com and the film’s website to find out where the filmmaker got his or her inspiration to make the film.
- Many books are adapted into films. Which book would you like to see made into a film and why? Using the film language tools outlined earlier, think about how you would make your story choice into a film.
Latest content:
Pompeii Live screenings this summer

Interactive and educational cinema event by the British Museum at locations around the UK
Be Creative 2013 finalists announced!

Be Creative competition shortlist 2013: revealed
Autism Friendly Screenings

Book now for these screenings of Ice Age: Continental Drift in selected cities this April
The Odd Life of Timothy Green online resource

Online resource suitable for 7-11 year olds addressing aspects of Literacy and PSHE
Chimpanzee resource and competition for primary schools

Learning materials on Chimpanzee for 5-11 science and geography