Sometimes, the perfect Valentine's Day celebration involves curling up on the couch with your loved one (or alone, with a bowl of popcorn, in PJs!) and disappearing into a good film.
However, if you and your partner are anything like myself and my partner, then you know how impossible it is to agree on a film to watch. With so many different films to choose from, along with the different sub-genres within the romance category, you’re spoiled with choices!
Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you.
Here are ten Valentine’s Day films to suit every viewer!
1. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
Growing up in the early 2000s, I remember the women around me being absolutely in love with this film, and for a good reason!
This endearingly awkward tale of Bridget (Renée Zellweger) navigating love and life in her 30s is a relatable and hilarious watch. Her journey to self-acceptance and finding love, also starring the charming Colin Firth, is guaranteed to warm your heart.
Perfect for a Galentines night in, or a throwback film date, especially if you’re spending this Valentine’s Day single as an older woman - and there’s no shame in that!
2. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
This classic battle-of-the-sexes story pits Kate Hudson's free-spirited Andie, against Matthew McConaughey's commitment-phobic, Ben. Their hilarious attempts to sabotage each other's plans don’t always work out, and remind us that love truly works in mysterious ways.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days grossed $177.5 million profit at the box office, an absolute smash hit - but have you heard of the unofficial sequel?
If you’re dying to relive this love story but your special someone isn’t so keen, then maybe ‘Fool’s Gold’ could be a good compromise. This 2008 romantic action-comedy film reunites Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson, telling the story of a divorced couple who rekindle their romance while searching for lost treasure…
Certainly a different type of romance film, but not to be passed up!
3. 13 Going on 30 (2004)
Do you remember being 13 and wishing more than anything to be all grown up?
Can you imagine if that wish had come true?
‘13 Going on 30’ sees Jennifer Garner transform from an awkward teenager into a successful woman overnight. As she navigates adult life and reconnects with her childhood sweetheart (Mark Ruffalo), the film tackles themes of self-discovery with an appreciation for what truly matters.
If your Valentine’s day now includes teens and tweens in your household, this movie is an excellent choice for a family movie night! Especially for mother and daughter bonding.
You can also entice Marvel fans into watching this film with you - it stars none other than the Hulk! Well, Mark Ruffalo, and that’s close enough.
4. The Princess Diaries (2001)
The charming, coming-of-age story about Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway), Princess of Genovia, has officially entered the realms of timeless classics.
Filled with wit, romance, and let’s not forget Julie Andrews as Mia's wise grandmother, it's a feel-good classic that reminds us to embrace our true selves.
The Princess Diaries has managed to woo even the staunchest of film critics, which is rare for its genre and period, but still manages to be criminally underrated. There’s a good chance your date may have passed up on watching this film at release but it’s never too late to reintroduce them!
5. Love Actually (2003)
This heartwarming ensemble cast weaves together nine intertwining stories of love, loss, and hope. From Hugh Grant's hilarious Prime Minister falling for a writer, to Emma Thompson's grief and rediscovery of love, and Liam Neeson's silent declaration of love for his stepson – the film offers a heartwarming perspective on love in all its forms.
Just don’t mention the necklace…
6. She's the Man (2006)
For the fans of classic theatre… with a twist!
Amanda Bynes shines as Viola, a girl who disguises herself as her twin brother to play on his all male soccer team.
This hilarious Shakespeare-inspired twist on Twelfth Night features mistaken identities, hilarious rom-com moments, and ultimately, self-discovery, and finding love in unexpected places.
7. Down With Love (2003)
A playful homage to classic Hollywood screwball-comedies stars Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger (yes, again) as rival journalists competing for a story.
With witty dialogue, vibrant costumes, and an undeniable chemistry between the leads, this film is a delightful throwback to a bygone era of romance.
8. Just Friends (2005)
Love Ryan Reynolds in ‘Deadpool’? Well…
‘Just Friends’ explores the complexities of friendship turning into something more. After years of pining for his best friend, Chris, (Ryan Reynolds) gets a second chance upon returning home.. single. This hilarious and heartwarming exploration of love and friendship will leave you rooting for them until the end.
You never know, maybe their story will resonate with your own whirlwind friends-to-lovers romance…
9. The Proposal (2009)
Sandra Bullock is at her comedic best as Margaret, a demanding book editor who forces her assistant Andrew (Ryan Reynolds) to marry her to avoid deportation. As their fake relationship turns real, the film offers a surprising blend of humour and genuine emotion.
If all romance films seem to blur together for you, this unique plot will certainly stand out…
10. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
No 2000s film list would be complete without an honourable mention of Crazy Rich Asians.
This modern rom-com with an Asian cast took the world by storm. Rachel (Constance Wu) accompanies her boyfriend Nick (Henry Golding) to his family's wedding in Singapore, only to discover he's part of a wealthy dynasty. The film tackles cultural clashes, family expectations, and ultimately, the power of true love, all with stunning visuals and a captivating story.
So, grab your Valentine, and some cosy blankets, and settle in for a night of laughter, romance, and heartwarming tales.
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