Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and whether you’re a romantic or a cynic, who doesn’t enjoy cuddling up on the couch in front of a great movie? Grab the chocolate and the wine with your S.O., mom, dad, best friend, dog or whomever else you’re spending Valentine’s with, and enjoy one of these great movies. This is Ellis James Designs’ definitive list of the best movies for the most passionate of days.
Table of Contents
- Bridesmaids (2011)
- True Romance (1994)
- Romeo + Juliet (1996)
- When Harry Met Sally (1989)
- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
- Walk the Line (2005)
Bridesmaids (2011)
A great movie to enjoy any time of the year. Its lighthearted and hilarious portrayal of love and female friendships. When Annie (Kristen Wiig) is crowned maid of honor by her newly engaged childhood friend Lillian (Maya Rudolph), their friendship is put to the test by Lillian’s new friend Helen (Rose Byrne), and hilarity ensues. Marking a new era of female comedy, Bridesmaids is at once outrageous and touching, and is as much a celebration of female friendships as it is of romantic love.
True Romance (1994)
Not for the fainthearted, True Romance is a romantic crime thriller penned by none other than Quentin Tarantino. The story follows two idealistic American lovers as they attempt to outrun the law and a gang of criminals and escape to Mexico. Not only is this a star-studded movie to please even the most casual cinema-goer (Dennis Hopper, Patricia Arquette, Brad Pitt and Christopher Walken to name a few), but it is a funny and at times shocking and unpredictable alternative to the sugary rom com.
Romeo + Juliet (1996)
Everyone knows the story of Romeo and Juliet; Baz Luhrmann’s film is a fabulously vibrant and stylish modern interpretation of the classic Shakespearean play. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes play the star-crossed lovers and their onscreen chemistry is palpable, making this movie as poignant as the original tragedy was intended to be, but with lots of fun and great music thrown in as well. The story of doomed lovers is genuinely moving and a must for both single people and couples this Valentine’s Day.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
This classic movie is lauded as the re-invention of the Rom Com. It’s touching, funny and oh-so relatable! Harry and Sally have been friends for years but are scared that if they end up together their friendship will be ruined. The plot is clever, the dialogue witty, and Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal both deliver stellar performances to make this the perfect movie for a relaxed Valentine’s evening in.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
This unique and beautifully-made comedy drama is set in a sci-fi world where it’s possible to have memories of your ex removed by a brain-zapping procedure. A classic love story in reverse, the plot follows the relationship between Joel Parish (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet) as they deal with the highs and lows of a modern-day relationship. Visually stunning and unforgettably moving, this movie is a must for romantics and film buffs alike.
Walk the Line (2005)
This is a beautiful biopic of Johnny Cash (played by Joaquin Phoenix) and his relationship with June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). Featuring stunning performances all round – both in acting and singing. This movie trumpets love in adversity and offers a unique insight into the colorful life of one of the world’s best loved country singers.
So, there you have it – whether you want to enjoy it or simply get through it, these are some of the best movies to enjoy this Valentine’s Day.
Enjoy!
