20 Best Romantic Comedies of the Decade ...

Lyndsie

20 Best Romantic Comedies of the Decade ...
20 Best Romantic Comedies of the Decade ...

For all you lovebirds and hopeless romantics out there, I'm bringing you the best romantic comedies of the decade – likely with a few choice flicks from the past several years thrown in for good measure. We're steering clear of the biggest tearjerkers, because everyone needs a few good laughs with their love stories! I've polled the avid moviegoers in my circle of friends and acquaintances, as well as random romance addicts, so this is definitely a well-rounded list, in no particular order. That being said, if your favorite film didn't make my list of the best romantic comedies of the decade, prepare to share in comments!

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1. High Fidelity

High Fidelity is one of the best romantic comedies of the decade because you don't really expect it to be. It's actually a really smart, edgy movie, and you don't see that in a bunch of rom-coms. It's not at all predictable, so you aren't certain of a happy ending as you watch it. Plus, well, John Cusack proves that he's still got it.

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The film delves into the life of a record store owner, Rob Gordon, who revisits past relationships through music and pop culture while trying to get over his latest breakup. High Fidelity stands out because it's as much about self-discovery and the complexities of relationships as it is about romance. It resonates due to a killer soundtrack and the fact it speaks to the audience on a personal level. With a mix of humor, authenticity, and a touch of cynicism, John Cusack gives an unforgettable performance that cements the film's place in the hearts of rom-com lovers.

2. Vicky Cristina Barcelona

This is a weird choice because typically Woody Allen's films are so neurotic – and, again, you're never quite sure of a happy ending. This film had a lot of controversy attached to it, simply because of some of its sexier scenes. It was a huge success, and rightfully so – it's just a damn good movie. It takes the whole idea of a love triangle to the next level – and the whole idea of a rom-com, for that matter. Just look at the ending!

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The chemistry between Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz, and Scarlett Johansson is absolutely electric, leading to an ensemble performance that's as captivating as the scenic views of Barcelona. The film explores complex emotions and relationships with a lightness that's both enchanting and thought-provoking. Woody Allen steps outside his usual formula here, offering a more open-ended narrative that leaves us questioning the true meaning of love and passion. It's a visually stunning piece that's as much about self-discovery as it is about romance.

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3. Lars and the Real Girl

This is not the kind of movie in which you'd expect to see the dreamy Ryan Gosling. To put it simply, the king of the romance genre falls in love with a RealDoll. Lars is quirky, the movie is quirky, and it again transcends the whole idea of what a romantic comedy is supposed to be, which is probably why it got so much critical acclaim. You've got to love those movies that fall outside the genre's parameters.

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Ryan Gosling delivers an unexpectedly tender performance as a painfully shy and delusional young man who treats a life-size doll as his girlfriend. This heartwarming film showcases the lengths to which a close-knit community will go to support one of their own, regardless of how bizarre the situation may seem. Lars and the Real Girl is a poignant exploration of loneliness, acceptance, and the human need for connection, all while wrapped in a package that subverts typical rom-com tropes, leaving viewers both charmed and touched.

4. Something Borrowed

Emily Griffin's books made everyone go crazy. Because the book itself is classic chick-lit, I don't think anyone expected big things out of the movie, but it was really cute – and, again, incredibly unexpected. It proved that not every romantic comedy has to follow the formula. Although Ginnifer Goodwin played true to type, you got to see unexpected things from Kate Hudson, and this ending, too, was a surprise to anyone who wasn't familiar with the book.

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"Something Borrowed" explores the tumultuous nature of love and friendship with a twist that had viewers on the edge of their seats. The chemistry between the cast is undeniable, making the betrayals and heartaches even more gripping. Kate Hudson shines as the unpredictable Darcy, whose rollercoaster friendship with Ginnifer Goodwin's character adds depth and heart to this adaptation. The film's ability to balance wit with moments of poignant truth is what sets it apart, demonstrating that sometimes the line between right and wrong in matters of the heart is blurry. True to its genre yet refreshingly original, it's a must-watch for rom-com enthusiasts who crave a side of introspection with their laughter.

5. Celeste and Jesse Forever

Are you seeing a pattern developing here? Many of the biggest, most popular romantic comedies for the decade didn't follow the formula. This one broke boundaries even by starring Andy Samberg, who isn't a classic leading man. Perhaps the only traditional, typical thing about this film is the relationship that develops between Tucker and Beth – the best friends always get together, don't they? Otherwise, the entire dynamic between Celeste and Jesse is almost anti-romantic comedy, which is no doubt what made the movie such a hit.

