A Romantic Guide for Finding the Right Valentine’s Day Movie

Hello friends and happy second week of February! Valentine’s Day must be just about around the corner because I’m sensing a sudden spark of interest in a certain Nicholas’ movies (get it?). If you haven’t realized, Valentine’s Day is next Tuesday and if you’re anything like me and you enjoy watching movies that match whatever festive holiday is going on, you’re probably about to journey on a streak of romantic movies – or maybe you already have! But with so many out there, I often find myself forgetting old favourites of mine or simply forgetting that I should venture out to try new ones every so often. So regardless of whether you’re looking to binge a whole list of romance movies, wanting to give one or two a try, or just wanting to watch a good movie in general, don’t worry because I’ve got you covered. We got a long post today folks.

Below I’ve compiled for you a guide of romantic movies across different genres for you to try out. If you’ve read my Halloween Guide (for Scaredy Cats!), it’ll follow a similar format. With this guide, I’m hoping to introduce you to some new films for you to try, maybe highlight some different genres within the realm of romance that you haven’t considered before, or even help you remember some older goodies you may have forgotten. So whatever it is you’re looking for, hopefully I’ve got it here for you!

Romantic Movies to Make You Smile

If you’re not feeling too fussy about Valentine’s Day or you just want to watch something that’s lighthearted and sweet, look no further because this is the perfect category for you. I’ve got some great options for you below – there’s nothing too extreme or complicated about these films, in fact, the simplicity behind their love stories is what makes them shine. I’d even say there’s a relaxing quality to them, you can really just sit back and enjoy them for what they are. While yes, this genre of movie can often feel predictable or repetitive, when it’s what you’re looking for, it’s almost comforting knowing exactly what you’re going to get before even starting. And the great thing about that? You can always count on that happily ever after ending.

Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

A simple classic, Sleepless in Seattle is such an easy watch that gives you the gentle and sweet romance you’re probably looking for. With great chemistry between the two leads and enjoyable performances by each, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan prove to be an effective duo for romantic comedies. While the plot is every bit as predictable as romantic comedies can be, the bits of comedy and honest sentimentality are definitely enough to warm your heart.

If you’re interested in learning more, I’ve written a full review for Sleepless in Seattle which you can check out here!

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

While your initial thoughts might lead you to think of this film as another potentially poor release from Netflix, I can earnestly tell you right now it’s not what you think. Adapted from the beloved YA novel with the same name, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is a surprisingly thoughtful and endearing romance film that focuses on innocent teenage love and first relationships. Lara Jean is a relatable protagonist with doubts and fears about love that we’ve all experienced before, while Peter is your typical swoon-worthy love interest. If you love a good “friendship turned into something more” kind of relationship in movies, then this is an adorable one to check off your list.

Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2008)

Set in your classic New York City backdrop, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist is a sweet and easygoing romance movie with two great leads and a banging movie soundtrack. There’s just something very warm and cozy about this film that makes it so loveable and enjoyable to watch. While the movie definitely has its fair share of silly and comedic scenes, the overall tempo of the film feels rather gentle and lowkey. Maybe it’s because it takes place in the sprawling city of New York late at night, but I just get such good vibes and a real “cuddle up with a blanket” feel from this movie.

Romantic Movies to Make You Laugh

If slow and simple doesn’t really fit your taste and you’re looking for something fun and upbeat to watch, you can never go wrong with a good ol’ rom com. They’re so goofy, silly, full of laughter, and you can always count on them to provide you with an entertaining time. This is a great category for you if you’re looking for something to put on with friends, or if you’re not wanting anything serious or overly sappy. Not only are romantic comedies just good laid back fun, you can get your fill of that cheesy, borderline cringey romance that only works in these types of films. Yes they’re absolutely cliché, but let’s be honest, that’s what we’re here for.

