By Jessica Fitch, Third Year, English and Theatre
It’s that time of year again. Whether you love or hate this day, it's undeniable. Valentine’s day has arrived. If you are snuggling in with your partner for the night, hosting a Galentines with your girlfriends or just need a pick me up to get you through this season alone: this list hits everyone’s needs for the romantic period.
The Notebook (2004)
I thought I would start with an absolute classic that everyone has either seen or dreads watching. The Notebook ticks all the boxes for a stereotypical romance movie: passion, tear-jerking scenes and Ryan Gosling.
Based on Nicholas Spark’s best-selling novel, the film follows the blossoming romance between the poor young male Noah and wealthy socialite Allie; however, their societal differences eventually lead to their separation.
Most of us who have seen this film will all agree that this story will absolutely devastate you, but it is an undeniable classic for anyone who is a sucker for love.
I would recommend this film to any viewer who has yet to see the iconic beach scene and to couples who want to be a blubbering mess together by the end. So, if you want to get in your feels this holiday, this one is for you.
50 First Dates (2004)
For all my Adam Sandler lovers, 50 First Dates should be at the top of your list this Valentine's. This recommendation is definitely for my comedy enthusiasts who want a light-hearted love story but also want an immersive plotline.
Sandler plays Henry, a marine vet who falls in love with an art teacher named Lucy (Drew Barrymore), who suffers from amnesia. When Henry realises Lucy forgets him once she wakes up in the mornings, he decides to woo her every day.
A film that has that recognisable charm that comes with watching Sandler films, this one is a real heart warmer and perfect for a Galentine’s night in.
It also features some very sweet creatures like Willy the Penguin and Jocko the Walrus, which makes it very hard for anyone to hate this film.
Call Me By Your Name (2017)
I’m not sure if anyone has not heard of this film by now, but it is a definitive must-watch on my list. From the gorgeous cinematography and beautifully crafted soundtrack to its vivid and passionate portrayal of queer adolescent love, Call Me By Your Name is a film that will leave you thinking about it for weeks.
Set in 1980s Italy, Timothee Chalamet plays Elio, a seventeen-year-old boy who falls in love with Oliver, an older American student researching in Italy hosted by Elio's father.
Indescribably special, this film has a sense of nostalgia that encapsulates the feeling of your first summer romance.
I would recommend this film to anyone who is a sucker for stunning visuals and wants to romanticise their next European holiday with their significant other.
13 going on 30 (2004)
This classic doesn’t take itself too seriously and makes us all want to be ‘thirty, flirty and thriving.’ The plot follows a 13-year-old schoolgirl, Jenna, who makes a wish and wakes up the following day as a thirty-year-old woman.
It has all the features of a perfect rom-com: early 2000s outfits, an iconic disco scene and Mark Ruffalo as the love interest.
I would recommend this for anyone and everyone regardless of relationship status, but I think it is most suited for watching with the girls.
Most of us will have seen this from a very young age, so 13 going on 30 makes for a perfect trip down memory lane with your girlfriends.
Get Out (2017)
If you are alone this holiday and want to feel glad to be single, Get Out is the perfect anti-valentine thriller.
Terrifying, exhilarating and engaging, Get Out follows Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), who is meeting his girlfriend’s parents for the first time. When Chris starts to suspect something is awry, he discovers a dark secret.
A film that psychologically terrifies and keeps you guessing till the very end; Get Out is a social commentary on racism, objectification and white supremacy.
Whilst this is not a classic rom-com, this film is perfect for anyone needing a distraction from any romance-related content and makes you never want to meet a future partner’s parents ever again.
Featured Image: Photo by Yannis Drakoulidis/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc. on IMDB
What will you be watching this Valentine's Day?
