Romantic Comedy: The List
May82010
So I’ve been thinking about romantic comedy a lot lately. Lucy-Lani and I once talked about doing podcasts while watching classic romantic comedies, and that’s still on the table. But mostly, I’m trying to see the genre as a whole, and I’m starting with movies because I think they have a greater impact on the general audience than books do. So I’ve made a tentative list. Some of these won’t be on the final list (I know Amelie is supposed to be terrific, but it is romantic comedy? Ditto for Chocolat), and I’m sure I’ve missed some important ones. Which is where you come in. Yes, Argh People, I’m exploiting you again. You should be used to it by now. Look over this list, please, and tell me what I’m missing and what on here is not romantic comedy. Along the way we’ll possibly have some insights as to what makes the genre great or what makes great romantic comedy, at least in film, but that’ll just be a perk. Really, all I need is a list to start with. So here’s what I’ve got so far:
1934: It Happened One Night
1936: My Man Godfrey
1938: Bringing Up Baby
1938: Holiday
1940: His Girl Friday
1940: The Philadelphia Story
1941: The Lady Eve
1949: Adam’s Rib
1957: The Desk Set
1958: Houseboat
1959: Some Like it Hot
1959: Pillow Talk
1959: Ask Any Girl
1961: Come September
1962: Lover Come Back
1963: Charade
1966: How to Steal A Million
1977: Annie Hall
1978: Foul Play
1984: Romancing the Stone
1984: Sixteen Candles
1984: All of Me
1984: Splash
1985: Desperately Seeking Susan
1987: Moonstruck
1987: Roxanne
1987: The Princess Bride
1987: Dirty Dancing
1988: Crossing Delancey
1988: Bull Durham
1989: Say Anything
1989: When Harry Met Sally
1992: Strictly Ballroom
1993: Groundhog Day
1994: Four Weddings and a Funeral
1995: While You Were Sleeping
1995: Clueless
1997: Grosse Point Blank
1999: 10 Things I Hate About You
2000: Return to Me
2001: Bridget Jones Diary
2001: Kissing Jessica Stein
2001: Amelie
2001: The Truth About Cats and Dogs
2003: Love Actually
2003: About A Boy
2006: 50 First Dates
2007: Music and Lyrics
2008: Ghost Town
2008: Juno
2008: Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist
2008: Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
2009: 500 Days of Summer
The seventies appear to be abysmal for romance which is pretty much how I remember them, too, probably because I got married in ’71. Nothing kills romance like marriage. The 80s rocked, though, and the 00s are looking good, too. One caveat: The Ugly Truth will not be on here no matter how many of you suggest it. HORR-ible movie.
Edited to add:
So I’m adding things you’ve recommended and deleting some of the things you questioned. We’re looking for the best in romantic comedy, so feel free to say, “Eh, not so much,” on some of these because I’ll have to cull the list anyway.
And as you’ve pointed out, a lot depends on the definition of romantic comedy, so let’s start with this:
It has to be mainly about the romance and
It has to be funny, not necessarily laugh-out-loud funny, but not mostly a drama with some light moments. That’s why I put Crossing Delancey on (love that movie) and then took it off. It’s a fabulous romance, but I don’t remember it being funny. Such a good movie, though.
After that, it has to be outstanding. Given that definition, I’ve taken some of the titles off the list I made, too. Some of these I haven’t seen yet, so I left them on in hopes they’ll fit.
Have at it.
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232 Comments to 'Romantic Comedy: The List'
On May 8, 2010 at 9:28 pm Gina Black said...
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Benny and Joon (1993)
Mumford (1999)
On May 9, 2010 at 11:52 am Jennifer said...
Sweet Home Alabama starring Reese Witherspoon 2002
On May 8, 2010 at 9:35 pm Gina Black said...
And then I remembered . . .
The Gay Divorcee (1934)
Swing Time (1936)
Holiday (1938)
Get Shorty (1995)
On May 8, 2010 at 9:44 pm babs f said...
Bull Durham (1988)
Sabrina (both 1954 & 1995)
On May 8, 2010 at 9:45 pm Polly said...
Hmm. Are you looking for good romantic comedies, or any romantic comedies?
I’d add:
The Awful Truth (1937)
Bringing up Baby (1938)
Singing in the Rain (1952)
Strictly Ballroom (1992).
Strictly Ballroom and Singin’ in the Rain are a bit iffy. I’m not sure if most people would categorize them as romantic comedies, but I think they fit. They’re smart and funny, and ultimately about bringing two people together. Strictly Ballroom is more iffy, as the humor’s in the form, and not so much in the story, but don’t let the fact that Singing in the Rain is a musical cloud the romantic comedy-ness of it.
p.s. It Happened One Night is 1934, not 1943.
On May 8, 2010 at 9:49 pm Polly said...
And The Palm Beach Story (1942).
On May 8, 2010 at 9:53 pm Kate G said...
Heck. I read the list and then I can’t even remember my own favorite movies.
You’ve got mail – which I HATED the first time I saw it. He closed her effing business for god’s sake. But then when I was in the hospital with my 4th kid. Stuck there for a while in fact, and my husband brought me a stack of horrific action/torture flicks and one chick flick – You’ve got mail. So I had to watch it or go bonkers with bordom and the effects of the miserable meds I was on. So now that movie is all wrapped up in bonding with my youngest and of course I love it.
Enchanted with Amy Adams.
Nope, can’t think of any others!
On May 8, 2010 at 9:55 pm Elisabeth Crisp said...
Sabrina (1954)
Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
On May 8, 2010 at 10:08 pm toni said...
I kinda hated You’ve Got Mail. I know I’m supposed to like the leads, but I hate Tom Hank’s character’s deception all of the way through, and hated that he destroyed her business. It doesn’t matter that she’s also finding time now to follow another (sort of) dream of hers… he destroyed it, and he’s only partly sad about that. He’s not sad because it was the wrong thing to do–he’s sad because it puts him in a bad position to get the girl.
I always think of this movie as a tragedy.
I’d ask you how you’re drawing a line between romantic comedy and romance. Some romances happen to have a comic relief moment now and then, but they’re not comedies, per se. That may narrow down the scope of the list you have above. (Not that you’re trying necessarily to narrow them down, but I think some of them are romances, not romantic comedies.)
On May 9, 2010 at 9:09 am Jenny said...
I hated You’ve Got Mail, too.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:16 pm Beck said...
Move Over, Darling (1963) My favorite Doris Day movie.
OH! And probably my favorite movie ever, Music and Lyrics (2007)
On May 8, 2010 at 10:16 pm Kim said...
I keep my old VCR around for the only movie that I can’t get on DVD–The Year of the Comet (1992), starring Penelope Ann Miller and Tim Daly. Kim
On May 9, 2010 at 9:38 am Moth said...
“Ooh look a stuffed-up, funny-looking raggamuffin!”
I love this movie too!
On May 9, 2010 at 10:02 pm Cherry Honey said...
Me too. I really wish they would put it on DVD so I could get rid of my VCR.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:19 pm Karin said...
The 2001 (2002?) version of Sabrina with Greg Kinnear and Harrison Ford is way better than the original. I love Humphrey Bogart, but that cast just doesn’t click.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:12 pm Lynda Ward said...
I agree, the later SABRINA works far better for me. The first one had Audrey Hepburn, who was and forever will be unique, but the characters didn’t mesh, and the men didn’t really seem to be bothered by the way they were manipulating the women, either Sabrina or David’s hapless fiancee. In the second version the men recognized the consequences of what they were doing. That moment when Linus/Harrison Ford says “I can’t do this” always gets to me, and I loved the way David/Greg Kinnear confessed to his fiancee and left it up to her to decide “how the story ends.” Just an all-around great movie.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:20 pm Courtney said...
Definitely Bringing Up Baby and Holiday. And, I loved You’ve Got Mail. It had me with, “a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils.”
On May 8, 2010 at 10:21 pm toni said...
Oh! I just realized you don’t have WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING on there.
A deception movie that works (to me) because she’s asked by the family friend to keep up the ruse in order not to give the grandma a heart attack until Peter wakes up. And then she doesn’t know how to stop the silliness. But I love this movie.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:34 am Carrie said...
I second that. I was looking for it while I was reading the list.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:26 pm Skye said...
I’m no help here. I *hate* romantic comedies, for the most part. For example: The Truth About Cats & Dogs — it’s about lying about yourself and telling lies to someone you like. So … there would be no story if the character were honest. I dislike stories where that is central to the story. One that I *do* like is LA Love Story with Steve Martin. That’s it for me.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:27 pm Skye said...
Oh, and I adore Groundhog Day, best movie ever. But not, in my mind, a romantic comedy. It’s a story about redemption and the growth of a human being.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:31 pm Polly said...
Another early 90s classic: Sleepless in Seattle (1993).
