Ah, the beloved rom-com genre. In my opinion, these movies are a gift from the stars above; just the right blend of laughable moments, sappy dialogue, tales of triumph, and impeccable wardrobe choices (for the most part). As the air outside turns colder, the desire to live under my duvet and binge romcoms until the snow is gone for good has grown stronger. So, I’ve compiled a list of the five perfect cold weather flicks to give you the warm and fuzzies this winter.
1. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Where to Stream: Apple TV
This film is one of my personal favourites. It follows Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) as they meet in college, then reunite ten years later, and attempt to remain friends despite the sexual tension and peer pressure. With the constant references to Christmas and New Year’s, it’s become a holiday classic with my me and my family. Even if you aren’t someone who observes holidays, the banter and slow-burning plot of the film are enough to melt anyone’s heart.
2. La la land (2016)
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video
When I say I’ve seen this movie at least eight hundred times, I am not exaggerating. While technically the movie’s events take place over all four seasons, it’s impossible for me to not list it. Two struggling artists (Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone) become intertwined with one another until they inevitably fall in love, while also trying to navigate their careers. If you’re a fan of musicals like me, this film is a must-see!
3. About a Boy (2002)
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video
I’ll admit, I had forgotten about this movie until I had to watch it again for a class. Nevertheless, I fell in love with it all over again. Will (Hugh Grant) is our protagonist, living a child-free (truly bachelor) life; that is, until Marcus (Nicholas Hoult) and his beautiful mother (Toni Collette) move in next door. As well as being a heartwarming story of love and friendship, it’s also a hilarious comedy.
4. while you were sleeping (1995)
Where to Stream: Disney+
This movie tugs on my heartstrings every time I watch it. After Lucy (Sandra Bullock) saves her crush’s life (Peter Gallagher) from an oncoming train, he falls into a coma, and she is mistaken to be his fiancée. She doesn’t correct this mistake, leading her to be invited into the Callaghan home, where she falls in love for real with someone else. It’s a really fun movie to follow along with as the story unfolds more and more.
5. Love Actually (2003)
Where to Stream: Crave
I left the best for last, truly. This film encompasses what all rom-coms should be: funny, uplifting, swoon-worthy, with a happy ending. It follows eight different couples during a frantic Christmas season, navigating the holiday season and all that comes with it. If you ask anyone who likes romcoms which one sets the bar, they will refer you to Love Actually. Plus, the score is amazing!
Honourable mentions
- You’ve Got Mail (1996)
- Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
- The Holiday (2006)
Concluding thoughts
If romantic comedies have a million fans, I’m one of them. If romantic comedies have one fan, I’m one of them. If they have no fans, I’m dead! Rom-coms are exactly what I turn to when I want to feel warm and cozy, no matter how cheesy they are.