NARRATIVE STRUCTURE - ROM COM

The romantic comedy genre often has specific storylines and structures to establish the genre, themes and an emotional connection with the audience. The narrative structure in romantic comedies typically follows a conventional framework. There are variations across films, but most romantic comedies follow this conventional structure. below is a break-down of a typical narrative structure. 

THE SET UP

- introduction of the protagonists and their world to the audience 

1. Meet cute - a defining moment when the main characters first meet, usually in a quirky or awkward way which helps to set the tone for them as a couple, for example, knocking their books over or spilling coffee on them. 

2. Establishing the stakes - the main characters usually have some obstacles to face or challenges to get over which may stop the main characters being able to be together. 

3. Contrasting personalities and backgrounds are established - they usually will have a difference in backgrounds or goals. These are established to create tension and sometimes humour. 

THE CONFLICT AND ESCALATION

- developing the relationship while facing challenges 

1. Initial resistance: characters may dislike or not understand each other at first but circumstances such as working together, a fake relationship or being stranded together, push them closer together.

2. Romantic tension - small moments may cause tension or sparks between the protagonists which may cause growing chemistry. This may include playful banter, near kisses and realisations about their compatibility. 

3. Obstacles - external challenges build tension, for example, an ex reappearing, career conflicts, or internal issues such as fear of commitment, pride or miscommunication.

THE CRISIS AND CLIMAX

- a breaking point before the resolution 

1. The big misunderstanding - a pivotal moment where the couple face a major conflict or miscommunication. This is usually a misunderstanding of intentions, a betrayal of trust or something else that causes a temporary split.

2. Emotional low point - the protagonists realise their feelings and are forced to confront their love towards the other character.

THE RESOLUTION

- Usually a happy ending 

1. Grand gesture/declaration of love - one or both of the characters make a huge effort to prove or show their love. This often includes dramatic speeches, public displays of affection or a race against time. 

2. Reunion and closure - the protagonists come back together and resolve their relationship. 

3. Happily ever after - most rom coms end with a sense of optimism, either through marriage, shared joy or a glimpse into their future. 

COMMON TROPES

'Opposites attract' - characters with completely different personalities find common ground. 

'The love triangle' - introduces another character to heighten the stakes and jealousy. 

'Second chances' - characters overcome past mistakes or reconnecting after years apart.