I couldn’t stand You’ve Got Mail. He put her out of business. I couldn’t get over that. I don’t care that she had a follow-up career; the sacrifices were too asymmetrical for me.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:32 pm Carrie said...
I have to say that I am partial to Amelie since it is the movie I saw for one of my first dates with my husband. I do not think I would consider it a romantic comedy though. The Princess Bride is a great movie if you’ve never seen it.
Some more romantic comedies…
While You Were Sleeping (1995)
My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
On May 8, 2010 at 10:36 pm Barbara said...
Yes to You’ve Got Mail and Sabrina and Breakfast at Tiffany’s…and more with Doris Day and anyone…
Seems like there ought to be more movies with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn but I can’t think of them at the moment.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:53 pm Beck said...
Desk Set is a good Spencer and Tracy. Although, that may be the computer programmer in me coming out.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:51 pm Jamie said...
How about “French Kiss” (1995)? It’s one of my favorites. And maybe a Tracy-Hepburn movie – “Adam’s Rib,” “Pat and Mike,” or “Desk Set”?
On May 8, 2010 at 10:54 pm Cathy said...
How about Father Goose with Cary Grant and Leslie Caron in 1964?
On May 8, 2010 at 10:55 pm Brenda Bradshaw said...
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
Serendipity
What Women Want
Sweet Home Alabama
Hitch
Kate & Leopold
Pretty in Pink
French Kiss
Pretty Woman
Something About Mary
Runaway Bride
National Treasure (romantic adventure?) Same for Saraha
My brain is blank now that I try to think about it and I’m too tired to go and look over my DVDs.
Does The Princess Bride not count? Funny, romantic — maybe I’m missing something but that’d be on my list.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:10 pm Kelly S said...
I liked French Kiss but really disliked Something About Mary. Never got the humor. You helped me remember “Only You” 1994. I think it qualifies.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:00 pm JulieB said...
I think of Pretty Woman as a straight-forward romance with a few funny parts. That one doesn’t ever fall on my list of things to watch again though.
On May 8, 2010 at 10:56 pm Kelly S. Bishop said...
Here’s my contribution. As you can tell, I loooove old movies.
1934 The Gay Divorcee
1934 The Merry Widow
1936 Libeled Lady
1938 The Mad Miss Manton
1939 Bachelor Mother
1940 Torrid Zone
1941 Ball of Fire
1952 Singing In the Rain
1954 Sabrina
1954 Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
On May 8, 2010 at 10:56 pm Brenda Bradshaw said...
Well heck — re-reading your list I see The Princess Bride. Did I mention I’m tired? Sorry about that.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:12 pm Skye said...
Will someone explain to me about The Princess Bride? She was powerless and a pawn and had few choices and even less to actually do. I found it a fun adventure movie but disliked the parts having to do with Buttercup. And the guy gives her crap for not waiting for him … but it’s not like the Prince gave her any choice in the matter and Wesley was supposedly dead! I mean, sheesh! But everyone seems to love this, so I must be missing something.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:01 am Amy said...
The book rocks. The movie is okay, but I think her character is stronger and more likable in William Goildman’s novel.
On May 10, 2010 at 11:49 pm Micki said...
(-: The guys got wonderful parts. I would love to be Wesley/Dread Pirate Roberts. I love the way the movie seems to have gone right over the top, and then you see the scene change, and nope, there’s still top to go over (-:. I love the satire and way the movie plays with our expectations.
But yeah, Buttercup is the straight man, and she never gets to do anything. And there aren’t any other strong women characters (except perhaps the witch? but she gets far too little screen time). It’s a movie that promotes penis envy. I want a really long sword.
On May 12, 2010 at 3:11 pm glee said...
Thank you, thank you! I have *never* gotten The Princess Bride. My adult sons love it. Many of my co-workers (female) love it. And I am offended by the idiocy of Buttercup. I find it neither funny nor romantic, by ymmv.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:20 pm emily said...
i love get over it (2001) and what about funny girl (1968)?
On May 9, 2010 at 10:07 pm Cherry Honey said...
Oh! the opening sequence in Get Over It is wonderful. It made me snort soda through my nose the first time I saw it. (I was going to say Coke, but…)
On May 8, 2010 at 11:25 pm julie said...
Just a little quibble — FYI The Truth About Cats and Dogs came out in 1996, not 2001. I know that because I worked on it, and got married just before it went into production in ’95. So, you know, romance was all around me at the time.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:11 am Jenny said...
I got the dates from Amazon. Must go to IMDB and double check them. Thanks for catching that, Julie.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:27 pm julie said...
Oh. Also I’m a sucker for about 95% of Can’t Buy Me Love. 1987. A very young Patrick Dempsey. Here’s the IMDB listing: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092718/
On May 8, 2010 at 11:31 pm hollygee said...
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Murphy’s Romance
Doc Hollywood
Return to Me
Thomas Crowne Affair — both versions, but I prefer the newer
Mostly Martha
On May 9, 2010 at 3:25 pm BJ said...
I agree with hollygee recommending My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
On May 12, 2010 at 3:13 pm glee said...
I LOVED Murphy’s Romance. And I’m not much of a movie person.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:32 pm Vicki said...
This is facinating.
Cactus Flower
Foul Play
Overboard (dumb movie but it has it’s moments)
Daddy Longlegs
Funny Face
Sabrina (both versions but I do prefer the original)
Pretty Woman (best kiss ever filmed)
Most of the movies Fred Astaire made belong on the list. I adore Chocolat but even though it has funny moments and there’s lovely romance, I’n not sure it’s a romantic comedy. Maybe it depends on the defination of romantic comedy. How much funny, and how much romance? And is it from within the romance or not?
Miss Pettigrew for a Day (which I also adore) is a more extreme example of why I might not put Chocolat on the list. Murphy’s Romance is a wonderful romance with funny moments, but not a romantic comedy by pretty much anyone’s defination. Is the African Queen? Hello Dolly? Hopscotch?
I put Shakespeare in Love on my list but took it off because I couldn’t remember anything that happened after Dame Judy’s Oscar winning scene.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:34 pm Nancy said...
Ooh! African Queen! Rosie and Mr. Allnut, so very opposite at the start, ending up ready to give their all as long as they’re together. And browsing ahead, If Indiscreet is the Hitchcock/Grant/Bergman fighting Nazis in South America, definitely yes. And I keep wanting to add The Thin Man, although the one back home with Nick and Mommie may have more romance than the original.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:39 pm Vicki said...
One minute before I hit submit, gollygee submitted Murphy’s Romance, so I guess I’m wrong and we make two votes to include it
On May 8, 2010 at 11:41 pm Psyche said...
Clueless has to be on any list.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:43 pm Merry the CB said...
I was going to add Midnight (1939) and then I hesitated. What is the percentage that makes it a romantic comendy? A lot of these movies are 95% comedy, with the couple getting together at the end right before the credits roll. To me, that’s a comedy but not especially romantic.
I think French Kiss is a good example of a comedy that turns into a romance by the end.
American Dreamer, much as I love the movie, is more of a comedy than a romantic comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:42 pm Kris said...
I second Midnight (1939) – it’s definitely a screwball comedy, but there is a lot of romance in there. Adore that movie – waited years for it to finally make it to DVD. It’s certainly outstanding in my video library.
Holiday Inn, The Major and the Minor, and just about any Astaire/Rogers movie will stop me in my tracks – all are funny, romantic, and quite enjoyable.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:12 pm Kelly S said...
I too so want to put American Dreamer on the list, but it is an all around movie – mystery, comedy, romance
On May 10, 2010 at 12:39 am Clever Cherry aka Judy Long said...
To me American Dreamer was definitely romantic. I fell in love with Tom Conti watching that movie!
On May 8, 2010 at 11:44 pm JulieB said...
Funny, I LOVE the Princess Bride, but wouldn’t have thought of it in Rom Com. Don’t really disagree, just a surprise. I don’t think of National Treasure as RomCom either. I really think the romance is secondary. I didn’t like You’ve Got Mail.
I’dd add
The Sure Thing (1985)
Overboard (1987)
and I’d throw these in for consideration –
Adam’s Rib (1949)
The African Queen (1951)
Dangerous When Wet (1953)
I’ll Take Sweden (1965)
Hot Pursuit (1987)
– alhtough, in the case of Adam’s Rib and Hot Pursuit, the story starts with the characters together already, so it’s murky ground. And I second (third, whatever) Bringing Up Baby. I’ll have to think about the ’70s. I’m not surprised that there we’re many given the ’70s themselves, but that much of a derth…. it is bleaker than I’d realized.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:47 pm juneb said...
Indiscreet-1958- with Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant a grownup romcom and the whole cast is well over forty.
On May 8, 2010 at 11:53 pm Amsamfa said...
I second French Kiss (1995).
