Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a die-hard cynic, there’s something undeniably comforting about a good rom-com. From grand gestures to laugh-out-loud moments, these films hit all the right notes when you’re in the mood for love, laughter, and maybe a few tears. But with so many out there, which ones truly stand the test of time? We’ve sifted through decades of charming meet-cutes and memorable one-liners to bring you the ultimate list of the best rom-coms ever. Let’s get started, shall we?
15 Best Rom-Coms Of All Time
1. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Is there any rom-com moment more iconic than “I’ll have what she’s having”? This classic dives deep into the age-old question: Can men and women really be just friends? With razor-sharp dialogue and the perfect balance of wit and heart, Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan deliver performances that feel just as fresh today as they did back in the 80s.
Between unforgettable one-liners and that diner scene, When Harry Met Sally set the bar for all romantic comedies that followed. You’ll be rooting for Harry and Sally through every awkward moment, missed opportunity, and, of course, that epic New Year’s Eve confession.
2. Notting Hill (1999)
The formula is simple: A humble bookstore owner falls for a dazzling movie star. But Notting Hill turns this familiar story into something truly magical. Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts have a chemistry that’s impossible to resist, and with that charming London backdrop, the whole movie feels like a daydream.
From the iconic “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy” line to the hilarious supporting cast, this film is pure rom-com gold. And if you don’t find yourself wishing for a life-changing meet-cute after watching it, you’re lying.
3. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
One of the best rom-coms ever, this 90s gem takes Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew and gives it a high school makeover, with a young Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles leading the way. Full of sharp-tongued banter, rebellious spirit, and a swoon-worthy serenade on the bleachers, this is a teen rom-com for the ages.
Ledger’s charming bad-boy act and Stiles’ no-nonsense attitude create a love story that’s both relatable and ridiculously fun. Plus, that “10 things” poem? Cue the tears, every time.
4. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Sometimes love is messy, and no movie captures that better than Crazy, Stupid, Love. With an all-star cast led by Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone, this rom-com delivers both laughs and heartwarming moments in equal measure. And let’s not forget Ryan Gosling’s Dirty Dancing lift—it’s worth the watch alone!
This one’s got a little bit of everything: hilarious awkward dates, surprise twists, and a killer lesson in confidence from Mr. Gosling himself. It’s the perfect reminder that love is crazy, complicated, and totally worth it.
Read More: 30 Mind Puzzling Movies You Cannot And Should Not Miss
5. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of the always-relatable, slightly chaotic Bridget Jones made this film an instant classic. Whether she’s bumbling through awkward family dinners or navigating her love life between two equally irresistible suitors (hello, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant), Bridget’s charm lies in her imperfections.
This is the movie for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t have it all together—because guess what? Neither does Bridget, and we love her for it. Plus, who could forget that snowy kiss scene?
6. 13 Going on 30 (2004)
What happens when a 13-year-old suddenly wakes up in her 30-year-old body? Cue all the hilarity and heartwarming chaos of 13 Going on 30. Jennifer Garner is absolutely lovable as Jenna Rink, a woman figuring out love, friendship, and life after skipping straight to adulthood.
With its feel-good message and endless 80s references, this movie is a delightful reminder to stay true to yourself—even if you’re in a rush to grow up. And the “Thriller” dance scene? Pure joy.
7. The Proposal (2009)
Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock team up for one of the funniest rom-coms in recent memory. The premise is ridiculous in the best way: a boss forces her assistant into a fake marriage to avoid deportation. But their undeniable chemistry makes it work, with plenty of laughs along the way.
Between sarcastic banter, awkward family encounters, and that unforgettable nude scene, The Proposal proves that sometimes love comes when you least expect it—especially when you’re faking it.
8. Love Actually (2003)
Few rom-coms are as beloved as Love Actually. Set against the backdrop of a festive London, this movie tells multiple love stories all at once—each one sweet, messy, and heartfelt in its own way. Whether it’s a surprise airport proposal or a silent declaration of love with cue cards, there’s something for everyone.
With an all-star ensemble cast, including Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, and Emma Thompson, this film weaves together the ups and downs of love, reminding us that it’s everywhere if you know where to look.
9. Pretty Woman (1990)
Julia Roberts as a street-smart, lovable Vivian and Richard Gere as the aloof businessman Edward are pure magic together in Pretty Woman. This Cinderella story for the modern era brings together romance, humor, and a lot of heart. And yes, the shopping montage is just as iconic as you remember.
With its unforgettable one-liners and a chemistry that’s off the charts, Pretty Woman proves that even the most unlikely romances can sweep you off your feet. I mean, who doesn’t want to be rescued by a limo with roses?
Read More: Movies To Watch Based On Your Zodiac Sign—See What’s Perfect For You!
10. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
There’s something so magical about a love story that unfolds before the two main characters even meet. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan may spend most of Sleepless in Seattle apart, but when they finally do come together at the top of the Empire State Building, it’s the rom-com equivalent of fireworks.
With a heart-tugging storyline and an old-school sense of romance, this movie is all about fate and destiny. By the time the credits roll, you’ll be a believer in love at first… phone call.
11. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey are an irresistible pairing in this rom-com where both leads are secretly sabotaging their relationship for their own gain. Hudson’s attempts to “drive him away” are laugh-out-loud funny, but the chemistry between her and McConaughey makes it clear that these two are falling fast.
The movie is full of misunderstandings, hilarious mishaps, and just the right amount of charm. And when the big reveal comes, it’s impossible not to root for them to get their happily ever after.
12. My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)
Julia Roberts plays a woman who realizes she’s in love with her best friend—right before he’s about to marry someone else. Cue a race to stop the wedding, complete with plenty of awkward encounters and one unforgettable karaoke scene. It’s a rom-com with a bittersweet twist, but that just makes it all the more interesting.
While the ending might not be what you’d expect, it’s refreshingly real. Sometimes love stories don’t go the way you plan—and that’s okay.
13. The Holiday (2006)
Ever wish you could escape your life and fall in love somewhere new? The Holiday makes that dream a reality for Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, who swap homes across the pond for Christmas. What follows is a cozy, feel-good love story featuring a charming Jude Law and an endearing Jack Black.
With a winter wonderland setting and swoon-worthy romances on both sides of the Atlantic, this film is the perfect rom-com to curl up with on a cold night.
14. She’s the Man (2006)
Amanda Bynes as a girl pretending to be her twin brother at an elite boarding school? Yes, please! She’s the Man is a hilarious twist on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, full of mix-ups, crushes, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. And Channing Tatum’s breakthrough role doesn’t hurt either.
This is the rom-com for anyone who loves a little chaos with their romance. It’s equal parts ridiculous and charming—and that’s exactly why it works.
15. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
Netflix revived the rom-com genre with this adorable teen love story. Lara Jean’s secret love letters accidentally get sent out, and chaos ensues—especially when she pretends to date one of her crushes to save face. It’s cute, heartfelt, and full of those warm-and-fuzzy feels that make rom-coms so irresistible.
No one can resist Lara Jean and Peter Kavinsky’s slow-burn romance, and their chemistry is off the charts. You’ll be grinning from ear to ear by the time the credits roll.
This wraps our list of best rom-coms ever. Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Read More: 15+ Highly Conceptual Movies Meant Only For The Smart Ones
Leave a Reply