Romantic comedies: cliche or classic?

Ava DiPalantino Freshman

Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger as Kat Stratford and Patrick Verona in the 1999 romantic-comedy film 10 Things I Hate About You. Image courtesy of theguardian.com

Have you wondered why romantic comedies are so popular even though they can be “shallow”? Some students and staff at Palisades High School have given their opinions on their favorite romantic comedy movies and actors.

Rom coms are a staple of love and romance. Although they are often predictable and follow a safe, positive plot line, couples are drawn to their cozy and unproblematic atmosphere. They are more likely to watch a rom-com if it includes something they’re interested in. Movies like Miss Congeniality are perfect because they include interests like crime and the FBI while also pageants and makeup. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days includes interests like journalism, fashion and sports. Since rom-coms can be so blatantly cliche and stereotypical, people enjoy that they aren’t made to be taken seriously, and make a great light and romantic watch that brings couples together!

Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in the 1961 romantic-comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Image courtesy of Paramountpictures.com

So, how does Palisades High School feel about rom-coms? Teachers and students reported that for a rom-com to not be shallow or boring, it has to have substantial character development and a good mix of romance and comedy. There also has to be a unique plot and “meet-cute”. When interviewed, most male students and teachers emphasized that they love the comedy aspects of Rom-coms. They expressed their love for Adam Sandler and the movies he stars in. On the other hand, most female teachers and students answered that they love the romance side of rom-coms and all of the cute gestures and scenes between couples. Some favorite actors and actresses were Heath Ledger, Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson, Reese Witherspoon, and Julia Roberts. Mrs. Supplee also shared her vintage taste with her favorites being Audrey Hepburn and Robert Redford!

If you are in the romantic mood, you might be wondering what rom-coms to watch. Here are some popular options that students and teachers gave! 10 Things I Hate About You was the number one answer, and for good reason. It is a must watch! How To Lose a Guy in Ten Days and Confessions of a Shopaholic are perfect if you love funny movies. If you love campy and unserious movies, you should watch Wild Child or But I’m a Cheerleader. Some classic, must-see rom-coms include An Affair to Remember, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Pretty Woman.

Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes dancing in Maid in Manhattan, 2002. Image Courtesy of TheGuardian.com

Romantic comedy films have been popular since the age of silent films. The first rom-com ever was considered to be the short film All For a Girl (1912). Unfortunately, this film is now lost. They became even more popular with the arrival of “talkies” or sound films. The film It Happened One Night (1934) is seen as the blueprint of the modern day rom-com.

Although rom-coms are fun, there is controversy on whether they set the romantic standard too high and cause difficulties in the dating world. There is even speculation that they are propaganda to make couples want to spend more money around Valentine’s Day! Do you think there is a deeper meaning to rom-coms or that they are just meant to be enjoyed and not thought about too much?

Sources:

www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/08/best-romantic-comedies-list

/www.cardinalandcream.info/2024/rom-coms-are-flopping-what-is-the-missing-ingredient/#:~:text=The%20dialogue%20felt%20forced%2C%20the,said%20for%20modern%20rom%2Dcoms.