The Most Romantic Movies To Watch This Valentine’s Day
February is, unquestionably, the month of love. The approach of Valentine’s Day is exhilarating; the red and pink hearts plastered on every business’ windows remind us of the one we love; the boxes of temptingly fancy chocolates at the store beckon us to grab them to share with our significant other; it’s the month that causes us to fall a little bit deeper in love with love.
And with this new focus on love comes a desire to delve further into stories that depict love. But with countless subpar, tedious, or silly movies being touted as the best romances, it’s a challenge to figure out the best flick to spend our coveted Friday night on.
Below, find our nine favorite romantic movies that will surely inspire your love of love.
Five Feet Apart (2019)
Based on a NYT bestselling novel, Five Feet Apart tells the story of Stella, an unlucky teen who’s been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and spends much of her time living in a hospital. When she comes across Will, a charismatic teen who suffers from the same illness, there’s an undeniable spark. The only problem is that, because Stella and Will both have cystic fibrosis, they can’t safely come within six feet of each other. This reality becomes more and more challenging for them as their connection deepens. A beautiful, memorable, captivating story, Five Feet Apart will stay with you long after you’ve watched it. Starring Haley Lu Richarson, Cole Sprouse.
Emma (2020)
Based on Jane Austen’s novel, Emma is a classic tale for a good reason. We follow along as Emma Woodhouse, a spoiled, self-centered, and sharp young lady who’s taken it upon herself to play matchmaker, perceiving herself to be gifted in this area – despite feeling that she herself will never marry. But unfortunately, Emma’s strategies don’t always pan out as she’d hoped. Filled with charmingly awkward moments, wonderful characters, and lots of romance, Emma won’t leave you bored or disappointed. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Mia Goth.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
Kathleen Kelly is the owner of a struggling bookstore; Joe Fox is the owner of a corporate bookseller that just popped up across the way from Kathleen; naturally, they’re not very fond of each other. But when they anonymously meet online, their connection can’t be ignored. When Joe realizes who his online crush is in real life, he’s forced to come to terms with his confusing feelings. Starring Meg Ryan, Tom Hanks.
The Big Sick (2017)
Kumail is a Pakistani wannabe comedian who meets Emily, a quirky grad student, at one of his shows. The two have an immediate spark, but Kumail is worried about what his parents will think about him dating an American girl. But after Emily falls into a coma due to a mysterious illness, Kumail suddenly finds himself falling more deeply in love as he meets her parents and comes to know her, all while she’s asleep. And fun fact: The Big Sick actually tells the real-life love story of actor Kumail Nanjiani and his wife. Starring Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Ray Romano, Holly Hunter.
Roman Holiday (1953)
This beloved, charming, classic film focuses on Princess Ann, a European princess who’s grown overwhelmed by her life of royalty and desperately needs a break, so she decides to run off for a night while she’s in Rome. After she accidentally falls asleep on a park bench, she’s discovered there by Joe, an American reporter who initially desires to use her for a story – but soon enough, romance ensues. Starring Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck.
Ever After (1998)
A retelling of the classic fairytale of Cinderella, Ever After tells the story of Danielle, who is made to work for her awful stepmother after the untimely death of her father. After Danielle meets an attractive prince, her life takes a turn for the better. This enchanting, beautiful tale will keep you invested the whole time. Starring Drew Barrymore, Dougray Scott.
The Vow (2012)
Paige and Leo’s life as newlyweds seems to be going swimmingly – that is, until she’s in a car accident and is left in a coma. When she wakes up, she doesn’t remember Leo, but instead, seems to have her feelings for her ex-fiance resurfacing. From there, Leo makes it his mission to reconnect with her and rekindle their bond. Starring Rachel McAdams, Channing Tatum, Jessica Lange.
Serendipity (2001)
Sara and Jonathan first cross paths the week before Christmas as they both reach for the last pair of black gloves at Bloomingdales. Their spark is undeniable, but they’re both already in relationships, so they leave their destiny up to fate — Sara says if they’re supposed to be together, fate will give them signs. Years later, they’ve both gone their separate ways, but haven’t been able to forget each other. Then, they start to see the signs… Starring Kate Beckinsale, John Cusack, John Corbett.
Notting Hill (1999)
Set in London, William Thacker is a bookstore owner who, when a famous actress named Anna Scott turns up at his shop, finds his incredibly normal day-to-day life turned upside down as an unexpected romance between them blooms. But will their different worlds make it impossible for them to be together? Starring Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant.