The romantic comedy genre, once a staple of Hollywood’s film industry, is experiencing a resurgence, thanks in part to actors like Glen Powell. Known for his breakout role in the Netflix rom-com Set It Up, Powell has become a pivotal figure in bringing A-list actors back to romantic comedies. This revival comes after a decade-long drought where the genre was overshadowed by raunchy sex comedies and parodies.
During the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s, romantic comedies like You’ve Got Mail, Notting Hill, and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days dominated the box office, featuring stars such as Matthew McConaughey, Heath Ledger, Tom Hanks, and Hugh Grant. These films not only achieved commercial success but also cemented their leading men as Hollywood heartthrobs. However, the 2010s saw a shift in audience preferences, with earnest love stories giving way to more cynical and comedic takes on romance.
The Return of Romance
Glen Powell’s career trajectory highlights the shifting tides in Hollywood. In 2018, he starred in Set It Up, a film that defied the odds by capturing the charm and chemistry that define classic rom-coms. Five years later, Powell continued to champion the genre with Anyone But You, a film that became the highest-grossing Shakespeare adaptation of all time, surpassing Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet.
Powell’s success didn’t stop there. His role in Hit Man garnered him Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice nominations, and he followed up with another romantic blockbuster, Twisters. According to Powell, the key to a successful rom-com lies in “fun and chemistry,” a formula he seems to have mastered with his co-stars like Sydney Sweeney and Daisy Edgar-Jones.
A New Wave of Interest
The renewed interest in romantic comedies is not limited to Powell. Other actors are eager to explore the genre, recognizing its potential for both critical and commercial success. Renée Zellweger’s return as Bridget Jones in Mad About the Boy featured Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall as her love interests, showcasing the appeal of rom-coms to a new generation of actors.
This summer, audiences will see Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans vying for Dakota Johnson’s affection in Celine Song’s Materialists, a film that has already sparked significant online discussion. Meanwhile, younger actors like Tom Blyth and Dylan O’Brien are actively seeking roles in romantic comedies, drawn by the genre’s resurgence and its nostalgic appeal.
The Factors Behind the Comeback
Several factors contribute to the rom-com revival. Kate Hudson noted in a 2024 appearance on The View that investing in the right story is crucial. This sentiment is echoed by the success of book-to-screen adaptations, which come with a built-in audience and rich source material. Additionally, the current cultural climate, marked by challenges and uncertainties, may be driving audiences toward the sweet escapism that romantic comedies offer.
“Perhaps life has become so hard, sweet escapism is what we crave most these days. It doesn’t really matter why it’s happening — it’s just good news that it’s happening!”
The resurgence of romantic comedies is a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal. As actors and filmmakers continue to explore these narratives, audiences can look forward to a diverse array of love stories that resonate with their own experiences. Whether it’s healing from heartbreak, navigating a first romance, or finding the courage to love again, the rom-com genre offers something for everyone.
In the end, the return of romantic comedies is more than just a trend; it’s a reminder of the universal power of love and storytelling. As Hollywood embraces this revival, audiences can expect to see more films that capture the magic and complexity of romance, ensuring that the genre remains a beloved staple for years to come.
