What To Watch, Rom-Com Edition!
Written by Eleanor Holford
Love them or hate them, it’s undeniable that Romantic Comedies are a staple in the film industry. As valentine’s day nears here a few favourites you might not have thought of that should be on the watchlist this year and a couple that we will probably miss.
Crazy Stupid Love, 2011 [Netflix] [Amazon to Rent/Buy]
I think this is possibly one of my favourite Rom-Coms out there, in any mood I can very happily enjoy this film. Following Cal Weaver’s story (Steve Carell), a middle-aged man who isn’t feeling too great about his life, he meets womaniser Jacob (Ryan Gosling) who helps him get his groove back. Also featuring Emma Stone, Julianne Moore and Kevin Bacon, this is a banger of a film with plenty of comedy and twists to keep even the anti-Romcomer entertained!
Back-Up Plan, 2010 [Amazon to Rent/Buy]
Another feel-good Rom-Com starring Jennifer Lopez alongside Alex O’Loughlin, this one is sure to get your heart going. After deciding to undergo IVF treatment to have a child, Zoe (Lopez) may have finally found the man of her dreams, which makes everything a little more complicated!
Mr & Mrs Smith, 2005 [Amazon Prime Video]
An absolute Brangelina classic and a sure-fire way to watch a Romantic film with those non-romantics! Husband (Pitt) and Wife (Jolie) are both spies, yet neither one knows it. That is until they end up on each other’s hit lists! Romance, Comedy, Action, AND Brad Pitt, arguably, this film has it all!
Chalet Girl, 2011 [Netflix] [Amazon Prime Video]
A British Banger, honestly I cannot get enough of this film. It’s hilarious whilst also being relatable, sporty and romantic! Kim (Felicity Jones) decides to take a job as a chalet girl in a fancy chalet in the alps, and there she finds her passion for not only snowboarding but a certain rich boy too (Ed Westwick). If this film doesn’t make you want to spend a season in the snow, I don’t know what will!
Love, Simon, 2018 [Amazon to rent/buy]
Based on a book, this is a heartfelt story about Simon (Nick Robinson) who is struggling with being open about his sexuality. He finds comfort in an online user who goes to their school and is also gay. There are definitely a lot of highs and lows in this film, but it’s a brilliant watch which deals with real-life and will probably make you smile from ear to ear but also maybe cry a little too?
She’s The Man, 2006 [Netflix] [Amazon to rent/buy]
I could not make a Rom-Com list and not throw Amanda Bynes in there. Love her or hate her, she is iconic, especially in cheesy Rom Coms. All about football, Olivia (Bynes) poses as her brother Sebastian to join the boy’s football, sorry, soccer team! And who is her teammate? None other than THE Channing Tatum circa. 2005. This film won’t be winning Oscars any time soon, but it’s a Rom-Com must watch.
I would argue that I’m pretty easy going when it comes to films, but there is definitely a few out there that I won’t be in any rush to watch again, and I apologise now if these are your favourites!
Isn’t It Romantic, 2019 [Netflix]
I am so gutted that this film was bad. Honestly, with Rebel Wilson as a lead between Adam Levine and Liam Hemsworth I thought this film would make it to the top of every Rom Com list. I don’t know if it was the singing thing or the alternate universe thing, but it just didn’t sit right with me.
Just My Luck, 2006 [Amazon Prime Video]
Again, I hate to be writing this about a film that should’ve and could’ve been so good. This time we have Lindsay Lohan and Chris Pine, a recipe for greatness. But greatness was not achieved as reflected in its 14% rotten tomatoes! Once again, maybe it has something to do with the inclusion of a parallel universe, but this film didn’t get lucky.
Of course, there’s plenty more that would make the cut including Think Like a Man, Friends with Benefits (& No Strings Attached, are they not the same film?) and I have to admit I was a fan of Too all the boys I’ve Loved Before as well. As I said, Romantic Comedies may not have a place on the awards stage, but they definitely will always have a place in our hearts.
Ellie Holford is a final year studying History of Art and French with a love for travelling. She also likes to jump on walls in her free time. Instagram: @Ellie_holford6
Image from CANVA
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