Conventions of different film Genres

In preparation for my coursework, i have been looking deeper into the different genres of films to see the tecniques adopted by script-writers and directors to captivate their audience.

Horror
In the horror genre, a strong soundtrack is very important. Whether it be a simple yet eerie tune played during the credits (though many times this simple tune builds up to a creschendo), or a heavy (usually guitar-based) soundtrack, both are very effective in letting the audience know what type of fim they're about to view.
Audio in this genre is very powerful and compliments the on-screen action. Most of the sound in horror films is non-diegetic or ambient.
Black and red are the predominant colours used in the genre. Black has connotations of isolation, disorientation and the unknown. Red has connotations of anger, blood and panic.
Every horror film has a hero/heroine, who will always survive the bloodshed. Typically, the main protagonist will be intelligent and courageous. In some (mostly slasher) horror films a young, provocative, teenage girl will be amongst the first to confront the predator.
The outcome of a horror film isn't always apparent and has many twists and suprises.
The horror genre covers a wide spectrum of film. Sci-fi horror, detective horror, psychological horror etc.

Romantic comedies
The soundtracks in Rom-coms usually link to the title of the film (E.g. Pretty woman). Or they are used as a way of expressing the characters thoughts, emotions or relationships.
Romantic comedies have alot of stereotypical characters: A family member or friend of the main character to provide comic relief, a gorgeous woman, and a charming male. Although sometimes the main character could be described as a underdog, a fumbling and insecure character who gets gradually more attractive and steals the heart of the love interest.
The storyline of rom-coms become apparent within the first few minutes of the film and is repetitive in most films; Eyes meet across the room, build up of relationship, breakdown of relationship and make up of relationship and happily ever after (at least until the sequel).
In romantic comedies there is always a obstacle standing in the way of the relationship, social norms dictate that the couple shouldnt be together (social class clash, family problems, hidden motives etc.) However despite the problems the couple face, love conquers all and a happy ending will occur tying all loose ends.