Since it’s Valentine’s Day I thought I would make a list of some of my favorite romantic movies to help you get in the romantic mood. Just a few things about this list. First, it is not extensive in that it is limited to my movie watching history and obviously limited to my ability to make this list as short as possible. If I was to add all of my favorites, this list would take days just to read let alone watch. Second, these are not listed in any particular order. Third, I tried to include some of the more unusual ones that don’t stick to the same formula and aren’t cliche–like HOW TO LOSE A GUY IN 10 DAYS. I chose what I did because each movie had an impact on me and as a hopeless romantic for most of my life, I feel qualified to judge. If you don’t like the ones I’ve included in this list or you don’t like romantic movies, this list isn’t for you.
IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT (1934)
Frank Capra is my favorite director of all time and it seems only fitting that I start with this classic. This 1930’s classic film, starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert, is sure to be an instant favorite. Colbert is a spoiled heiress who runs away from her family and ends up being helped by Gable who is a news reporter in need of a story. Comedy, romance, a little bit of drama, this Capra classic is a romance that will not disappoint.
MOONSTRUCK (1987)
This movie, that’s as old as I am, became a newer favorite of mine recently. I had never seen it until my husband showed it to me a few years ago. I am a HUGE fan of quirky romantic movies…well really, any quirky movies. Directed by Norman Jewison and starring Nicholas Cage and Cher, MOONSTRUCK is about a bookkeeper who finds herself in a predicament when she falls in love with her fiance’s brother. Quirky humor and a little bit of drama (which is how I usually like my movies and life–a little bit of drama–THE NOTEBOOK being #1 on my hit list of one of the worst romantic movies of all time. Could there BE any more drama??) MOONSTRUCK is a classic that is sure to make your Valentine’s day special.
SENSE AND SENSIBILITY (1995)
This historical romantic drama based on Jane Austin’s novel is as romantic as they come. Starring Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, and of course, the late Alan Rickman, this adaptation is about three sisters who are left poor after their rich father passes away. The rules of inheritance back then leaving them to fend for themselves, so to speak. Directed by Ang Lee and the screenplay adapted by Emma Thompson, SENSE AND SENSIBILITY will make your heart melt like those cheap chocolates given on Valentine’s day.
SINGING IN THE RAIN (1952)
Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, SINGING IN THE RAIN is an instant classic. Set in the time when sound was making its debut into films, Kelly stars as a silent movie actor, Don Lockwood who is trying to make the transition without losing his career. Debbie Reynolds is Kathy Seldon, a chorus girl on the stage and after a chance meeting when Lockwood jumps into her car, the two
CASABLANCA (1942)
This movie is obviously a classic and if you haven’t seen it, I’m sure you must be living under a rock…or maybe under the age of 10. But CASABLANCA is a romantic movie that has been included in EVERY list of romantic movies since forever, it feels. I don’t know that there is any bonafide hopeless romantic on Earth who doesn’t love CASABLANCA. However, for those of you who don’t know the movie or haven’t seen it, this one is a good one to add to your watch-list this Valentine’s season. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman star as two former lovers who find themselves together again in “…all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world…” and are soon faced with unforeseen complications. Directed by Michael Curtiz this romance classic is one of a kind and deemed “untouchable” for any remakes (thank goodness! Let’s hope it stays that way!), it is one that you HAVE to add to your Valentine’s day plans.
GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)
Unlike Rhett I’m sure you’ll “give a damn” about this pick. Too cheesy? What do you expect, you’re reading an article about romance movies. You’ve been warned. Okay, I’m sure most people have either seen GONE WITH THE WIND or heard of it. But it just has to be in my top pick for romance movies to watch. It is a marathon watch at just under four hours but it’s more than worth the effort. Vivien Leigh stars as a manipulative Southern belle, Scarlett O’Hara, who finds herself in a passionate romance with Rhett Butler played by Clark Gable. GONE WITH THE WIND is a classic you will be sad you missed.
