Words by: Lilly Berman
Graphic by: : Lucas Marangoni
Graphic by: : Lucas Marangoni
The romantic comedy has landed its place on a list branded “low culture.” Also known as popular culture, low culture describes facets of society enjoyed by the masses: pop music, reality television, and fast food. It is the antithesis to high culture – Shakespeare, Tarantino, classical music – forms of entertainment respected and appreciated by an elite few. The romantic and comedic elements of the film genre mesh together to create something easily labeled ‘unimportant,’ as such movies are scrutinized alongside historical fiction pieces and dramas. And with this generation’s preoccupation with productivity, it’s easy to see why the rom-com has quickly lost popularity.
Recent generations seem to harbor a strange desire for individuality. Gen Z prides itself in being different, often bragging about disliking whatever is popular at the time. Rom-coms are far from a pretentious genre in an increasingly pretentious world. But, of course, as Vox writer Alissa Wilkinson points out, rom-coms are typically viewed as being catered toward the female demographic. The term “chick-flick” dismisses any relevance or respect these films may hold. In a society that devalues anything feminine, how could the genre of “chick flicks” possibly stay afloat?
While fewer romantic comedies have come out in recent years, one upcoming movie is turning the tide for the genre. Euphoria’s Sydney Sweeney and established rom-com actor Glen Powell have ignited the genre’s excitement as they film a new project. Of course, only time will tell if the movie’s anticipation is enough to bring the romantic comedy industry back to life. But in a world riddled with economic, social, and political crises, I know I could use the breath of fresh air and maybe some laughter a new rom-com could bring.
I’ll embrace the reemergence of the rom-com with open arms because watching (and enjoying) a rom-com every once in a while does not make you any less intellectual or productive. Film and television, alongside books, poetry, and art, were always intended to provide spectators with a brief escape from this crazy world. I’d argue that crafting romantic comedy has perhaps proven more successful in this right than other “art” forms. But, unfortunately, Shakespeare doesn’t ease the anxieties of life the way an Adam Sandler rom-com does. We don’t need to constantly explore life’s most difficult existential questions. In fact, we shouldn’t. So here’s to the revival of the rom-com and taking a breather from our chaotic world.