During the early 2000s, Hollywood gifted movie aficionados with timeless gems, like “How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days,” “13 Going On 30,” “The Proposal,” and “Love Actually,” among others.
These timeless classics remain ideal to date. Yet, it’s worth acknowledging that amid these well-known favorites, a trove of other popular yet underrated (a few) rom-coms from that era might have faded from memory. Just like their celebrated counterparts, these movies boast humor, endearing meet-cutes, a dash of silliness, and an unapologetic dose of sweetness. These films possess the power to evoke laughter and tears.
So, are you ready to uncover these movies with us?
Sit on your comfortable couch because we are here to take you on a cinematic journey back to the year 2000 to 2020! Grab a bowl of popcorn, hit play, and let these movies whisk you into the world of heartwarming romance!
1. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Adapted from Helen Fielding’s 1996 novel, which was inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones’s Diary presents a compassionate portrayal of a single life. Bridget, (Renée Zellweger) is afraid of remaining a spinster her whole life; her most significant connection appears to be with a bottle of wine.
However, as the story progresses, Bridget finds herself entangled in a love triangle involving her charming yet unreliable boss Daniel Plainview (Hugh Grant), and the refined divorcee Mark Darcy (Colin Firth), she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Through these relationships, she comes to realize her intrinsic worthiness of love.
2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
A 2004 movie directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, ingeniously weaves elements of romance and comedy into an unconventional narrative. This lovely alternate universe follows the tumultuous love story of Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet).
When Joel discovers that Clementine is going to extremes to erase the memory of their relationship, he undergoes the same procedure and starts forgetting the girl he loved. This movie is visually arresting and explores the intricacy of the pain of loss, love, and relationships.
3. Enchanted (2007)
A 2007 musical fantasy rom-com directed by Kevin Lima and written by Bill Kelly, Enchanted follows Giselle (Amy Adams), a princess who is magically transported from her animated fairy tale world to bustling real-life New York City. In NYC, she encounters Robert (Patrick Dempsey), a divorce lawyer who finds her outlook on love and life perplexing.
As the story progresses, we can find Giselle’s charm and Robert’s practical demeanor create comedic clashes and heartwarming interactions.
The film offers a fresh take on the rom-com genre by blending classic fairy tale patterns with contemporary romance in a way that interests viewers of all ages.
4. About Time (2013)
A romantic comedy-drama directed and written by Richard Curtis, About Time is a time-travel fantasy based on family and love.
When Time Lake (Domhall Gleeson) is 21, his father tells him a secret. Although history cannot be changed, he meets Mary (Rachel McAdams), falls in love, and finally wins her heart with time travel.
Their love unfolds amidst humorous and heartfelt situations, emphasizing the importance of seizing the right moments and appreciating the beauty in life’s ordinary moments. The time travel elements add a fascinating twist to the movie. About Time stands out as a rom-com!
5. To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
Based on Jenny Han’s novel, this Netflix movie tells the story of Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor), whose secret love letters are accidentally sent out to her past crushes. Amid the chaos, she enters into a fake relationship with Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo).
The movie, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, highlights the complexities of teenage emotions, friendship, and budding romance against the backdrop of school life.
This American teen rom-com is worth watching. The initial entry in the To All the Boys film series is succeeded by two sequels: To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You, which premiered on February 12, 2020, and To All the Boys: Always and Forever on February 12, 2021. Additionally, a spin-off series named XO, Kitty was launched on May 18, 2023.
Rom-Com and the Feel-Good Factor
Romantic comedies or rom-coms, hold a special place in your heart for their ability to evoke warmth and the feel-good factor. These films are a delightful escape from the hardships of real life, providing a comforting retreat where love is the driving force and happy endings take over.
Rom-coms are all about light-hearted humor, relatable characters, captivating storylines, and drawing emotional connections that leave the audience with renewed hope. The movies listed above resonate deeply with the viewers, reminding them of their own life experiences with a hint of nostalgia.
In the realm of cinema, emotions are captured, and stories unfold, and this is where romantic comedies hold a special place. These movies remind us that love, whether in wine, memories, or heartfelt letters, remains a timeless force, resonating across eras.
Banner Image Courtesy: Wikipedia, IMDB, Netflix, Rottentomatoes,
About Author
Nitya Jain is an enthusiastic content writer and a life-long learner with an undying curiosity to explore new things. She loves fresh humour, just like her tea! When not writing, you'll find her raiding book stores or hopping cafes in town.
