What better way to spend your Valentine’s Day than curled up with a good old-fashioned romantic comedy? These are great for watching with the girls, or your guy if you can convince him!
10. She’s the Man (2006)
Ah, Amanda Bynes during the good ol’ days. It’s based (loosely) on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, so look for the parallels, like a love triangle based on mistaken identity. If you’re a die-hard fan of romantic comedies, put this lighthearted movie on your list.
9. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
The lesson to learn from this movie: don’t make bets about love. Ever. Parts of this movie are hysterical, and Matthew McConaughey’s dismay about “Princess Sophia” is icing on the cake.
8. 50 First Dates (2004)
Yeah, some of the humor can be crude, but Adam Sandler’s usual shtick works with Drew Barrymore’s sweetness in a way that’s oddly touching. But it’s not sappy or too “girly”, so it’s a good one if you’re looking for something to watch with your guy, or that friend who hates chick flicks.
7. Bridesmaids (2011)
Don’t drink anything while you’re watching this movie, because you’ll definitely spew it all over your crew! More on the comedy side, but there are also some heartfelt moments, and some heart-breaking ones. And, of course, a side romance for lead Kristen Wiig. It’s easy to identify with her character, because her struggles feel very real, if a little over-the-top sometimes.
6. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Another rom-com based on a Shakespearean play! Only this time it’s The Taming of the Shrew. This movie has plenty of sass. Plus, young Heath Ledger is to die for and young Joseph Gordon-Levitt is too cute.
5. Legally Blonde (2001)
The ultimate girl-power film! Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods not only goes to Harvard Law, she shows us all that you can be as girly as you want and also be smart, caring, and kick-ass. Elle’s comeback montage always inspires me to go be productive (after I finish watching).
4. Pretty Woman (1990)
Julia Roberts plays the most lovable prostitute character I’ve ever seen in a movie. This is a classic, and what’s more, it doesn’t ignore the issues of class that separate the main character from her love interest, a businessman played by Richard Gere.
3. The Proposal (2009)
Who can resist Betty White as Ryan Reynolds’ adorable Gammy, especially when she and Sandra Bullock dance to “Get Low”? Sometimes painfully awkward, sometimes painfully intimate, this romance is a must-see.
2. The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride veers more on the “romantic” side of rom-coms, but don’t think that means it’s dark and serious. It’s another one that’s good even for people who aren’t fans of the typical rom-com, because it’s got plenty of adventure and subtle humor. If you’re watching with someone who’s seen it before, expect them to know all the iconic lines.
1. Love, Actually (2003)
If you want to laugh and cry and clutch your heart, Love, Actually is the way to go. If you haven’t seen it, it chronicles the romances of British people, whose lives often interconnect, around Christmas. It has a GREAT cast, including Alan Rickman (RIP), Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Emma Thompson, and Martin Freeman. Go watch it and thank me later.