Staying in and relaxing together with a perfect romantic comedy can make for a perfect date night that's fun, easy, and won't break the bank. Watching a romantic comedy (rom com for short) can strengthen your relationship and allow you to experience different kinds of situations and love than you might otherwise in your everyday lives.

It can be tough to pick which rom com to actually watch though, with so many options available. We often will spend at least 20-30 minutes just cycling through our options, trying to find the perfect movie to watch.

To help make your decision easier, here is a list of ten of the best rom coms that couples should watch:

• The Princess Bride
• When Harry Met Sally
• 500 Days of Summer
• The Notebook
• Groundhog Day
• Crazy Rich Asians
• Pretty Woman
• Silver Linings Playbook
• 10 Things I Hate About You
• Love Actually

Whether you're looking for something lighthearted or thought-provoking these movies have something for everyone.

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The Princess Bride - Unconvential Love with Adventure

The Princess Bride follows the unconventional love between Westley and Buttercup, as they overcome obstacles and navigate their way through the fairy tale romance. What makes this movie so special is its ability to blend humor, adventure, fantasy, and romance together in such perfect harmony.

It has something for everyone, from witty one-liners and swordfights to an inspiring message about true love conquering all. A perfect romantic comedy but with some action.

The characters are equally memorable: Westley is brave and loyal while Buttercup is strong-willed yet vulnerable; Inigo Montoya is determined but honorable; Fezzik is gentle yet fierce; Vizzini is cunning yet prideful. Each of these characters brings something unique to the story which keeps viewers engaged throughout the entire movie.

From start to finish, The Princess Bride never fails to charm audiences with its enchanting mix of adventure, romance, comedy, and drama. This movie holds up remarkably well even after multiple viewings, making it a great option when deciding what romantic comedy flick to watch with your partner.

This movie is actually Kelsey's favorite rom-com and even though she has seen it probably a hundred times, she is always willing to watch it again. It's very lighthearted and definitely has that rewatchable feature to it.

When Harry Met Sally - A Classic Tale of Friendship Turned Love

When Harry Met Sally is the perfect example of how a deep and genuine friendship can ultimately blossom into a beautiful love story. This timeless romantic comedy, directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron, explores the complexities of relationships and the blurred lines between friendship and romance.

The film follows the lives of Harry Burns (played by Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (played by Meg Ryan) as they navigate their way through life, constantly crossing paths but remaining just friends. Their witty banter and undeniable chemistry make for some truly memorable moments throughout the film.

What sets When Harry Met Sally apart from other rom coms is its realistic portrayal of friendship turning into love. The characters start off as strangers who become friends over time, sharing their hopes, dreams, and fears with each other. As they grow closer, they begin to realize that there might be something more than just friendship between them.

One of the most iconic scenes in the film is when Sally fakes an orgasm in a crowded restaurant to prove a point to Harry about women's ability to fake pleasure during sex. Watching it play out on screen is hilarious but it also offers an insight into the characters growing sexual tension which has been increasing slowly over the years as they become better and better friends.

Throughout When Harry Met Sally, we see Harry and Sally support each other through various ups and downs in their lives. They celebrate victories together, console each other during heartbreaks, and even push each other out of their comfort zones. It is these shared experiences that ultimately lead to them realizing that they are meant to be more than just friends.

When Harry Met Sally remains a timeless classic because it captures the essence of friendship turning into love in a relatable and entertaining way. The film reminds us that sometimes our soulmates are right in front of us all along; we just need to open ourselves up to the possibility of something more.

500 Days of Summer - A Story About Opposites Attracting

Watching 500 Days of Summer will definitely make you feel all the emotions of a great romantic comedy but might be more emotional than funny. The movie follows Tom Hansen, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Summer Finn, played by Zooey Deschanel, as they experience the highs and lows of a relationship in modern-day Los Angeles.

As two opposites who attract, Tom and Summer's love story is relatable to many viewers. Filled with moments that make time stand still, such as when Tom sees Summer for the first time in an elevator or when he dances alone on a rooftop after their breakup, it's easy to get lost in their journey.

What makes the movie unique is its nonlinear narrative style that jumps back and forth between different points in the relationship. This allows us to see how much Tom has grown throughout his summer romance with Summer, from naivety into maturity. We also get insight into what went wrong through various scenes showing them at odds over conflicting views on love and commitment.

The soundtrack accompanying this enchanting story is just as impressive as its cast. Each song perfectly captures either the joys or struggles of being in love: From Regina Spektor's upbeat "Us" to The Smiths' somber "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out".

Just note if you are thinking of watching 500 Days of Summer for the first time, it is one of the more emotional movies on our list. But even being a bit more dramatic, the movie is well worth a watch simply for the great story and the excellent soundtrack.

The Notebook - A Heartfelt Story of Love and Fate

This classic romantic film explores the depths of love and destiny, showcasing the power of true love like no other.

