Valentine’s Day calls for grand romantic gestures — or at the very least, a film that makes you believe in them. Whether you’re celebrating with your soulmate, galentine, or home alone with a box of chocolates and bottle of wine, come Valentine’s Day, a classic romance is essential.
From timeless love stories to laugh-out-loud rom-coms, these ten films capture romance in all its messy, magical, heart-fluttering glory.
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When Harry Met Sally (1989)
The gold standard of will-they-won’t-they, this sharp, heartfelt rom-com proves that love is as much about timing as it is about friendship. With crackling dialogue, New York in the fall, and that diner scene, it’s romance at its wittiest.
Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001)
Few heroines are as charmingly chaotic as Bridget Jones, navigating romance, career woes, and a very unfortunate Christmas jumper. With Colin Firth and Hugh Grant in peak heartthrob form, it’s a love triangle you’ll want to watch unfold over and over again.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly is the epitome of old-Hollywood glamour, but beneath the pearls and Givenchy is a story of longing and love found in the most unexpected places. Add in moonlit Manhattan and Moon River, and you have pure romance magic.
There’s Something About Mary (1998)
A rom-com that balances its heart with hilarity (and a touch of chaos). Cameron Diaz is radiant, Ben Stiller is hapless, and the result is a wild, offbeat love story that proves sometimes the messiest romances are the most unforgettable.
Before Sunrise (1995)
A love story that unfolds in a single night, filled with poetic conversations, wistful glances, and Vienna as the dreamiest of backdrops. Jesse and Céline’s fleeting connection is pure cinematic magic — the kind of romance that lingers long after the credits roll.
Notting Hill (1999)
A bookstore, a blue door, and one of the most iconic confessions of love ever: I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy… This Hugh Grant-Julia Roberts classic is a love letter to unexpected romance, London, and grand romantic gestures.
Romeo & Juliet (1969)
Shakespeare’s ultimate love story, brought to life with lush visuals and the kind of swoon-worthy intensity that only doomed young lovers can deliver. If you like your romance with poetry, tragedy, and candlelit longing, this one’s for you.
Pretty Woman (1990)
Cinderella gets a ‘90s reboot with Richard Gere and Julia Roberts, who make an irresistible pair in this modern fairytale. Shopping sprees, rooftop rescues, and that unforgettable red dress — this is a love story that defined an era.
Something’s Gotta Give (2003)
Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson prove that romance isn’t just for twenty-somethings. With sparkling chemistry, Hamptons charm, and a witty take on love later in life, it’s a feel-good watch that’s both sophisticated and sweet.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
A nostalgic ode to bookstores, slow-burn romance, and the magic of an email inbox. Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks make falling in love through dial-up internet feel timeless, and the NYC backdrop only adds to the charm.
