CHARACTER TYPES - ROM COM

The character types in romantic comedies usually fall into recognisable stereotypes that help to drive the narrative and emphasise romantic tension. The character types usually follow a conventional framework, however there are variations across films. 

Below is a breakdown of the common character types in romantic comedies.  

THE PROTAGONISTS (ROMANTIC LEADS)

- these are the central characters whose love story drives the plot. They usually have contrasting traits or face personal challenges that create tension and growth in their relationship. 

1. The dreamer: a romantic at heart, they believe in true love but may face obstacles while trying to continue to believe. They are often the emotional glue of the story. 

Example: Bridget Jones in 'Bridget Jones's Diary' 

2. The pragmatist: someone who has given up on love or doesn't believe in it. This could be due to a past breakup or a more practical mindset. Their development usually includes rediscovering love's potential. 

Example: Harry in 'When Harry Met Sally' 

3. The career-driven protagonist: someone who is so focused on their profession life and growing their career that they neglect their personal relationships which leads to conflict, but eventually growth. 

Example: Andy in 'The Devil Wears Prada' 

THE BEST FRIEND/SIDEKICK 

- This character may offer comedic relief and emotional support to the main character. They often embody quirky, over the top traits and serve as the voice of reason. 

1. The loyal confident: someone that is always there to talk to and offer advice, or a reality check. This character's role is to nudge the protagonist towards doing the right thing or being with their love interest. 

Example: Michelle in 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days' 

2. The comic relief: an overly eccentric friend who brings interest and comedy to the story. They often steal scenes and the audience likes watching them. 

Example: Cyn in 'Working Girl' 

3. The wise mentor: sometimes an older, clever figure that provides unbiased views on love and relationships.

Example: Josh in 'Clueless' 

THE LOVE INTEREST

- the person who captivates the protagonist and is central to the romantic tension. 

1. The charmer: effortlessly confident and charismatic, they sweep the protagonist off of their feet but can also seem too good to be true. 

Example: Nick In 'Crazy Rich Asians' 

2. The reluctant lover: initially uninterested or unavailable but they're eventually won over by the protagonist's persistence or vulnerability. 

Example: Mark Darcy in 'Bridget Jones's Diary' 

3. The mysterious outsider: intriguing character which adds tension. They are often hiding a secret or their vulnerability. 

Example: Patrick in '10 Things I Hate about You' 

THE ANTAGONIST (ROMANTIC OR SITUATIONAL)

- while rom coms rarely have 'villains', there are often characters that challenge the couple's romance.

1. The romantic rival: a third party that wants the main love interest's attention. This emphasises the main protagonists' love for each other as they choose each other over someone else. 

Example: Kimmy from 'My Best Friend's Wedding' 

2. The overbearing authority figure: could be a parents, or a principle that interferes with the relationship, creating misunderstanding or tension. 

Example: the interfering mother in 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' 

3. The flawed ex: an ex-partner that complicates the main character's life by creating doubt or stirring unresolved feelings. 

Example: Warner in 'Legally Blonde'

SUPPORTING CHARACTERS

- characters that enhance the story's comedic and romantic layers. 

1. The wacky family members - parents, siblings or extended family that create chaos and humour. 

Example: Grandma Annie from 'The Proposal' 

2. A child - a child that acts as an emotional bridge between characters. 

Example: Jonah in 'Sleepless in Seattle'