Reel Romance

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so it felt fitting to select romance for this post’s genre. I’ll be the first to admit that romance movies are not typically my cup of tea. However, I’m here to share with you a few of the romantic movies that have managed to make their way into my heart. (See what I did there?)

When Harry Met Sally… (1989)

Maybe it’s the witty dialogue or the heartfelt friendship between the leads, but there’s something about When Harry Met Sally… that makes it easy to watch over and over again. The movie follows Harry and Sally, unlikely acquaintances who have a habit of running into each other over the years. Despite their initial distaste towards one another, Harry and Sally soon begin a friendship that brings them closer than ever. While the movie is typically labeled a romance piece, most of the film actually revolves around the ups and down of Harry and Sally’s friendship. Their slow-burn romance more than makes up for lost time with an ending that never fails to put a smile on my face.

La La Land (2016)

To say this movie caught me by surprise would be understatement. I expected La La Land to be another forgettable musical movie, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. The visuals are stunning with captivating sets in every scene. Coordinated color palettes and well-executed dance routines brought this movie to life. The soundtrack was entertaining without being cheesy, and the humorous performances by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling brought the whole film together. Another reason I enjoyed La La Land was for its unexpected ending. It was a finale not common in romance films, but it made it all the more genuine. If you’re like me and not a fan of predictable rom-coms, then La La Land is definitely the movie for you.

Clueless (1995)

Clueless has become a staple movie in the romance department, and I, for one, have no complaints. For those who haven’t seen this 90s hit, Clueless follows a teenage girl named Cher as she navigates the drama and challenges of high school. Between dealing with obstinate teachers and making new friends, Cher barely has time to manage her own relationships. She does, however, always have time for clever comebacks and iconic outfits. This movie is bubbly and dramatic at times, but it’s so light-hearted and fun that I can’t help but to enjoy it.

Roman Holiday (1953)

Roman Holiday was Audrey Hepburn’s first big break, and it’s lovable charm makes it clear why. The movie stars Hepburn as Princess Anne and her desire to escape the monotony of royalty. While on an embassy tour in Rome, Anne meets journalist Joe Bradley, played by Gregory Peck. Joe needs a good story and Anne wishes to go on adventure, so the pair team up for a secret excursion around the city. Filled with light-hearted moments and delightful scenery, Roman Holiday is a romance movie that neither feels forced nor over-the-top. For lovers of classic romance movies, Roman Holiday is a selection that is sure to delight.

Pride & Prejudice (2005)

This movie adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel is, perhaps, the epitome of romance movies. I went into this film thinking it would be stuffy and pretentious, but Pride & Prejudice blew me away, and I quickly fell in love. Although the movie is set over 200 years ago, the characters in Pride & Prejudice still manage to be hilarious and relatable. Not only that, but the cinematography is excellent as well. Each shot puts you right alongside the cast, and you can’t help but to hang onto every word of dialogue. I know I chose this as a romance movie, but the truth is, Pride & Prejudice is so much more than that. It’s a story of family and friendship, of independence, knowing your worth, and refusing to settle for anything less. Lizzie and Darcy’s relationship, however, brings this whole story together. The development of their relationship throughout the film captures what so many romance movies fail to achieve: strong character arcs that lead to mutual respect and admiration for each other. Regardless of your stance on romance movies, Pride & Prejudice is an excellent cinematic experience that is well worth the watch.