Top 10 Best Rom-Coms of the 2010s
#10: “To All the Boys I've Loved Before” (2018)
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Originally a book by Jenny Han, this film resurrected the teen rom-com. With leads like Lana Condor and Noah Centineo, it’s not hard to see why. When Lara Jean’s old love letters are sent out without her knowledge, she’s mortified. One of the recipients is popular jock Peter Kavinsky, which makes things interesting. Despite their differences, the two pretend to date in an effort to make Peter's ex jealous, and convince another letter recipient - who's dating Lara Jean's sister - that Lara Jean's not interested. Naturally, they fall for each other instead. This heartwarming movie has great style, honest portrayals of family and loss, and a swoon worthy love story. There are also two more films in the series. What more could you possibly ask for?
#9: “Set It Up” (2018)
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How are you supposed to have a social life when your boss is a workaholic? It’s a struggle Harper and Charlie know far too well. Together they scheme to get their respective employers, Kirsten and Rick, to fall for each other. Of course, the real love story is a different one altogether. If you’re a rom-com aficionado, we’re betting you can guess what happens next. “Set It Up” has plenty of heart, humor, and romance. Add in the engaging characters and comforting familiarity of the plot, and it’s a winning formula. This uplifting love story is sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside!
#8: “The Incredible Jessica James” (2017)
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A lot of romantic comedies focus on how exciting and fun new love can be. While that’s certainly true, we don’t often explore the other side of the coin. What happens when a relationship you care about comes to an end? “The Incredible Jessica James” tackles that question in a contemporary way. The film immediately grabs your attention, as Jessica navigates an awkward Tinder date with brutal honesty. Then, Boone’s introduction makes things even more exciting. But the movie is about more than just romance. Jessica is also figuring out her playwriting career, while helping kids find their voices in the theater. This modern rom-com is layered, with something for everyone to enjoy!
#7: “Always Be My Maybe” (2019)
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Two childhood friends who are meant to be together cut ties after a fight of epic proportions. It’s a tale as old as time, and it’s also the story of Randall Park’s Marcus and Ali Wong’s Sasha. After reconnecting as adults, they realize their feelings for one another are as strong as ever. But is love enough to create a lasting partnership? “Always Be My Maybe” is paced flawlessly, and explores a classic trope with fresh eyes. It’s not just a love story; it’s also a touching tale of grief and growth. While the laughs are abundant - partially thanks to Keanu Reeves’ epic presence - we’d recommend keeping a box of tissues handy too.
#6: “Silver Linings Playbook” (2012)
This movie, featuring Bradley Cooper as Pat and Jennifer Lawrence as Tiffany, is anything but cookie-cutter. It tackles complex issues of mental health and mourning, while simultaneously developing a love story. What starts off as a quid pro quo between Pat and Tiffany rapidly grows into something deeper. As the film progresses, their relationships with themselves, their surroundings, and one another evolves in a thoughtful manner. Much like the novel it’s based on,”Silver Linings Playbook” is not interested in stereotypes. Instead, it seeks to dismantle them in an effort to create something more authentic. That’s precisely why it will hook you from beginning to end.
#5: “La La Land” (2016)
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There is a reason “La La Land” made waves upon its 2016 release. It’s a beautiful ode to dreamers and artists - like Sebastian and Mia - everywhere. As they struggle to make it in Hollywood and be together, we can’t help but root for them. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling’s unparalleled connection, romantic singing and dancing, and stunning visuals come together to create a charming masterpiece. This movie might not provide a traditional fairytale ending, but it still feels real and joyful. It’s hard not to feel inspired after watching it! “La La Land” proves just how important the journey is in life, and can convince even the biggest skeptics to follow their dreams.
#4: “Love, Simon” (2018)
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Simon Spier is a typical teenage boy, with a typical teenage life. He’s also gay, but hasn’t told his friends and family just yet. When he strikes up an anonymous online relationship with “Blue,” his life changes forever as he falls in love. Things definitely get complicated, but it wouldn’t be a good teen rom-com if they didn’t! At its core, “Love, Simon” is about a kid coming into himself. Inspired by Becky Albertalli’s 2015 novel, this film adaptation wonderfully infuses a timeless tale with important subject matter. It’s an enthralling story of friendship, family, love, and joy told from a perspective we definitely don’t see often enough.
#3: “Crazy, Stupid, Love” (2011)
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Since its release a decade ago, “Crazy, Stupid, Love” has cemented itself as a classic romantic comedy. And it’s easy to understand why. It explores what love looks like at different stages of life, and how it can evolve throughout the course of a relationship. Plus, the way the characters’ lives all connect with one another is a thing of beauty. That reveal never gets old! The storylines are engaging individually, but they are also seamlessly woven together. As if that wasn’t enough, the cast is also stacked with powerhouses like Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, and Steve Carell! Needless to say, it’s a good time.
#2: “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018)
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Rachel Chu gets more than she bargained for when she meets her boyfriend Nick’s wealthy family in Singapore. To say their relationship is tested is an understatement! “Crazy Rich Asians” does its namesake novel justice. It has a cast full of stars like Henry Golding and Constance Wu, an engaging script, and amazing fashion. Plus, it provides sorely lacking Asian representation. In doing so, the film explores the complexities surrounding class, culture, family, and relationships. What’s more, it examines what happens at the intersection of all those things. All of this is done with plenty of wit, romance, and emotion. You can’t help but feel every feeling as some love stories unfold - and others unravel. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Easy A” (2010) Emma Stone Brought “The Scarlet Letter” to Life in a Modern Way “The Best Man Holiday” (2013) This Sequel Made It Feel Like No Time Had Passed “Obvious Child” (2014) An Honest Portrayal of Life & Relationships “About Time” (2013) A Tale of Love, Family, & Time Travel “Trainwreck” (2015) Amy Schumer & Bill Hader Never Disappoint
#1: “The Big Sick” (2017)
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This movie is based on Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon’s actual love story. Though it is somewhat fictionalized, the real-life husband and wife wrote the film together! So the final result is a true testament to their relationship. “The Big Sick” represents the immigrant experience with honesty instead of stereotypes. It also paints a nuanced picture of love in the context of cultural traditions, illness and family dynamics. The film makes us feel like we’re watching real lives unfold, as opposed to a perfectly crafted fantasy. That’s because it mirrors peoples’ experiences with the same humor, intensity, and emotion they live them with. In other words, “The Big Sick” feels real, because it is.
