Romance Codes and Conventions

Romance Codes and Conventions

Typically romance films are usually aimed at a female audience, from the age of about 12 and onwards they have a 12-15 certificate to maximise the audience. Romance films generally include sexuality, status, gender and relationships that either break or become difficult at some point in the film. The narrative is falling in love, dating and kissing etc. sometimes a voice over is used to start the theme of love. Stereotypically the main characters are good looking but also programs like my mad fat diary have broken this stereotype. The setting usually is urban environment, a beach or school etc., these are typically places where things like this would happen. In a romance opening its deemed much of the setting will be shown from wide shots showing characters and much of the setting and area behind them.


Sounds

Diegetic and non-diegetic sounds are just as important as any other film, as it helps to set the mood and atmosphere of the film.  Romances usually would start with piano guitar or violin instruments. Sad films would use string music like a violin. Stereotypically in the beginning of a romance opening the music is merely in the background as usually the characters are narrating and speaking during the first few minutes of the film.

Conventions of Romance

The majority of romantic novels follow a similar structure of girl and boy meeting, then there’s a dilemma which by the end is solved. This is a successfully proven formula that attracts audiences of both female and male demographics. The protagonist is usually vulnerable, shy or socially awkward, which could be due to some disturbing problem in there life. For example they have an attraction but can’t be together due to some sort of social divide stopping their love. A love triangle is a theme that is found in many romantic movies, with the object of affection engaged to someone they don't love, or an ex-lover wanting revenge on the lead.  There are many sub genres for romance and romantic comedy being the most popular for example ‘just go with it’ is a good example of this, as its popular with a almost universal audience. Teen romances have distinct clichés, such as the jock and cheerleader characters, and many romances are set around a particular situation, such as a wedding or a party. Other romances can span years, such as The Notebook.