Romantic comedy is one of the most beloved genres in storytelling, offering the perfect blend of humor and heart. It’s a space where readers can laugh, feel all the feels, and fall in love with characters who navigate the messy world of romance. When writing my novel The Big Time, I wanted to tap into that blend—flawed characters, witty dialogue, and those unforgettable moments of vulnerability. And sometimes, that means letting your character sing a ridiculous song about bananas!
1. Create Relatable, Flawed Characters
The heart of any romantic comedy lies in characters who are flawed and relatable—people we can laugh at, cry with, and cheer on. Chris Reynolds, the protagonist of The Big Time, is a struggling actor trying to make it in Hollywood. He’s been rejected from countless auditions, and after turning down a role in a porn film, he’s on the verge of moving back home. That’s when his ex, Jett Sumner, a musician on the rise, reappears in his life.
Chris’s situation is one that many of us can relate to—the fear of failure, the struggle to make it in a tough industry, and the uncertainty of what the future holds. This is what makes Chris so endearing, despite his setbacks. We’ve all felt like we’re one step away from packing it all in.
Writing Tip: Don’t be afraid to let your characters be imperfect. Their flaws make them relatable and provide a natural space for growth over the course of the story.
2. Infuse Humor in Dialogue—and Situations!
Romantic comedies thrive on humor, and it doesn’t always have to come from witty banter—sometimes, it’s situational. One of my favorite moments in The Big Time is when Chris auditions for a role and is asked to perform a ridiculous, off-the-wall number called The Banana Song. Picture this: Chris, at the end of his rope, is handed a giant stuffed banana and has to belt out a silly tune about bananas while holding it. It’s absurd, funny, and yet, it’s exactly the kind of thing that happens in the entertainment industry.
Writing Tip: Situational humor can add depth to your characters and lighten the mood, even when things are tough. Don’t be afraid to get a little silly—it keeps the story fun!
3. Play With Timing and Tension
Timing is everything in romantic comedies—both in the humor and in the love story. In The Big Time, Chris and Jett reconnect at a time when both are focused on their careers. Chris is barely holding things together in Hollywood, while Jett is about to hit the big time as a musician. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the timing couldn’t be worse. Chris is desperate to rebuild his life, and Jett can’t afford distractions.
The tension comes from watching two people who clearly belong together try to navigate their ambitions while fighting off old feelings. Will they manage a fling, or will their hearts force them to admit that they’ve always been meant for more?
Writing Tip: Timing is a powerful tool in romantic comedy. Let the tension between what the characters want and what they need build throughout the story. It will keep readers hooked!
4. Mix Humor With Emotional Vulnerability
While humor is essential, the real heart of a romantic comedy lies in emotional depth. In The Big Time, Chris and Jett’s connection isn’t just built on their electric chemistry or their funny moments together. Underneath it all is the pain of their first breakup, unresolved feelings, and the question of whether they can move past old wounds to find happiness together.
For example, Chris’s fear of failure in Hollywood is paralleled by his fear of failure in love. As much as he tries to keep things casual with Jett, deep down, he knows that Jett is the one person who could truly break his heart again.
Writing Tip: Emotional vulnerability gives your romantic comedy substance. It’s those moments of raw honesty that make the love story meaningful.
5. End With a Satisfying Payoff
No romantic comedy is complete without a happily-ever-after that leaves readers smiling. After all the chaos—bananas included—Chris and Jett have to confront their real feelings for each other and make a decision about their future. The ups and downs of their relationship culminate in a heartfelt resolution, where both characters are not only together, but stronger for having faced their fears and insecurities.
Writing Tip: Give your characters the ending they’ve earned. A romantic comedy should leave readers feeling uplifted and satisfied, knowing that love—and a little laughter—conquered all.
Writing romantic comedy is all about balancing humor with heart. The Big Time was an absolute blast to create, from the playful moments like Chris’s banana-filled audition, to the emotional journey that he and Jett embark on together. If you’re writing your own rom-com, remember: it’s the blend of laughter and vulnerability that makes the genre so irresistible! The Big Time is available at all major online retailers, including Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords.
Ian O. Lewis and Luke Jameson 