It’s a genre loved by many and despised by others, but even those who say they hate rom-coms have a few secret favorites. They can be the perfect pick-me-up after a long day or a much-needed cry of catharsis. There’s a sincerity to the genre that’s often lacking in pure comedy films, and it’s this approach to romance and emotion that never gets old. Watching someone confess their feelings under elevated circumstances — running through traffic, in pouring rain, in front of a huge crowd — often feels more heroic than watching someone save the world.
King of the rom-com, says Richard Curtis Time magazine that “the only way you can write a good romantic comedy is to be someone obsessed with love.” It’s this obsession that translates into upbeat and heartfelt stories, and while that may be too much for some, there’s always a time when a good old-fashioned rom-com is essential. An injection of optimism and charm into a bad day can change the whole thing. Everyone has heard of it Notting Hill and My best friend’s wedding, but sometimes we feel like something new. Here are the seven most underrated rom-coms for when you want to laugh, cry, or swoon.
1/7 Life Partners (2014)
Life partners is a sweet romantic comedy starring Leighton Meester and Gillian Jacobs as Sasha and Paige. When Paige gets into a serious relationship, her friendship with Sasha undergoes a drastic change. Paige’s new relationship means she’s less dependent on Sasha and their friendship loses some depth. The film has a great balance of humor and sincerity as Sasha navigates the lesbian dating scene in an attempt to find someone to fill the gap Paige left behind. It’s refreshing and often flies under the radar when people are looking for rom-coms, so don’t miss this one.
2/7 Julia Nude (2018)
The stars of Juliet naked include Rose Byrne (check), Chris O’Dowd, and Ethan Hawke, so it’s surprising that this charming rom-com is so often overlooked. Byrne and O’Dowd begin the film as a disgruntled married couple, with O’Dowd obsessed more with musician Tucker Crowe (played by Hawke) than his wife. One thing leads to another and Hawke ends up in their seaside town to woo Byrne, much to O’Dowd’s dismay. The premise may seem a bit complicated, but the payoff is well worth it. These three great actors pull it off with ease and the movie is an excellent ride.
3/7 infatuation (2022)
A Hulu original, Crush is a lesbian rom-com starring Rowan Blanchard, Auli’i Cravalho and Isabella Ferreira. The main character, played by Blanchard, finds herself torn between two sisters as she tries to clear her name after being falsely accused of vandalizing the school. Crush is fast and effortlessly humorous, with the three protagonists skilfully bouncing off each other. Some may not have been interested due to the high school environment, but it’s fun for all ages and well worth trying. You will find yourself smiling without realizing it.
4/7 Plus One (2019)
In Plus one, two single friends team up to be plus-ones for each other during wedding season. The two protagonists are played by Jack Quaid, whom you may recognize The boysand Maya Erskine, author and star of PEN15. Both have a great screen presence and their chemistry is a lot of fun to watch. The film’s writers and directors are Jeff Chan and Andrew Rhymer, who are also collaborating on PEN15so, with this big staff reunion, if that’s your thing, Plus one probably will be.
5/7 Stuck in Love (2012)
Stuck in love is an ensemble piece about the various members of a family whose parents are getting divorced. Some of the many stars include Greg Kinnear, Jennifer Connely, Lily Collins, Nat Wolff and Kristen Bell. Each character reacts differently to the divorce and it’s interesting to see how they all try to navigate the situation, which is impossible to do perfectly. The film has a charming indie soundtrack and beautiful scenery; it is very easy on the senses. With much of the movie set around the holiday season, it also makes for a good festive viewing experience that isn’t too heavy for the holiday season.
6/7 About Time (2013)
A less frequently mentioned film by the aforementioned Richard Curtis, About time is truly a unique rom-com. It stars Domnhall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams as the central pairing, alongside Bill Nighy as Gleeson’s father. The twist here is that Gleeson’s character Tim discovers that the men in his family can travel back in time on his 21st birthday. Despite the fantasy twist, the film remains based on reality. It’s a truly moving portrayal of both romantic and family relationships that will soften even the coldest of hearts.
7/7 Struck by the Moon (1987)
Last we have hit by the moon, starring Cher and Nicolas Cage. From just the main cast, it’s clear that this movie is a bit bonkers. It follows Cher’s character Loretta Castorini who falls in love with her fiancé’s brother, played by Cage. Thick Brooklyn accents, Italian superstitions and secret relationships abound; there isn’t much more you can ask for. The film was nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards and the role of Cher even earned her the Oscar for Best Actress. Speak against The New York TimesCher remembers working on it hit by the moon“I never think I’m doing it right,” but “The performances are great. There’s not a weak performance in that.”