Why a telenovela series like Jane the Virgin is so popular
Jane the Virgin is an American romantic comedy and drama telenovela series, based on the Venezuelan telenovela Juana le Virgen.
Jane the Virgin represents the type of series that is not normally popular, especially not in North America. A telenovela is defined as “a soap opera produced in and televised in or from many Latin American countries.” The definition itself shows that it is typically a Latin American concept, and wouldn’t normally be adapted in an Americanized way. While telenovelas are very popular in Spanish-speaking or Latin American countries, they aren’t in many other places. So what makes Jane the Virgin so popular and universally likable?
Language and culture
An authentic telenovela wouldn’t normally be in English, but that is why Jane the Virgin is so much more accessible. Jane and her family sometimes speak Spanish, but 99% of the time, there are subtitles to provide context and understanding for viewers that don’t speak Spanish.
The characters still embrace their culture, language, and beliefs in many ways. The series shows Jane having her quinceañera, and how she calls her grandmother “Abuela.” The family is also very religious, following the Christian faith (which most of Latin America follows as well). But while the series still keeps the characters’ cultures intact, it also makes the fans feel like a part of it all.
More from CW
- The CW’s culture of pulling shows continues as Everyone Else Burns and Run the Burbs are removed from the schedule
- All American: Homecoming season 3 release updates, strike delay, and more
- The CW is out of the superhero business with Superman and Lois canceled
- The Spencer Sisters filming locations: Where is the CW drama filmed?
- The Librarians: The Next Chapter release updates and everything we know so far
Plot
The series has a very compelling and intriguing plot. While much of the beginning of the show is based on the Venezuelan series, Juana le Virgen, the main components of it are what make it so unique. A very cliché or predictable plot point would not be being accidentally artificially inseminated. As a virgin.
The series not only delivers plot twists, being a drama, but also warms fans’ hearts and makes them laugh, being a romantic comedy. From Rafael and Michael confessing their love, to Rogelio calling his friends “brogelios,” there is definitely something for any type of viewer over the course of the show.
Characters
Characters and character development are two huge things in any series. The characters in Jane the Virgin are all unique and relatable in their own way. Every viewer will find themselves identifying with one character or another.
Every character also has some type of development. Whether it’s good or bad, a character’s ability to change is what makes them a good character.
Demographic and genre
The show’s audience is probably mostly teenage girls, but that doesn’t mean they are the only ones who can enjoy it.
Jane the Virgin‘s genre is a mix of drama, romance, and comedy. But it also dabbles with mystery and satire. Its use of drama, notorious love triangles, and hilarious one-liners are what the show is known for, of course. But it also has large elements of mystery, including Michael and the cases that he uncovers during the series.
Mostly shown through Rogelio, another side of the genre is satire. Him being a telenovela star gives an insider’s view into the production of a soapy series. Specific details are used to be poking fun at typical telenovela tropes. Creators use satire to put a spin on the classic telenovela genre.
A large part of the show’s success comes from the fact that there are so many layers to the show’s genre. And with so many layers, comes so many different things for viewers to enjoy.
Next: When will Jane the Virgin Season 4 stream on Netflix?
What is your favorite thing about Jane the Virgin? Do you like any other telenovelas? Let us know in the comments below!