There’s also Waitress (2003), which I thought was excellent. But that could be iffy as a romantic comedy. Not a traditional HEA. Penelope (2008) was also lovely. Christina Ricci pulled off the snout well.
On May 11, 2010 at 11:57 am AndreaS said...
Penelope is possibly one of my favorite romance movies ever. Partially because of the wonderful story. And partially because of the wonderful leads ; ) James McAvoy is delightful in it.
On May 11, 2010 at 2:49 pm Jenny said...
The only Penelope I can find is from 2006 so we’re not there yet, but wasn’t there a Natalie Wood comedy called Penelope? I’m doubting myself now because the IMDB doesn’t have it listed.
Yes, 1966. Natalie Wood, Peter Falk, Jonathan Winters. I knew I liked it. And of course, it’s unavailabe. Grrrrrrrrrrrrr.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:02 am Camanoah said...
Some of my favorites not on your list:
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Adam’s Rib (1949)
On the Town (1949)
Singing in the Rain (1952)
Desk Set (1957)
Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
Crossing Delancey (1988)
Bull Durham (1988)
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
While you Were Sleeping (1995)
Music & Lyrics (2007)
On May 10, 2010 at 6:59 pm emily said...
great catch with crossing delancy!
On May 9, 2010 at 12:06 am toni said...
Crossing Delancey! Loved that movie. And Bull Durham. YES. (Even though KC became ick later on in his career, that is a damned great movie.)
I will always love Strictly Ballroom.
And Bringing up Baby.
Clearly, Camanoah needs to be my movie buddy.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:06 am Office Wench Cherry said...
If you’re not restricting the list to live action I’d like to add Shrek. Yes, it’s childish in places but, damnit, Cameron Diaz is green at the end and that’s romantic.
Also, in the borderline of comedy I’d add Waitress.
And I would like to add the heart-stoppingly beautiful Up. Perhaps not a comedy but one of the most romantic movies I’ve ever seen.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:08 am Kate said...
the wedding date; 27 dresses; stardust; one fine day; fierce creatures
On May 9, 2010 at 12:13 am Sam said...
The Birdcage (1996)
I support the idea of Waitress (2003). I love it.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:06 am Briana said...
Why The Birdcage? I mean, if you’re talking the romance between Nathan Lane and Robin Williams, OK, but that movie really dropped the ball with the two “sweethearts” — I didn’t care a fig for either of them or their big problem. I just liked the rest of them!
On May 9, 2010 at 9:17 pm Sam said...
Purely for the whole Nathan Lane and Robin Williams. That’s the romance in the movie for me.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:18 am Ellen Henderson said...
Seconding or thirding The Sure Thing, Overboard, Stardust, Crossing Delancy, Music and Lyrics, Clueless, and The Truth About Cats and Dogs. Also:
Notting Hill
The Cutting Edge
The Wedding Singer
Miss Congeniality
The 40-Year-Old Virgin
And some recent ones:
Wedding Crashers
Knocked Up
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
The Proposal
It’s Complicated (I actually haven’t seen this yet, but I’ve heard good things and I love Meryl)
On May 10, 2010 at 12:37 am Lily Blues said...
Yes to The Wedding Singer!
On May 10, 2010 at 12:38 am Lily Blues said...
Yes to The Wedding Singer!
And though it’s not a RomCom, I absolutely loved Julie & Julia.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:44 am marly said...
“Jerry Maguire” -1996, might not make the list for some, but it has some great comic dialog (“Don’t cry at the beginning of a date. Cry at the end, like I do.”) The romance is definitely there – “You had me at hello” went around the world.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:28 pm BJ said...
I really liked the movie Jerry Maguire. Inspiring.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:53 am RSmith said...
Sandra Dee did several romantic comedies – If a man answers, I’d rather be rich, and That funny feeling are the ones I liked the best of hers.
And I agree with a couple of others in that I don’t think Princess Bride or National Treasure are really romantic comedies, even though they are funny and romantic.
On May 9, 2010 at 1:25 am SueG said...
Better Off Dead — 1985
On May 9, 2010 at 5:13 pm Kelly S said...
Awesome Flick!
On May 9, 2010 at 8:24 pm Emily said...
Yes! I was just scrolling down to the bottom to suggest Better Off Dead. Who could go past the “In’ernashnul Language of Lurv”??
On May 9, 2010 at 11:41 pm SueG said...
Or “Sorry your Mom blew up, Ricky”
On May 9, 2010 at 2:05 am Tabs said...
Non-Repeats (I think):
Working Girl – might not be considered RomCom but there’s some terrific stuff there
Sleepless In Seattle
The Lake House
The Price of Milk – a tiny magical New Zealand indie fairy tale featuring 147 dairy cows
Persuasion – Are we counting Austen? I love the 1995 version.
Repeats:
27 Dresses
Overboard
Strictly Ballroom
Bull Durham
Jerry Maguire
Mostly Martha (the original German film is terrific, though not necessarily romantic comedy)
On May 9, 2010 at 2:06 am celine said...
The Shop Around the Corner- 1940,the original (and, I believe, superior) version of You’ve Got Mail
The Major and the Minor- 1942
Heart and Souls- 1993, maybe not a great movie but a nostalgic favorite of mine and a similar feel to the great Ghost Town plus it has Robert Downey, Jr.
Only You- 1994, another nostalgic favorite and another Robert Downey, Jr. movie
Love Jones- 1997, been a while since I’ve seen it but I remember loving it
Return to Me- 2000, although it might not be enough of a comedy
Definitely, Maybe- 2008
I’m on a similar quest to check out as many romantic comedies as possible and two that I’ve heard great things about but haven’t had a chance to see yet are Trouble in Paradise, 1932, and What’s Up Doc, 1972.
On May 9, 2010 at 2:12 am Merry the CB said...
Would you call Persuasion a comedy though? Romantic, def. But funny?
On May 9, 2010 at 2:44 am Theresa said...
I don’t watch lots of movies, but these are my favorite romantic comedies:
While You Were Sleeping
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
French Kiss
And the kiss at the end of French Kiss. I could watch that again and again and again.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:19 pm Deborah Blake said...
A big yes on French Kiss! (Well, in so many ways…but I mean the movie.) Also My Big Fat Greek Wedding
On May 9, 2010 at 4:13 am Eleanor said...
I don’t think anyone said Simply Irresistible yet, but that will always be a favorite. Not least because it has Buffy cooking and falling for a guy who can actually be with her.
Also Romancing the Stone and the Wedding Singer.
Does About A Boy count? ‘Cause if so, I vote for that too.
I also vote for
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Singing in the Rain (which I just re-watched tonight, and dammit if it doesn’t still get me)
You’ve Got Mail
The Birdcage
Kate and Leopold
Penelope
The Wedding Date
The Lakehouse is a great movie, but I don’t really think of it as a comedy. Maybe just because I haven’t seen it recently and am forgetting something?
On May 9, 2010 at 3:19 pm Deborah Blake said...
I loved Simply Irresistable, too. Sweet and magical.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:15 pm Kelly S said...
Oh, I also loved Simply Irresistible! I saw Romancing the Stone got cut from the list – too much adventure?
On May 9, 2010 at 6:52 pm Jenny said...
Maybe? That’s what I thought, but let’s face it, it’s a romance.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:21 pm JulieB said...
I think Romancing the Stone should definately stay on. Kate and Leopold don’t make the “Outstanding” cut IMO. I got to the end and thought “Huh?” and promptly forgot it existed.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:52 pm Merry the CB said...
Reading all these comments and suggestions has started me thinking.
(I hate it when that happens. )
It seems to me that a romantic comedy often starts out as something else, such as an adventure tale (Romancing the Stone — i.e. not romancing the woman) or a pure comedy such as French Kiss. By the end of the movie, however, the romance has taken center stage.
On May 9, 2010 at 8:02 pm Merry the CB said...
Clarification — ‘by the end of the movie’ = by the climax of the movie, the moment when all is darkest and is about to be resolved, the romance has become the most important element of the story.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:51 pm JulieB said...
Yes! It has to have moved to center stage, or the viewer has to see the relationship develop, or be threatened, which is why, in some cases, they couple can start as a couple and face a challenge and be stronger.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:52 am Linda said...
I definitely think Amelie (2001) qualifies as a great romcom.
And there may be some repeats here, one I know for sure: The Truth About Cats and Dogs (1996) – yes please! to that phone call.
The lovely quirkiness that is Stranger than Fiction (2006) – how do you not melt when he brings her flours =)
I don’t know about the comedy part, but there’s definitely romance and witty dialogue in Before Sunrise (1995), one of my all-time faves.
Connie and Carla (2004) is pretty hiliarious.
And The Holiday (2006) touches my heart.
That, I guess, is my input from Sweden =)
On May 9, 2010 at 6:04 am Ingrid said...
