The Spy Film: History and Tropes Explained

The spy film subgenre has been a popular staple in Hollywood since the 1960s. With its iconic heroes, thrilling action, and international locations, it has captivated audiences for generations. In this article, we will explore the history of this subgenre in Hollywood, its essential elements, and some of the best spy films of all time.

At A Glance

Spy Films: The Basics

It is a subgenre of the action and thriller genres that focuses on the adventures of spies and secret agents. The genre has its roots in the espionage novels and thrillers of the early 20th century. Moreover, the James Bond franchise, which began with the release of Dr. No in 1962, is often credited with popularizing the genre and setting the standard for what a spy film should be.

The spy film subgenre has remained popular throughout the years, with franchises like Mission: Impossible and the Bourne series keeping the genre alive. In recent years, the genre has also expanded to include more serious and grounded films like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Bridge of Spies. Despite the evolution of the genre, however, certain elements have remained essential to its success.

History of Spy Films in Hollywood

This subgenre have been around for almost as long as the film industry itself. One of the earliest examples of a spy film is the 1915 film The Exploits of Elaine, which features a heroine who uses her intelligence and cunning to solve mysteries and catch criminals. However, it wasn’t until the 1930s that the spy film genre really began to take shape.

Industry

Posted By

Shaquilla Alexander

Founder + Film Editor / Sharing her thoughts on all things film! When she's not writing about filmmaking for So Theory Goes, she is writing weekly posts for her new video editing platform, Working Womxn. workingwomxn.com