We'll probably never see a film that's entirely devoid of "that only happens in movies" cliches, but there are certain devices that get phased out over time, usually because audiences stop taking them seriously. For example, people in horror movies don't say "I'll be right back" anymore, not since the Scream series made fun of it -- or if they do say it, it's done ironically, with a wink to the audience. Like polio, the "I'll be right back" virus has virtually been eradicated. Another cliche that I thought had run its course is the Slow Clap. You know how it works: Someone gives a dramatic speech in front of a crowd. There are a few moments of silence. Then one person begins applauding, slowly at first, then picking up speed, and the rest of the audience gradually joins in, culminating in a tumultuous standing ovation. (A YouTube compilation of several such moments can be found after the jump.) Not Another Teen Movie mocked this cliche rather thoroughly back in 2001, vocalizing a thought that moviegoers had had in the back of their minds for a long time -- i.e., the Slow Clap is stupid -- and filmmakers have gradually been shamed into not using it anymore.
But now Love Happens is bringing it back, old school! The semi-romantic semi-drama, set to open Friday (unless this lawsuit prevents it), employs innumerable trite cliches over the course of its running time, but none so egregious as the Slow Clap.
