Serial

Scope Note:

A multi-episode film chronicling the thrilling, action-filled exploits of characters, lasting a certain number of chapters, usually around fifteen episodes, of about twenty minutes duration apiece. Typically uses the "cliffhanger" ending to lure audiences to the next chapter of the work. Most often utilizes such genres as Western, Science fiction, Jungle, Adventure, Espionage, and Crime, and frequently loosely combines aspects of many formulas in a free- flowing manner endemic to the serial form. Note: For feature-length condensations of serials, use the term Feature. For television work with the serial form, see Television mini-series. Examples: ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN MARVEL (with Fantasy); THE ADVENTURES OF SIR GALAHAD (with Adventure); FLASH GORDON CONQUERS THE UNIVERSE (with Science fiction); HOLT OF THE SECRET SERVICE (with Crime); THE JUNGLE MYSTERY (with Jungle); RIDING WITH BUFFALO BILL (with Western).

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