For my film opening, I'm interested in exploring the genres of comedy and coming of age. Here is some research I've done to help me know what makes a good film from each genre:
Characteristics of Coming of Age
- themes of maturation and growing up
- usually centered around one main protagonist (character-driven stories)
- show the protagonist's life changes/milestones
- usually, the plot is about the protagonists facing the first major problem in their lives.
- often blend with other genres such as comedy and drama
- most CoA movies also include romance (usually the protagonist's first love)
- the protagonist needs to end up evolving in some way
Example: 
In Lady Bird (2017) the protagonist is a senior in high school who longs to go to college out of state. This leads to a rocky relationship with her mother who wants her to stay close to home. Besides this, the protagonist also is navigating school, boys, and friendships. The film showcases many characteristics of a classic coming-of-age movie (character-driven, first major problem, romance, milestones).
What makes a Coming-of-Age movie good??
A good coming-of-age movie needs to show the audience how the protagonist has evolved throughout the movie.
For example, when comparing the opening scene of Booksmart to the concluding scene, the scenes are mirrored.
Opening:
Closing:
The mirrored scenes showcase how the duo has progressed throughout the film. The character Molly starts to drive, and the two girls are ready to begin their own lives. However, the lines near the end show that they decide to get pancakes before they part ways, showing the strongness of their friendship.
Characteristics of Comedy
- aims to entertain and make viewers laugh
- comedic formats: jokes, wit, irony, satire
- can be a tool for social commentary
- writing is a big focus along with actor timing+delivery
- positive ending
Example:
Uses humor and satire to comment on real social issues. (also, just hilarious)
What makes a comedy movie good?
- timing: the way an actor delivers their lines can make or break the joke and affect the audience response
- subverting expectations: taking the joke somewhere the audience wouldn't expect can make it funnier
- exaggeration: exaggerating situations/characters beyond a realistic point generally makes the film more humorous
- Good writing!!!
References:
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