Dramatic themes often include current issues, societal ills, and problems, concerns or injustices, such as racial prejudice, religious intolerance, drug addiction, poverty, political unrest, the corruption of power, alcoholism, class divisions, sexual inequality, mental illness, violence toward women. These films have successfully drawn attention to the issues by taking advantage of the up to date interest of the subject. Although dramatic films have often dealt frankly and realistically with social problems, the tendency has been for Hollywood, especially during earlier times of censorship, to absolve society and institutions and to blame problems on an individual, who more often than not, would be punished for his/her transgressions.
Drama sub-genres include that of Biography, Courtroom, Dramedy, Historical, Melodrama, Period Piece, Political, Romance, and Tragedy
Biography
This drama uses dramatic elements within a biography. These films are based on real people and stories therefore, they are serious and intense. These films tend to be accurate and truthful. An example of this sub-genre is Bohemian Rhapsody (2018).
Courtroom
In this drama, the justice system is used as the main factor of the plot. A huge part of these films is the tension through out the whole film. Tension is created between characters or just situations. They plot usually takes place in a courtroom. Life or death can be dealt with. Ex. 12 Angry Men (1957).
Dramedy is a genre composed of dramatic tones and elements of comedy. In these types of films both the drama and comedy element are at a balance. Therefore, people can have comedic relief while being presented with serious situations/issues. Ex. Green Book (2018).
Historical
Takes place or is about a specific time in history. It can also examine a specific group of people in history. The purpose of these films are to represent true events and people. However, most of these dramas tend to gear focus to important people in history such as royals, Romans, Athletes, important political figures, etc. Ex. The King (2019).
Melodrama
These dramas are mostly targeted towards the female audience and tell a story that focuses on a main problem and a protagonist. This genre appeals to the heightened emotions of the audience. The plot and characters are usually more unrealistic than a typical drama film. Ex. Gone With the Wind (1939).
Period Piece
As explained in the title, this genre focuses on a specific period in time. Everything revolves around the era(plot, problem, characters, costume design). Many Period Pieces are based off of books and tend to last longer than traditional dramas. Ex. Little Women (2019).
Political
In this genre the plot, characters, and themes all revolve around politics and the political scene. The protagonist usually faces the harsh reality of corruption in politics. These films are often based on or explore conspiracy theories. Ex. Bridge of Spies (2015).
Romance
In this genre the audience is exposed to the complex side of love. The plot is usually about two characters and a problem that keeps them from loving or being with each other. Many of the obstacles faced between both characters usually involve family disapproval, forbidden love, or even one's own psychological restraints. Many of these dramas end with the separation of partners because of the obstacle in between them. Ex. Call Me by Your Name (2017).
Tragedy
In a tragedy drama the defeat of the character is usually caused by the own character's flaws. The self-destructive behavior of the character usually brings the character to death. Ex. The Great Gatsby (2013).
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