We Love to See It: Diversity in Romantic Comedies

Abstract

In considering the levels of representation in the casting, ethnicity of the characters, and the common stereotypes employed in the narrative, this thesis analyzes how diversity is presented in romantic comedies through a textual analysis of the following six films: 27 Dresses (2008), The Proposal (2009), Hitch (2005), Maid in Manhattan (2002), My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002), and Crazy Rich Asians (2018). The romantic comedy genre has changed over time but remained a favorite across the industry. Studies show that they have a diverse audience made up of members for various racial and ethnical groups. The Hollywood Industry producing these films, however, is not nearly as diverse. The six film will show the industry as it is while acknowledging what could and should be done to make improvements. This thesis shows that Hollywood should seek to improve the diversity of romantic comedies because the audiences are in dire need of proportional representation.