Unwrap the Secrets of Hallmark Movie Success: 5 Tips to Write a RomCom

by | Jun 9, 2023

Romantic comedies, or RomComs for short, are a beloved genre of movies that are known for their feel-good storylines, charming characters, and happy endings. And one of the most famous purveyors of RomComs is the Hallmark Channel, which is famous for its heartwarming and family-friendly movies that always leave viewers with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

If you’re a fan of RomComs, you may have considered writing your own movie script in this genre. And while you don’t necessarily have to pitch it to Hallmark, you can still create a great RomCom that captures the same essence and spirit of these beloved movies.

So, how do you write a RomCom that will captivate audiences and leave them feeling happy and satisfied? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Create Relatable and Likable Characters

One of the key elements of any good RomCom is the characters. You want to create protagonists that are relatable, likable, and easy to root for. They should have flaws and quirks, but ultimately, they should be good people who are deserving of love and happiness.

Think about what makes your characters unique and interesting. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their goals and dreams? And most importantly, what makes them lovable and relatable?

Set the Scene

The setting of your RomCom is also an important element to consider. You want to choose a location that is romantic and picturesque, but also believable and realistic.

For example, you might set your RomCom in a small town, a cozy coffee shop, or a beautiful beach resort. Whatever location you choose, make sure it sets the mood and tone for your story and helps to enhance the romance and comedy of the film.

Add Humor and Heart

RomComs are known for their humor and heart, so make sure your script has plenty of both. You want to create moments of laughter and joy, but also moments of genuine emotion and heartache.

Think about the situations your characters find themselves in and how you can add humor and heart to those moments. Maybe they have an embarrassing mishap, a misunderstanding, or a heart-to-heart conversation that brings them closer together.

Build Tension and Conflict

Every good RomCom needs a little bit of tension and conflict to keep the story interesting. You want to create obstacles and challenges that your characters must overcome in order to find true love and happiness.

Think about what might keep your characters apart or cause them to doubt their feelings for each other. Is it a misunderstanding, a past relationship, or a difference in values? Whatever the obstacle, make sure it creates enough tension and conflict to keep the story engaging.

Give it a Happy Ending

Finally, every RomCom needs a happy ending. You want to give your characters the chance to find true love and happiness, and to leave your audience feeling satisfied and uplifted.

Think about how you want to wrap up your story and bring your characters together. Maybe it’s a grand romantic gesture, a heartfelt conversation, or a simple but meaningful moment that seals the deal. Whatever the ending, make sure it leaves your audience feeling happy and inspired.

Writing a RomCom is a fun and rewarding (and sometimes painful!) experience that can bring joy and happiness to you and your audience. By creating relatable characters, setting the scene, adding humor and heart, building tension and conflict, and giving it a happy ending, you can create a great RomCom that captures the essence of the Hallmark movies we all love.

ProPath Screenwriting