I’ll cast another vote for Bull Durham. Loved that film.
And I want to vote against Amélie, which is a good film, but not the lovely life-affirming story it got built up as, and certainly not a romantic comedy. It’s about this very strange and manipulative girl who manoevres two people who are totally wrong for each other into a love affair which soon breaks up, leaving them even unhappier than before. And this foreshadows her relationship with the man she’s been following throughout the film: once she has found him, she doesn’t know what to do with him. She looks very disillusioned on the back of that scooter.
A French film that is a romantic comedy, and from the seventies, is Cousin, cousine (1975). I adore that film. The American remake Cousins (1989) is rubbish.
I’m a big fan of the 1930′s screwball comedies, especially if they have Cary Grant and Irene Dunne, My favorite wife and The awful truth, for instance. And Ninotchka (1939), with Garbo laughing, is also wonderful.
And you cannot skip the Doris Day/Rock Hudson/Tony Randall comedies from the early 1960′s, Pillow talk and Lover come back. I also very much enjoyed the 2003 version with Renee Zellweger, Ewan McGregor and David Hyde Pierce, Down with love.
On May 9, 2010 at 6:43 am Ellie said...
Empire Records (1995)!
On May 9, 2010 at 7:59 am NancyF said...
My favorite romantic comedies are the Thin Man movies.
Yes they are mysteries, but it is the screwball rapor between Myrna Loy and William Powell that makes them a treat. The first one was the best, but the others have merit.
The Thin Man 1934
After the Thin Man 1936
Another Thin Man 1939
Shadow of the Thin Man 1941
Thin Man Goes Home 1945
Song of the Thin Man 1947
Another of my favorite movies is Cat Ballou 1965 – but is it just a romatic comedy? Every guy in the movie is in Love with Jane Fonda.
Also Practical Magic 1998, again there is romance, there is comedy, but there is also magic and a dead guy.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:09 am Briana said...
I know it won’t count because it’s too much of a tragedy, but the first half of Life is Beautiful is gorgeous and funny and oh, so romantic and wonderful. And then the camps come and you have to just start crying, and at the end “this is what my father gave me” and I’m lost, but it’s the most fabulous movie ever.
So, it probably doesn’t belong on your list, but….watch it!
On May 9, 2010 at 9:10 am Sarah said...
I’d add a vote for Baby Boom (1987) and Dirty Dancing (also 1987).
On May 9, 2010 at 9:17 am Sarah said...
I also love French Kiss, Strictly Ballroom and Sleepless in Seattle.
Other gems:
Something’s Gotta Give (2003)
Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)
Romancing the Stone (1984)
Shop Around the Corner (1940) – The original “You’ve Got Mail”
I also have a soft spot for The Cutting Edge (1992) and Notting Hill (1999)
On May 9, 2010 at 10:19 pm mary said...
heh heh. Love The Cutting Edge. Toe Pick. However mostly not comedy for me.
On May 10, 2010 at 9:04 am Emily said...
Cutting Edge! One of my favourites, which got a good workout again during the Winter Olympics.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:22 am ncb said...
Oh, Jenny. You missed all my favorites!
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) — Best Hughes film. Ever.
Roman Holiday (1953) — I’d put it in there, despite the ending. My favorite romance, comedy or not.
Imagine Me & You (2005) — A million times better than Jessica Stein. I still can’t watch the dancing scene without wanting to go dancing. In an arcade.
And I second French Kiss and Bull Durham, which is also the best baseball movie of all time.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:23 am ncb said...
Oh, and That Touch of Mink (1962). Corny, hilarious, and worth it.
On May 10, 2010 at 10:32 am Muria said...
Seconded! It was the movie I thought of when I saw Pillow Talk was on the list. I liked Touch of Mink much better, but that could be the Cary Grant fan coming out in me.
How about “I Was A Male War Bride”? The whole movie isn’t about the romance, but it’s in there. It’s a little bit of the “what comes after the ‘happily every after’” idea.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:37 am LilyC said...
How about The Big Easy (1986)? Yes, I know, it’s not really a romance, people get killed, but sometimes they get killed in your books too. And Dennis Quaid was just so very, very good in it, and Ellen Barkin’s clumsiness was wonderful too.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:39 am Brooke d. said...
The Gay Deception from 1935 is fabulous.
The Matchmaker 1997
On May 9, 2010 at 9:42 am Eva said...
Operation Petticoat (1959), High Society (1956), another vote for Frensh Kiss, and MBFGW, Bull Durham, oh, what about Tin Cup? I love Sabrina, too. The Steve Martin one where he’s Cyrano…with what’s her face -Roxanne! Bringing Up Baby, The Philadelphia Story, Cary Grant’s Arsenic and Old Lace, The Long Long Trailer. I love old ones, I know. Channel 11 on a Saturday in front of my Nana’s big ole wood TV is my idea of heaven.
On May 10, 2010 at 11:58 pm Micki said...
Oh, I loved Roxanne! I wonder if I’d like it now . . . should rent it this weekend, if I can find it.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:46 am Eva said...
The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, Cary Grant’s My Favorite Wife? Cat Ballou?
On May 9, 2010 at 9:48 am LilyC said...
Ladyhawke for 1985? Romance, and Matthew Broderick as the comic relief?
On May 9, 2010 at 7:44 pm Skye said...
Ladyhawke: Romantic, yes. Funny, not so much. Truly gorgeous, tho’.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:49 am Moth said...
My List: (Of the ones you didn’t have)
Murphy’s Romance
Overboard
Pretty Woman
Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
Emma (with Gwyneth Paltrow)
French Kiss
Penelope
While You Were Sleeping
Singin’ in the Rain
Working Girl
The original Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner is deeply romantic to me, and I think it’s pretty funny too…
On May 9, 2010 at 9:53 am Anna said...
I would take Amelie & The Truth about Cats & Dogs off. They’re romantic & they’re funny, but I don’t think they’re necessarily romantic comedy. Mostly Martha (the original German was AMAZING!!!!!!!) was great, but not necessarily romantic comedy, IMO. Hated The Wedding Date. I mean, I literally fast forwarded through half the movie, and didn’t feel like I’d missed anything. Looking at my movies, I have an awful lot that aren’t necessarily “romantic comedy.” But I’ll think on it, and add to the list if I think of any more.
I’ll put in for:
When Harry Met Sally (1987)
My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)
Sweet Home Alabama (2002)
Down with Love (2003)
Love Actually (2003)
Bride & Prejudice (2004)
Hitch (2005)
All the Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers movies. There are 9 of them, I think.
Any Katharine Hepburn/Cary Grant combo (Bringing Up Baby (1938), Holiday (1938), The Philadelphia Story (1940)).
Designing Woman (1957)
How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)
On May 9, 2010 at 11:57 am Becky said...
I agree, The Wedding Date was terrible. But the book, Asking For Trouble by Elizabeth Young, is one of my favorites.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:30 pm Anna said...
I didn’t know it was based on a book!!!! I’ll have to read that now. Thanks.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:00 am Holly said...
Darling Lily
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
How to Marry a Millionaire
My Favorite Wife
Pat and Mike
Desk Set
Bringing Up Baby
Palm Beach Story
Lover Come Back
Pillow Talk
That Touch of Mink
Hitch
Music and Lyrics
On May 9, 2010 at 10:02 am TanyaG said...
“Leap Year” (just came out early this year, I think) was the quintessential, darling, romantic comedy. Amy Adams was great, but Matthew Goode (the male lead) was a master of under-played, dead-pan hilarity. However, there is no date posted yet for DVD release, so if you missed it….gotta wait until it’s released.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:07 am Holly said...
I was looking at the list again and found some surprises. I don’t remember “500 Days of Summer” or “Return to Me” being remotely funny. But “Some Like It Hot,” which has been removed, is hilarious, slyly sweet and romantic.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:08 am LilyC said...
They billed “500 Days of Summer” as hilarious and uplifting, the con artists. It turned out to be the worst movie I’ve seen in a long time – the antithesis of funny and horribly depressing at the same time. I went to see it with two friends and we came out of it speechless. Awful movie. Shall I get off the fence now?
On May 9, 2010 at 9:27 pm Moth said...
I hated it too. The hero was a doormat and the “heroine” was a total user bi-otch.
On May 10, 2010 at 12:07 am Cindy said...
I hated this movie too. Even my 14-year-old daughter thought the guy was too whiny. Not funny at all, and not worthy of this great list.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:09 am Allie said...
No suggestions for The Cutting Edge?? I would say that the fact that they don’t tell you what their scores are at the end cements it as a romance.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:38 am colognegrrl said...
Is this Groundhog Day or what? Because I have the impression that we’ve made the same lists not very long ago. I put in a vote for Overboard and Working Girl, my all-time favorites. I’d also add Bird on the Wire and that movie where Mel Gibson could hear what women thought. Till next time.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:10 am Susan D said...
