A feature film, also known as a feature-length film or simply a feature, is a type of movie that tells a complete story and is long enough to be the main event in a movie theatre. It's the kind of movie you'd go to see at the cinema for a full entertainment experience.
Originally, the term "feature film" referred to the main movie shown in theatres, which would be accompanied by a short film and sometimes even a newsreel. In addition to the main movie, matinee programs, especially in the US and Canada, often included cartoons, a weekly serial, and sometimes a second feature-length film on weekends. So, when you hear about feature films, think of those big, full-length movies you enjoy watching at the theatre with popcorn in hand!
True Definition of Feature Film
A feature film meaning is a film that usually lasts between 80 minutes and 180 minutes. However, this definition can vary depending on who you talk to. For example, according to the Screen Actors Guild, a feature film should be at least 80 minutes long. However, according to The Academy, it only needs to be at least 40 minutes long to be considered a feature. These differences help distinguish between short films and feature films. Generally, when you go to a regular movie theatre, you'll see feature films that run for more than 80 minutes.
The History of Feature Films
What is a feature film and where does it stand in our history? In the early days of cinema, the term "feature film" was used to talk about the main movie that was shown in theatres and advertised to the audience. This term helped people know which movies were longer than the shorter ones, like newsreels, cartoons, and comedies, that usually played before the main movie.
At first, feature films weren't as long as they are now. In the early 1910s, the main movie on a program started with just two or three reels and gradually expanded to four. These early features were often documentaries about interesting events.
Some of the very first feature-length movies were recordings of boxing matches, like The Corbett-Fitzsimmons Fight in 1897. People sometimes call this the first documentary feature, but it was more like a sports show since it showed the whole unedited boxing match. Another early example is Army Life, a collection of short films put together in 1900 by Robert Paul, which lasted about 75 minutes in total.
Differentiating Feature Film and Short Film
1. Screen Time
Feature Films: These are the big movies you see at the theatre. They usually last anywhere from 90 minutes to a few hours. You've got time to get into the story and characters.
Short Films: Short films are, well, short! They're usually under 40 minutes long, sometimes even just a few minutes. They're like bite-sized stories that get straight to the point.
2. Framework:
Feature Films: Feature films have complex storylines with lots of twists and turns. They've got multiple characters, subplots, and layers of depth.
Short Films: Short films are more focused. They often have a simpler storyline and fewer characters. They're like a snapshot of a bigger story.
3. Characteristics:
Feature Films: These movies aim to entertain you for a long time. They've got big budgets, top-notch actors, and fancy special effects.
Short Films: Short films are more about making a quick impact. They might experiment with different styles or tell a unique story in a short amount of time.
4. Budget:
Feature Films: Making a feature film can cost a lot of money. You've got to pay for things like sets, costumes, and big-name actors. But the payoff can be huge if the movie is a hit!
Short Films: Short films are often made on a shoestring budget. Filmmakers might use their own money or get funding from friends and family. They're all about creativity and making the most out of limited resources.
5. Audience:
Feature Films: These movies are made for a wide audience. They're the blockbusters you see advertised everywhere, aiming to draw in crowds to theatres.
Short Films: Short films might not reach as many people, but they can still have a big impact. They're often shown at film festivals or shared online, reaching audiences who appreciate unique storytelling.
Best Feature Film Examples
We have many iconic feature films in our history and here are some of the best feature films according to us:
The Godfather (1972): Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this iconic crime drama follows the Corleone crime family and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Directed by Frank Darabont, this drama tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary who befriends a fellow inmate named Red.
The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King (2003): Directed by Peter Jackson, this epic fantasy film concludes the trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novels and won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Inception (2010): Directed by Christopher Nolan, this mind-bending science fiction thriller explores the concept of dreams within dreams and is known for its complex narrative and stunning visual effects.
Titanic (1997): Directed by James Cameron, this romantic epic tells the story of the ill-fated RMS Titanic and its passengers, with a fictional love story set against the backdrop of the ship's sinking.
The Matrix (1999): Directed by the Wachowskis, this science fiction action film follows Neo, a computer programmer who discovers the truth about reality and joins a rebellion against sentient machines.
Conclusion
So, now you know what a feature film is all about! It's those big, blockbuster movies you see at the theatre, packed with exciting stories, top-notch acting, and stunning visuals. From crime dramas like "The Godfather" to epic fantasies like "The Lord of the Rings," feature films offer something for everyone.
Next time you're planning a movie night, remember to keep an eye out for those feature films that promise an unforgettable cinematic experience. Whether you're in the mood for action, romance, or a good laugh, there's a feature film waiting to entertain you.
So go ahead, grab some popcorn, and immerse yourself in the magic of feature films! And if you ever find yourself wondering, "What is a feature film?" just remember: it's a big, exciting movie you won't want to miss!