“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”, “Harry Met Sally”, “Sleepless in Seattle’ and “10 Things that I Hate About You” to name a few, are some of the best and iconic romantic movies that are timeless. What do you think that all these films have in common?
These films were my childhood and yes, they have a bit of nostalgia to them but ‘Once upon a time’ movies weren’t just about the chemistry, charm and storytelling that left audiences swooning. These features weren’t just about entertainment, they had heart, humour and it was the dialogue that made you believe in love.
Something has changed in the last 20 years or so. Often enough, modern romance films feel a bit uninspired, lackluster and lacking some emotional depth and wit.
So, what happened?
One of the big differences between these classic rom-coms and today’s romantic films is the quality of the writing. Films like Harry Met Sally has sharp dialogue which makes it look natural. There is this iconic banter between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, and it felt authentic and because of the script you could feel the emotion. Similarly with 10 Things I Hate About You, there is sarcasm, but it’s done in a beautiful and timeless way.
Many modern romance movies rely on predictable dialogue and the storylines are uninspired. There is a lack of spontaneity and memorable quotes and lines.
The engaging back and forth exchanges in past films which people love has been replaced by dull conversations and a cynicism that diminishes the romance.
Moreover, the classic romance films weren’t afraid to embrace certain tropes but did it with grace. Sleepless with Seattle played on the idea of fate and destiny and it felt more profound than cliché. Many modern romance films today, however, seem to have the same predictable formulas without adding anything new. Worse of all they try so hard to be trendy they lose the timelessness of what made these older films so enduring.
Whether it is the force of social media references or the excessive manufactured drama these features often feel like they are pampering to a trend and not trying to tell a genuine story. They just need to forget about social media which is easier said than done in today’s world.
Another reason could be because there are so many streaming sites that the romance films are being produced at a rapid pace and are low budget. This has led to more content but that does not necessary mean they are good. Instead of getting an iconic romance film it feels more a background noise than an experience.
There could be a lack of romantic gesture too. Modern films shy away from sweeping and heartfelt moments because they are fearful of being perceived as cheesy, sexist or plain old fashioned. They are missing the magical element needed.
There is potential for great romance movies to still exist and audiences still have the craving for heartfelt, funny and emotionally deep narratives. Filmmakers must take their time to develop compelling scripts and foster a real on-screen chemistry as well as embracing the timeless appeal of well-crafted love stories. Then romance films can find their spark again.
Until then, I’ll be rewatching When Harry Met Sally and How to Lose a Guy in 10 days for the hundredth time because some love stories never get old.