Oh good, someone finally mentioned Pat and Mike. A treasure (“Not much meat on her, but what there is, is cherce.”)
And if we’re voting, I’ll put all my votes on Holiday, which I watch every New Year’s as I take town the tree.
And I’ll add IQ because Tim Robbins as a grease monkey and Meg Ryan as a brilliant mathematician and Walter Mathau as matchmaker Albert Einstein are an irresistable combo. And then Truly, Madly Deeply, because the heroine is in love with 2 wonderful, off-beat men (and one is dead). And Shirley Valentine, because she falls in love with herself, and Greece.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:43 pm Skylar - said...
love love love Shirley Valentine!
On May 12, 2010 at 3:35 pm glee said...
Ah, Walter Matthau. Does anyone remember Hopscotch? Not sure if it belongs here but it is screamingly funny and does definitely have a HEA with Matthau and Glenda Jackson. Not exactly your typical romantic comedy, but terrific.
On May 12, 2010 at 4:34 pm Jenny said...
I love Hopscotch, but it’s not a romantic comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:34 am Hannah said...
Earth Girls are Easy 1989..
Cutting Edge 1992
On May 9, 2010 at 11:45 am robena grant said...
I agree with many of those already mentioned. I also liked Dan in Real Life, with Steve Carell (maybe ’09) and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (’88) even though now that I think of it, that was more straight comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:47 am gin said...
The rest of the Hepburn/Tracy movies, definitely. Pat & Mike has already been mentioned, but also Woman of the Year, State of the Union (although that’s more serious, IIRC), and a less well-known one, Without Love, that has some lovely banter.
What about James Garner’s Support Your Local Sherriff? There must be other Garner movies that would qualify too.
Bell, Book and Candle (Jimmy Stewart), although that may be romance with comic relief.
Yeah, I’m much more of a vintage movie person than a contemporary moviegoer.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:08 pm Kate said...
It Could Happen to You
How to Marry a Millionaire
Notting Hill
Mickey Blue Eyes – Hugh Grant can really make me laugh
The Ghost and Mrs. Miniver
There was another good movie with Bing Crosby and Ronald Regan’s first wife that was good. He brings home two orphans from France. Trust me a good movie and funny.
That’s all I can think of for now. I loved the Doris Day/ Rock Hudson movies.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:19 pm Eva said...
Duh! HOW could I forget Moonstruck (current WIP is Italian American romance with a Dean martin soundtrack)?! And I love The Ghost and Mrs. Miniver!
On May 9, 2010 at 12:23 pm Becky said...
Three of my favorite romantic comedies are:
White Christmas (1954)
Defending Your Life (1991)
Only You (1994)
I have to disagree with Kate & Leopold. Kate goes back in time with Leopold and turns out to be the great-whatever grandmother of her old boyfriend! Sloppy plotting.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:27 pm Rachel said...
Kinky Boots – the romance doesn’t drive the story but it’s there throughout.
Lars and the Real Girl?
The new-ish Hugh Grant/Sarah Jessica Parker movie: What Happened to the…. Can’t remember the title. Not sure it’s a top-100 contender, but I laughed all the way through.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:22 pm Deborah Blake said...
It’s called Have You Heard About the Somebody-or-others…
On May 9, 2010 at 5:36 pm Anna said...
Did you hear about the morgans?
It was cute. Silly, and not especially profound. But cute.
On May 9, 2010 at 12:28 pm Becca said...
The Philadelphia Story (all time favorite)
That Touch of Mink
Pillow Talk
Bringing up baby
Love Actually
Sixteen Candles
Moonstruck
When Harry Met Sally
Sleepless in Seattle
Grosse Pointe Blank
On May 9, 2010 at 12:30 pm Diane (TT) said...
One I haven’t seen mentioned here is “The Major and the Minor”. For some reason, I really liked that – Ginger Rogers and Ray Milland. I don’t get Doris Day much, but I love GR. And Ray Milland is awfully good looking.
I watched “Ladyhawke” about a million times, but I think that was more Rutger Hauer than either the comedy or the romance. Speaking of good-looking men….
There was a fun one with Rosalind Russell and Fred MacMurray, I think – he was a working class guy, who had, perhaps, become an engineer, and there was some huge project, I don’t recall if it was a tunnel or a bridge. Anyway, something I enjoyed when I was watching AMC in grad school, instead of working – my standards were, perhaps, not particularly high.
What about the Branagh/ Thompson “Much Ado about Nothing”?
On May 9, 2010 at 12:37 pm Andrea said...
Did anyone mention The Shop Around the Corner with Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullivan?
On May 9, 2010 at 1:08 pm Susan said...
I skim read through many of the comments and found that my definition of romantic comedy kept changing as I read different people’s suggestions. I don’t have a firm definition in my head yet, just a gut reaction.
To me, the following movies could be on the list:
Sweet Home Alabama
America’s Sweethearts
Overboard
Two Week’s Notice
I get that the Princess Bride is Romantic, and is humourous, but to me it’s more of a Fairy Tale that a Romantic Comedy.
Not sure why The Truth About Cats & Dogs came off. Whether we liked it or not, I think it fits the definition.
What about Serendipity? Is that not comedic enough?
I don’t get About a Boy. I can’t remember if I’ve seen the movie, but the book certainly doesn’t scream romantic comedy at me.
I’m guessing the Big Easy is too dramatic? The romance is certainly hot.
On May 9, 2010 at 1:11 pm Susan said...
I just reread Jenny’s definition, which includes that the movie has to be outstanding.
I can see the argument for removing the Truth About Cats and Dogs.
On May 9, 2010 at 6:06 pm colognegrrl said...
According to that definition, I’d like to add “Speed” (but not the sequel!!) because it was an outstanding movie plus had some nice romantic elements.
On May 9, 2010 at 1:11 pm Brussel Sprout said...
Truly Madly Deeply – I can’t believe that’s not on there! And I have a very soft spot for Doris Day and David Niven in Please don’t eat the Daisies.
Just so long as you have NO Matthew McConaughey movies on there. He was magnificent in the absolutely brilliant but in no way rom-com Lone Star and has gone downhill ever since. Sigh.
On May 9, 2010 at 1:14 pm Brussel Sprout said...
And How to Marry a Millionaire. Yummy. Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe in the same movie…
On May 9, 2010 at 1:38 pm Ginny said...
I’m in heaven here because I am copying down all the movies I never got to see or didn’t bother to try. Now I can hit up my husband and ask for him to add stuff to the NetFlix list for me. I’m strange (I know) but I like to iron and love it when I can find something to watch at the same time. I have this list to thank already for the Ms. Pettigrew movie!
My suggestion would be Victor, Victoria. I’m a big James Garner fan and the part where Robert Preston sang in drag still cracks me up.
On May 9, 2010 at 1:53 pm Lyndsay said...
Bringing up Baby and The Philadelphia Story are a must.
I also like Holiday Inn not sure if other people would count it as a romantic comedy.
My Favourite Wife, The Proposal and 27 Dresses?
On May 9, 2010 at 2:00 pm Ginny said...
What about Julie & Julia. Personally I would take just the Julia part. I didn’t care for Julie at all. My husband has chimed in with Juno.
On May 9, 2010 at 2:29 pm Bonnie C said...
Ladyhawke is one of my all time favorites, but sadly it ain’t rom-com.
Finally! Someone put up White Christmas – 2nd best xmas movie, EVER. (Die Hard is my all time favorite xmas movie, so that should tell you where I’m generally coming from…)
Just checked my DVD shelves and discovered a dearth of rom-com, so I have nothing new to add. But I would like to add my votes for:
Enchanted
Four Weddings and a Funeral
Shrek
Breakfast at Tiffany’s (young George Peppard – sluuurp!)
I *love* Beautiful Girls but while romantic and funny, not rom-com.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:25 pm Deborah Blake said...
I vote for A Good Year with Russell Crowe (based on one of my favorite books by Peter Mayle) and Music and Lyrics.
And I DEMAND (yes, you heard me) that you put Princess Bride back on the list. Best romantic comedy eveh.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:31 pm Cheri said...
Heaven Can Wait 1978
I couldn’t believe the 70′s were so completely devoid of romantic comedy, so I combed my brain, then remembered this gem with Warren Beatty and Julie Christie. Funny, romantic and very well done.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:33 pm BJ said...
I agree with Sleepless in Seattle. I enjoyed Juno, but don’t really see it as a “romantic” comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:40 pm Karen Templeton said...
Oooh, someone else mentioned TWO WEEKS’ NOTICE. The subtle building of the protags’ falling for each other was fabulous. Not a huge Hugh Grant fan, but paired with Sandra Bullock, he works.
