It’s Valentine’s Day and something on everyone’s to do list today should be at least one romcom, but in a world where they are available in abundance, it’s really hard to pick them. As someone who works in the film and TV industry, and who has watched a LOT of romcoms in her time, I’ve pulled together some of my personal favourites, but I think there’s something for everyone. Whether you love a classic will they/won’t they? or if you adore following the tragic tale of trying to find love, there’s something to add to your watch list.
Now I will admit that one of the films on this list is controversial and only got a 53% score on Rotten Tomatoes, but for me it’s a feel good film and I love adding one of those into my romcom lists. So, have you seen. any of these films before? Or will it be a Valentine’s Day of firsts for you? Have a look!
5. 10 Things I Hate About You
10 Things I Hate About You is well and truly a romcom where you can get the tissues ready, it’s an utter classic and is one that everyone should see at some point, but it can well and truly get you head over heels. It has everything I love in a romcom, two people from different walks of life, humour, heartbreak, and serious romance. Also, one thing I love about romcoms that follow students who are still in school is teenagers wear their hearts on their sleeves and feel things so much, so when I watched this as a teenager, I really GOT it, but even now it’s still a firm favourite.
(Image: Getty Images)
4. How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days
I’m actually ashamed to say that I only watched this for the first time last year and I really don’t know how I got away with that one. This is genuinely one of the best romcoms I’ve ever seen and I’d watch it again a million times over. Maybe it’s a weak spot for films about journalists, but I loved the concept of them both having an angle but then falling in love regardless; you know that something is clearly going to go wrong, but all of these films have a blueprint, it’s great, something goes wrong, they deal with it and then it’s happily ever after, and this noughties classic follows that perfectly.
(Image: How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days)
3. Anyone But You
Okay, this is where I might lose people. This film has only got 53% on Rotten Tomatoes, but I absolutely loved it. It’s funny, lighthearted, has a great soundtrack, and follows the romcom blueprint. I honestly can’t fault it. However, it’s worth noting that this one has its place, this is a mindless watch, I don’t think it’s one that will make you cry, and a lot of the others are, but it’s fun. Honestly, it’s a good one for couples to watch. It’s a recent film, having only come out in 2023, and I went to see it at the cinema at the time and the vibe afterwards was just happy from all who went in, it’s no masterpiece, but it’s just a feel-good film.
(Image: Anyone But You)
2. Bridget Jones’ Diary
Bridget Jones’ Diary is one of the most popular romcoms of all time, so much so that it managed to amass an incredible franchise and cult following due to its success. Bridget Jones is a relatable woman looking for love, but it doesn’t always come to her easily, which is common in this day and age — a lot of romcoms see someone fall head over heels for one person and get their happily ever after, but that’s not a phrase Bridget is familiar with; it’s popular because it’s relatable and if you’re looking for something like that, the Bridget Jones franchise is a great way to start your Valentine’s weekend, and it’ll give you a lot to watch too!
(Image: Bridget Jones)
1. Dear John
Okay, yes I have cheated this isn’t typically considered a romcom, it’s more a romantic drama. But I couldn’t give a list of films to watch this Valentine’s Day and not include my favourite film of all time. I remember when I first watched this as a teenager and I absolutely sobbed every single time. It’s gut-wrenching but gives such a powerful story throughout. The casting was fantastic, but Nicholas Sparks knows how to write a good book, and the book was just turned into the most beautiful love story. If you’ve not seen this film, add it to your list, but I have to warn, you will absolutely need to have the tissues ready.
(Image: Dear John)