This unit introduces the concepts and methodologies of genre criticism as an established approach to the study of cinema and films. Based in the practices of Hollywood film production and critical and audience reception, genre criticism uses the concepts of formula, convention, representation and interpretative audiences to explore and elucidate the historical, social, intellectual and cultural aspects of American cinema in particular, and also international cinemas. All students in Communication Studies are expected to be able to express themselves in writing in fluent and correct English.