Genre: Dark Romance
Genre Conventions – Content
Dark romance typically explores themes of obsession, power dynamics, and morally ambiguous relationships. It often features protagonists who engage in intense, passionate affairs that can involve elements of danger, trauma, or taboo. Common tropes include enemies-to-lovers, dark secrets, and complex character backstories that add depth to their romantic entanglements.
Genre Conventions – Production Techniques
Production techniques in dark romance films often emphasize a moody, atmospheric aesthetic. Cinematography may include dim lighting, close-up shots to capture emotional intensity, and a color palette that evokes feelings of tension and allure. Music scores are typically haunting or romantic, enhancing the emotional stakes and underlying conflicts.
Institutional Conventions – How is the Genre Marketed
Dark romance is marketed through trailers that highlight tension and passion, often using seductive imagery and dramatic music. Targeted promotions focus on audiences seeking escapism and emotional complexity. Marketing may also leverage social media platforms and book-to-film adaptations, appealing to existing fan bases.
Film Sample #1: *Hunting Adeline*
*Hunting Adeline* follows the story of Adeline, who finds herself in a twisted love affair with a mysterious and dangerous man. The film embodies the dark romance genre through its exploration of obsession and the psychological complexity of its characters. The cinematography utilizes shadowy settings and intimate close-ups, immersing viewers in the characters' emotional turmoil. The narrative delves into themes of control and vulnerability, effectively capturing the genre's essence.
Film Sample #2: *Cruel Intentions* (1999)
*Cruel Intentions* presents a modern retelling of the classic novel *Les Liaisons Dangereuses*, featuring a manipulative love affair between wealthy teens. The film exemplifies dark romance through its themes of betrayal, seduction, and moral ambiguity. The stylish cinematography and sharp dialogue create an atmosphere of tension and desire, while the dramatic score heightens the emotional stakes. The characters' complex motivations and the consequences of their actions reinforce the darker elements of romantic relationships.
### List of 5-7 Other Film Examples within the Genre
1. *The Phantom of the Opera* (2004)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0293508/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_1_tt_6_nm_1_in_0_q_The%2520Phantom%2520of%2520the%2520Opera2. *Blue is the Warmest Color* (2013)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2278871/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_Blue%2520is%2520the%2520Warmest%2520Color
3. *Secretary* (2002)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0274812/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_in_0_q_Secretary
4. *Call Me by Your Name* (2017)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5726616/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_Call%2520Me%2520by%2520Your%2520Name
5. *A Star is Born* (2018)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1517451/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_A%2520Star%2520is%2520Born
6. *After* (2019)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4126476/
7. *The Shape of Water* (2017)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5580390/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1