YOU’VE GOT MAIL (1998)
This Nora Ephron rom-com is more than just a silly chick flick. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan both
RETURN TO ME (2000)
Directed by Bonnie Hunt, as her directorial debut, this romantic comedy is a classic disguised as a modern rom-com. The characters lovable and the storyline solid, this little romantic comedy is one that will be sure to be a new favorite. David Duchovny stars as Bob Rueland a builder who loses his wife and then meets Minnie Driver’s character Grace Briggs, who received Bob’s wife’s heart. Return to Me has a lot of heart (pun intended) and humor. One to add to the movie collection, for sure.
SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE (1993)
Again, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan star in a romantic comedy. This one is sweet and heartfelt. Tom Hanks plays Sam Baldwin, recently widowed with his son Jonah. They move to Seattle and after some time Sam’s son Jonah calls into a radio talk show on Christmas Eve saying his Dad needs a new wife. Among the many women listening is Meg Ryan’s character, Annie Reed. Inspired by AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER (also a great romantic move), Annie writes a letter to Sam and asks him to meet her at the top of the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day. Without a doubt, Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks give unforgettable performances and this is one chick flick you won’t want to leave out of your Valentine’s plans.
NORTH AND SOUTH (2004)
This mini-series is added to this list because it’s amazing and any hopeless romantic worth their salt would want this show on their list. Based on the novel by Elizabeth Gaskell, this mini-series is about Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe ) from the South and John Thornton ( Richard Armitage ) from the North and how their two worlds collide when the Hale family moves from the South to the North. A runtime compared to GONE WITH THE WIND, this four part mini-series is a marathon as well. But again, also well worth the sacrifice. Time is nothing when it comes to the steely looks of Mr. Thornton. Add it, watch it, you won’t regret it.
THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER (1982)
Based in 1880’s Australia this early 1980’s romantic drama is a classic. Jim Craig, played by Tom Burlinson, takes a job at the Harrison cattle ranch after his father dies. Craig meets and becomes friends with the Harrison daughter Jessica, played by Sigrid Thornton. Jessica is as stubborn and spirited as the horses on the ranch. With passion and drama, this Australian cowboy film is a great addition to watch.
WALK THE LINE (2005)
Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon star as John R. Cash and June Carter. A chronicle of Johnny Cash’s life and the love story of him and June Carter. Even with a rocky start, the romance between Cash and Carter is sweet and beautiful to watch. Take some time this Valentine’s day to add this movie to your watch-list.
HIS GIRL FRIDAY (1940)
What kind of Valentine’s day movie list would be complete without Cary Grant? This movie, directed by Howard Hawks, is a humorous romantic drama. Cary Grant plays a newspaper editor, Walter Burns who spends pretty much the whole movie trying to keep his ex-wife, Hildy Johnson ( Rosalind Russell ) from remarrying. Hijinks and fast quips make this film a must-see for Valentine’s day.
SHALL WE DANCE (2004)
This remake of a Japanese original film is surprisingly sweet and
CROSSING DELANCEY (1988)
Remember how I said that I love quirky movies? Well, this one is definitely that. This little unknown romantic comedy is a sweet story about a humble pickle-maker Sam Posner played by Peter Riegert and bookshop worker Isabelle Grossman played by Amy Irving. The two are set-up by Isabelle’s Jewish grandmother’s matchmaker, Isabelle convinced that she is too good for all of it, especially the pickle-maker. The simple and humble story is such a great romantic addition I don’t think I could recommend this one enough.
WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING (1995)
“Well, next time you talk to yourself, tell yourself you’re single and end the conversation.” I could watch this Sandra Bullock flick over and over and never get bored. Probably because it’s a story about a hopeless romantic. Sandra Bullock plays Lucy who lives alone in Chicago and works as a Transit Authority token collector. She saves the life of Peter (Peter Gallagher) who is pushed onto the tracks and after a mixup at the hospital is believed to be his fiance. Things get even more confusing when Peter’s handsome brother Jack (Bill Pullman) shows up. Humor, wit, a little bit of drama, this 1990’s rom-com will deliver a nice dose of romance for your holiday.
THAT THING YOU DO (1996)
Directed by Tom Hanks and starring Tom Hanks, Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, Charlize Theron, and many other talented people, THAT THING YOU DO is a fun and romantic musical that will be entertaining for all. Guy Patterson (Tom Everett Scott) is a teenager working at his family’s appliance store. When he’s recruited into the band The Wonders and after a mistake with the beat, this fictitious band soon rises in the charts. Great music, talented filmmaking, and a great story, THAT THING YOU DO is one to watch.
