As a screenwriter, knowing what genres are currently hot in Hollywood can help you tailor your script to market demand. While trends can shift quickly, certain genres consistently attract attention from studios, streaming services, and producers. But it’s not just about following the trend—it’s about understanding what makes these genres work, and how you can put your unique spin on them.
Let’s dive into the five most sought-after genres in Hollywood today, and explore how to make your script stand out in each one.
1. Superhero Movies (But With a Twist)
Superhero films aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. From Marvel to DC to indie hits like Kick-Ass, this genre remains a powerhouse. However, the market is evolving beyond traditional capes and tights. Audiences want complex characters, dark stories, and unique twists on the genre.
Why It’s Hot:
- Expanding Universe: Superhero films now include everything from gritty crime dramas (e.g., The Batman) to psychological thrillers (Joker).
- Diversity and Representation: Superhero stories are increasingly diverse, with films like Black Panther, Wonder Woman, and Shang-Chi gaining massive popularity.
- High Stakes and Spectacle: These films deliver action-packed, visually stunning experiences that continue to dominate the box office.
How to Stand Out:
- Create Complex Heroes and Villains: Audiences crave deep characters, so focus on making your protagonist (and antagonist) multidimensional.
- Subvert Expectations: Instead of a traditional hero’s journey, try deconstructing the genre. Look at The Boys or Watchmen, which explore the dark side of being a superhero.
- Focus on Emotional Depth: Audiences connect with superheroes who face personal struggles. Think Iron Man dealing with his past, or Spider-Man balancing his life as a teen and a hero.
Example: The Dark Knight revolutionized the genre with its philosophical themes and complex characters, showing that superhero films can be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
2. Thriller and Psychological Horror
Thrillers, particularly psychological horror, are in demand across film and television. With hits like The Invisible Man, Get Out, and A Quiet Place, this genre continues to thrive, offering filmmakers the chance to tap into deep, unsettling human fears and emotions.
Why It’s Hot:
- Psychological Depth: Thrillers don’t just rely on jump scares—they focus on building tension and exploring complex human emotions.
- Cultural Relevance: Many of these films reflect societal fears and anxieties, making them relatable to a wide audience.
- Low Budget, High Return: Psychological horror and thrillers often have lower production costs, making them a favorite for indie filmmakers looking for big returns.
How to Stand Out:
- Focus on Suspense: It’s not just about shocking twists. Build tension slowly, creating moments that make the audience hold their breath.
- Twist the Genre: Films like Parasite blend thriller elements with social commentary. Adding layers to your narrative will keep audiences engaged.
- Use Sound and Atmosphere: In thrillers, the atmosphere is just as important as the plot. Create a chilling environment that feels immersive and foreboding.
Example: Hereditary became a standout in psychological horror by mixing family drama with terrifying, slow-burn tension. It proves that the genre isn’t just about scares—it’s about tapping into deep emotional and psychological horror.
3. True Crime and Procedural Dramas
True crime continues to be a dominant force in film and TV, especially with the success of documentaries, podcasts, and series like Making a Murderer and Mindhunter. These stories tap into society’s obsession with crime and justice, offering plenty of room for writers to explore complex moral dilemmas and human psychology.
Why It’s Hot:
- Real-World Appeal: Audiences are drawn to stories based on real events, especially when they involve complex characters and moral ambiguity.
- Wide Audience: True crime appeals to both casual viewers and hardcore fans of the genre.
- Constant Demand for Content: With platforms like Netflix and Hulu constantly searching for fresh content, true crime is a genre with virtually endless opportunities.
How to Stand Out:
- Focus on the Human Side of Crime: Instead of just retelling the facts, explore the emotional and psychological aspects of the crime. What drives people to commit heinous acts? What happens to the victims?
- Twist the Format: Look for new ways to present the story. Perhaps a non-linear narrative or a story told from an unconventional perspective (e.g., from the perspective of the police, the victim, or even the perpetrator).
- Play With the Ethical Questions: True crime is often about the gray areas of morality. Use this to your advantage by creating morally complex characters and situations.
Example: Mindhunter explores the psychology of serial killers through the eyes of FBI agents. It’s not just about the crimes—it’s about what makes these people tick, offering a unique perspective on the genre.
4. High-Concept Sci-Fi and Fantasy
While sci-fi and fantasy have always had a dedicated fanbase, the genre is more popular than ever, thanks to films like Dune, The Matrix, and TV shows like The Mandalorian and Stranger Things. With advancements in visual effects and streaming platforms pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, there’s never been a better time to write sci-fi or fantasy.
Why It’s Hot:
- Escapism: Sci-fi and fantasy offer audiences an escape from reality, which is especially appealing in today’s climate.
- Innovative Storytelling: Writers are finding new ways to tell stories, from alternate realities to time travel, to explore complex themes like power, humanity, and the environment.
- Visual Spectacle: These genres often offer filmmakers the chance to create mind-blowing visuals, which always attract a crowd.
How to Stand Out:
- Create a Unique World: Don’t just rely on existing tropes. Build your world with its own rules, logic, and history.
- Blend Genres: Sci-fi and fantasy allow for genre-blending. Think about mixing elements of mystery, horror, or thriller into your world-building.
- Themes That Resonate: Whether it’s a political allegory (The Hunger Games) or environmentalism (Avatar), sci-fi and fantasy thrive on relevant, high-concept themes.
Example: The Expanse builds an entirely believable universe of politics, war, and survival in space, offering a rich world and complex characters that draw the viewer in.
5. Comedy with Heart
In a world of complex emotions, sometimes people just want to laugh—while still feeling deeply moved. Comedy with heart has become a huge hit in recent years, with films like The Big Sick, Lady Bird, and Jojo Rabbit combining humor with genuine emotional resonance.
Why It’s Hot:
- Relatable Characters: These films often focus on quirky, loveable characters that audiences can relate to, even in the most absurd situations.
- Escapism and Comfort: Comedy with heart offers a feel-good escape, but without ignoring the complexity of life’s challenges.
- Award-Worthy: Comedies that are also deeply emotional are increasingly being recognized at major award shows.
How to Stand Out:
- Balance Humor and Emotion: The best comedies don’t shy away from sadness or vulnerability. Use humor to highlight life’s awkwardness or absurdity.
- Character-Driven: Make sure your comedy stems from your characters’ flaws, quirks, and growth, not just gags or one-liners.
- Focus on Authenticity: Avoid forced humor. Instead, use relatable moments to evoke genuine laughter.
Example: The Farewell blends cultural differences and familial expectations with humor and heart, making it a standout in the comedy-drama genre.
Final Thoughts: Write What You Love
While understanding market trends is important, the best scripts come from genuine passion. If you write from your heart, blending the genres and themes that excite you, you’ll create something truly unique. Hollywood will always be hungry for fresh ideas—if you can give them that with a twist they haven’t seen before, you’ll be the next big thing.
Further Resources:
- ScreenCraft Blog: Genre-specific screenwriting tips and industry insights.
- Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder for understanding genre conventions and structure.
- Script Lab: Articles and resources on writing within different genres.
