Romantic Comedies Research #1

 Now that I've done some research on the rom com genre, it's time to look into more examples of specific genre conventions so I get an idea of what I want to create!

To begin with, romantic comedies usually follow a recognizable narrative structure that combines romance with humor (like I mentioned in my most recent genre research blog post *click here for link*) Rom coms often introduce 2 characters who initially experience obstacles before eventually developing romantic feelings. This pattern is very common in rom com trailers, as well as rom coms in general.

10 Things I Hate About You follows the classic "enemies to lovers" narrative, which is a common idea in romantic comedies. The film focuses on Kat, who dislikes dating and Patrick, who is paid to take her out. The 10 Things I Hate About You trailer establishes the following genre conventions:

• Strong initial conflict between the romantic leads
• Humorous situations caused by misunderstandings
• Development of feelings between the 2 characters

Similarly, 27 Dresses follows another popular rom com storyline: the unexpected love story between 2 characters who initially clash. Jane is a bridesmaid who believes in love but struggles to find it herself. She meets Kevin, a journalist who writes wedding articles. The 27 Dresses trailer establishes the following genre conventions:

• Relatable protagonist searching for love
• Situational comedy; Jane trying on all 27 bridesmaid dresses
• A romantic realization toward end of film

In my own rom com trailer, I plan to include a similar structure by introducing the characters and their initial conflict before hinting at the development of a romantic relationship. I will also include comedic moments to maintain a lighthearted, humorous tone.