The Y2K Rom-Com Starter Pack
Some Funny Friends & Family
The ‘rom’ may be the primary focus of the romantic-comedy, but let’s not forget the ‘com’- which is often provided by the protagonist’s close relations or chosen family. They’re quirky or eccentric; they take an active interest in the lead characters’ love lives; and they get some of the best lines. These friends and relatives might not always have an arc of their own, but they’re more than just comic relief. When the chips are down, they’ll be on-hand ready to offer up some tough love or a shoulder to cry on, whichever the situation demands. And when things are going right, you know they’ll be cheering from the sidelines.
A Teaching Moment or Moment with the Mentor
Every story has its stock characters, and the mentor is one of our favourites. They could be a wise elder, a parental figure or a friend. Occasionally, they’re even the love interest. 2000s rom-coms put a lot of emphasis on personal growth, but our protagonists still need someone to show them the ropes. Whether they’re learning a skill, embracing a new identity, or just in need of a little life advice, the mentor is on-hand to lead them into the next stage of their adventure. And of course, an upbeat training montage is the best way to take them there.
A “Cinderella” Scene
After all that training, it’s time for our leading ladies to let their hair down – or put it up, and pair it with a beautiful dress. Rom-coms of the 2000s were less concerned with the makeover and more with the big dress reveal. If a heroine wants to really capitalize on her Cinderella moment, she should arrive at the ball (or birthday bash, or fundraiser, or wedding) fashionably late. She should then take a moment to stand at the top of the stairs, or aisle, and survey her surroundings. If the timing is right, the music will change, the spotlight will shine and the man of her dreams will turn around at just the right moment. Pure cinema!
A “Working on Myself” Montage
We love a good makeover montage, but for the millennial rom-com woman, or man, it was all about starting from the inside-out. When they get their heart broken or experience a temporary set-back, it may feel like the end of the world for our protagonist. But we know that the recovery sequence is right around the corner. It’s time to clear out the closet, knuckle down to their studies, practice mindfulness, get their training gear on, and set their mind to the next step. It will likely include a new look, a career switch-up, and most importantly a change of mindset. Because if you can’t love yourself, how are you going to love somebody else?
A Musical Moment
We all have those moments we wait for in our favourite movies; and an impromptu musical interlude is one of the best ways to make a scene stand-out. 2000s rom-coms take any opportunity to throw in some karaoke or a moment on the dancefloor and as a trope. It’s hard to resist. The singing doesn’t have to be good and the dancing shouldn’t be anything spectacular. A musical scene is all about making the audience smile, showing a new and unexpected side to the characters and creating a little bit of a party atmosphere. Sometimes it brings the lovers closer together, and sometimes it pulls them apart. Either way, we love to see it.
A Little Bit of Magic
As a contemporary loving rom-com connoisseur, you might not consider yourself a fantasy fan. However, back in the 2000s, the lines were definitely blurred. A transformation here, a body swap there, a time jump, some mind-reading, the ghost of a girl in a coma - all normal everyday occurrences. Luckily, spirit guides weren’t in short supply during this era - just pop down to your local witchy book shop or tarot card reader. In the world of rom-coms, magic is usually there to teach a lesson or bring two unlikely lovers together. And of course, cause some comedic chaos along the way.
A Big Declaration of Love
This era of rom-coms may try to kid you about them being more cynical and tongue-in-cheek than earlier examples of the genre, but don’t fall for it. They’re just as susceptible to extreme bouts of sentimentality. Case in point: the big romantic declaration. On the hero’s journey to happily ever after, this is a crucial step, signalling that the finale is near. But it’s not enough to say it; you’ve got to shout it from the rooftops… Unless you’re that one guy from “Love, Actually.” Ideally, there should be a crowd hanging on your every word, ready to clap and ‘aw’ at the appropriate moments. And bonus points if you sing.
A Manic Pixie Dreamgirl (or Boy)
The 2000s was the decade responsible for popularizing the manic pixie dreamgirl archetype. This quirky specimen exists mostly to further the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery. They come in both genders, although the male of the species, such as Max in “Penelope,” is more rare. And though they’re more commonly found in romantic dramas, rom-coms are also guilty of producing a few. Film critic Nathan Rabin coined the term in reference to Claire in “Elizabethtown.” There may have been some manic pixie dreamgirls prior, but there have definitely been many since.
A Scene in the Rain
A change in the weather can really transform a scene, and as a storytelling backdrop, rain is one of the best. It’s dramatic, it’s atmospheric and it can even be romantic. A rainy day is the perfect setting for breaking bad news, wallowing after a heartbreak, or kissing like nothing else matters. Who cares if you’re wet and cold when you’re creating an iconic movie moment?
Fake Dating
Just like the ‘enemies to lovers’ archetype, ‘fake-dating’ was definitely a thing in noughties rom-coms. This means that the leads only pretend to date to placate their peers, only to develop real feelings. “The Proposal,” “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” and “The Wedding Date” all embrace the trope wholeheartedly. How successfully, is up for debate. But there’s no denying that these movies are still a lot of fun. It certainly had a big comeback in the 2023 sleeper hit “Anyone but You.”
A Memorable Quote or Two
Is it just us, or are Y2K rom-coms insanely quoteable? They may not be the kind of quotes you get on movie posters, but they still live rent free in our heads. There are killer comebacks, sweet romantic lines and inspiring aphorisms. Some, – like the “You bewitched me” speech in 2005’s “Pride & Prejudice” – could be happily added to your next public speech. Others, well, probably shouldn’t be shouted in public. People might not get the reference.
What’s your favourite 2000s rom-com trope and what line do you quote most often? Tell us down in the comments.
