Photo Credit: Jennifer Tang, The Mike Photographer
Whether you’re looking for a classic rom-com or something more current, The Mike has a movie for you.
Rosie Rotundo, Arts Editor
Whether you are welcoming Valentine’s day with a special someone or on your own, the holiday is always worth celebrating, and what better way to ring in the holidays than with a lineup of romantic comedies. Everyone knows that all of the greatest love stories come from film. I remember being introduced to the idea of love through Friends’ Monica and Chandler, the best friends turned lovers, who make falling in love seem easy and effortless. Television may have romanticized my perception of what a strong, stable relationship looks like, but I see no harm in that. Romantic comedies, as unrealistic as they can be, tell the story of two people who fall in love with one another for being the most authentic version of themselves. Viewers can’t help but feel sentimental watching as the relationship between the two lovers continues to bring out the best in each partner.
Here at The Mike, we have compiled a list of rom coms that include all-time classic with some new releases scattered in the mix. So, get all comfortable, toss some popcorn in the microwave, and enjoy – there is sure to be a movie here for everyone!
Roman Holiday (1953)
Starting off with an all-time classic, Roman Holiday. This movie should be seen as a pre-requisite to all others that made our list this year. Starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, this romantic comedy has inspired love stories of many other movies over the years.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
For those of you who are crushing on one of your close friends, When Harry Met Sally, is the movie for you this holiday season. Find out if it’s possible once and for all if cis-gender men and women can be just friends. This charming love story follows the lives of two friends in the picturesque New York City.
Bridget Jones Diary (2001)
While the whole Bridget Jones Diary trilogy is amazing, the original movie is arguably one of the most iconic romantic comedies. Renée Zellweger’s showcases her talents as an actress in through her outstanding performance of the eccentric thirty-something year old’s social life as she searches for love. Best of all, the love triangle between Hugh Grant and Collin Firth is everything you need this, and every, Valentine’s Day.
Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Unless you have been living under a rock for the past decade, Crazy, Stupid, Love is usually the first movie that comes to mind when you think of romantic comedies. When Cal’s wife asks for a divorce, his world flips upside down. Follow along as Cal attempts to navigate what it means to be single as a middle-aged adult.
She’s All That (1999)
The teenage favourite, She’s All That, follows Zack, the stereotypical popular jock, who bets that he can turn an ordinary girl into the next prom queen. Just as you would expect, Zack ends up falling hard for the girl he chooses to place his bets on.
To All the Boys: Always and Forever (2021)
The favoured Netflix franchise, “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” comes to an end in the final installment released on February 12, 2021. The light-hearted movie series comes to an end just in time for Valentine’s Day, reminding us of what it feels like to be a teenager and in love.