Legally Blonde (2001)

As an absolutely iconic and beloved cult classic, there’s probably not much I need to say to convince you that Legally Blonde is an amazing romantic comedy. Not only does it feature that cheesy romance that we live for when it comes to rom coms, the film is so so funny and somehow beautifully focuses on character development and self growth. It both thoughtfully and hilariously challenges stereotypes that we know and I have such a blast every time I rewatch this film. This is a great choice for Valentine’s Day if you want something both cute and hilarious – it’s a guaranteed good time.

I’ve mentioned Legally Blonde on my Top 5 Romantic Comedies post here!

Set It Up (2018)

What’s more relatable than bad jobs, tough bosses, and trying to get your life together as a young adult? Set It Up is a surprisingly funny and entertaining romantic comedy that released on Netflix a couple years back. While I honestly didn’t expect too much heading into it initially, I was pleasantly surprised by the refreshing plot and nice chemistry between the two leads. The relatability of the characters in this film is a major highlight and brings about tons of laughter and smiles. And behind all the upfront romance, there’s a nice story about personal development and growth.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

Full of bright vibrant colours, flashy outfits, and new cultural experiences, Crazy Rich Asians is a fun romantic comedy that feels so energetic and lively. With the movie set in Singapore, it’s so cool opening your eyes to an entirely different culture. Just a simple switch in backdrop opens up this romantic comedy to feel incredibly new and refreshing. And with a big thanks to Awkwafina, the movie is delightfully funny. While there’s certainly a lot going on, the heart of the movie centers around the romance between the two leads which is so sweet and endearing to watch – you really want to root for them!

Romantic Movies to Make You Believe in True Love

If you’re going through my guide so far and thinking, “I kind of just really want a good, classic romance movie full of sappy and intense love”, then you’ve reached the right category. When I’m in the mood for a textbook romance film, I’m definitely looking to see that intense sort of love that makes me walk away wanting to believe in things like true love and soulmates. While some (or many) people find this genre too cringey or unrealistic, us hopeless romantics love to find great stories about unfaltering love and connection. So if any of that speaks to you, you got to check out the movies below.

The Notebook (2004)

While The Notebook might arguably be the most cliché romance movie that comes immediately to mind when you literally think “romance movies”, I can’t deny that this is such a great watch when you want something that is just purely, unapologetically romantic. Sure the story is generic, but it’s that classic kind of love story about finding your soulmate that we all dream about. Besides, with such electric chemistry from Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, it’s hard not to have your heartstrings pulled while watching this film.

The Age of Adaline (2015)

With the added element of un-aging protagonist, The Age of Adaline takes a spin at proving how love is unconditional and ever so powerful. There’s a certain rustic charm that I’ve always appreciated about this film, and for some reason, it makes it feel like a classic to me. On top of that, Michiel Huisman is such an endearing love interest and he pairs so nicely with Blake Lively who is also wonderful in this film. It’s hard to put into words, but there’s just such a romantic and dreamy element to this movie that makes it such a great sappy romance film.

Me Before You (2016)

If you adore films that nail developing a budding connection between two unlikely lovers, Me Before You is the perfect one for you. Super touching and romantic, the movie is all about unexpected love and how it can give you the power to move forward and better yourself. Emilia Clarke and Sam Clafin are so charming together and they create the sweetest onscreen romance; there’s a level of sincerity that you can feel between the two that elevates the movie even higher. But my favourite thing about this movie has always been how love itself proves to be such a powerful trigger that encourages change and wanting to become a better person. This one’s quite emotional so be prepared with some tissues!

Romantic Movies to Make You Emotional

While I’ve so far focused on the more romanticized love stories that exist in movies, we all know that not all love stories end in a happily ever after. But hey, sometimes that’s what makes the love in these movies feel all the more stronger and effective! If you’re wanting something that feels a bit more serious and emotionally investing, then you’ll be interested in checking out these “star-crossed lovers” kind of films below. With reality pulling these couples apart, the kinds of love explored in these films feel much deeper and raw. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with a little tears on Valentine’s Day, especially when it’s because you’re moved to tears.

