"Writing the Romantic Comedy is so much fun to read it could pop a
champagne cork."--Alexa Junge, writer and producer of Friends
Revised and expanded to celebrate a new generation of romantic
comedies, Billy Mernit's insightful look into the mechanics of writing
Hollywood's most enduring genre features case studies that reveal the
screenwriting secrets behind classics new and old.**
Whether you're a first-time screenwriter, an intermediate marooned in
the rewriting process, or a professional wanting to explore the latest
genre trends, this thoroughly charming and insightful guide to the
basics of crafting a winning and innovative script will take you step by
step from "meet cute" all the way to "joyous defeat." You'll learn the
screenwriting secrets behind some of the funniest scenes ever written;
how to create characters and dialogue that getsparks flying; why some
bedroom scenes sizzle and others fall flat; and much more.
Written in a refreshingly accessible style and updated and expanded to
recognize the contributions of a fresh generation of romantic comedies,
this newly revised 20th Anniversary edition of Writing the
Romantic Comedy features case studies drawn from beloved romantic
classics such as When Harry Met Sally, Annie Hall, Tootsie, and The
Lady Eve to modern-day favorites including Hitch, (500) Days of
Summer, Bridesmaids, and Silver Linings Playbook. Field-tested
writing exercises are also included, guaranteed to short-circuit
potential mistakes and ensure inspiration.
