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The art of the “rom-com,” the romantic comedy, is often overlooked. However, I think making a good romantic comedy is a true skill. Films like When Harry Met Sally or How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days come to mind first, and both are great examples of a good romantic comedy, with perfect premises, a good slow-burn romance, and a great cast. However, both of them are from twenty years or more ago. What’s up with that? Most of modern romantic comedies are nowhere near the level that “classic” rom-coms are at, instead, there is a surplus of movies with overdone storylines, no romantic chemistry between the leads, or simply just too cheesy. But recently, I’ve found some modern gems that have given me hope for a rise in romantic comedies that are at the classic rom-com level.
Here are some of the best:
Set it Up, 2018 (Netflix): One of the best. The romance feels like the kind you get from a good Emily Henry book, with solid banter and good tension. Overall, a cute movie.
Palm Springs, 2020 (Hulu): Less of a romance-focused movie, more comedy for sure. Andy Samberg. This was a favorite with a guy who did not enjoy rom-coms before he saw this one (as well as the others on this list) and it inspired me to deep dive for more good romantic comedies.
Plus One, 2019 (Tubi): Maya Erskine. Lots and lots of weddings. Friends to lovers. Not my favorite of this list, but still a good watch (and a free one on Tubi).
No Hard Feelings, 2023: If you have not already heard about this movie, it is definitely worth the watch, the comedy, premise, romance—all of it is good.
I Want You Back, 2022 (Amazon Prime Video): Do I love this movie in part because Charlie Day is in it? Yes. But is it also just a fun movie with a sweet romance? Definitely.
Crazy Rich Asians, 2018 (Hulu): Such an amazing movie, with an amazing cast. Just watch it.
Love at First Sight, 2023 (Netflix): Airports and fate. Based on the book The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, which I have read and would recommend, you must take it with a grain of salt, because I read the book when I was in middle school. But the movie was adorable, and a (mostly) lighthearted watch.
Those are my top finds from the past five years, and I am always looking for more, as well as hoping that more movies like these will continue to be released!! The rom-com is a beautiful thing when done right, and I have found that many people who have negative preconceived notions of the genre warm up to it when you show them one of these or even a classic great romantic comedy. So, whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned regular, I hope you try watching one of these, and maybe see what I see in them!