From first kisses to heart-breaking goodbyes, these heart gripping love stories steal the vote for the best movies to watch during February. Whether you’ve given your heart to someone this season or are single, romance movies are the way to go. As Michael Ungar, a researcher for Psychology Today with a PHD in social work, said, “people who watch romantic television and movies report higher relationship commitment and satisfaction rates.” Use this fact as an excuse to watch these amazing films with friends and family while you bond and enjoy quality time together.
Let’s start with one of the most popular genres, romantic comedies, better known as rom-coms. The list of rom-coms can go on forever but some of the best are How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and 10 Things I Hate About You. Starting with a personal favorite, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is about Andie, a magazine writer who tries to drive a man away for her new article she is writing. Her target is Ben, who is determined to make a woman fall in love with him in the same amount of time. As their clever and charming schemes progress, they find themselves falling for each other, resulting in hilarious and touching scenes. This movie can fill a room with smiles and laughter as director Donald Petrie takes you along the ride of this unique love story, with Kate Hudson playing Andie and Matthew McConaughey as Ben.
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is the best because I really enjoyed the concept because it was really unique and I think the outfits that were worn were really good,” said junior Bella Peña.
The next amusable rom-com is the fan-favorite 10 Things I Hate About You, directed by Gil Junger. In this playful film, we follow Kat, a tough and independent girl, who is pursued by Patrick, who was hired to date her. As they spend more time together, they unexpectedly fall for each other. Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger take the lead in this film to bring a story about family, identity, and romance to life. Fill your screens at home with incredible stories that will bring laughter and heartfelt emotions. These rom-coms are perfect for any night whether you are alone or with a special someone.
Sometimes the best stories come from the past, one example being Pride and Prejudice. Originally a novel written by Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice is a charming story set in England during the regency era where Elizabeth Bennet, an independent and quick-witted woman who faces a lot of pressure from her parents to marry, clashes with the brooding Mr. Darcy. Despite their poor first impressions, romantic tension grows between them as they realize that first impressions and pride can be deceiving. Starring Keira Knightly and Matthew Macfadyen as the main characters, this tale of love captures the beauty of the era with elegant dances and party scenes, while also having plot twists that’ll keep you hooked (even if you’re not into ball gowns).
Last but not least, we have the Academy Award-winning musical La La Land directed by Damien Chazelle. This is a vibrant love story about two ambitious people, Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, who fall for each other while chasing their Hollywood dreams. As they navigate love, success, and failure, they learn that sometimes the dreams you chase come with tough choices. This musical was featured in Variety’s “The 50 Greatest Romantic Movies of All Time” at #29, which says, “Damien Chazelle’s glorious, heartrending, bittersweet musical does an extraordinary job of retro-fitting the song and dance pleasures of vintage Hollywood into the sunlit freeway landscape of contemporary Los Angeles.”. The stunning visuals of this film are paired with catchy songs and wholehearted performances by Emma Stone as Mia and Ryan Gosling as Sebastian. The film is a celebration of love, ambition, and the challenges that come with chasing your dreams.
“I like watching romance movies because they make you feel excited for what love might have to offer,” said junior Peña on why she likes romantic movies.
The best romance movies offer more than just heartwarming love stories, they explore the complexities of personal growth, relationships, and passion. So, whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted rom-com, classic period drama, or lively musical, there’s a perfect film for any moment. Grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and let these unforgettable movies remind you of the magic of love.