Set in the 1940s, The Notebook tells the tale of Allie Hamilton and Noah Calhoun (played by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams), two young lovers who are separated by societal expectations but remain connected through an enduring bond.

Love is at the core of this story, as Allie and Noah's paths cross again years after their initial romance. Despite Allie's engagement to another man, their undeniable connection rekindles a passion that cannot be ignored. Their love becomes a force that defies all odds, showing us that true love can withstand any obstacle thrown its way.

Through beautiful cinematography and powerful performances, The Notebook captures the essence of a timeless love story. It reminds us that fate has a way of bringing people together when they are meant to be. The film beautifully portrays how love can change lives and inspire individuals to make sacrifices for one another.

The Notebook is more than just a romantic film; it delves into themes such as commitment, sacrifice, and the endurance of true love. It showcases how relationships can weather storms over time and teaches us about the importance of cherishing those we hold dear.

This will always be on lists of best rom coms to watch because of how many different things it deals with in the movie and the intensity of the relationship within the movie. That being said, it is not the rom com we would start with if you want something more on the comedy side of rom com as it is a very serious and intense movie throughout.

Groundhog Day - A Movie About Second Chances at Happiness

Starring Bill Murray as Phil Connors, Groundhog Day follows him as he lives the same day over and over again. With an average of more than 34 repeats of Groundhog Day per viewing, you're sure to laugh and cry with Phil on his journey.

While it may sound like a never-ending loop at first, Phil uses his time to reflect and make improvements in his life. He builds relationships with people around town he had previously neglected and even falls in love with Rita (Andie MacDowell).

The timelessness of love is emphasized throughout the film by showing that despite all odds, true love can be found anywhere. As Phil continues to relive the same day, we watch him grow and learn from his mistakes until he finally finds what he's been searching for: happiness.

The lessons learned in Groundhog Day are still relevant today, no matter how hard things seem at first or how many times you have failed before, it's always possible to start fresh and try again. We will say that this choice is more on the comedy side and not as heavy on romance as the other choices.

Crazy Rich Asians - A Modern Romantic Comedy Involving Different Cultures

Get ready to be swept off your feet with Crazy Rich Asians, a modern romantic comedy that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love all over again. This film not only provides an entertaining storyline but also breaks barriers by showcasing modern Asian representation on the big screen.

Directed by Jon M. Chu and based on Kevin Kwan's best-selling novel, Crazy Rich Asians follows the story of Rachel Chu, an intelligent and strong-willed economics professor from New York who accompanies her boyfriend Nick Young to his best friend's wedding in Singapore.

The film beautifully illustrates the power of love and family as Rachel navigates through extravagant parties, jealous socialites, and a disapproving mother-in-law-to-be. Constance Wu delivers a captivating performance as Rachel, effortlessly portraying her resilience and vulnerability. The chemistry between Wu and Henry Golding, who plays Nick Young, is palpable throughout the film, making their love story all the more compelling.

One of the highlights of Crazy Rich Asians is its portrayal of Singaporean culture and traditions. From vibrant street markets to opulent mansions, viewers are immersed in a visually stunning world that showcases the diversity of Asian cultures. The film also emphasizes the importance of family bonds and staying true to one's roots.

In addition to its cultural significance, Crazy Rich Asians serves as a reminder that love knows no bounds. It challenges societal expectations while celebrating individuality and personal choices. By blending humor with heartfelt moments, this movie manages to captivate audiences everywhere.

Crazy Rich Asians is really more than just a romantic comedy; it is a testament to the power of love transcending cultural differences. Its modern Asian representation combined with its exploration of familial bonds makes it an essential watch for any rom com enthusiast seeking both entertainment and meaningful storytelling.

As far as more recent rom coms, this one is our top pick. It's that adorable.

Pretty Woman - A Fairytale Romance with a Twist

This modern twist on the classic Cinderella story takes viewers on a journey filled with charm, humor, and unexpected moments.

In 'Pretty Woman', we follow the unlikely love story between Vivian Ward, a street-smart prostitute played by Julia Roberts, and Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman portrayed by Richard Gere.

This cult-classic fairytale romance with a modern twist is a must-watch. It has everything you would want in a romantic comedy.

1. Unconventional Love: Pretty Woman challenges traditional notions of romance by showcasing an unconventional relationship between two individuals from different social backgrounds. Their love transcends societal norms and teaches us that true love knows no bounds.
2. Transformation: Vivian's transformation from an outsider to an elegant lady is truly captivating. It reminds us that everyone deserves a second chance at happiness and that appearances can often be deceiving.
3. Empowerment: While initially dependent on Edward for financial support, Vivian ultimately finds her voice and takes control of her own destiny. Her journey empowers viewers to believe in their own strength and ability to overcome obstacles.
4. Chemistry: The on-screen chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere is electric, making their romantic moments feel genuine and heartfelt. Their performances bring the characters to life in a way that leaves audiences rooting for their happily ever after.
5. Timeless Appeal: Even decades after its release, Pretty Woman continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal. Its themes of love, self-discovery, and transformation resonate across generations, reminding us that fairytales can come true in unexpected ways.

