Joan Wilder is a fictional character from the 1984 adventure-comedy film "Romancing the Stone." She is portrayed as a successful romance novelist who lives in New York City. Joan's life takes an unexpected turn when she is drawn into a real-life adventure while trying to rescue her sister, who has been kidnapped in Colombia. Throughout the film, Joan evolves from a timid writer into a courageous and resourceful woman. Her journey is filled with challenges, including encounters with Jack Colton, a rugged treasure hunter, and various villains. Joan's character embodies themes of love, bravery, and self-discovery.