When it comes to the study of cinema and movies, there are many synonymous phrases and terms used to describe the field of film theory. Some of the common alternatives to "film theory" include cinematic theory, the theory of film, film studies, and film criticism. Additionally, there are more specific areas of study within film theory, such as auteur theory, genre theory, and narrative theory. These subfields explore topics such as the roles of directors, the characteristics of specific movie genres, and the structures and elements of film storytelling. Overall, these various terms all refer to the academic and intellectual examination of cinema and its many aspects.