And a big second for WHITE CHRISTMAS. And the whole of the Spencer/Hepburn flicks, and the Doris Day/James Garner or Day/Hudson movies, which are a subgenre all their own.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:55 pm Library Linda said...
The film that practically no one saw – Next Stop Wonderland (1998)
Holiday Affair (1949) – Robert Mitchum all broody and lovely.
On May 9, 2010 at 3:59 pm Deb Z. said...
How about, “The Goodbye Girl,” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” “Philadelphia Story,” and “High Society?”
On May 9, 2010 at 4:03 pm Deb Z. said...
Roman Holiday, too.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:12 pm Cathy said...
Trying again as my last attempt is still awaiting moderation – Father Goose, 1964 with Cary Grant and Leslie Caron.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:14 pm julia said...
Love the list, have a quiible with “About a Boy”. Argueably, Hugh Grant’s best work, but more a story of a man finally growing up than a romantic comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:29 pm Strop said...
Operation Petticoat
White Christmas
Two Weeks’ Notice
10 things I hate about you
Those are all ‘go to’ films when I want a fun night in.
Mamma Mia?
My friend Ruthie says Runaway Bride.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:20 pm Kelly S said...
I was thinking of Mama Mia too! Also, put me on the list that supports Two Weeks Notice.
On May 9, 2010 at 4:46 pm Karen said...
My all time favorite romantic comedy (all time favorite comedy, in fact), is from the 1970s! “WHAT’S UP DOC?” Barbra Streisand, Ryan O’Neill (not to mention Madeline Kahn)…. funniest chase scene ever!
I think the rest of my faves have already been mentioned (“Bull Durham” “Strictly Ballroom” “Gross Pointe Blank”).
On May 9, 2010 at 5:18 pm francois said...
Another vote for…
The Sure Thing (1985)
Overboard (1987)
and Bell Book and Candle (1958)
I would have left off 500 days of Summer. It was fine, just not that good. I guess time will tell on that one.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:20 pm Shannan said...
No one’s yet mentioned one of my absolutely favorite movies, Bandits (2001). The scene on the dance floor where Billy Bob thinks he has a brain-thingie still has the power to make me fall out of my chair laughing, as does every Bonnie Tyler moment in the film. Actually, I now fall out of my chair laughing on cue every time “Turn around” comes on the stereo, I’m so conditioned. The main focus is the three-way romance, as evidenced by the kissy-face ending. It’s also laugh out loud funny and OUTSTANDING. Please say you’ve seen it!
I also endorse Philadelphia Story and Imagine Me & You. So good!
On May 9, 2010 at 10:28 pm mary said...
My favorite thing about Bandits is that all of my friends are VERY CLEAR the only choice of the two men to end up with- and usually they pick opposites.
On May 10, 2010 at 8:33 am Shannan said...
Hehe. I think the movie nails the perfect choice. My imagination ran wild for quite some time after seeing it.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:30 pm CT said...
I really think White Christmas deserves a spot on the list. It’s got everything a rom-com should have, plus it’s awesome.
I also really, really like Something’s Gotta Give, but I don’t see many calls for it. Must be in the minority.
I watched Bridget Jones’s Diary again recently and was reminded how nearly perfect that movie is. I never cared much for the book, but the movie is excellent.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:33 pm Nasus said...
Oh Bull Durham, my absolute favorite. Love Susan Sarandan’s character, strong, artistic yet vulnerable. Brilliant dialogue, so truly observed, I’m always watching interviews with sports stars and hearing the lines Kevin Costner coached Tim Robbins to use when he gets “to the show”. And a real life love story behind the scenes, SS and TR met and got together during the making of the movie. Sorry to go on but I do love that film.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:40 pm GeekMom13 said...
I’m a british movie fan so I’ll put my vote in for Cold Comfort Farm. I do love You’ve Got Mail but I also believe you can love a movie and know that it’s crap. That’s what it is for me…Joe Vs. The Volcano is in that category too…funny romantic but it is sappy crap and I know it.
I’ll add more votes for French Kiss and Two Weeks Notice. Just re-watched Desk Set so I’ll throw in a vote for that one as well.
How about Head Over Heels, with Freddie Prince Jr? Love that movie…a bit cheesy but lovable.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:41 pm Carol-Ann said...
I second What’s Up Doc? It’s one of the funniest rom-coms ever written, and I love Madeline Kahn as Eunice. I don’t think of Clueless as a rom com, I tend to just put it in the comedy.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:42 pm Kelly S said...
Not saying it should come off, but I really didn’t find 4 Weddings and Funeral funny or romantic. Also, I don’t support the Birdcage and being a romantic comedy.
A summary of the items I agreed with from others:
While you were sleeping
Simply Irresistible
Better Off Dead
Sure Thing
Mama Mia
French Kiss
Two Weeks Notice
Only You
Kate & Leopold
Notting Hill despite Hugh Grant being in it
America’s Sweethearts
Wish it was more about the romance, but A Fish Called Wanda was wonderful.
Again, a plug for American Dreamer, but understand why it isn’t on this list.
Romancing the Stone got pulled, I expect because it is more adventure than romance, would the same be true for Jewel of the Nile?
Not certain on these two:
Rumor Has It – kinda funny, kinda romantic probably shouldn’t make the cut
Alex & Emma – haven’t seen it though
On May 9, 2010 at 5:51 pm KelC said...
I’d have to add Fever Pitch to the list. Drew and crew do a great job of snappy dialogue and keeping it modern. Same with He’s Just Not that Into You. Both worth a mention.
On May 9, 2010 at 5:56 pm Katrina said...
Agree with lots of the above – I’d add Holiday starring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black and Jude Law. And perhaps Practical Magic.
On May 10, 2010 at 12:49 am Lily Blues said...
I really liked Jack Black and Kate Winslet in this one.
On May 9, 2010 at 6:02 pm Kylee said...
What about Definitely, Maybe? Ryan Reynolds is definitely funny, as is the cute little girl that plays his daughter…
On May 9, 2010 at 6:07 pm McB said...
Everytime I think of one to add somebody else mentions it. Great list. I woldnt I clude Bill Durham. Great movie with funny bits, but more a class in itself.
Did anyone mention Arsenic and Old Lace?
On May 9, 2010 at 6:38 pm Merry the CB said...
Yeah but… would you consider Arsenic and Old Lace a romantic comedy? It’s got about 2 minutes of romance in it.
Ouch!
Um… I meant to say, “Yes, McB, that’s a brilliant suggestion. Really.”
On May 9, 2010 at 8:59 pm McB said...
Let nobody say Merry isn’t trainable.
But that’s a good point.
And I agree that RTS should go back on the list.
What about “Big”?
On May 9, 2010 at 10:56 pm JulieB said...
“Big” skeeved me out… the whole bunkbed thing — gack!
On May 9, 2010 at 6:19 pm JB Hunt said...
My Favorite Wife — 1940
Cary Grant & Irene Dunne
Sexy and Laugh-Out-Loud Funny
On May 9, 2010 at 6:24 pm Kay T said...
“French Kiss” is my all time favorite romantic comedy. What about “Roman Holiday”? Certainly they meant it to be a comedy and how often do you get to see Gregory Peck in a comedy? Oh, maybe because they don’t end up together? Wow, will have to watch “Holiday” looks great. My other all time favorite is It Happened One Night. I had to order it and I am saving it for when I REALLY need it.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:01 pm JulieB said...
OK. I say put Romancing the Stone firmly back on. It is fabulous, and it is RomCom, although it’s smart enough about it to not make the husbands realize it.
I LOVE Grosse Point Blank, but I left it off, because I did think the romance in that was secondary. Important, but secondary.
And, I don’t think of Sixteen Candles as a romance at all. She wants to get together with the boy, but (and it’s been almost 30 years since I’ve seen it) I don’t remember anything with the boy in particular. I don’t really see their relationship develop. I just remember Molly Ringwald having a bad, forgotten birthday. It was funny, but I don’t think a relationship evolved in that. Same with Bull Durham. I know there’s a romance, but I don’t remember it moving. But it’s been years, so I could be wrong.
I think if you have a RomCom, it can’t just end with people getting together. I think the relationship’s progress has to have movement.
Following that, I suggest you return Groundhog Day to the list. It IS about Bill Murray’s character, but he falls in love through this, and I think it’s a keeper.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:44 pm Jessie said...
I must have read through this too fast. Where is “Tootsie”(1982). Dustin Haufman was amazing and Teri Garr was incredibly funny, although she wasn’t the leading lady. I saw it 3 times for full admission when it was first released, which I almost never do.
I suppose “Raiders of the Lost Ark” technically is adventure but I think it is basically romantic comedy.
What about “Annie Hall”?
Also
On May 9, 2010 at 7:51 pm Jessie said...
