Reelixa Logo

Reelixa

Your source of reviews and news about movies

Best romcoms to watch with your girlfriend

Picking the perfect movie for a date night can be a challenge. To help you out, here's a list of fantastic romantic comedies that are sure to entertain and warm your hearts.

Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Love Actually
La La Land

Ah, the romantic comedy. A genre often dismissed, but when done right, it's pure cinematic comfort food. What makes a great romcom isn't just the 'will they, won't they' tension, but the genuine chemistry between the leads, sharp and witty dialogue, and a story that, while following a familiar path, feels earned and heartfelt.

The golden age of romcoms arguably peaked in the late 90s and early 2000s, giving us timeless classics that still hold up today. Think about the effortless charm of films from that era – they captured the awkwardness and excitement of falling in love with a unique blend of humor and sincerity. But the genre continues to evolve, with recent hits finding new ways to explore modern relationships, sometimes with a more diverse perspective or a meta-commentary on the tropes we know so well.

One fascinating aspect is how these films rely on iconic locations or specific cultural moments. Notting Hill turned a London neighbourhood into a romantic landmark, while When Harry Met Sally... forever changed how we think about deli sandwiches and platonic friendships. Even the casting is crucial; the right pairing can elevate a simple premise into something truly special. Sometimes, a film comes along that blends genres, like La La Land, proving that romance and comedy can thrive even within a musical framework.

Whether you prefer the classic meet-cute, the friends-to-lovers trope, or something a little more unconventional, there's a romcom out there for every mood. These movies offer a mix of laugh-out-loud moments and genuinely touching scenes, making them ideal for a shared viewing experience. They provide an escape, reminding us of the messy, funny, and ultimately rewarding journey of finding connection.

14. Always Be My Maybe (2019)

This Netflix original romcom stars Ali Wong and Randall Park as childhood friends who reconnect as adults from very different worlds – she's a celebrity chef, he's a local musician. Their reunion sparks old feelings, but navigating their current lives and past baggage proves challenging. The film is genuinely funny, heartfelt, and features a hilarious and memorable cameo from Keanu Reeves playing a heightened version of himself. Ali Wong and Randall Park have been friends in real life for over 20 years, which really shines through in their on-screen chemistry! It's a charming and funny story about second chances and staying true to yourself.

Always Be My Maybe

13. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

Based on the popular YA novel, 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' is a sweet and charming high school romcom that became a huge hit on Netflix. Lana Condor stars as Lara Jean Covey, whose secret love letters to her past crushes are accidentally mailed out. To avoid confronting one of the recipients, she enters into a fake relationship with popular lacrosse player Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo). What starts as a fake relationship, however, begins to feel very real. The film's success led to two sequels, completing Lara Jean's story. It's a delightful, feel-good movie with a great lead pairing.

To All the Boys I've Loved Before

12. Friends with Benefits (2011)

This modern romcom tackles the classic 'friends-who-try-casual-sex-and-it-gets-complicated' trope with a sharp, witty script and great chemistry between its leads, Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. They play Jamie and Dylan, two friends who decide to add sex to their friendship with a strict 'no emotional attachment' rule. Of course, things don't go quite as planned. The film is fast-paced, funny, and features some fun cameos. Both Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis were nominated for People's Choice Awards for their roles! It's a slick, entertaining take on modern dating and relationships.

Friends with Benefits

11. 50 First Dates (2004)

Another winning pairing of Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, but with a unique premise! Sandler plays Henry Roth, a marine veterinarian in Hawaii who falls for Lucy Whitmore (Barrymore). The catch? Due to a past accident, Lucy suffers from short-term memory loss and wakes up every day with no recollection of the previous one. This means Henry has to find creative ways to make her fall in love with him every single day. It's a concept that could be purely comedic, but the film also has a surprising amount of heart and explores the nature of commitment and love. The film was primarily shot on location in Hawaii, adding to its beautiful, romantic backdrop. It's a sweet and inventive romantic comedy.

50 First Dates

10. The Wedding Singer (1998)

Transport yourselves back to the 1980s with this sweet and funny Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore collaboration! Sandler plays Robbie Hart, a wedding singer who's heartbroken after being left at the altar. Barrymore is Julia Sullivan, a waitress engaged to the wrong guy. As Robbie helps Julia plan her wedding, they slowly start falling for each other. This film is full of nostalgic 80s references, catchy original songs, and the undeniable charm of its leads. It was the first time Sandler and Barrymore worked together, sparking a successful on-screen partnership. It's a genuinely charming and feel-good romcom.

The Wedding Singer

9. The Proposal (2009)

Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds deliver fantastic comedic chemistry in 'The Proposal'. Bullock plays a demanding book editor facing deportation back to Canada, who strong-arms her assistant (Reynolds) into a fake engagement. They travel to his quirky Alaskan hometown, where hilarity and unexpected feelings ensue. The film thrives on the dynamic between the two leads and the fish-out-of-water scenario. The scene where Bullock and Betty White dance in the woods is pure comedic gold! It's a fun, feel-good movie with plenty of laughs and a sweet romance at its core.

