Rom-coms (a.k.a. romantic comedies, for those not in-the-know) have long been giving girls and women unrealistic expectations of men. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s time we take a look at the love lessons we’ve gleaned from our favorite chick flicks. As much as we all love a good girls’ night in, we can all admit that these movies are inherently flawed. (Warning: The following lessons are highly sarcastic and should not be considered a valid guide to your love life.)
1. When Harry Met Sally
Men and women can never be platonic friends. If you try to be friends with benefits it won’t work, but you’ll end up as the world’s most adorable couple instead.
2. Because I Said So
Even if you two-time him, the single dad musician with a heart of gold will forgive you and you can live happily ever after.
3. Dirty Dancing
Going on vacation in the Catskills will get you a smoking hot dance instructor boyfriend who recognizes you as the star you truly are. Swoon.
4. Clueless
A relationship based on a weird, vaguely familial connection between a 16-year-old and a college student is actually acceptable. (Note: This may in fact be where all of the single Skidmore men have gone…)
5. Never Been Kissed
If you had a bad high school experience, go back when you’re a 20-something undercover journalist and you’ll find true love with the world’s most attractive high school English teacher. Plus, inadvertently pour dog food on Barbie to reach your happy-ever-after.
6. While You Were Sleeping
Lying about being a man’s fiancée while he is in a coma is fine as long as you’re meant to be with his brother. Yes, as a simple statement it makes absolutely no sense. (Also, prepare for the über-romantic subway station proposal that is definitely in store for you.)
7. Easy A
Being a victim of vicious gossip will still get you the guy if you also happen to have a hilarious video blog and own an absurd amount of bustiers. Also, watch out for STDs.
8. He’s Just Not That Into You
Apparently you’re not supposed to listen to the advice from the title and you should assume that “you are [his] exception” to the rule put forth at the very beginning. Trust no one, not even a movie title.
9. Sleepless in Seattle
You can fall in love via talk radio and letter writing. I mean, Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks aren’t really know for their super realistic romantic movies, let’s be honest.
10. 10 Things I Hate About You
Even if a jerk paid him to take you out, if it’s Heath Ledger playing a high school bad boy he’ll fall in love with you and use the money to buy you a really nice electric guitar. Score.
11. She’s All That
If you’re a high school artist, taking off your glasses will make you gorgeous, and the popular guy full of heart will fall for you.
12. The Proposal
Participating in an elaborate ruse to stay in the U.S. (instead of being deported to Canada) will result in a great relationship with your poorly treated assistant who happens to have rock-hard abs. In short, be a ball-busting Canadian.
What lessons have you learned from YOUR favorite rom-com? Tell us in the comments!