Movies, also known as films or motion pictures, are a form of visual art and entertainment that tells stories through the combination of moving images, sound, and often music. They are typically produced by the process of filming a sequence of still images—creating the illusion of motion when played in rapid succession—along with audio elements like dialogue, sound effects, and a musical score. Movies can be categorized by genre, including drama, comedy, action, horror, and science fiction, among others.
Movies are displayed in various formats, including cinema theaters, television, streaming platforms, and home video. The production of a movie involves several key stages: development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They can range in length from short films to feature-length productions.
Movies serve as a means of storytelling, cultural expression, and social commentary, reflecting the society and times in which they were created. They influence and are influenced by societal norms, trends, and issues, making them a significant medium for both entertainment and artistic expression.