PENELOPE (2006)
This quirky romantic story is about a young aristocratic heiress Penelope Wilhern (Christina Ricci) born under a curse that leaves her with the nose of a pig. When her mother Jessica Wilhern (Catherine O’Hara) is desperate to find her a match and marry her off to break the curse, she sets up endless groups of suitors to come and find possible candidates. Despite her desperate attempts to keep Penelope hidden a bitter News reporter Lemon ( Peter Dinklage ) infiltrates the group of suitors with his own candidate intent on getting footage of the “girl with the pig nose”. Max (James McAvoy) is the down-on-his-luck gambler/aristocrat who Lemon hires and unfortunately, things don’t go as planned. This movie, which gave rise to an almost 14-year crush on McAvoy for me, is a unique and quirky take on a fairytale story. Give it a watch this Valentine’s day, you will not be disappointed.
SIXTEEN CANDLES (1984)
This list would not be complete without a John Hughes film. There are many to chose from but I would have to say that my favorite is SIXTEEN CANDLES. Starring Molly Ringwald as Samantha and Justin Henry as Mike Baker and Michael Schoeffling as Jake. Samantha’s sweet 16th birthday turns into anything but sweet when she is faced with embarrassing moment after embarrassing moment. SIXTEEN CANDLES is an 80’s rom-com that will make you laugh, blush, and maybe even tear up. Valentine’s day is just the day to add this movie to your movie repertoire.
JANE EYRE (2011)
This movie is of course based off of the beloved novel by Charlotte Brontë about the mousy, unattractive governess who works her way into the heart of brooding and angry, Rochester. Mia Wasikowska plays Jane Eyre and Michael Fassbender plays Rochester, whose on-screen chemistry is electric. If you are looking for something that is darker and filled with more drama than many of the movies I’ve suggested before, this movie is for you. Drama, passion, and mystery, JANE EYRE is a must watch for Valentine’s day or really any day for the hopeless romantic.
LAURA (1944)
LAURA is of a different breed than the films I’ve suggested above. For starters, it’s a mystery, instead of a straight romance or drama. Starring Dana Andrews as Detective Lt. Mark McPherson who is investigating the murder of Laura Hunt played by Gene Tierney. He starts to build a mental picture of who Laura was and soon finds himself falling in love. The mystery and drama are well developed and have you on the edge of your seat. Fabulous performances and excellent filmmaking, LAURA is a great one to watch.
SABRINA (1954)
The story of a playboy who becomes interested in the daughter of his chauffeur. His older, more serious and stable brother decides the match isn’t in the family’s best interest and tries to thwart the connection, using himself as a distraction. But he soon finds that he might be in love with her as well. Starring Humphrey Bogart as the sophisticated older brother Linus Larrabee, Audrey Hepburn as the chauffeur’s daughter Sabrina Fairchild, and William Holden as the playboy brother David Larrabee. A classic romantic movie that you’re sure to love. Also, check out the 1995 remake with Harrison Ford, Julia Ormond, and Greg Kinnear. Not as classic but still enjoyable.
500 DAYS OF SUMMER (2009)
500 DAYS OF SUMMER may not seem like the best romantic movie for Valentine’s day because it doesn’t play out like the usual rom-com. However, the film gives hope to those who have ever been slighted in love. With Zooey Deschanel as Summer and Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Tom, 500 DAYS OF SUMMER is a quirky and lovable romantic comedy. After being dumped by his girlfriend Summer, Tom reflects on the last year they were together, hoping to find where he went wrong. This offbeat romantic comedy is sure to give hope that somewhere, somehow, someday, you will find the one.
SING STREET (2016)
A young boy in Dublin starts a band to impress the mysterious girl he likes. Another quirky rom-com, this 2016 film is an exciting addition for Valentine’s day. Filled with some classic 80’s symbols from music to clothes, SING STREET is a well-balanced movie with a heartfelt message. Starring Lucy Boynton and Ferdia Walsh-Peelo. Put on some bright pink lipstick and spritz a can of hairspray on your hair and sit down to enjoy this entertaining flick.
THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER (1940)
I don’t think you could go wrong watching a movie with James Stewart in it. Just find a movie with him in it and sit back and enjoy. This movie, which is the movie that YOU’VE GOT MAIL was inspired by, is a classic tale of two people who hate each other falling in love. Alfred Kralik (Jimmy Stewart) and Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan) star as two employees at a gift shop who can’t stand each other. When, without realizing it, they are falling in love with each other through letters. A classic for sure! Add this one to your watchlist. Maybe watch this and then YOU’VE GOT MAIL, make it a marathon day. I’m sure both will be new favorites.
ONE FINE DAY (1996)
I’ve included this romantic comedy in my list because it was a favorite growing up. But now, as a mother myself, I relate to the plight of Michelle Pfeiffer’s character Melanie Parker trying to balance motherhood and a career. Her struggle is real, people. After her son misses his field trip because of Jack Taylor played by George Clooney, she and Jack are forced to help each other make it through their day as working parents dragging their kids along for the ride. Cheesy, fun, and just downright, cute, this rom-com is all too real at times and still entertaining. A perfect movie to add to your Valentine’s day.
10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU (1999)
This teenage rom-com is definitely worth adding to this list because, well, Heath Ledger. But also, because it’s awesome. Starring, of course, Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles, 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU is funny, quirky, and romantic. Adapted from the Shakespeare play “The Taming of the Shrew” Julia Stiles plays Kat Stratford, an ill-tempered high school student living in a strict household. Her younger sister Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) wants to date but can’t until her older sister Kat dates, per their father’s rules. Then enter, Cameron James (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) the new kid at school who wants to date Bianca, therefore he hires Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger) to date Kat so that Bianca can date. Things get complicated… There are some inappropriate jokes and crude humor so maybe something to watch after the kids go to bed. But overall, this romantic comedy is one late 90’s chick flick you don’t want to miss.
LAST CHANCE HARVEY (2008)
This is the story of two pathetic and lonely creatures who both seem forgotten by life. Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson play Harvey Shine and Kate Walker who live worlds apart and yet they have one thing in common–they are both looking for something. Harvey travels to England to participate in his daughter’s wedding and it seems from step one of his trip he is forgotten by everyone in the wedding party, even his daughter. Kate Walker works a boring job at the airport and there is where Walker and Shine meet, if only briefly. One thing leads to another and soon these two lost souls are found. LAST CHANCE HARVEY is a testament to the hope that it’s never too late to find someone to love.
DAN IN REAL LIFE (2007)
One of the most awkward movies I’ve ever watched and yet, also one of my all-time favorites. DAN IN REAL LIFE is a clever movie about finding love in the most unlikely places. Dan (Steve Carell) is a widower who on the way to a family get together meets the woman of his dreams, Marie (Juliette Binoche). After the chance meeting, Marie is all he can think about. Unfortunately, all goes downhill from here when Dan discovers that the woman of his dreams is actually his brother’s girlfriend. Things get awkward and fun and quirky, and basically, just watch it. You won’t be sorry you did.
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (1995)
Without a doubt, this is the most important movie of all in this list. Okay, maybe not. But it NEEDS to be on your list of movies to watch this Valentine’s Day. If you haven’t seen it, you should. And if you have seen it, watch it again. This movie is actually a six episode mini-series starring Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy and Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet. Not to be confused with the sad excuse for an adaptation, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE starring Keira Knightley. Please! Jane Austen’s beloved novel is probably one of the most adapted-into-a-screenplay books ever, however, this version is one of the best yet. As in, it is the most accurate and faithful to the novel. Most people know the story–he hates her, she hates him. Then he loves her, she loves him. However, this movie is worth watching over and over again. If only just for the scene of a wet Colin Firth coming out of the lake…confused? Just go watch it. You can thank me later.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of romantic movies for Valentine’s day. Whether you’re single or have someone to share this holiday with, be sure to add at least one of these films to your watchlist. And remember, being single doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate a day of love. Love is a great thing, even if you don’t have it right now. You’ll find it one day. Watch one of these with a yummy treat and have a Happy Valentine’s day!
