Sandra Tamayo
Prof. Elizabeth Lagaron
ENC1101-876902
90s Romantic Films vs. Present Romantic Films
With today’s growing industry of entertainment and technology, the concept of movies has increasingly changed, and this is especially true for romantic films, which in the last few years have become cultural product of consumption that calm the thirst of emotions and entertains audiences. We are been living in a decade where materialism, coldness, and convenience stands out compared to previous decades. A clear example of this are the romantic films of the 90s compared to the present romantic films. For example, when we look at the 1990 movie Pretty Woman, we can see that there is a gallant man, and the conquest and elegance prevails. However, when we look at the 2007 movie Good Luck Chuck, we can realize that there is nothing alike in this romantic film, or in this decade. It was only after comparing the courtly manners of the man, the intensity of the sensual scenes, and the song soundtracks of the two films, that it can be determined that there are several differences and similarities between the two romantic films.
At first glance, comparing the 90s romantic films to the present romantic films, we can clearly appreciate that in the movie Pretty Woman, the character Edward (Richard Gere), demonstrates a high level of elegance and gentleman in how he treats Vivian (Julia Roberts), speaks to her, and how he expresses himself. In addition, how could anyone forget the scene where he puts a diamond necklace on her neck, and tells her how beautiful is. In contrast, the male character in Good Luck Chuck, Dr. Charlie Logan (Dane Cook), seems to consider that this formality in the twenty-first century is outdated, and does not make any sense. Mr. Logan appears to be more focused on superficial things such as, how to get the best gift and more luxurious expensive car for her.
Second, the intensity of the sensual scenes is another concept to take into consideration between the two decades. Although both Pretty Woman and Good Luck Chuck films, show similarities in the sensual scenes, there is a big difference in the intensity of them. Even though, the character Vivian is a prostitute, the sensual scenes in Pretty Woman are beautiful and well done. With just enough sensuality and not sexuality, leaving more to our imagination than what it really shows. On the other hand, Good Luck Chuck movie has a strong content of sex. The scenes are very explicit in that it gives the sensation of watching an adult movie, and not a romantic film.
Although Pretty Woman and Good Luck Chuck films both have many differences in the courtly manners of the man and the intensity of the sensual scenes, there are some similarities in the soundtracks between the two decades. Both films contain memorable songs that, most of the time, are associated with the movies. By only listening to them, we can identify them without a doubt. In addition, these songs are used to reinforce and give life to the most romantic moments of the films. Songs that make us sigh, cry, smile, and on many occasions have the power to take us back to school dances, and young romances.
In conclusion, after taking everything into consideration, we can determined that the courtly manners of the man, the intensity of the sensual scenes, and the song soundtracks, are important factors to take under consideration in a romantic movie, and also, in the real life. Especially, the courtly manners of the man because it is an important factor that should last, even if the years pass. It is a sign of respect and acknowledgement.

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