In celebration of Valentine’s Day, here are 10 rom-coms that are sure to win over your heart. Whether you’re seeking a good chuckle, a heartwarming moment, or just some classic romance, these movies are the ultimate choice for a cozy night in.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
10 Things I Hate About You is a modern take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, set in a high school environment. The film is the story of Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles) a strong independent woman, and Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger), the charming bad boy hired to date her so her sister can go out. It’s a great mix of teen romance, clever dialogue, making it a beloved classic in the teen rom-com genre.
The Notebook (2004)
The Notebook is a timeless romantic drama based on Nicholas Sparks’ bestselling novel. The film tells the heartfelt story of Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams), whose passionate summer romance is tested by time, class differences, and life challenges. Through a series of flashbacks, the film depicts the power of love, as an elder Noah reads their love story to Allie who suffers from Alzheimer’s. The Notebook has become an iconic love story that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
13 Going 30 (2004)
13 Going 30 is a fun touching rom-com that follows 13 year old Jenna Rink (Jennifer Garner), who after a wish on her birthday, wakes up as a 30 year old woman. As she navigates her life as a new adult, Jenna is confronted with the challenges of adulthood while trying to fix mistakes from the past. With plenty of humor, nostalgic moments, and a touch of romance, the film is a reminder of how important it is to stay true to yourself and that growing up isn’t always as amazing as it seems.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Mamma Mia! is a lively feel-good musical that blends catchy ABBA hits with a heartwarming story about love, family, and self discovery. Set on a Greek island, Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) embarks on a quest to find her father before her wedding, inviting three possible candidates from her mothers past. With its vibrant cast and unforgettable music Mama Mia! is a joyous film that leaves you tapping your feet till the end.
500 Days of Summer (2009)
500 Days of Summer is a unique romantic drama that tells the story of Tom Hansen (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer Finn (Zooey Deschanel), focusing on their complicated relationship from both Tom’s perspective and the aftermath. The film explores both highs and lows of love, revealing the different ways people interpret relationshi[s and how expectations can sometimes clash with reality. With its cleverly storytelling, unforgettable soundtrack, 500 Days of Summer stands out as a refreshing and bittersweet exploration of love and heartbreak.
Love, Simon (2018)
Love, Simon is a coming of age romantic drama that follows Simon Spier (Nick Robinson), a high school student struggling with coming out to his friends and family while falling for an anonymous classmate online. The complexities of identity, love, and acceptance offer a perspective on LGBTQ+ experiences. With its relatable characters, moments, and perfect balance of emotion, Love, Simon is an uplifting story of the courage to be true to oneself.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is a charming, heartwarming rom-com that captures the awkwardness and sweetness of first love based on the beloved book series by Jenny Han. Lara Jean Song Covey (Lana Condor) and Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) have great chemistry, making their characters’ fake relationship both fun and relatable. A touching story and plenty of laughs, the film is a delightful escape into teen romance. The story continues in To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You and To All the Boys: Always and Forever, with the spin off show, XO, Kitty focusing on Lara Jean’s younger sister, Kitty Song Covey (Anna Cathcart), as she embarks on her own romantic journey.
All the Bright Places (2020)
All the Bright Places is an emotional film about two high school students, Violet (Elle Fanning) and Finch (Justice Smith), who both struggle with personal traumas but find understanding in each other. Based on the bestselling novel by Jennifer Niven, the film explores themes of mental illnesses, grief, and the impact of relationships on healing. While the story can be heavy at times, it’s beautifully filmed and a sensitive portrayal of how love and connection can help people cope with their darkest moments.
Anyone But You (2023)
Anyone But You is a charming romantic comedy that explores the classic enemies to lovers trope. The film follows two characters Beatrice (Sydney Sweeny) and Ben (Glen Powell) who can’t stand each other but are forced to get along under certain circumstances. After navigating their differences and working through their challenges, their relationship transforms into an unexpected romance. The film leaves views with a smile, showing how love can blossom in the most unexpected ways.
Love in Taipei (2023)
Love in Taipei is a romantic drama that follows the story of Ever Wong (Ashley Liao) a college student who goes on a life changing trip to Taepi. While there, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, love, and cultural exploration, all while navigating the complexities of her relationship particularly with her love interest Xavier Yeh (Nico Hiraga). Filled with beautiful scenery, personal growth, and romance, Love in Taipei is an emotional journey that resonates with anyone who’s experienced love and self growth.
Hope these recommendations warm up your heart in honor of Valentine’s Day!
