Monday, May 23, 2011

Bromance: A Film Genre




      The film genre I chose was Bromance. The three movie clips I chose, that best exemplify this genre,
are from the following movies; The Hangover, 40 year old virgin and I love you, man. The genre has been around for the past couple decades, but movies showing a group of buddies trying to have a good time have been around for much longer than that. (1978, Animal House). Its popularity is huge presently, many movies now feature a Bromance relationship. How is Bromance evolving? A different kind of Bromance, one with a female mind set, has been in demand. The upcoming movie, Bridesmaids, seems to be the first of many.



     There are quite a few important people who have contributed to the genre. The father of Bromance may just be Judd Apatow. This producer, director and screenwriter has a long past in comedy, stemming from The Cable Guy and Freaks and Geeks to more recent movies such as; Anchorman: The legend of Ron Burgundy, Talladega Knights, Knocked Up, Superbad, Pineapple Express, Get Him To The Greek… the list goes on and on. Apatow continues to produce comedy gold, many of his movies producing the most memorable Bromances.

Other influential  people of the genre are many of the movies starring actors. Seth Rogen, Will Ferrel, Jason Segal, Paul Rudd, John C. Reilly, Jim Carrey, Andy Samberg, Adam Sandler, etc. Male leads aren’t the only comedic roles given, many female actors lend their humor. Mary Steenburgen, Kathryn Hahn, Rashida Jones, etc.


Movies under the film genre Bromance all have a similar thematic set up. They are usually light hearted, with a few touching moments. There is most commonly a male character, usually the lead, who is sad or run down. The goal of the character is usually determined within the first ten minutes. This creates the plot of the movie, how will he reach his goal? Most revolve around him proving himself as a man (getting the girl, finding a best friend, losing his virginity, Bros before hoes) or getting himself out of trouble (lost groom in Vegas). Drugs and alcohol are avidly used. Sex is also a big part. There will usually be an opposing male who is more tan, buff and egotistical then the main male lead.

     All types of the usual camera angles and directions are seen in Bromances. They filming does not usually move away from the norm, there are not too many "artistic" shots. The music chosen for the soundtrack is catchy, top hit songs, usually popular around the time of release. The actors chosen for this film are often actors starring in this genre or comedy. There is usually the less manly main character, the "Macho" opposing male lead and the girl they fight to win over. The main character will have a close group of guy friends who help him with his conquests during the duration of the film, all while becoming more best of friends. There may be a situation that tests the Bromance, but it will always work out.

The Hangover


Talladega Knights

Step Brothers
40 Year Old Virgin

Reservoir Dogs






R2D2 & C3PO


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