Provisional Definitions

Definitions, Differentiations and Analysis

Spin- off: one or more key elements (for instance characters, plot, etc.) of a source, such as novels or computer games, that are taken from one medial product and used to produce a new one of the same or another medium where they develop their own, potentially different narrative.
 * Buffy ---> Angel

Prequel: a movie whose narrative is chronologically and logically set before a previously released one. Both movies are set in the same story world and may (partly) include the same characters.
 * Lord of the Rings ---> The Hobbit

Sequel: a movie continuing the story and world of an earlier one. Reference unclear. Both movies usually contain the same characters and the same story world but tell different stories. Usually, each sequel is closed in the end and may stand on its own or as a part of a larger story.
 * Harry Potter movies

Re- release: A film is released again, for instance due to technical improvement(s): These can be in forms of 3D versions or formerly silent movies are updated again including sounds
 * Titanic ---> Titanic 3D

Parody: a movie which makes fun of other movies and/ or other genres and which comments on important aspects of the ´original´ source(s) by taking stereotypical features of the narrative, character constellation and conflicts and exaggerating them. By using these stereotypes and through certain allusions to popular movies, parodies sometimes seem to contain characteristics of filmic remakes.(WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? "CONTAIN"? WHICH CHARACTERISTICS?)
 * Horror movies ---> Scary Movie

Satire: does not count as a remake of a movie as it is not based on an ´original´. A satire is a humurous way of criticism and is therefore meant to be provocative with the intention of changing people´s attitude

Series: is usually shown on TV. A series always deals with the same set of characters, even though sometimes inividual characters may be exchanged or expunged, and the same, developing story world. It is broadcasted in consecutive, though not always linear, episodes and it is at least potentially illimitably continiousand extendable.
 * The Simpsons, Mad Men, The Wire, West Wing