Valentine's Day: The Ultimate Rom-Com Occasion
Let's be honest: Valentine's Day stands as the most polarising date on the calendar. For those in relationships, it's a cherished opportunity for romantic gestures and special plans. For singles, the barrage of overpriced bouquets and saccharine social media updates can range from mildly irritating to utterly infuriating.
However, one universal truth emerges amidst the February chill and pervasive amorous atmosphere: Valentine's Day presents the ideal excuse to indulge in a romantic comedy. With this in mind, we've curated an extensive selection of films to suit every conceivable romantic scenario.
Our comprehensive guide includes perfect options for cosying up with a partner or setting an intimate mood, alongside hilarious choices for those spending the day independently (perhaps with a hint of romantic scepticism). Without further delay, here is your definitive Valentine's viewing plan—regardless of your company.
Essential Classic Romances
When Harry Met Sally (Prime Video)
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan portray the titular New Yorkers whose contentious initial encounter during a post-university road trip ignites a perennial debate: can men and women truly maintain platonic friendships? The narrative follows Harry and Sally through twelve years of fortuitous reunions, evolving from awkward acquaintances to intimate confidants as they navigate changing partners, careers, and increasingly revealing nocturnal conversations. This sharp, humorous, and unexpectedly tender love story simmers gradually rather than rushing, making it perfect viewing for believers in destiny—or at least impeccable timing.
Dirty Dancing (ITVX)
Featuring an iconic soundtrack, electrifying chemistry, and that legendary lift, this classic stars Jennifer Grey as Baby, an innocent teenager whose world transforms during a Catskills holiday when she encounters brooding dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). Their secret summer romance rapidly deepens into something profoundly meaningful as Baby becomes immersed in Johnny's world of clandestine dance parties, intricate routines, and palpable class divisions.
Pretty Woman (Disney+)
This contemporary Cinderella narrative features Julia Roberts sparkling as Vivian, a Hollywood Boulevard escort unexpectedly hired by composed corporate raider Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) for a week of high-society appearances. Their strictly professional arrangement gradually becomes complicated as Vivian trades thigh-high boots for Rodeo Drive elegance and Edward discovers life extends beyond hostile takeovers. The film concludes with one of cinema's most memorable—if slightly cheesy—final lines.
The Notebook (BBC iPlayer)
This quintessential tearjerker stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as Noah and Allie, young lovers whose intense summer romance in 1940s South Carolina is disrupted by class barriers and life's unpredictable challenges. Framed by an elderly man reading their story from a weathered notebook, the film spans decades, documenting missed opportunities and the irresistible attraction that continually reunites them. This sweeping, sentimental, and unapologetically romantic tale features a profoundly bittersweet conclusion capable of moving even the staunchest cynic.
Steamy and Provocative Dramas
Fifty Shades of Grey (Netflix)
Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan portray Anastasia Steele and billionaire Christian Grey in this adaptation of the bestselling novel that mainstreamed erotic literature. When timid literature student Ana interviews the intensely private Grey, they enter a charged, complex relationship that pushes her beyond familiar boundaries. As their connection intensifies, Ana questions whether she can accept Christian's controlling world—and if love can exist on his terms. This glossy, provocative, and undeniably addictive modern romance explores fantasy, power dynamics, and forbidden allure.
Blue is the Warmest Color (ITVX)
This groundbreaking 2013 coming-of-age drama follows Adèle, a reserved French teenager whose existence shifts when she becomes fascinated by confident, blue-haired art student Emma. Their initial curiosity swiftly evolves into an all-consuming first love, capturing both passionate highs and the painful growth associated with identity, ambition, and adulthood. The film made Cannes history by becoming the first to share the Palme d'Or between its director and lead actresses.
Call Me By Your Name (Prime Video)
Based on André Aciman's acclaimed novel, this sun-drenched coming-of-age romance follows Elio (Timothée Chalamet), a precocious seventeen-year-old spending summer at his family's Italian villa, whose world shifts with the arrival of his father's charming American research assistant, Oliver (Armie Hammer). Their initial teasing curiosity slowly blossoms into an intense, secretive first love against a backdrop of lazy afternoons, bicycle rides, and the hazy beauty of an Italian summer. That peach scene remains unforgettable.
Friends with Benefits (Prime Video)
When best friends (Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake) decide to add a no-strings-attached arrangement to their friendship while both single, complications inevitably arise. Set against vibrant New York City, their effortless banter and undeniable chemistry gradually blur boundaries between casual and complicated. This sharp, humorous, and refreshingly candid film offers a modern perspective on dating dynamics.
Perfect Picks for Solo Viewers
Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (Display+)
While all three Bridget Jones films excel, the second installment holds particular affection. Renée Zellweger's delightfully chaotic heroine navigates the challenges of a new relationship with Mark Darcy while overthinking absolutely everything. From romantic misunderstandings to disastrous holidays and encounters with the perpetually charming Daniel Cleaver, Bridget's attempts to preserve her happy ending lead to gloriously cringe-worthy escapades.
