Rick Altman is one of the most influential genre theorists in film studies. In his landmark book Film/Genre, he argues that genre should not be defined solely by surface features like style or imagery. Instead, he proposes a dual approach based on semantic (meaning-based) and syntactic (structural) elements.
Altman sees genre as a dynamic process, not a fixed category—a cultural tool shaped by the interaction between films, audiences, and the film industry. He emphasizes that genres evolve over time and serve important social and interpretive functions.
By shifting focus from rigid definitions to active engagement, Altman’s theory allows for a more flexible and audience-centered understanding of genre in contemporary cinema. His work continues to shape how scholars and filmmakers think about genre today.
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