TRENDS IN FILM GENRES AT THE U.S. BOX OFFICE: A DECADE IN REVIEW

As we explore the trends in film genres at the U.S. box office over the past decade and compare them to the developments in 2023 and 2024, it becomes clear how the landscape has shifted and diversified, reflecting changes in audience preferences and the advent of new market players like Korean cinema.

Superhero and Franchise Films: A Consistent Leader

Over the past decade, superhero and franchise films have consistently topped the box office charts. Titles under the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and DC Extended Universe (DCEU) have dominated with their big budgets and epic storytelling. However, while these films continue to perform well in 2023 and 2024, there has been a noticeable trend towards exploring deeper, more nuanced character studies within these universes, such as seen in “The Batman” (2022), which offered a grittier, more psychological approach to the iconic character.

Horror: Steady Growth and Innovation

The horror genre has seen a renaissance over the past ten years, with films like “Get Out” (2017) and “Us” (2019) not only achieving box office success but also critical acclaim for their innovative approach to social commentary. In 2023 and 2024, this trend has continued with horror becoming more mainstream, integrating elements of psychological thrillers and continuing to offer high returns on relatively low investments.

Animation: Adapting to Changing Audiences

Animation has consistently attracted family audiences, with successes like “Frozen II” (2019) illustrating the genre’s strong appeal. In recent years, animated films have started to incorporate more sophisticated themes and storytelling techniques, aiming to appeal to both children and adults. This trend is evident in films like “Soul” (2020), which explored existential themes and achieved both commercial success and critical praise.

The Rise of Korean Cinema in the U.S.

A notable trend in the last few years is the increasing success of Korean films in the U.S. marketplace. Following the breakthrough of “Parasite” in 2019, which won several Oscars including Best Picture, Korean cinema has gained a foothold in the U.S. with its innovative storytelling and unique aesthetics. Films like “Minari” (2020) continued this trend, appealing to both critics and audiences and showcasing the global appeal of Korean narratives.

Action and Adventure: Evolving Beyond Traditional Formulas

While action and adventure films remain popular, recent years have seen a shift towards more story-driven content that challenges the traditional norms of the genre. Films like “No Time to Die” (2021) have combined action with deeper personal stories, reflecting a trend towards more character-centric narratives within action-packed settings.

Looking Beyond Box Office Numbers

The definition of success in the film industry is increasingly complex, encompassing not only box office earnings but also digital viewership. Streaming services have become a significant part of the equation, especially highlighted during global lockdowns when theaters were closed. This has prompted a broader evaluation of what it means for a film to be successful, considering both theatrical releases and digital consumption.

These trends highlight the evolving nature of film consumption and production as audiences become more diverse in their tastes and as new players continue to emerge on the scene. The success of various film genres at the box office over the past decade and into 2023 and 2024 reflects a vibrant, ever-changing industry that continues to adapt and thrive in response to new challenges and opportunities.