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6. Definitely, Maybe

Ryan Reynolds just seems made for romantic comedy, but he's such a breath of fresh air in the genre. After all, he's snarky but gorgeous. Winning! This film is almost like a full-length How I Met Your Mother plot line, but it's charming and it leaves you guessing. The story itself is incredibly touching, and sort of indicative of modern romance: painful, unsure, often messy, but hopefully fulfilling.

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Reynolds plays Will Hayes, a father in the midst of a divorce, navigating the tricky waters of single fatherhood while trying to explain his romantic past to his inquisitive daughter, Maya, portrayed by Abigail Breslin. Maya's relentless questioning and her father's storytelling lead us through a series of flashbacks, each revealing a chapter of his love life. The chemistry between the cast members, along with Reynolds' appeal, truly makes it a delightful watch. The film's wit and heart underscore the complexities of love and choices in life that can resonate with many. It's a romantic puzzle that viewers enjoy piecing together right until the end.

7. The Proposal

See? Told you. This rom-com is much truer to the genre, but it's also adorable and it has Betty White. I mean, how can you find fault with it? There's even an adorable dog. I think Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock should have gotten married, and it was nice to see them in a bit of a role switch: Bullock strong, even kind of bitchy but still awesome and extremely powerful; Reynolds, almost but not quite a lackey.

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Sandra Bullock plays the role of Margaret Tate, a high-powered book editor who pretends to be engaged to her assistant Andrew Paxton, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, to avoid deportation to Canada. The movie takes them on a whirlwind trip to Alaska where you get scenes that'll have you chuckling and swooning in equal measure. The dynamic between the two leads is electric, and Betty White's role as Grandma Annie is the cherry on top. It's the classic enemies-to-lovers trope with a twist that only Bullock and Reynolds could pull off so convincingly.

8. (500) Days of Summer

(500) Days of Summer is another smart romantic comedy. It kind of came out of left field when it premiered, but I suppose its success isn't too surprising. In addition to being a rather brilliant and totally unexpected little movie, it stars Zooey Deschanel, everyone's darling. I loved it for its realism, and Summer's reaction to Tom's behavior.

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This gem steps away from the clichéd trajectories of many rom-coms and instead dives into the relatable peaks and valleys of love. The narrative is cleverly structured around non-linear snapshots of a relationship, echoing real-life's unpredictability. Zooey Deschanel's Summer is the embodiment of an idealized love, while Joseph Gordon-Levitt's Tom captures the blindsided romantic, fostering a dynamic that's both enchanting and heart-wrenching. The film also boasts a killer soundtrack that perfectly accentuates the emotional rollercoaster of the plot. It's no cookie-cutter love story; (500) Days of Summer is a bittersweet ode to modern romance.

9. Something's Gotta Give

Proof that neither love nor comedy belong solely to the young, yes? There aren't enough movies in general starring people over 40, let alone romantic comedies, but I won't throw that rant at you again. Suffice it to say that, although the script was a little iffy, Jack and Diane carry this movie beautifully. There's something natural and smooth about this rom-com, perhaps because it does focus on a “sunset romance” – and I'm sorry you ever had to see me use that term.

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Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton bring a charming authenticity to their roles, cementing Something's Gotta Give as a standout film that celebrates mature love. The chemistry between the two is undeniable and offers a refreshing angle often overlooked by Hollywood. Their onscreen coupling is a delightful dance of wit and vulnerability, setting the stage for a heartwarming narrative that proves romance is timeless. Their performances alone make it worth watching. Let's hear it for a film that champions the amorous escapades of the more seasoned individuals among us!

10. Crazy, Stupid, Love

This time Ryan Gosling is not dating a fake girl. He's a player who, understandably and quite naturally, falls in love with Emma Stone. Who wouldn't? I'm in love with Emma Stone – but don't tell Heather. There are so many twists to this movie, and so many poignant, really smart moments. It all comes together so smoothly, so again, it's a damn good movie in addition to being a really fantastic rom-com. Steve Carell and Julianne Moore's marriage is so touching, the cracks in their relationship so painful, you have to love the way it all comes together.

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In Crazy, Stupid, Love, the chemistry is undeniable - it's like watching real life, but better, because there's Ryan Gosling with his killer charm and moves. And then, when Steve Carell's character begins rediscovering himself, it's both hilarious and deeply moving. You've got these layers of love stories, some budding and others rekindling, all wrapped in this wonderful tapestry of humor and heart. It's the kind of film where laughter and tears are only a heartbeat apart, proving rom-coms can have depth and delightful banter. Plus, who could forget that iconic Dirty Dancing lift? Total swoon-fest!

