Best Valentine's Day Movies

Romantic Valentine's Day Movies

Sarah Riccio

It's time to celebrate another Valentine's Day! If you're asking yourself, "what is the number one romantic movie to watch this year?" I've got you covered. In fact, I've rounded up the top 25 most romantic Valentine's Day movies so you've got plenty to choose from! And don't worry — I picked something for the Galentine's gang too.

Keep reading for my marathon-worthy list of the most romantic Valentine's Day movies!

1. When Harry Met Sally

Starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, this romantic gem was written by Nora Ephron, and brought us the iconic line, "I'll have what she's having." Aside from that orgasmic scene at the café, this movie is full of feel-good moments between two people who start out hating each other and end up falling in love. Ten out of ten, would recommend.

2. 10 Things I Hate About You

Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles star in this beloved romantic comedy which, believe it or not, is based on a play by William Shakespeare called The Taming of the Shrew. This film features a great '90s soundtrack, fun high school fashion, and a tearjerking poem delivered by Stiles at the end of the movie.

3. Crazy Rich Asians 

Based on the novel by Kevin Kwan, Crazy Rich Asians is a romantic comedy-drama that follows the story of a professor, her boyfriend's mega-rich family, and all the dysfunction that goes on between them. And I don't want to spoil anything, but the ending is considered by many to be the most romantic movie scene of the last decade. Just sayin'.

4. Bridget Jone's Diary 

Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, and Hugh Grant star in this British romcom that follows the diary of our charming (albeit slightly awkward) leading lady, Bridget. Keep in mind that there are three movies in the Bridget Jones series and, honestly, you should watch all of them. 

5. Carol 

Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara deliver Oscar-nominated performances in this romantic lesbian drama set in the 1950s. The chemistry between our on-screen lovers is electric, and the '50s fashion and hairstyles are irresistible. Watch it on Amazon or stream it on iTunes while you cuddle up to your sweetheart. 

6. The Notebook

Based on the famous Nicholas Sparks novel, The Notebook is a must-see on Valentine's Day (and any day, really, it's just a fantastic movie). It follows the burning love between Allie and Noah (played by Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling) throughout the many seasons of their lives. It's tender, sexy, and one of the most romantic movies ever made. 

7. True Romance 

Looking for a cult classic film that combines romance and edge-of-your-seat action? True Romance fits the bill. Written by Quentin Tarantino and starring Patricia Arquette and Christian Slater, True Romance features what many consider to be the best romance. Oh, and Gary Oldman, James Gandolfini, Samuel L. Jackson, and Dennis Hopper are in this movie too. I bet you're wondering how you haven't seen it yet, right?

8. The Princess Bride 

Based on the novel by William Goldman, this beloved romantic comedy has a sci-fi/fantasy flare that incorporates sword fighting, magic potions and, of course, true love. And if there's one thing this cinematic classic has taught its loyal followers, it's that nothing can stop true love. 

9. WALL-E

When you think of Valentine's Day movies, you might not immediately think of WALL-E because, well, there aren't any humans in it. But trust me: the love between WALL-E and his partner in crime, EVE is very real. This is a romantic and moving film that's fun for the whole family! 

10. Portrait of a Lady on Fire 

If you're making an LGBTQ+ movie playlist for Valentine's Day, put this one on the list. This romantic drama won the Queer Palm award and Best Screenplay at Cannes Film Festival, and was nominated for lots more. It follows the story of an artist who falls deeply in love with her muse in a time when such a love was not allowed. 

11. The Vow

This tearjerker chronicles the true story of a real life romance between Kim and Krickett Carpenter. Following a horrific car crash, our leading lady loses her memory, compelling her beloved partner to make her fall in love with him all over again. Keep the tissues handy for this one!

12. Say Anything 

Looking for a romantic '80s movie to make you feel all the things? This Cameron Crowe film starring John Cusack and Ione Sky follows the story of an unlikely pair of lovers navigating one of life's most mysterious moments: high school graduation. If you and your partner fit the "opposites attract" trope, queue up this classic on Hulu and get ready for a great watch. 

13. How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days 

This romantic comedy is actually based on a comic book by Michele Alexander and Jeannie Long, and stars Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey. In an entertaining attempt to dupe one another in order to advance in their respective careers, the charming pair end up falling for each other. Hard. 

14. Love Actually 

Although the bulk of this movie is set around Christmastime, Love Actually is a romantic movie suitable for all occasions. It follows the intertwining stories of many different people which, in turn, reveals the many different faces of love... and heartbreak. Find it on Vudu, Google Play, or Amazon Instant Video!

15. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 

If your love life is feeling a little #itscomplicated right now, you might want to queue up this creative and emotional movie. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind explores love, heartbreak, and all the memories that happen in between. Oh, and Jim Carrey delivers a performance unlike any other. 

16. Casablanca 

In the mood for an old fashioned classic? Bogart and Bergman ought to do the trick! Casablanca might not feature your traditional happy ending, but it's considered one of the world's greatest cinematic achievements for a reason. If you don't already own it, you can find Casablanca streaming on HBO Max. 

17. Y Tu Mamá También 

This Spanish-language film by Oscar-winning director Alfonso Cuarón follows the coming-of-age tale of two teen boys and a (very slightly) older woman who take a road trip together. If you like a little (or a lot) of sex with your romance, this is the movie for you. Watch it on Amazon or stream it on iTunes! 

18. Love and Basketball 

Here's another cult classic in the pop culture world, produced by Spike Lee. Omar Epps and Sanaa Lathan play childhood friends, ballers — and eventually — lovers in this hit romantic movie that's sure to make you say, "aww." 

19. Dirty Dancing

On the off chance that you've never seen this movie before, stop what you're doing and watch it. Full of iconic scenes and romantic moments, this '80s flick is sure to make you swoon. In fact, Dirty Dancing made such an impact, it was among the first films to be featured in Netflix's docu-series The Movies That Made Us. If that final dance between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey doesn't get you in the Valentine's Day mood, nothing will. 

20. Appropriate Behavior 

This British-produced comedy premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014 and quickly amassed a cult following. It follows the funny (and potentially relatable) story of a bisexual Persian-American woman living in Brooklyn and navigating the waters of love, romance, and family dynamics.  

21. Clueless 

This is one of those coming-of-age romantic movies you could watch again and again and never get bored. Its feel-good, easy going plot is perfect for Valentine's Day or a casual movie night. Plus, the trendy '90s fashion alone makes it worth the watch! 

22. First Wives Club 

If you're in the anti-Valentine's Day mood or would simply rather make it a Galentine's Day, this feminist flick is the right way to go. Diane Keaton, Bette Midler, and Goldie Hawn join forces to exact revenge on their no-good ex-husbands, tapping into their own power in the process. The final "You Don't Own Me" scene will leave you feeling empowered and proud! 

23. You've Got Mail 

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan... need I say more? In this romantic movie, they play rival bookstore owners who unwittingly become pen pals. Can you guess where this is going? Watch this sweet and lovely romance unfold on HBO Max or Hulu Plus! 

24. 50 First Dates 

If you loved The Wedding Singer, you'll be glad to see Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore reunite in this super charming romcom. Lucy Whitmore (played by Drew) has short-term memory loss, but doesn't let it get in the way of falling in love... over and over again with the same man. 

25. Pretty Woman

This '90s romantic classic stars Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in all their glory, and follows a kind of modern Cinderella story with all the trials and tribulations that come with it. Don't worry, though — Pretty Woman delivers a happy ending you'll never forget.