Laurel (1890–1965) and Hardy (1892–1957) http://www.imdb.com/rg/VIDEO_PLAY/LINK//video/screenplay/vi970588441/ The Dark Knight 2008 1937- Way out west

Introduction to the Romcom genre Romcom/ Romantic comedy refers to films that are based on romance and love but still has a comic feel to it. These films generally show the journey of two people and the many funny obstacles they have to overcome to finally end up together. However, the characters that fall in love may not both be main characters as there is usually another love interest involved in the film. These films are generally based on the idea of true love and usually involve adult actors as well as often being unrealistic. Some examples of Romcom films are the Bridget Jones diary franchise (2001 and 2004), He’s just not that into you (2009) and What women want (2000)

Sub Genre- Teen Romcom The genre of Romcom can also be split into a sub genre of teen Romcom. This is my chosen genre of film as it would be easier to find teenage actors instead of adults as well as having access to more suitable environments and settings. Teenage Romcom is similar to the Romcom genre however, it involves a younger cast and is based on problems that the younger generation would have when it comes to love and crushes. These Romcom’s would also be set in environments such as school where teenagers would often be situated. Some examples of Teen Romcom’s are the American Pie franchise, A Cinderella story (2004), It’s a Boy Girl thing (2006) and She’s The Man (2006)

“ A Cinderella Story” http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808503970/trailer Analysing existing Romcoms

Analysis of A Cinderella story trailer and plot Plot - The film is based on a modern remake of the film Cinderella. As the main character is seen as the “Geek” at school and her step mother and step sisters are always trying to stop her from having a good time, instead the main character Sam has to work all the time. Until she meets her Prince Charming, the film is all about the couples fight to be together. This is therefore a typical teenage Romcom as it involves young adults who are both trying to overcome certain problems to end up together. Non diegetic and Diegetic music/voiceovers - There is a male voiceover throughout most of the trailer to narrate what is going on. This gives the trailer a fairytale feel. There is also non diegetic light and romantic music in the background when talking about the main character, Sam. However, this changes into darker, harsher music when a clip of the characters wicked stepmother is on the trailer. The music also becomes very upbeat and comical when talking about the main characters step sisters highlighting their somewhat “Dumb” approach. The non diegetic music clearly complements the narrator and the clips that are being shown, sometimes this music will quickly cut off when a seemingly funny part of the trailer is coming up emphasising the scene. The ending music is also one of the main actors (Hilary Duff) actual single and as it is quite a feminine track this indicates the film is also targeted at females. Throughout the trailer there is also a lot of Diegetic sounds such as various scenes from the movie

Analysis of A Cinderella story trailer and plot (2) Mise en scene - The film is set in a conventional high school setting as well the general Prom idea which is quite over the top involving lots of lights and decorations. There is also some of the scenes set in the main characters home and working place showing her true horrible lifestyle. Lighting - A use of Chiaroscuro lighting which is usually bright to emphasise the comical side to the Romcom, as well as some dark settings to highlight that it is a romantic scene. Editing - The pace of the trailer is generally quite slow although there is a lot of cuts such as dissolve, which gives the effect of turning a page indicating that it is a remake of a fairytale.

“ She’s The Man” http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808762534/trailer

Analysis of “She’s The Man” trailer and plot Plot - The main female character has to stop playing football due to her team not being allowed to play as they are female. This means she decides to take drastic action and disguises herself as her brother so that she is able to go to his university and play football. Whilst there she falls for her room mate who believes she is a guy, this character played by Channing Tatum also likes someone else who fancies the main characters boy character. It’s a massive love square. Non digetic/ diegetic Music - Non diegetic music in the background which is quite fast paced and has a heavy beat. It is very light hearted and sometimes cuts off when a funny part of the trailer is coming up creating a more dramatic feel. There is also a use of a non diegetic voice over which narrates the story making it more clear what is happening. Diegetic- Clips from the movie which complement the voice over of what is happening as random quips.

Analysis of “She’s The Man” trailer and plot (2) Mise en scene - Set in a school, a house (in the main character’s bedroom, so there are a lot of posters), football pitch, café, college dormitory. Which are all typical teenage settings. Lighting - There is a use of chiaroscuro lighting which is a typical convention of Romcoms as it helps set the mood of the scene. The lighting is often very bright also highlighting that it is in the Romcom genre Editing (Cuts, dissolves fade to black, titles + pace) The trailer is quite fast paced and includes a lot of dissolves

Propp Propp’s theory can apply strongly to the Romcom genre as there is always very similar characters in every Romcom that helps make the story. These include the hero as well as: The Villain This character is always set out to destroy the life of the main character and is always defeated/ punished in the end The magical Helper This character often assists the hero and helps them in their quest. This character is always by the heroes side and often gives good advice and often takes the role of a friend. False Hero This character takes credit for something the hero has actually done. However, they may not be the main villain.