What is a Feature Film? - A Comprehensive Guide

You've probably heard the term "feature film" or simply "feature" tossed around in movie conversations. But have you ever stopped to wonder what exactly a feature film is, and how it's different from other types of films out there? Feature films come in all shapes and sizes, spanning various genres and storytelling styles. In this article, we're going to unwrap what really makes a feature film tick.

‍

‍

_{First, let’s define feature film}

A feature film  is a form of cinematic expression that tells a story, conveys emotions, and often reflects societal themes. It is distinguished from other film types by its length, complexity, and production value. Traditionally, a feature film has a running time long enough to be considered the principal or sole film to fill a program. This duration is typically over 60 minutes, though industry standards have evolved, with most modern feature films lasting between 90 and 180 minutes.

The narrative in a feature film is more developed compared to short films or documentaries. It's crafted to engage the audience for the entire length of the movie, often leading them through a series of emotional highs and lows. Feature films also boast higher production values, involving more elaborate sets, costumes, and special effects, and they are commonly intended for commercial distribution in cinemas.

‍
Learn more: What is POV shot in a Screenplay?

‍

_{The history of feature Films}

The journey of feature films began in the early 20th century. One of the first recognized feature films is the Australian production "The Story of the Kelly Gang" (1906), a narrative film about the infamous outlaw Ned Kelly. This film marked a significant departure from the short films of that era, running at about an hour long and showcasing a continuous narrative.

‍

_{Popular Old Featured Films}

In the United States, D.W. Griffith's "The Birth of a Nation" (1915) is often cited as a pivotal feature film. Despite its controversial portrayal of American history and race relations, it played a crucial role in shaping the feature film format. The film demonstrated the potential of cinema as a means to tell complex and expansive stories, significantly influencing the art and business of filmmaking.

"The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" (1920), a German film, is another landmark in the history of feature films. It introduced the world to the artistic potential of cinema, using stylized sets, lighting, and storytelling techniques that would become foundational to the horror and suspense genres.

These early feature films laid the groundwork for the film industry as we know it today. They expanded the boundaries of storytelling in cinema, showcasing how films could be more than just simple, short entertainments – they could be complex, artistic, and powerful tools for narrative expression.

‍

Learn More: What is an Arc Shot in Film?

_{Feature Films vs. Short Films}

When comparing feature films and short films, the key differences lie in their duration, narrative structure, character development, and production budgets.

_{1. Duration}

Feature films typically have a running time exceeding 60 minutes, often stretching to 2 hours or more. This allows for a more comprehensive storytelling experience. On the other hand, short films are generally under 30 minutes, focusing on a concise narrative or concept.

_{2. Structure}

Feature films usually follow a traditional three-act structure (introduction, development, conclusion), enabling detailed plot and character development. Short films, due to their brevity, often have a simpler structure and may focus on a single event or idea.

_{3. Characters}

Feature films usually have a broader range of characters, offering more depth and development throughout the film. This allows for intricate character interactions and growth. Short films typically focus on one or a few characters, with limited scope for development.

_{4. Budget}

Budgets for feature films are generally higher, allowing for grander sets, special effects, and a wider cast and crew. Short films are often made with smaller budgets, leading to more creative and resource-efficient filmmaking approaches.

‍

Explore: What is Atmosphere in Literature?

_{Example of Featured Films}

_Whiplash

"Whiplash" is an excellent example of a film that started as a short film and was later developed into a feature film. The short film served as a proof of concept, focusing on a single intense scene. The feature-length version expanded on this, developing the characters and their relationships, and exploring the broader theme of the pursuit of artistic perfection.

While it's true that not every short film will evolve into a phenomenon like Whiplash, these compact cinematic pieces serve as an invaluable training ground for directors and producers gearing up for their first feature film venture.

_{Closing Thoughts}

Whether your passion lies in directing a feature or weaving narratives as a screenplay writer, grasping the fundamental attributes of feature films is crucial. This knowledge enables you to craft compelling, longer stories tailored for the feature film format. Immersing yourself in both exceptional short films and feature films can provide the inspiration and insight needed to determine which type of project aligns best with your next creative endeavor.

Check out 5 best video production management software

^{About RFM}

RFM is a web-based video, TV, and film production management software that offers various features for professionals in the entertainment industry. It allows users to write professional project briefs and descriptions, talent, and actor showcases, visualize scenes with shot lists, media sharing and manage various aspects of production, including call sheets, shooting schedules, and script breakdowns. RFM is designed to help teams collaborate more effectively during the production process, making it a valuable tool for filmmakers, photographers, and video production companies

‍