This document summarizes common elements of the time travel genre of science fiction films and stories. It outlines two main types of time travel plots: traveling through time or experiencing time distortions/loops. Common roles include a reluctant hero and sidekick. Settings can be post-apocalyptic, ordinary, futuristic or historic. Plots usually involve a present problem solved by time travel, with complications arising for the hero. Imagery features signs of time travel and unusual time machines. Themes explore technology, responsibility, greed and free will versus determinism.