Predictable Plots and Reality in "It Happened One Night"

After watching “It Happened One Night” it is clear why after so many years it is still seen as a strong example of the romantic comedy genre. The quick wit of the main characters and the change of feelings towards each other are what is now considered classic aspects of a romantic comedy movie. The relationship between Peter and Ellie seems to be the expected relationship of many couples in this genre. Viewers are no longer surprised when the two characters spend almost the entire film arguing and then admit their love for each other in the last few minutes. While this has become extremely predictable it is still embraced by the viewers.

The characters represent the time period and the differences between the treatment of women then and now is evident. Customs that we would consider unnecessary or demeaning are consistent throughout the film. The idea that a father could simply take his adult daughter away against her will is enough to send parts of society into an uproar today. However the constant reports on the hunt for Ellie in the newspapers parallels our reality TV. People are always wanting to know more about the lives of the rich and famous and have less regard for their privacy. "It Happened One Night" provides a good representation of how our expectations of how people should be treated has changed but as a society we still want to know the business of others who live in the spotlight.