l with strong light used to focus on the characters, which is what the movie is all about. The feel of the film is also set by the eminent film composer Franz Waxman. The main title music, for example, starts with a big Hollywood sound, almost a sweeping, Technicolor sound which turns into a lighter sound resounding of patriotism and humor; both sounds reflect the movies tone.
Another conventional element of the film is the script. Adapted from the 1948 stage play written by Thomas Heggen and Joshua Logan, which in turn was based on Heggens novel of his own experiences as a communications officer on a Navy cargo ship, the script (which received Tony Awards for play of the year as well as for its authors) is a skillful blend of wartime drama and comedy; these attributes translate very well into a genre film. As a film of the classical Hollywood cinema, Mister Roberts contains many genre conventions.
Generally speaking, film genres are commonly recognized groups of fictional films...that share settings, subjects, or events (Phillips 225). As mentioned above, Mister Roberts can fit into three genres: war, drama, comedy. A genre film involves familiar, essentially one-dimensional characters acting out a predictable story pattern within a familiar setting (Schatz 6). Part of the films popularity and success lie in its form; audiences can easily relate to the familiar themes, conflicts and characters. Filmmakers and experienced film viewers share a sense of what constitutes a particular genre at a particular time and place. Filmmakers can follow the traditions of the genre and thus reassure audiences (Phillips 226).
Some of the themes explored in war films, aside from combat stories, include tales of gallant sacrifice and struggle...and intelligent and profound explorations of the moral and human issues (War and Anti-War Films). The Best Years of Our Lives (1946), From Here to Eternity (1953) and Mister Roberts are al...