Romantic movies have always been a popular genre among movie lovers. They have the ability to transport us to different worlds, make us feel emotions we never thought possible, and leave us with a sense of hope and happiness.
Over the years, romantic movies have evolved and adapted to changing societal norms and values. From classic love stories to modern-day rom-coms, the genre has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best romantic movies of all time released after 1970, along with a brief history of romance in film and the most well-known directors of romantic films.
Romance has been a popular genre in films since the early days of cinema. The first romantic film was ‘The Kiss’ in 1896, which featured a couple kissing for an entire 18 seconds. As time passed, romantic films became more elaborate and sophisticated.
During the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, romantic films were among the most popular genres. The films were known for their glamour, elegance, and timeless love stories. As society changed, so did the portrayal of romance in films. The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of a more realistic and modern approach to romance. This led to the creation of the modern-day romantic comedy, a genre that has become a staple in Hollywood.
There are many talented directors who have left their mark on the romantic film genre. Some of the most well-known directors include Richard Linklater, James Cameron, Nicholas Sparks, Woody Allen, and Nora Ephron.
Below are 10 must-see romantic movies:
The Notebook (2004)
Directed by Nick Cassavetes, this film tells the story of a couple, Noah and Allie, who fall in love during the 1940s. Their love story is narrated by an elderly man to a fellow nursing home resident. The film is an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you in tears.
Titanic (1997)
Directed by James Cameron, this film is a timeless classic that tells the story of Jack and Rose, two people from different social classes who fall in love aboard the ill-fated Titanic. The film is known for its iconic scenes, breathtaking visuals, and heart-wrenching love story.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Directed by Emile Ardolino, this film tells the story of a young woman, Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman, who falls in love with her dance instructor, Johnny Castle, while on vacation. The film is a perfect blend of romance, drama, and music.
A Walk to Remember (2002)
Directed by Adam Shankman, this film is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks. It tells the story of a high school student, Landon Carter, who falls in love with a terminally ill girl, Jamie Sullivan. The film is a tear-jerker that will leave you feeling inspired.
The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Directed by Josh Boone, this film is based on the novel by John Green. It tells the story of two teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, who fall in love while battling cancer. The film is a beautiful tribute to the power of love and the human spirit.
Before Sunrise (1995)
Directed by Richard Linklater, this film is the first of a trilogy that follows the story of two strangers, Jesse and Celine, who meet on a train and spend one night together in Vienna. The film explores the power of connection and the magic of unexpected encounters.
Notting Hill (1999)
Directed by Roger Michell, this film tells the story of a humble bookshop owner, William Thacker, who falls in love with a famous American actress, Anna Scott. The film is a charming and witty romantic comedy that captures the essence of modern-day romance.
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Directed by David O. Russell, this film tells the story of a man named Pat Solitano, who has just been released from a mental institution and meets a young woman named Tiffany. The film explores the complexities of mental illness and the healing power of love.
La La Land (2016)
Directed by Damien Chazelle, this film is a modern-day musical that tells the story of an aspiring actress, Mia, and a jazz pianist, Sebastian, who fall in love in Los Angeles. The film is a stunning tribute to the golden age of Hollywood and the power of chasing your dreams.
The Princess Bride (1987)
Directed by Rob Reiner, this film is a timeless classic that tells the story of a young woman named Buttercup and her true love, Westley. The film is a charming and funny fairy tale that has become a cult favorite among movie lovers.
ROMANTIC COMEDIES
Romantic comedies have been a beloved genre in the film industry for almost a century. Their stories of love and romance, often with a healthy dose of humor, have captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Despite being a popular genre, the romantic comedy has undergone significant changes throughout the years, evolving from the silent film screwball comedies of the 1910s and 1920s to the modern rom-coms of today.
In the golden age of Hollywood, films like “It Happened One Night” and “The Philadelphia Story” set the standard for the classic romantic comedy formula, with iconic stars like Clark Gable and Katharine Hepburn leading the way. These films featured meet-cutes, misunderstandings, and obstacles for couples to overcome before finally declaring their love for each other.
Today, the romantic comedy genre continues to evolve with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu. Films like “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” and “Crazy Rich Asians” have found success with audiences, proving that the genre still has relevance and resonance in modern times.
Despite being criticized by some for being formulaic and predictable, fans of the romantic comedy genre argue that these films provide an escape and a source of hope in an often uncertain world. At its core, the romantic comedy offers the promise of a happy ending, something that audiences have craved and embraced for almost a century.
Making a rom-com takes a certain eye, these filmmakers have created some of the most beloved and iconic romantic comedies in cinematic history. Nancy Meyers is known for her films featuring strong female leads and witty, relatable dialogue. Gary Marshall’s films often blend humor and heart, with charming characters and feel-good stories. Richard Curtis, a British filmmaker, has directed films with large ensemble casts that explore the many facets of love and relationships. Together, these directors have contributed to the enduring popularity of the romantic comedy genre.
Here are 5 beloved rom-coms for your next movie night:
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Directed by Rob Reiner, this film tells the story of two friends, Harry and Sally, who struggle to maintain a platonic relationship. The film is a witty and charming exploration of love, friendship, and timing.
The Wedding Singer (1998)
Directed by Frank Coraci, this film tells the story of a wedding singer named Robbie who falls in love with a waitress named Julia. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming tribute to the 1980s.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Directed by Gil Junger, this film is a modern-day retelling of William Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’. The film follows the story of a high school student named Kat who is pursued by a popular boy named Patrick. The film is a fun and witty exploration of young love.
Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, this film tells the story of a man named Cal who is going through a divorce and seeks guidance from a stylish bachelor named Jacob. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming exploration of love, relationships, and self-discovery.
The Proposal (2009)
Directed by Anne Fletcher, this film tells the story of a demanding book editor named Margaret who is about to be deported back to Canada and convinces her assistant, Andrew, to marry her in order to stay in the United States. The film is a charming and funny exploration of unexpected romance.
Romantic films have captured the hearts of moviegoers for decades. Whether you prefer classic love stories, modern-day romances, or the playful misadventures in rom-coms, there is a romantic film out there for everyone. These top 10 best romantic movies of all time, as well as the top 5 romantic comedies since 1970, showcase the diversity and beauty of the romantic film genre.
