Romantic comedies and horror films are popular genres that have been around for decades and continue to captivate audiences today. While they may seem vastly different from one another on the surface, there is an underlying similarity that connects them – both genres explore ideas related to vulnerability and desire. This essay will examine how these movies shape subconscious associations between these concepts.
In romantic comedies, vulnerability is often presented as an inherent part of the dating process. Characters are shown to be vulnerable when they open up to others about their feelings, admit their weaknesses, or share secrets. These moments can be seen as a necessary step towards building intimacy and trust.
In "When Harry Met Sally," Harry reveals his fear of commitment to Sally, which leads to her opening up about her own fears and insecurities. Similarly, in "The Notebook," Noah shows vulnerability by sharing his past with Allie and being honest about his feelings. The vulnerability shown in these films is usually rewarded with reciprocity and ultimately, love.
Horror films present vulnerability as something that must be overcome or defeated in order to survive. Characters are typically placed in dangerous situations where they must rely on each other for protection and support. These films often feature moments of physical vulnerability, such as when characters are injured or trapped in a tight space. In "Alien," Ripley faces constant danger and must use her wits and strength to protect herself and others. In "Scream," Sidney Prescott overcomes her fear of vulnerability in order to fight back against the killer.
These two genres create different associations between vulnerability and desire, but they also intersect in interesting ways.
In "The Shape of Water," Elisa's vulnerability is shown through her disability, while she still finds love and connection with a merman. This film subverts traditional romantic comedy tropes by exploring how vulnerability can be both empowering and desirable.
"Get Out" combines elements of horror and romance to explore how societal expectations and prejudices shape our perceptions of vulnerability and desire.
Romantic comedies and horror films shape subconscious associations between vulnerability and desire in unique ways. While one genre may emphasize intimacy and trust-building, the other presents vulnerability as a necessary evil to be conquered.
There are moments in which these genres overlap and challenge these associations, suggesting that both vulnerability and desire can coexist in complex and nuanced ways.
In what ways do romantic comedies and horror films shape subconscious associations between vulnerability and desire?
Romantic comedies and horror films both contain an element of vulnerability that is inherent within their plotlines. In the case of romantic comedies, the protagonists typically experience feelings of vulnerability when it comes to love, relationships, and rejection, which can leave them feeling uncertain about whether they will find happiness with another person. Similarly, in horror films, characters are often placed in situations where they must face their fears and confront threats that challenge their sense of safety and security.