The Slow Burn of Romance: How “People We Meet on Vacation” Signals a Shift in Rom-Com Trends
Netflix’s adaptation of Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation isn’t just another rom-com. It’s a signal. The film, and the source material, tap into a growing desire for romantic narratives that prioritize emotional depth, realistic relationship building, and the complexities of long-term connection – a departure from the instant-spark tropes that dominated the genre for years. This isn’t about love at first sight; it’s about love after years of knowing, of shared history, and of navigating life’s changes together.
The Rise of “Slow Burn” Romance
For decades, romantic comedies thrived on immediate attraction and whirlwind romances. Think When Harry Met Sally…, a classic, but even that film relies on a relatively quick progression. Today, audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that mirror the messiness and gradual unfolding of real-life relationships. Data from Statista shows a recent resurgence in the rom-com genre, but with a noticeable shift towards more character-driven narratives. The success of shows like Normal People and films like Past Lives demonstrate this appetite for nuanced portrayals of love.
This trend is fueled by several factors. Social media, while often presenting curated perfection, has also fostered a greater awareness of relationship realities. The rise of therapy and open conversations about emotional intelligence have also contributed to a desire for more authentic representations of connection. Audiences are less interested in fantasy and more interested in relatable stories that explore the challenges and rewards of building a lasting bond.
Friendship to Lovers: A Trope Reimagined
The “friends to lovers” trope isn’t new, but People We Meet on Vacation exemplifies a more sophisticated approach. It’s not simply about realizing hidden feelings; it’s about understanding how shared experiences, mutual support, and individual growth shape the potential for romance. This resonates with a generation that often prioritizes friendship as a foundation for romantic relationships. A 2023 study by Pew Research Center found that strong friendships are increasingly vital for overall well-being, suggesting a cultural shift in valuing platonic connections.
The film’s deliberate pacing, alternating between past and present, is crucial. It allows viewers to witness the evolution of Poppy and Alex’s relationship, the subtle shifts in their dynamic, and the missed opportunities that create tension. This technique, mirroring Henry’s writing style, builds emotional investment in a way that a more conventional narrative wouldn’t.
The Power of Shared History and Routine
The annual vacation tradition at the heart of the story is a powerful symbol. It represents a consistent space for connection, a ritual that anchors the characters amidst the chaos of their lives. This highlights a growing appreciation for the importance of shared experiences and routines in fostering intimacy. Psychologists often emphasize the role of rituals in strengthening relationships, providing a sense of stability and predictability.
This focus on routine and shared history also appeals to a demographic that is delaying major life milestones, such as marriage and homeownership. For many, these shared experiences are happening *within* long-term friendships, blurring the lines between platonic and romantic love.
What This Means for Future Rom-Coms
Expect to see more rom-coms that:
- Prioritize character development over plot contrivances.
- Explore the complexities of long-term relationships.
- Embrace realistic portrayals of communication and conflict resolution.
- Feature diverse representation of relationships and identities.
- Utilize non-linear storytelling to build emotional depth.
The success of authors like Emily Henry, whose work is inherently cinematic, will continue to drive this trend. Studios are actively seeking stories that offer more than just a fleeting romance; they want narratives that resonate with audiences on a deeper emotional level.
Did you know?
The “friends to lovers” trope is statistically one of the most popular in romance fiction, consistently ranking high in reader surveys and book sales data.
Pro Tip:
When looking for a new rom-com, pay attention to reviews that highlight character development and emotional realism. These are often indicators of a story that will offer a more satisfying and relatable experience.
FAQ
Q: Is the “slow burn” romance trend here to stay?
A: Likely, yes. The demand for authentic and emotionally resonant stories suggests this trend will continue to influence the genre for the foreseeable future.
Q: Will we see more adaptations of Emily Henry’s novels?
A: Absolutely. With Funny Story and Happy Place already confirmed, and the success of People We Meet on Vacation, her work is highly sought after by studios.
Q: What other films exemplify this trend?
A: Past Lives, Red, White & Royal Blue, and One Day are all excellent examples of rom-coms that prioritize emotional depth and realistic relationship building.
Q: Does this mean the end of the classic, fast-paced rom-com?
A: Not necessarily. There will always be an audience for lighthearted, escapist entertainment. However, the market is clearly expanding to accommodate more nuanced and emotionally complex stories.
Enjoyed this article? Explore our other pieces on contemporary romance trends and the evolution of the rom-com genre. Subscribe to our newsletter for more insights and recommendations!
