Codes & Conventions and Cliches of an Action genre

Codes and Conventions:

An action film is essentially one long quest with a succession of different chase sequences, each one more death defying and seemingly impossible than the one before. The trick for the producers is to ramp up the tension as the film progresses to a storming end sequence. Will our intrepid explorers make it, or will the evil antagonist get there first.

The action genre has specific codes and conventions to make it differ from other films. These different codes and conventions make these films fit into the action genre. Action films have a tremendous impact, lots of physical stunts and activities, for example: Chase scenes, rescues, battles, martial arts, explosions and adventurous heroes all designed for the audience watching to achieve escapism.

An action film would consist of 3 or 4 main characters. The male protagonist is identified through the use of mis-en-scene, an example of this is James Bond. Second character used in action films is a female victim, often captured by the charms of the male protagonist but sometimes are involved in the bad doing in the film for example, Electra King in 'The world is not enough'. The villain is also easily identified by the use of mise-en-scene and sound. Slow, low music makes the villain identifiable; it makes you focus on the villain himself. A prime example of a villain is Dr Julius No in the bond film 'Dr No'. These are three main characters identified in the action films.

Sound is also an important factor when identifying codes and conventions and making it fit into the action genre. Music is used appropriately, so upbeat, loud music to create tension in the chase scenes. But when the villain is introduced, the music is slowed down; with a tone identifying this is the 'bad guy'.

Cliches:

The Don:

Strokes small pets such as kittens. 

Either laid back yet dangerous or just plain crazy...or a mixture. 

Tends to kill his friends for no particular reason e.g.: calling him a boy instead of a man.

The Story:

Undercover cop.

Drugs.

Voiceover.

Experienced cop and young, eager cop.

Inventive murder technique.

Cuban Cigars

Corrupt courtroom scenes.