Films sharing characteristics with “The City of Bones” typically belong to the urban fantasy, young adult, or paranormal romance genres. These narratives often feature a young protagonist discovering a hidden world of magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural forces interwoven with the backdrop of a contemporary urban setting. Common elements include forbidden love, chosen one narratives, secret societies, and battles against dark forces threatening both the human and supernatural worlds. Examples include “The Mortal Instruments” series as a whole, upon which the film is based, or other films like “Beautiful Creatures,” “I Am Number Four,” and “Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief.”
Such narratives resonate with audiences by exploring themes of self-discovery, identity, and finding one’s place in a complex world. The juxtaposition of the mundane and the magical provides escapism while also addressing universal coming-of-age experiences. Furthermore, the popularity of this subgenre reflects a broader cultural fascination with mythology, folklore, and the exploration of hidden realities. These stories tap into a desire for the extraordinary and offer a sense of wonder, especially for younger audiences discovering these themes for the first time.