Some these listed are movies that are really situational comedies with romance thrown in and some are basically romances that are also comedies. Is that the fine line between whether something is included or not?
On May 9, 2010 at 7:52 pm Skye said...
Joe vs. the Volcano: Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan (in 3 parts!). Funny. Romantic.
Michael: Sure, Travolta mostly carried the thing, but the two who were becoming a couple worked nicely together.
Of course, I entirely accept that my take on the whole idea of romantic comedy is at a complete tangent from everyone else’s take.
On May 9, 2010 at 7:59 pm mcrowley41 said...
(1982) Kiss me Goodbye (Sally Field, Jeff Bridges)
(1987) Chasing Amy (Ben Affleck, Joey Adams)
(1985) Murphy’s Romance (Sally Field, James Garner)
On May 10, 2010 at 10:35 am Jana said...
Ditto for “Chasing Amy” (although isn’t it 1997?)
On May 9, 2010 at 8:03 pm Sheena said...
If you have The Philadelphia Story, I’d definitely add High Society, which I loved. And Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. A couple of Australian additions: Paperback Hero (1999), Dating the Enemy (1996). Also The Matchmaker (1997), which I think is Amercian but about Ireland.
On May 9, 2010 at 8:03 pm Terrio said...
Okay, I think I checked all the comments and no one said SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE. I think that should be added, but I could be wrong. BULL DURHAM is forever awesome and maybe we could add the KC version Robin Hood? Also, I liked MUST LOVE DOGS. A RomCom for us grown ups trying to get back into the dating scene. It ain’t easy and that movie proves it. Plus, them hunting for condoms is freaking hysterical.
I’m not sure how much comedy it really contains, and I’m not a fan of the man who created it, but I adore THE NOTEBOOK. Oh wait, no happy ending. Nevermind.
How about GREASE for the 70s?
On May 9, 2010 at 8:05 pm Micky said...
I am sure some of these are repeats…
Sabrina (the orginal)
Forgetting Sara Marshall
Overboard
Mamma Mia
One Crazy Summer
Shrek
Wall-E
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Favorites from your list…Bringing Up Baby, Bull Durham and Grosse Point Blank
On May 9, 2010 at 8:06 pm Terrio said...
I think of ABOUT A BOY as more a male version of women’s fiction. Men’s fiction? It’s more about his growth as a person than a romance. Great movie though.
On May 9, 2010 at 8:16 pm KellyJ said...
I would add…
The Princess Bride
27 Dresses
Sleepless in Seattle
Two Weeks Notice (if they would cut the bathroom/trailer scene)
Sabrina
Ever After
Shakespeare in Love
The Mummy
Waitress
What Women Want
Something’s Gotta Give
On May 9, 2010 at 8:25 pm KellyJ said...
Also…
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Doc Hollywood
Return to Me
Baby Boom
Mama Mia
Grease
Shrek
Music & Lyrics
The Cutting Edge
The Runaway Bride
13 Going on 30
On May 9, 2010 at 8:25 pm Denisetwin said...
I second whoever said Enchanted with Amy Adams in 2007. Enchanted was so so funny and then that swoon factor when he finally realizes he is in love with her.
On May 9, 2010 at 8:27 pm KellyJ said...
My faves:
The Princess Bride
The Mummy
Sleepless in Seattle
27 Dresses
Two Weeks Notice (if they cut the stupid bathroom scene)
Sabrina
Ever After
Shakespeare in Love
Waitress
What Women Want
On May 9, 2010 at 8:27 pm KellyJ said...
One more… Something’s Gotta Give
On May 9, 2010 at 9:09 pm Electric Landlady said...
HISS to Daddy-Long-Legs. Love the book. The movie is a really, really terrible adaptation. They took away all Judy’s personality, all her joy and excitement about being in college, and made it all about him (OK, he was Fred Astaire, BUT STILL). And I’m not at all fond of What Women Want, either.
I adore The Truth About Cats and Dogs, but if you’re not a Cyrano de Bergerac fan it won’t work, I do get that. In its stead, may I propose my other favourite Janeane Garofalo movie, The Matchmaker? Because it rocks, and also you get pretty Irish scenery.
The Tall Guy — Emma Thompson, Jeff Goldblum, Rowan Atkinson. I laugh and laugh every time I see it.
I second both Penelope and Grosse Pointe Blank.
The Proposal?
I am thinking of lots of romances I love but I wouldn’t really call them comedy. Can we have a category for really pretty-looking romances and romance-ish movies next? We could include Ever After and Practical Magic.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:10 pm Michele said...
I’d agree with the suggestions of Definitely, Maybe, Notting Hill and The Cutting Edge.
Some other suggestions: American President, Dave, What Women Want, The Wedding Singer.
There is a pretty comprehensive list at http://boxofficemojo.com/genres/chart/?id=romanticcomedy.htm listing all of the movies that have been labeled romantic comedies at the box office since 1978.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:31 pm GatorPerson said...
Casanova (2005)
Others have already recommended African Queen (1951) and Shakespeare in Love (1998). But I guess African Queen isn’t all that much comedy. But Casanova is FUNNY! So is Shakespeare in Love.
On May 10, 2010 at 7:31 am McB said...
African Queen is a fav of mine, but def not a romcom. What about The Quiet Man? John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara I think.
On May 10, 2010 at 11:56 am Michele said...
Or Donovan’s Reef- 1963? Another classic with John Wayne and Elizabeth Allen.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:42 pm L. M. May said...
Everyone has already mentioned almost everything I could think of. Here’s what I have left:
THE THIN MAN (1934) — probably can’t qualify since the main couple is already married at the beginning, but the banter, arguing, and flirting between Nick and Nora as they solve the mystery is hilarious.
THE LADY VANISHES (1938) — romantic comedic suspense, so again might not fit the definition close enough.
AN IDEAL HUSBAND (1999) not sure if this qualifies as a romcom, but my husband and I kept laughing throughout the film. Especially during parts like this …
Mabel: You are very late!
Lord Arthur Goring: Have you missed me?
Mabel: Awfully!
Lord Arthur Goring: Then I am sorry I did not stay away longer. I like being missed.
Mabel: How very selfish of you!
Lord Arthur Goring: I am very selfish.
Mabel: Lord Goring, you are always telling me about your bad qualities.
Lord Arthur Goring: I haven’t told you half of them as yet, Miss Mabel.
Mabel: Really? Are the others very bad?
Lord Arthur Goring: Quite dreadful! When I think of them at night, I go to sleep at once.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:43 pm Bren said...
You scratched out ‘Some Like it Hot’…. Why?? And how about Marilyn Monroe in ‘The Seven Year Itch?’
Lots of fun movies listed. Romantic comedies are my favorite for def. I still remember a health nut guy walking in and snacking on an orchid in ‘Athena’. I must have been how young at the time? Can’t remember.
On May 9, 2010 at 9:50 pm Kaetrin said...
I’m not sure About a Boy is a romance. It’s certainly funny and a great movie but it’s more about the relationship between Hugh Grant’s character and the boy, IIRC.
I’d add Pretty Woman and The Wedding Date for sure but then again, I liked The Ugly Truth too (I’m a big G. Butler fan and frankly, I’d watch him watching paint dry, but I digress…). Oh, and I’d add, Notting Hill, The Proposal and The Wedding Singer and 50 First Dates.
BTW, is there a way to subscribe to comments?
On May 9, 2010 at 9:50 pm Terrio said...
Just thought of one. THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST. Would that qualify?
On May 10, 2010 at 2:05 am Bonnie C said...
YES! I *love* this one. I don’t care which team Rupert Everett bats for… yuuuuuuummmmmm!
On May 9, 2010 at 10:26 pm Jenny said...
My God, I went away for a day and there were 31 comments pending.
First, really sorry you had to wait.
Second, head is exploding here.
Third, Lani wants to do this as podcasts so we’re discussing that now.
Fourth, head still exploding from all the suggestions. I should have known if there was one thing you all were passionate about, it would be love and funny.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:37 pm JulieB said...
This is really fun. I’ve changed my mind overnight about some once I’d thought about how I would defince RomCom, and once I saw your revised list. We could all probably go into mid-week on this.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:27 pm Mary Stella said...
I confess that I haven’t read all 100+ comments but am winging my additions. I just saw The Proposal and think it’s terrific. I hope someone already suggested Kate and Leopold. I’m also voting for a lesser known movie Someone Like You. (That last pick might be influenced by Hugh Jackman in tight boy shorts slurping lo mein with what looks like a killer long tongue.)
Did anyone suggest As Good as It Gets (Helen Hunt/Jack Nicholson) or Something’s Got To Give (Diane Keaton/Jack Nicholson)?
On May 9, 2010 at 10:36 pm mary said...
I’ve been reading through comments trying to think of Someone Like You. I second that.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:38 pm JulieB said...