Silver Linings Playbook - A Quirky and Heartfelt Love Story

Silver Linings Playbook is an endearing and authentic portrayal of love, showcasing the power of embracing imperfections and finding solace in unexpected places. This quirky love story takes viewers on a heartfelt journey filled with ups and downs, ultimately reminding us that love can bloom even in the most unconventional circumstances.

One of the key elements that sets Silver Linings Playbook apart is its unique and offbeat characters. Pat Solitano, played by Bradley Cooper, is a man struggling with bipolar disorder who's recently been released from a mental institution. Jennifer Lawrence's character, Tiffany Maxwell, also battles her own demons as she copes with the loss of her husband. Their paths cross at just the right moment, leading to a connection built on shared vulnerabilities and understanding.

The chemistry between Cooper and Lawrence is palpable throughout the film, making their relationship feel incredibly genuine. As they navigate their respective challenges together, their quirks become endearing rather than obstacles. The audience witnesses how two individuals find solace in each other's company amidst chaos and uncertainty.

What makes this romantic comedy truly special is its ability to delve into serious topics while still maintaining its lightheartedness. Silver Linings Playbook tackles themes such as mental health stigma and personal growth without losing sight of its central focus: love conquers all.

Overall, Silver Linings Playbook stands out among other rom coms for its portrayal of an unconventional yet heartfelt romance. It reminds us that sometimes it's our imperfections that make us lovable and that true connections can be found in unexpected places.

10 Things I Hate About You - A Teenage Romance With Great Chemistry

This film is a classic example of rom coms that cater to young hearts, bringing together teenage love stories and unexpected twists.

10 Things I Hate About You takes inspiration from William Shakespeare's play, The Taming of the Shrew, giving it a modern and relatable twist. Set in an American high school, the film follows the lives of two sisters, Kat and Bianca Stratford. The twist? Their overprotective father has set a rule that Bianca can only date if her older sister, Kat, does too.

Cue Cameron James, who falls head over heels for Bianca and devises a plan to have bad-boy Patrick Verona woo Kat.

What makes this film stand out among other teenage romances is its sharp wit, clever dialogue, and genuine chemistry between the characters. It perfectly captures the complexities of high school relationships while delivering plenty of laughs along the way. The performances by Heath Ledger as Patrick Verona and Julia Stiles as Kat Stratford are particularly noteworthy; their portrayal of two individuals who reluctantly fall in love is both endearing and captivating.

10 Things I Hate About You offers viewers an entertaining blend of humor, drama, and romance within the confines of adolescence. It explores themes like identity, peer pressure, and first loves with authenticity and charm.

Love, Actually - A Love Story About Eight Different Love Stories

Featuring some of the biggest names in Hollywood, this film follows the intertwining stories of eight couples and their crazy chemistry. The characters experience unexpected outcomes that ultimately lead to a hilarious, yet touching conclusion.

The movie stars Hugh Grant as Prime Minister David, who fancies his press secretary Natalie (Martine McCutcheon). Emma Thompson plays Karen, whose husband (Alan Rickman) falls in love with another woman. Liam Neeson plays Daniel who tries to help his stepson Sam cope with unrequited love for the school hottie Joanna (Olivia Olson). Meanwhile Bill Nighy and Gregor Fisher portray aging rocker Billy Mack and his manager Joe.

As you can see, there are a ton of big names in this movie! Following all their stories can get confusing on paper but trust us, when you see it on screen it all makes sense and comes together really well.

The film has something for everyone; it's witty yet poignant dialogue will make you laugh out loud one minute and then grab your heartstrings the next. With its amazing ensemble cast, there are plenty of memorable moments throughout, including an adorable scene at the airport and an unforgettable declaration of love on cue cards.

One of the best things about Love Actually is how it addresses many different aspects of relationships in such an honest way without becoming too clichéd or predictable. It also shows how even though life can be complicated sometimes, true love still prevails given enough time and effort.

Just keep in mind not every love story featured has the happiest ending. There are some sad stories mixed in with the good.

Which Rom Com Should Couples Start With?

We think the best one to start with is The Princess Bride or 10 Things I Hate About You. Both are pretty lighthearted and quick enough that you can figure out pretty early on if it is the right movie for you.

All the other movies on the list are also well worth a watch so if you decide you want something a little more serious, Silver Linings Playbook or When Harry Met Sally are also well worth a watch.

No matter which movies you pick to watch from this list (or even all of them) we promise you won't be disappointed as they all offer something unique and fun in a rom com.