My primary genre preference is romantic comedy. Whether reading books or watching movies, for me, there is no better way to “escape” life than a good romantic comedy. There are many reasons why I believe romantic comedies are the best fit for me

My preference for this genre stems from the fact that I love to “pretend” when I read a book or watch a movie. Pretending was fun when I was a child and now I can still pretend through books and movies. Romantic comedies appeal to me because it is fun to experience both the emotional ups and downs of the story as well as the comic relief. I have always had an interest in this genre. Even as a small child I would always choose to watch Cinderella or Beauty and the Beast instead of other animated movies.

The “Cinderella story” theme has been used by many books and popular movies, including one of my favorites Pretty Woman. This popular theme of “girl from the wrong side of the tracks who ultimately gets her prince charming” is every little girl’s dream. Another favorite, Wedding Planner, portrays a young woman who, in the opening scene, is rescued from certain injury or death by a man who will eventually become her husband. Pretty Woman and Wedding Planner both have the underlying theme of “rescuing the damsel in distress” as part of their plot line.

My preference for this genre stems from the common themes of falling in love and overcoming adversity. In most situations, the couple will have to face almost insurmountable obstacles before they are ultimately brought together near the end of the book or movie. Whether it is a “wicked stepmother” or an old girlfriend, there is usually something or someone standing in the way of true love and happiness. While participating in this “fairy tale” genre you get to step out of reality and experience something that wouldn’t normally happen because life certainly is not a fairy tale.

For this assignment, I chose to read the article by Phyllis Taylor Pianka, “Before You Begin.” How to Write Romances. If I were writing a book or screenplay in the romance genre, I would use many of the suggestions Ms. Pianka makes. I would try to create situations that people could relate to. My book and movie would include a believable hero and heroine who reflect men and women living in the 21^st century. It would also allow fantasy and imagination to evoke the emotions of the reader. According to this article there are many specific elements which are always found in a romance novel including the hero and heroine, a critical situation, conflict, romantic encounters, a resolution to the conflict and a happy ending. The happy ending usually includes the main characters making an emotional commitment to each other. These characteristics along with humor, excitement, and believability will satisfy and entertain the reader. I think it is beneficial to know the history of this genre for the writer as well as the reader. It allows you to research different time periods and settings to have a better understanding of the novel.