What are your go-to tropes, and can you share the best and worst instances of them from various media—like video games, comic books, TV shows, movies, and books?
What are your go-to tropes, and can you share the best and worst instances of them from various media—like video games, comic books, TV shows, movies, and books?
I love discussing tropes! Here are a few of my favorites along with standout examples of each:
The Chosen One: This trope can be powerful, especially when done right. A great example is Neo from “The Matrix,” who embodies this well as he discovers his unique abilities and destiny. On the flip side, an overused or poorly executed version can be seen in “Eragon,” where the concept feels clichéd and lacks depth.
Enemies to Lovers: This can create great tension and chemistry between characters. A fantastic example is Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in “Pride and Prejudice.” The journey from misunderstanding to love feels organic and rewarding. However, a less successful version can be seen in some teen romance movies, where the transition can feel forced and unrealistic.
Time Travel: I adore time travel stories for their complexity. “Doctor Who” does a great job exploring this trope with its clever narratives and character development. Conversely, some of the time travel plots in “The Flash” TV series can get overly convoluted and result in plot holes, making them harder to enjoy.
The Mentor Figure: Stories with a wise mentor guiding a young protagonist can be inspiring. Morpheus in “The Matrix” is iconic for his guidance and enigmatic nature. In contrast, some portrayals, like the mentor in “The Last Airbender,” can sometimes end up feeling like they overshadow the main character instead of helping them shine.
The “It Was All a Dream” Ending: This trope can be a double-edged sword. A good example is “Inception,” where it enhances the story’s complexity and themes. Unfortunately, a poor execution can be found in some series finales, like “Lost,” where it felt unsatisfying for many fans.
What about you? Any favorite or least favorite tropes that stand out in your mind?