Legally Blonde (Prime Video)
Sorority star Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) exchanges Malibu pink for Harvard Law's stuffy lecture halls attempting to reclaim her unworthy ex—only to discover she's far more intelligent, capable, and sharp than anyone acknowledged. Armed with impeccable style, a chihuahua, and unshakeable optimism, Elle revolutionises the boys' club, demonstrating that one can be both a formidable lawyer and impeccably dressed. This remains the ultimate girl-power classic.
Bridesmaids (Prime Video)
This film guarantees uncontrollable laughter. Kristen Wiig stars as Annie, a struggling baker whose life unravels as her best friend becomes engaged and appoints her maid of honour. The resulting chaos includes bridal showers, dress fittings, and increasingly unhinged attempts to maintain composure, amplified by Melissa McCarthy's scene-stealing performance as wildly unpredictable Megan.
Bride Wars (ITVX)
Lifelong best friends Liv and Emma (Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway) face separation when a clerical error books their dream weddings at The Plaza on identical dates. Their polite attempts at compromise escalate into full-scale bridal warfare featuring sabotaged hair appointments, disastrous spray tans, and an infamous blue haircut. This ultimate friendship love story emphasises that perfect wedding days matter less than the people standing beside you.
Family-Friendly Romantic Choices
Clueless (BBC iPlayer)
Any film adapting Jane Austen begins strongly, and Clueless delivers a sun-soaked interpretation of Emma. Alicia Silverstone achieves icon status as Cher Horowitz, the Beverly Hills teen queen who considers herself a matchmaking expert: orchestrating makeovers, meddling in romances, and ruling her school. When her good intentions backfire, Cher confronts her blind spots (and unexpected feelings for her charming stepbrother, portrayed by Paul Rudd). Still influencing fashion decades later, this teen classic proves that being somewhat clueless constitutes part of growing up.
Enchanted (Disney+)
Featuring an all-star cast including Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, and James Marsden, this romantic comedy begins in animated fairytale Andalasia before transporting wide-eyed princess Giselle to cynical New York City streets. As she navigates life without talking animals or spontaneous musical numbers, Giselle forms an unexpected bond with pragmatic divorce lawyer Robert, questioning what "happily ever after" truly means.
You've Got Mail (Now TV)
Nora Ephron's classic romantic comedy features rival New York booksellers Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) clashing professionally while unknowingly falling for each other through anonymous emails. As their digital connection deepens, their real-world animosity becomes increasingly difficult to ignore, creating a delicious will-they-won't-they dynamic filled with secrets. Ryan and Hanks' effortless chemistry remains irresistible, brimming with Ephron's signature charm.
Breakfast at Tiffany's (Paramount+)
This iconic 1960s classic stars Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, the effortlessly chic New York socialite drifting through parties, admirers, and nocturnal Tiffany's visits seeking stability. Her unlikely friendship with neighbour and struggling writer Paul Varjak (George Peppard) gradually deepens into something more meaningful, forcing Holly to confront the vulnerability she's long avoided. This sophisticated romance continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts.
Enemies-to-Lovers Favourites
The Proposal (Disney+)
Sandra Bullock stars as Margaret Tate, a formidable publishing executive facing deportation who coerces her long-suffering assistant Andrew (Ryan Reynolds) into a marriage of convenience. Their strictly transactional engagement descends into chaos when they visit Andrew's family in Alaska, with suspicious relatives and immigration officials complicating matters. This film delivers forced-proximity romantic comedy perfection.
The Princess Diaries 2: A Royal Engagement (Disney+)
Now established in Genovia, Princess Mia (Anne Hathaway) encounters an inconvenient royal decree: she must marry within thirty days to claim the throne. Her whirlwind search for a suitable husband and carefully staged courtship with a perfect-on-paper suitor becomes complicated by charming rival Nicholas Devereaux (Chris Pine), who may harbour his own designs on the crown. As palace politics, public expectations, and her heart collide, Mia must determine what kind of queen she desires—and whether love can accompany royal duties.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (Paramount+)
Eccentric journalist Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) accepts an assignment to document how to drive a man away in ten days, while smooth-talking advertising executive Benjamin Barry (Matthew McConaughey) wagers he can make a woman fall in love with him within the same timeframe—and they select each other. As their games evolve into genuine emotions (and several public disasters), the boundary between strategy and sincerity blurs. Kate Hudson's pale yellow dress remains stunning.
10 Things I Hate About You (Disney+)
This modern Shakespeare adaptation (inspired by The Taming of the Shrew) follows sharp-tongued outsider Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles) and mysterious bad boy Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger). When Kat's overprotective father prohibits her younger sister from dating unless Kat does too, a scheme emerges to pay Patrick to accompany her—but their arrangement soon transforms into something authentic. Packed with witty dialogue, high school antics, and an unforgettable stadium serenade, this coming-of-age romance explores seeing beyond first impressions and falling for someone nobody else understands.
