Research & Planning: Examples of Good Rom-Com Trailers

Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

What I think makes this a good rom-com trailer is how it takes you through the plot of the film gradually rather than jumping into it straight away. There also appears to be a balance between the amount of romantic and comedic scenes used - which would make it appeal to a larger audience. The audience is told everything it needs to know in quite a passive way.





Knocked Up (2007)

What I believe makes this a great trailer is the hilarious comedy elements and gradual reveal of the two protagonists love for each other. The trailer itself is a rollercoaster of emotions towards to two characters, with the end result being that the audience is 'rooting' for them to stay/get together. This trailer is also a good example of high key lighting being used which makes the trailer brighter and more appealing. It also helps set the tone of the movie.





What Happens in Vegas (2008)

Similar to Knocked Up, What Happens in Vegas is a great trailer for showing the audience a gradual increase in love between the two main characters. The trailer gives the audience an insight into the obstructions and main plot outlines of the film, without directly giving away the ending (although we pretty much presume that the two main characters will fall in love). The use of complementing non-diegetic background music and voice over works great in this trailer - again, it helps set the tone of the movie.