Audience Taste in Iranian Cinema Based on the Exploration of Main Characters in Popular Comedy Films from 2013-2023

Cinema is an influential art form within the cultural landscape of a country. The relationship between the audience's interest in films and the works produced by artists is mutually influential, each impacting the other. One key and vital factor in the appeal of a movie is how the characters are portrayed. Compelling and authentic characters can transform the experience of watching a film into an emotional and intellectual journey for the audience. This research explores the main characters in popular comedy films produced in Iran over the past decade (2013-2023) to better understand the audience preferences for cinematic characters. This understanding of taste may lead to works that better attract audience attention. To achieve this, four films, namely Fossil, The Singer, Hezarpa, and Sperm Whales 2: Roya’s Selection, were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical approach from the perspective of character development. This study evaluates the characters concerning their physical characteristics, psychological traits, and social attributes (professional). Through a deep analysis of these characters, specific rules and patterns were identified as likely to be favored by the comedy cinema audience in Iran. These rules and patterns, aside from aiding filmmakers and screenwriters in creating desirable and engaging characters, can also shape the audience's taste for a particular type of comedy cinema.