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Fantasy

Used for:

Action-adventure
Fairy tale
Mythological
Peplum
Psychotronic
Sword and sorcery

Scope Note:

Fictional work set in a netherworld where events trespass physical laws and the bounds of human possibility, mixing the otherwise separate worlds of the natural and the supernatural. The hero often undergoes mystical experiences, and must call on powerful, extra-human forces outside themselves to prevail, such as a genie, and use such tools as a flying carpet, a magic sword or spell, or ancient religious relics. Often set in bizarre or imaginary lands, like Shangri-La or Brigadoon, among lost races, with monstrous creatures representing the divine or the diabolical, utilizing Greek mythology or Arabian Nights-type narratives. Note: If the primary intent is to frighten the audience in the use of the supernatural, such as with a story of vampires, use Horror. If the narrative relies on advanced technology, even if presented in a fantastic manner (STAR WARS), use Science fiction. Feature examples: BARON MUNCHAUSEN (with Adaptation); BRIGADOON (with Musical); A CHRISTMAS CAROL (with Adaptation); CLASH OF THE TITANS (with Ancient world); CONAN THE BARBARIAN (with Adaptation); A CONNECTICUT YANKEE IN KING ARTHUR'S COURT (with Adaptation; Comedy); EXCALIBUR (with Adaptation); A FLORIDA ENCHANTMENT; HARVEY (with Adaptation); HEAVEN CAN WAIT; IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE; LOST HORIZON (with Adaptation); MARY POPPINS (with Musical; Adaptation); PEGGY SUE GOT MARRIED; RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK; SHE (with Adaptation); DET SJUNDE INSEGLET / THE SEVENTH SEAL; SPLASH (with Romance); THE THIEF OF BAGDAD; THE THREE WORLDS OF GULLIVER (with Adaptation); TIME BANDITS; TOPPER (with Comedy); THE WIZARD OF OZ (with Musical; Adaptation). TV examples: BEWITCHED (with Situation comedy; Family); FANTASY ISLAND; THE GREATEST AMERICAN HERO; HERCULES; ROBIN HOOD / ROBIN OF SHERWOOD / ROBIN HOOD--THE LEGEND (1984-86); SUPERMAN (with Adaptation); TALES OF THE GOLD MONKEY; XENA--WARRIOR PRINCESS.

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