Whether you’re spending time with your significant other or simply by yourself, romantic comedies have always been a top contender when it comes to picking a movie.
There is a wide range of rom-coms that America has grown to love, from “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” to “10 Things I Hate About You.”
Here’s a list of the top four rom-coms to watch this Valentine’s Day:
- Notting Hill
This movie follows the lives of bookstore owner William Thacker (Hugh Grant) and famous American actress Anna Scott (Julia Roberts). After Anna stops in William’s bookshop one day, they start showing interest in each other and an affair quickly ensues.
Despite being in love, the two struggle to navigate their very different lives and how the public might perceive it.
Although this movie has always been a fan-favorite, it’s not at the top of my list.
While the actors are both successful and have great acting skills, the acting in this movie is mediocre at best. There wasn’t a strong connection to the characters because of this, and it prevented viewers from being able to relate.
When one also thinks of a rom-com, they usually picture a cute, lighthearted and romantic movie – this is not that movie. The movie has romantic bits, but focuses more on the story-telling and plot of the movie. This is definitely a direction you don’t typically see rom-coms go in, but it adds variety to the genre.
3.5/5
- 10 Things I Hate About You
Following two polar-opposite high schoolers, this rom-com is about Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles) and Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger).
Starting out hating each other, smart Kat and bad-boy Patrick start to form an interesting relationship after spending more time together. This classic enemies-to-lovers romance covers themes of vulnerability, independence and letting walls down.
Although this movie isn’t ranked at the top, it is still an enjoyable movie to rewatch countless times. This rom-com perfectly lays out the enemies-to-lovers trope and leaves fans wanting more.
The two different personalities of the leading characters allow for an interesting watch, seeing how the two constantly argue.
Although, one negative to this movie is Kat’s attitude. Throughout the entirety of the movie, her character displays a pessimistic, passive-aggressive attitude that can be difficult to deal with at times, especially in a rom-com.
4/5
- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” is exactly what a viewer wants in a rom-com.
Following the main character, Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor), the movie starts when Lara Jean’s love letters are mysteriously sent out to every guy she wrote one to, including high school jock Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo).
The two start fake dating to attract attention from their peers, but start developing real feelings for each other.
This movie is the perfect cute, heartwarming rom-com to watch with a significant other. Watching Lara Jean develop crushes and write secret love letters relatedly brings individuals back to their own teenage years.
Although this movie is rated PG-13, it’s still an appropriate choice for a wide range of ages.
Despite the large plot of romance, the movie also centers on the theme of a strong family and sister dynamic.
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” will make viewers laugh, cry, smile and cherish their moments with loved ones.
This rom-com is one movie watchers will find themselves constantly coming back to.
4.5/5
- How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” is the best rom-com out there.
Advertising executive Ben Barry (Matthew McConaughey) and women’s magazine writer Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) both have huge stories to write.
With Ben attempting to win a bet that any woman could fall in love with him, and Andie writing a piece on losing a guy in exactly “10 days,” the two randomly fall into each other’s lives.
Both meet with the intentions of their careers but fall for each other nonetheless.
Now they have to figure out what’s more important: each other or their jobs?
Set in New York City, the location is perfect for a rom-com. Taxis, bridges, galas and more make for cute romantic settings.
This movie encourages viewers to invest in the characters and their stories, forming a strong interest in the couple’s outcome.
Watchers will fall in love with Andie and her witty personality, Ben with his charming demeanor and the funny comments made by supporting characters.
Couples should definitely watch this movie if they’re looking for a cute, romantic and funny movie to watch this Valentine’s Day.
5/5