Titanic (1997)

One way or another, even if you’ve never watched the Titanic, you for sure know the ending to this tragic love story. The name Jack and Rose are referenced so often in pop culture it’s impossible for you not to know the iconic couple. Full of emotional storytelling, beautiful love, and a dreaded ending you know you can’t avoid, Titanic offers you the story of a short-lived but extremely touching romance. Highlighted thanks to the performances of Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, let’s just say if you’re a sappy romantic like me, you’ll definitely find yourself in tears by the time the movie’s over.

Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) (2016)

Arguably one of the most popular Japanese animated films to be released in recent years, Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) combines the best of great storytelling and breathtaking animation to create a fantastic and emotionally moving movie. The story is unique and surprising at every turn – you’ll find yourself growing more and more invested in the plot and the wellbeing of the characters. While the love and romance in this film isn’t as bold and “in your face” as the others on this list might be, it’s certainly just as powerful and strong.

The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Adapted from the famous YA novel of the same name written by John Green, The Fault in Our Stars is an awfully heartfelt and emotional budding love story between two teens diagnosed with cancer. I’m sure that description in of itself already tells you how difficult this movie can be to watch. The romance itself feels earnest and sincere, and the movie shares a beautiful message about hope and holding on. Though the story is riddled with tragedies, it definitely feels hopeful too.

Romantic Movies to Relate To

If you’re someone who doesn’t appreciate the sort of cheesy and unrealistic depiction of romance from most of the films I’ve already listed above, I’ve created this separate category just for you. The movies below are ones that I personally find display very truthful and honest depictions of love and relationships. And by that I mean, they’re not perfect! These movies are unafraid to show the flaws and problems that exist when finding love or maintaining relationships. Because of that, you’ll find that the couples and characters in these films are easy to relate to and easy to connect with. And that’s because at the end of the day, what it comes down to is that these relationships feel real.

La La Land (2016)

La La Land is a phenomenal romantic drama and it’s Oscar worthy for a reason – it’s so so good. While a lot of the movie is focused on achieving personal hopes and dreams, I find that there’s also a really genuine message about compromising in relationships. It very openly and honestly explains the difficulties that form when choosing between yourself and your relationship, and how sometimes in the scheme of things, it’s impossible to find the right balance.

Love, Simon (2018)

Love, Simon is a thoughtfully executed coming-of-age romance movie that grapples with the difficulties of young love on top of having to coming out. I’ve read numerous reviews and comments that have complimented the film’s ability to make Simon’s coming out story relatable and realistic. While I can’t personally connect with that aspect of the film, what I really enjoyed was seeing how real the friendships and relationships were done in this movie – the slightly tentative and shy depiction of discovering teenage love was spot on.

500 Days of Summer (2009)

If you’ve ever been in a relationship before, you’ll know that it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. 500 Days of Summer perfectly captures that statement and explores the difficulties of maintaining a relationship while still trying to discover who you really are. While this definitely isn’t your typical romantic love story, you’ll find the truthfulness of the characters are awfully relatable. While love is definitely at the core of this film, it’s perhaps not in the way you might expect it.

Romantic Movies to Watch For the First Time

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of my very long post! If you’ve scrolled all the way to the bottom here and you’ve yet to find something interesting or new to watch, this is my final attempt to introduce you to something you’ve never seen before. Behold, my collection of romantic movies that you may never have heard of before! I’ve compiled for you some of my favourite romance movies that are definitely less known to the general public, but are absolutely wonderful in their own right. There’s no single category here, there’s a mix of dramas, comedies, etc. all thrown in there. Just scroll through and hopefully I can suggest you something you can try watching for the very first time this Valentine’s Day!

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Did I happen to leave out some of your own personal favourites? Don’t be shy and leave them down in the comments below! I’m always looking for some new romantic films to watch so help a girl out. 🙂