As couples celebrate Valentine’s Day, curling up and watching a romantic movie will no doubt be a way several choose to spend their evening. Falling in love is arguably the most universal theme a film can have (since it’s something that happens to just about everybody), and there are plenty of options to pick from when movie night doubles as date night.
Unfortunately (for men), several movies that are considered “date friendly” are also negatively branded as “chick flicks” (see: any entry in Matthew McConaughey’s rom-com résumé), meaning that they are purposely designed to appeal to a female audience (much like action movies are theoretically designed for guys). While it’s true films like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and The Notebook have their demographic, they don’t always make for ideal couples viewing, since there isn’t much for the male to enjoy. Luckily, there are also many examples of movie love stories that manage to appeal to both genders, making the film an entertaining viewing experience for everybody. Here are some of our picks for movie love stories men AND women can enjoy.
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Andy Tennant’s entry into the rom-com genre was criticized by some pundits for its predictable nature, but it by and large succeeded with audiences thanks to its charm and entertainment value. If you’re looking for a fun watch this holiday, this is a good place to start.
The film features dual love plots for its two male leads, but it’s the chemistry between Will Smith and Kevin James that makes Hitch what it is. The stars are perfectly mismatched as the smooth-talking lady’s man and loveable loser, providing fans with humorous banter and physical stunts that compliment Hitch’s romantic scenes. The duo comes off as very likeable and relatable, making it easy for us to root for them to end up with the women of their dreams.
As an added bonus, the lessons of Hitch can be applied to real life. Male viewers can learn how to improve their dance moves and attract a women’s attention. We wouldn’t recommend quitting your job to make her notice you, but sometimes it does work out.
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I probably would have included Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind in the Genre Mixing category.
Good choice!
No mention of GROSSE POINTE BLANK?!? How dare you, that’s the perfect date movie! It’s an action/chick flick!
Back when we were still dating, my then-girlfriend and me went to see Sabrina ( the Harrison Ford version ).
It was a rare movie where we didn’t argue afterwards.
negative on the titanic. have not watched it and will not watch it.
Not a fan of Jerry Maguire, or Sleepless in Seattle.
Other love stories I enjoy:
- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
- Her
- Crazy Stupid Love
Nope to Titanic, Scott Pilgrim or Silver Linings, for me.
Shakespeare In Love I think could’ve got on the list.
True Romance, anyone?
Meet Joe Black
High Fidelity
(500) Days of Summer – despite the initial disclaimer “this is not a love story”
The Rules of the Game
Maybe not as well known, but 7 Pounds to me was a great balance with excellent story telling. It has mystery and intrigue right until the climax and honestly I haven’t met a guy or girl who left it dry eyed.
Correction– the line from Sleepless in Seattle is, “Didn’t you see Fatal Attraction?”
you forgot Fanboys
I’m sure Ghost should be on this list..it is actually an enjoyable movie, even though it is a chick flick
A Knight’s Tale
10 Things I hate about you (sort of, maybe)
You can’t deny Heath Ledger is always a win
crazy, stupid, love, 10 things I hate About You and How to Lose A Guy in 10 days.