My memory of As Good as it Gets is very sad. Maybe it was my mood…
On May 9, 2010 at 10:27 pm WapakGram said...
White Christmas- I have the album, the CD the VHS and the DVD. Can I vote twice?
Pretty Woman…the end is all about HEA.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding. You laugh yourself sick and then you smile at the end. I still can’t look at Windex the same way.
(Michele- I thought I was the only person in the Universe who has seen “Dave.”)
Bringing up Baby. They just don’t make them like that any more.
The Ghost and Mr. Chicken. Don Knotts on a Romantic Comedy List. Love it!
On May 10, 2010 at 11:59 am Michele said...
WapakGram- Dave is one that DH and I enjoy, but it is a distant second to American President for the setting (White House/president). We actually found both movies on a DVD together as a “Double Feature”, which is why I own it.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:34 pm JulieB said...
I’m still voting to switch out Sixteen Candles for The Sure Thing.
On May 9, 2010 at 10:42 pm JulieB said...
Oh, one I also thought of because it’s one of my husband’s favorites: 6 Days, 7 Nights. I say this firmly meets the RomCom standard of relationship/plot development and comedy, but it did fare poorly in the theatres due to some unfortunate personality-related news.
On May 9, 2010 at 11:04 pm London Mabel said...
Two of my faves are:
State & Main
Metropolitan
They’re both super witty, and though there’s more going on than just the romance (both have multiple characters) I think the romances are really excellent. In Metropolitan, you can clearly track when the Dopey Boy is finally noticing and falling for The Friend because he finally reads her favourite book. Such a real-life sign of falling in love.
And State and Main is one of the few romances in existence where the heroine TRUSTS the hero, instead of the romance being built on misunderstanding. My jaw dropped in theatre when The Big Misunderstanding never happened because the heroine believed the hero. I also love that the romance story also carries the main theme of the movie (honesty). For this reason, I think it’s a really excellent candidate for perfect romantic comedy.
I’m not sure I think About a Boy is a romcom, because I’m left with a much stronger sense of his relationship with the boy, than with the woman.
I look forward to the final list.
On May 10, 2010 at 12:41 am Carol Anne said...
I go away for 2 days, post had 135, thinking I will get back to you after dinner now there are 188 and a new post. Sheesh
I haven’t read all the comments so just adding one of my faves I did not see on the list. And now you have a new list of 4 for each decade – oh, well, late again, seems to be the story lately, will have to think about the 70s.
Indiscreet 1958 Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergen.
On May 10, 2010 at 1:00 am Clever Cherry aka Judy Long said...
The only movie I see not mentioned that I loved is – The Guy Thing. Julia Stiles and Selma Blair both end up with a guy & it is hilarious IMO.
On May 10, 2010 at 1:33 am Micki said...
When I have time, I’ll look and see why Groundhog’s Day was struck off the list. What about “Shakespeare in Love” and “Casanova”? (The Heath Ledger version)?
There must have been good 70s movies . . . I just can’t think of a blessed one right now. There was that Goldie Hawn movie, Cactus Flower or Cactus Rose — I watched it and loved it when I was a lot less discriminating, so it might not fit the list, either. And I think it was a 60s movie, after all.
(-: Half-assed commenting; I does it.
On May 10, 2010 at 3:06 am colognegrrl said...
There was Love Story, wasn’t it?
On May 10, 2010 at 12:01 pm Michele said...
The only RomCom that I can remember with Goldie Hawn is Overboard with Kurt Russell. Not sure it qualifies as a “great” RomCom, but it does fit the bill.
On May 10, 2010 at 8:45 am Dee said...
Only looked quickly, but I didn’t see:
A Knight’s Tale – 2001
Which may be because no one thought it was as funny as I did, but definitely romantic.
On May 10, 2010 at 9:32 am Brenda Bradshaw said...
I should be beaten. With a stick. While I sleep.
A Knight’s Tale is my favorite all time movie — I guess I didn’t think of it as rom com.
On May 10, 2010 at 11:57 am hope101 said...
I don’t have time to look through it all, but don’t forget “Green Card”.
They’re not quite as purely rom com, but I’d also classify the first Crocodile Dundee and Doc Hollywood as rom com.
On May 10, 2010 at 1:33 pm Michael C. said...
I would recommend adding:
Addicted to Love (1997) starring Mathew Broderick and Meg Ryan
Three to Tango (1999) starring Matthew Perry and Neve Campbell
On May 10, 2010 at 1:50 pm LaLi! said...
One of my favorite movies: THE MIRROR HAS TWO FACES (1996)
Others I love:
Only You (1994)
French Kiss (1995)
Just like Heaven (2005)
On May 10, 2010 at 3:11 pm CrankyOtter said...
I do not know why everyone likes French Kiss. I was so distracted by the wild mop of Meg’s hair that I barely noticed the movie and what I saw was only meh. Would never, ever watch it again. Also not a fan of You’ve got Mail or Serendipity. Serendipity was the classic Big Mis where they don’t quite meet up then spend the whole movie apart and pining and idealizing each other rather than getting to know each other. Wallbanger if it were a book – I found it embarassing to watch, thinking people would think all romances were like that.
I suppose not being exactly comedic, that The Terminator and Bourne Identity would be out…
But I will second (or eleventh) Notting Hill. Really watchable, great Horse and Hounds gags, and quite romantic. Of the films that didn’t make the list, that popped up in my head first. I can watch it again and again. Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone. I could go either way on About a Boy. Love the book and relationships are central as is personal growth, but it’s not because of the romance as such. not that anyone will read comment 213 after it’s 3 threads down, but that’s my 2 cents.
I’m sure I’m missing a fabulous rom-com. Or maybe not. You all seem to mostly have it covered.
On May 10, 2010 at 9:06 pm Thea said...
Second “A Good Year.”
On May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm Shari S. said...
I know I’m really late on this but, one of my all time fav’s Don’t Tell Her Its Me 1990 released on DVD as The Boyfriend School. This is funny and sweet– Shelley Long, Steve Guttenberg, and Jami Gertz. Shelley Long plays a romance author who makes over her brother into a romance hero to get the girl. RomCom comfort food even my kids love this movie.
On May 11, 2010 at 3:08 pm Liz said...
So I don’t know if you are still on this thread but to meet the criteria:
RomCom
Growth of characters
laugh out loud moments
Knocked Up
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Fever Pitch (not a personal favorite)
On May 11, 2010 at 3:13 pm Jenny said...
We’re going to do the later years in later posts, so hold that thought.
On May 11, 2010 at 3:40 pm Tracey said...
OK, I’m coming to the show late and haven’t read all the comments, but I would add
Indiscreet (1958). And I third “A Good Year.” Don’t know why that’s been so roundly panned by critics and shunned by audiences. Crowe arguing with the snotty French GPS is priceless. And yes, yes, YES to “What’s Up, Doc?”!!!
On May 12, 2010 at 5:57 am Kaetrin said...
Can someone remind me to nominate Hi Fidelity with John Cusack when we get to the 00′s? I checked and it was released in 2000.
On May 12, 2010 at 12:45 pm Danielle said...
Ever After
He’s Just Not That Into You
On May 12, 2010 at 8:29 pm kavi said...
Not sure if this is too late or not -
inc – the phillidephila story, his girl friday, while you were sleeping, when harry met sally, miss pettigrew
‘Some Kind of Wonderful’. great movie
‘an ideal husband’ and ‘the importance of being ernest; – have only seen the rupert everett versions, but he does oscar wilde stuff so well…
‘french kiss’ – with meg ryan and kevin kline..
was kind of questioning ’500 days of summer’ – while i loved the movie, im not sure if it really fits as rom-com..
many of the others already there are on my list too
On May 13, 2010 at 2:09 pm Jen C. said...
You have to add “Two Weeks Notice.” 2002. The is one of the best romantic comides!
I do have to question “500 days of summer” the preview makes it look a lot better than it actually is. I thought it would be funny and upbeat but then I saw it and I was soooo disappointed!
I would also have to add “Sweet Home Alabama.” That movie is probably my all time fav and I can watch it over and over again!
On May 14, 2010 at 8:31 am Sarah said...
I wouldn’t include Nick and Nora’s infinite playlist on a list but that’s purely because I thought the plot of the film was weak. I’m 20 next month, I listen to modern alternative music, in short I’m the demographic and I didn’t think the film was great. I agree with an above commenter in regards to Groundhog Day. I suppose you could argue too much comedy not enough romance but it’s one of my favourite films of all time and no matter how many times I re-watch it I always love the romance in it. It’s a work of genius but you’re the expert, I assume it’s not like the genre enough.
On May 15, 2010 at 9:06 pm Lori said...
What about “How to Marry a Millionaire” 1953 with Grable, Bacall and Monroe. I love that movie! It’s definately romantic and a comedy.