Romantic comedies have been around for ages. They are a genre of film that most people enjoy- I mean, it’s hard not to like a movie whose sole purpose is to make you feel good. These films focus on carefree and funny plotlines that are centered around the idea that love can beat any obstacle thrown its way. Although some may argue that romantic comedies can create unrealistic expectations about love, I find that these films allow people to escape reality in a way that is beneficial to their mental health.
The happy-go-lucky film style of romantic comedies seems to emphasize the ease of life, which is not the reality for many people. These movies can take advantage of the innocent viewers’ desires of perfectionism. The unrealistic expectations set for romantic partners is a harsh reality to come to. People who grow to love romantic comedies often find themselves idealizing their own versions of romance. Romantic comedies suggest that most relationships thrive on effortless communication, grand gestures, and bursts of passion. When relationships don’t come with this great ease, or as much emotion as expected, much disappointment comes with it.
On the other hand, that’s completely the point of romantic comedies. Giving people hope, and inspiring them to find love like the films. Is that really such a bad thing? I think romantic comedies are supposed to open people’s eyes to show them what love can bring into our lives. People know exactly what they’re getting when they put these movies on, so why deny them that warm feeling? There are plenty of other film genres that depict the harsh realities of life, leave that to them.
At the end of the day, romantic comedies are just silly movies. Yes, they may leave a person with unrealistic expectations of relationships, but it’s the viewers job to go out and experience love themselves. Maybe it will be nothing like the movies, or maybe that one romantic comedy they saw in 2007 will be the inspiration for their grand love affair- who knows?
Romantic comedies are supposed to be fun. These movies are supposed to make you feel good and give you hope. There is no benefit in ruining that for anyone, including yourself. So before you decline someone’s offer to watch possibly one of the best movies you may ever see, think about the reality that you’re about to experience. It’s not going to be a scary one, a politically complex one, or one with aliens…it’s going to be one that makes you smile.
