Romantasy - the biggest genre you're not aware of?
Feb 20, 2024
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Richard shares details about his new book while Marina explores the 'romantasy' genre. Topics include Dakota Johnson's press tour, Formula 1's Drive To Survive, and Gladiator favorites on House of Games.
Romantasy genre blends romance and fantasy, leading the book market with strong heroines and explicit scenes.
Press junkets can create awkward moments for celebrities due to personal questions and potential controversies.
Viral controversies provide free publicity, creating buzz and engagement for movies without extra marketing costs.
Deep dives
Madam Webb: A Disappointing Film with Confusing Plot Points
Madam Webb is a recent addition to the Spider-Verse, but the movie falls short of expectations. The trailer went viral for all the wrong reasons, and the actual film is filled with clunky exposition. The dialogue is 70% exposition, making it difficult to follow the plot. Furthermore, the movie is riddled with heavy product placement. Despite the star power of Dakota Johnson, the film fails to deliver, leaving viewers confused and disappointed.
The Rise of the Romantasy Genre in Books
Romantasy, a genre that combines romance and fantasy, is currently the biggest genre in books. Authors like Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros have become leading lights in this genre, with their books featuring strong heroines and complex world-building. Romantasy books often have explicit romance scenes and attract a dedicated fan base. Publishers have taken notice of the genre's popularity, launching fantasy imprints and subscription services to cater to its readers. Romantasy offers a diverse and inclusive reading experience, bringing new audiences into bookshops and expanding the love for reading.
Press Junkets and Celebrity Interviews
Press junkets and celebrity interviews can be a mixed bag. Some actors thrive in the promotional tour, while others find it taxing. The nature of the interviews often leads to questions about personal lives or controversies, which can create awkward or uncomfortable situations. Celebrities may provide prepared lines and anecdotes, or occasionally make up stories to entertain themselves and deviate from the repetitive nature of the promotions. However, there are risks involved in these interviews, as statements can be taken out of context and go viral, leading to public scrutiny and even negative consequences for the actors involved.
The Appeal of Authentic Non-Paid Publicity
Viral moments and controversies often generate authentic non-paid publicity for movies or TV shows. This kind of publicity can be more effective than traditional marketing campaigns and can generate significant buzz, without the need to spend additional money. In some cases, controversies or unexpected events surrounding a film can generate heightened interest among audiences and drive engagement. This type of publicity is highly desired, as it helps keep a project in the public eye and can create organic exposure.
The Hills of California and Amira: Recommendations for Live Performances
The Hills of California, directed by Sam Mendes and written by Jez Butterworth, is a highly recommended play that tells a compelling story. It tackles themes of art and censorship and offers a funny and charming experience. Similarly, Amira is another excellent play focusing on art and censorship, with strong performances, including Johnny Lee Miller. Both plays provide thought-provoking and enjoyable experiences for theatergoers.
Richard reveals some juicy details about his forthcoming new book but before then he and Marina delve into the world of 'romantasy', the genre which is taking up space on bookshelves at great pace. Plus a dissection of Dakota Johnson's Madame Web press tour, the return of Formula 1's Drive To Survive and which Gladiator Richard would have on House of Games.
