Sometimes we all need to remind ourselves that love exists, at least in movies. So if you’re feeling a bit lost, grab some popcorn and ice cream and head over to Netflix for a dose of feel-good magic. Availability of the following movies will depend on where you are in the world and is subject to change, but these recommendations still stand.
- Casablanca This timeless classic never gets old and is as grand, stylish and epic as only old Hollywood can be. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman are pretty much everything a couple in a romantic drama should be and if you’re not mouthing along to the dialog by the end of the movie, you’ve obviously not watched it enough times.
- Sleepless In Seattle A ’90s classic, this romantic comedy is cute and fun with the perfect “impossible made possible” feel-good factor. Perfect for watching if you’re feeling sleepless.
- Dirty Dancing I’ve had the time of my life… Go on, I know you’re singing it in your head too! Sexy dancing, teen drama and a hot, young Patrick Swayze. Can’t go wrong with that.
- The Princess Bride Action! Comedy! Adventure! Romance! This fairy-tale movie has literally got it all. Great acting, incredibly memorable dialog, and, of course, the beautiful story of true love. This classic is one of the few movies in existence that are actually better than the book they’re based on.
- But I’m A Cheerleader A good romantic movie doesn’t need to be hetero-normative to be awesome. This quirky, offbeat comedy about a teenage girl’s coming out story is one of the most beautiful movies you’ll ever see. Sweet, funny and touching, it’s entertaining regardless of your sexual orientation.
- When Harry Met Sally When this movie came out, everyone was talking about that orgasm scene, but this uplifting romantic comedy about two friends falling in love has so much more to offer. If your faith is not restored by the end of it, you might not actually have a heart.
- Grease Camp, cheerful and full of classic song and dance routines, this film is fun with a capital F. The star-crossed lovers teen romance story is a bonus. Are you singing along yet?
- How To Make An American Quilt A whole bunch of touching romantic stories in one beautiful film, with Winona Ryder in the starring role, as a young woman questioning her upcoming marriage. Great if your own life could use a touch of extra wisdom.
- Bridget Jones’ Diary Modern love with a British touch, with a good dose of British humor thrown in for good measure. If you’re a single woman living in a big city, this movie is particularly relatable.
- Amelie The cutest French romantic comedy ever. Everything about this quirky movie is beautiful and perfect and once you watch it, you will instantly fall in love with everything around you.
- Hitch Will Smith and Kevin James are hilarious in this super funny romantic comedy about a pickup artist who discovers his tried and tested technique doesn’t work on the woman of his dreams. A really fun watch for when you’re feeling down.
- Practical Magic Perfect viewing for Halloween, but great any time of year, this movie about a family of witches is the perfect mix of drama, romance and the supernatural.
- Can’t Buy Me Love Feeling retro? Try this romantic teen comedy from the 80s, the decade with the best teen movies in the history of man. This story about a nerd and a cheerleader is perfectly trashy and fun and will pick you up when you’re feeling low (or bored).
- The MatchbreakerA fun indie movie about a guy who gets paid by parents to break up their kids’ relationship. Of course, he ends up falling in love and hilarity and drama ensue.
- Waiting For Forever This romantic drama, shot in Utah of all places, tells the story of two childhood best friends who end up falling in love. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested and – no spoilers – a worthy ending.
- Copenhagen Another indie movie, this time a romantic coming-of-age story set against the pretty background of Denmark’s capital. It tells the story of a guy falling in love with a much younger girl, but manages to do it without being weird or gross.
- Night Owls A guy stays up all night with his boss’ ex after she takes a whole bottle of sleeping pills. Doesn’t sound like the best time to fall in love, but these people do in this funny indie romantic comedy. As you’d expect from an indie comedy, it’s weird and fun.
- Who Framed Roger Rabbit? For when you want something romantic with a childhood favorite sort of twist, reach for this fun semi-animated comedy. Apart from being hilarious, it does actually have a few important lessons to teach you. One is, of course, that even a so-called loser can get the girl, but, more importantly, we learn that you can be a heartbreakingly stunning femme fatale without being a total bitch.
