Conventions of action films

An action film essentially consists of a long mission, either being dangerous or considerably impossible. The idea of action films are to build up tension up until the point of action. The setting is typically in a city, this is so that we are able to get a better feel of the action genre. Things such as car chases and robberies tend to be more successfully done in cities rather than derelict land. However any setting that keeps the audience engaged and are able to build up tension are successful, for example climbing up mountains (Mission Impossible 2). This kind of mission keeps the audience intrigued and make them want to carry one watching. The age certificate for action films would normally be 12 or 15 depending on how explicit the action in the specific film is.

The kind of shots that would be used tend to be fast paced which immediately keeps the audience on the edge of there seats and more engaged throughout. Establishing shots would typically be used to establish the setting/landscape where the action will be taking place. As well as this close up shots would be used quite a lot to show the emotion and expression on the characters face. Tracking shots are also used a lot as they follow the action (typical in a car chase) which yet again  keeps the audience more engaged.