With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, there is an extensive and very expanding list of romantic movies throughout history. For this article, I have listed ten of my personal favorites I recommended for anyone looking for a film to watch on this disputed holiday.

1. 50 First Dates

Beginning with a classic rom-com, is the beloved movie starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. Sandler’s character Henry is terrified of commitment, but is immediately smitten when meeting Barrymore/Lucy. However, Lucy has short-term memory loss and is reliving the same day over and over again. The plot of the movie ensues when Henry works to make their relationship work every day. This heartwarming comedy has some crude humor, but a touching story and connection between the two main characters. With a very original story, 50 First Dates is a great romantic comedy for this holiday season.

2. Crazy Rich Asians

A recent film based on a novel of the same name, this movie was released in 2018. Crazy Rich Asians follows the relationship between NYU professor Rachel and her boyfriend Nick. Rachel follows Nick to his family home in Singapore where she is shocked to find out his family is extremely wealthy and famous. Having an entire part of his life that was unknown to her, Rachel tries her best to impress his family while also dealing with the media’s obsession with her. Having read the book and seen the movie, I quite frankly adore both. With a memorable cast, genuinely funny jokes and a wonderful soundtrack, this is a modern film for the romantic.

3. The Fault in Our Stars

This tragic story is inspired by the book written by John Green. Both a drama and romance, this film is about two high schoolers both diagnosed with cancer and going through various treatments and therapy, which is coincidentally where the two met. This novel and screen adaption is an idolized script in the hearts of many in high school and college, myself included. This film came out my freshman year of high school, and after a recent rewatching, I felt confident putting it on a recommendation for its sweet and early stages of a lifetime love.

4. Gnomeo and Juliet

This film, released in 2011, is a true animated comedic take on the William Shakespeare play. And although the initial tale is a romantic and heartbreaking story all in one, this light-hearted version is filled with talking British garden gnomes, a lawn rivalry and Elton John songs. This combination of creativity, insanity and a well-developed unique plot is a different type of movie to watch on Valentine’s Day, but one that I saw countless times as a young teenager. Gnomeo and Juliet is timeless enjoyment for all ages.

5. The Sound of Music

Starring the beloved Julie Andrews, this musical from 1965 is a classic. This heartwarming story is based on a real-life family in the World War II era, called the Von Trapps. This family connects over their love of music because of their Governess, Maria. Filled with adoring tunes, lovable characters and a well-known love story, this tale is one of my favorites to watch every February.

5. While You Were Sleeping

This romantic comedy starring icon Sandra Bullock is a favorite of my family’s and came out in 1995. With a hilarious and somewhat stunning plot of miscommunication, Bullock’s character Lucy saves the life of a man she barely knows and is assumed to be his fiancee, even though that is not the case. While he is in a coma, Lucy is faced with questions from his family about her identity and their love story. Meanwhile, Lucy is falling in love with the brother of the man whose fiancee she is pretending to be. Holding a place of nostalgia in my heart, this film is certainly one for the ages when reviewing popular romance movies.

6. Love, Simon

This 2018 film is about a high school teen who hasn’t yet come out as gay to his friends and family, but is falling for someone anonymous online. Going through his year trying to balance all aspects of his life is challenging, but becomes life-changing. This inclusive and loving coming-out story is a timeless tale for viewers of any age. Its emotional moments were powerful and its small moments were impactful just the same. I enjoyed this movie in all its perfection, and would highly recommend it.

8. Booksmart

Varying from the romantic films, this coming-of-age film follows the story of two high schoolers on the eve of their graduation. Realizing that they missed out on their “classic high school” experience from studying too much and worrying about college applications, they decide they have one night to have all the experiences they’ve missed out on. Filled with crazy antics, romantic encounters and insane parties, this laugh-out-loud comedy is sure to have you laughing throughout Valentine’s Day.

9. Remember Me

This drama is filled with a charming romance between two young adults living in New York City in which a rebellious man Tyler, played by Robert Pattinson, is met by a caring and understanding woman named Ally. He feels as if he finally has a purpose, however, it is threatened by secrets unfolding from his personal life that affect their relationship. I first saw this movie and was utterly shocked and surprised by the twists and turns throughout this romantic drama.

10. Someone Great

My final movie recommendation is the story of a woman named Jenny, who was recently dumped by her long-term boyfriend whenever she tells him she lands her dream job in San Francisco, which is across the county. She comes to terms with the end of her relationship by spending time with her friends, preparing to move and acknowledging the acceptance of being single. This film is a superb comedy of love, loss, personal growth and the importance of friendship.

Article by Gabriella Wuller