The Proposal

8. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

Based on Helen Fielding's popular novel, 'Bridget Jones's Diary' introduced the world to the hilariously relatable Bridget Jones. Renée Zellweger (with a spot-on British accent!) plays the imperfect, charming thirty-something navigating her career, love life, and a constant battle with self-improvement. Caught between the dashing but unreliable Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant) and the seemingly aloof but kind Mark Darcy (Colin Firth), Bridget's misadventures are both laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely touching. Did you know Renée Zellweger actually worked undercover at a London publishing house for a month to prepare for the role? It's a witty, heartfelt, and enduringly popular romcom.

Bridget Jones's Diary

7. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

A beloved teen romcom classic that still holds up today! '10 Things I Hate About You' is a clever adaptation of Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew,' set in a modern American high school. Julia Stiles plays the rebellious Kat Stratford, whose younger sister isn't allowed to date until Kat does. This leads to a scheme involving the charming Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger in a breakout role!). The film is funny, smart, and features fantastic performances from its young cast. Heath Ledger's serenade on the bleachers is an absolutely iconic movie moment! It's a witty and heartfelt take on finding love when you least expect it.

10 Things I Hate About You

6. About Time (2013)

'About Time' offers a unique twist on the romcom genre by adding a touch of time travel! Domhnall Gleeson plays Tim, a young man who discovers he can travel back in time within his own life. He uses this ability not for grand historical events, but to perfect awkward conversations and, most importantly, to woo the girl of his dreams, Mary (Rachel McAdams). The film is written and directed by Richard Curtis (of 'Love Actually' and 'Notting Hill'), so you know it's packed with warmth, wit, and genuine emotion. It's less about complex time travel rules and more about appreciating the simple, beautiful moments in life. It's a really moving and heartwarming story.

About Time

5. La La Land (2016)

While also a stunning musical and a bittersweet drama, 'La La Land' has a deeply romantic heart that makes it perfect for a date night. This visually breathtaking film follows the aspiring actress Mia (Emma Stone) and jazz musician Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) as they navigate their dreams and their relationship in Los Angeles. The film is a love letter to classic Hollywood musicals and the city of LA itself, with incredible song and dance numbers. It famously tied the record for most Oscar nominations with 'All About Eve' and 'Titanic'. It's a beautiful, emotional film that explores the sacrifices we make for passion and love.

La La Land

4. Love Actually (2003)

'Love Actually' is practically synonymous with holiday romance, but its charm works year-round! This British ensemble film follows the interconnected love lives of a variety of characters in London leading up to Christmas. From a struggling rock star to the Prime Minister, the stories range from sweet and hopeful to poignant and hilarious. With a cast full of familiar faces like Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, and Keira Knightley, there's a storyline for everyone to connect with. The airport greeting and departure scenes at Heathrow were filmed with hidden cameras, capturing real people! It's a feel-good movie that reminds us love is indeed, all around.

Love Actually

3. Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)

This one is a modern romcom gem with a stellar ensemble cast! 'Crazy, Stupid, Love.' masterfully weaves together multiple storylines about love and relationships at different stages of life. Steve Carell plays a man navigating a sudden divorce who gets dating advice from a smooth-talking Ryan Gosling. Emma Stone and Julianne Moore also deliver fantastic performances. The film is genuinely funny, surprisingly touching, and features some truly unexpected twists. The chemistry between Gosling and Stone here was so good, they were later paired again in 'La La Land'! It's a smart, funny, and ultimately very sweet look at finding love and finding yourself.

Crazy, Stupid, Love.

2. Notting Hill (1999)

Prepare for pure charm! 'Notting Hill' takes the classic 'average person falls for a celebrity' trope and elevates it with genuine heart and humor. Julia Roberts is radiant as the world-famous actress Anna Scott, and Hugh Grant is perfectly cast as the shy, bumbling bookstore owner William Thacker. Their world's collide in London's picturesque Notting Hill, leading to awkward encounters, sweet moments, and laugh-out-loud situations. The supporting cast, including Rhys Ifans as the eccentric Spike, adds layers of comedy. Did you know the famous blue door actually belonged to the film's screenwriter, Richard Curtis? He later sold it for charity! This movie is a warm hug, full of quotable lines and undeniable romance.

Notting Hill

1. When Harry Met Sally... (1989)

Okay, let's start with an absolute cornerstone of the genre! Rob Reiner's 'When Harry Met Sally...' isn't just a great romcom, it's arguably the template. Penned by the legendary Nora Ephron, its sharp, witty dialogue feels incredibly real. The film famously asks if men and women can just be friends, exploring the complexities of relationships over years through chance encounters. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan have incredible chemistry, making their back-and-forth utterly captivating. And who could forget that iconic diner scene? It's a masterclass in comedic timing and character development, proving that sometimes, the best love stories are the ones that take their sweet time to unfold.

When Harry Met Sally...

More related articles about recommended movies and TV shows