11. My Big Fat Greek Wedding

I know this makes almost every list I ever create, but c'mon. It's the perfect movie! More than that, it's the quintessential romantic comedy. I adore Nia Vardalos without reservation, and she is utter perfection in this. She is both a talented writer and actress, and I think that, although this centers around a Greek family, it's true for any family that blends itself when a marriage occurs. You don't even have to be from significantly different cultures. Trust me, I know from where I speak!

12. The Five-Year Engagement

You have to know that I originally had Forgetting Sarah Marshall on here, yes? But I decided that I have to stop mentioning it in every list – I mean, My Big Fat Greek Wedding had to stay, but I made a sacrifice here because I love the relationship aspect in The Five-Year Engagement. There's pain and realism in Sarah Marshall as well, but as someone who both moved to Michigan to be with the girl she loved and as someone who experienced a move with that same girl, I felt this movie a lot. That will put a strain on your relationship, so the actual happy ending here surprised me – pleasantly, of course.

13. Bridget Jones's Diary

What? Of course I included this. It's one of my favorite movies of all time! Pretend I included Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason as well, because I like it just as much. I confess, Mark Darcy is the driving force behind my affection, but I love Bridget as a character. I even liked the way Rene Zellweger portrayed her, in spite of how much hate she gets. It was refreshing (as you'll see) to have a heroine who wasn't entirely perfect. She was awkward and quirky and weird and entirely inappropriate, she didn't think she deserved the very best, and she continued feeling insecure when she got it. I mean, jeez, I've been there – haven't you?

14. Phat Girlz

I confess, this choice is mine and mine alone. No one I polled mentioned it at all, but I think it deserves its place. It is a really funny, charming movie, in the first place. In the second place, Mo'Nique is a goddess – this woman is one of my idols, no joke. In the third and fourth places, there are simply not enough large women or women of color in leading roles, especially in the romantic comedy genre. Mo'Nique owned this movie as Jazmin, she was gorgeous, her ensemble cast was stellar (Godfrey cracked me up the entire time), and Jimmy Jean-Louis was amazing. The end!

15. Love Actually

This is one of the greatest romantic comedies ever made. It has one of the best casts ever assembled, yet it doesn't go overboard like a few other star-studded spectaculars I could mention. I'd love it even if it only starred Colin Firth, but there's Alan Rickman, too! There's also lots of drama and unrequited love and sharp-tongued, spectacularly witty humor – what's not to love?

16. Think like a Man

This movie went over in a big way, which is understandable – it hasn't really been done before. That might be because of the book on which it's based, true, but the book was no guarantee that the movie would be so awesome. I love the couple-cliches followed in the film, especially Mama's Boy plus Single Mom and The Guy Who Won't Commit plus The Ring Wraith.

17. Knocked up

There's no way Knocked Up wasn't making this list; it was mentioned so often that it would have been a crime not to include it (and if you haven't noticed, these aren't ranked in any particular order). Seth Rogan is an anti-leading man, no doubt – yet he gets with Katherine Heigl. Personally, I can't decide who made out better there. It's irreverent, raunchy, and graphic, but that's the new rom-com. Besides, it helped give birth to This Is 40. Paul Rudd forever!

18. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is basically the definition of romantic comedy, to the point where it's hard to believe that Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey haven't actually starred together in every rom-com, ever. It's honestly got a very neat premise, though. It's still a little predictable, but it's not stale, and the whole movie is worth it simply because Andie named Ben's penis “Princess Sophia.”

19. Friends with Benefits

So I'll say this straight out. This basically came out at the same time as No Strings Attached, and I thought that was just awful. But this one? I loved this one. It's not even because I have an enormous crush on Mia Kunis, although she's a joy to watch. More than anything, I loved the chemistry between Mila and Justin Timberlake, and I felt this was truer to the new, modern FWB trend. It was funnier, sharper, and smarter.

20. The Holiday

Ah, the classic twisting rom-com! I'll be honest, this one's for Heather. My Better Half loves this movie in the way that I love Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and so I've seen it approximately five million times. And it is really adorable. The plot could have been cliche, but there was just enough of a twist to turn it into something fresh. I admit to wishing that Kate Winslet had ended up with Jude Law instead of Jack Black, but hey, you can't always get what you want.

Romantic comedies are light, heartwarming, sweet, and surprisingly funny. Sometimes they're just what you need, whether you're going through a hard time or having a night in with the girls. Now, which movies would you have preferred to see on the list? Sound off, because your faves might show up in the next update!

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Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

The wedding date! My friend and I were watching it thinking 'I want to marry the writer of this' and of course it was a woman, no man could come up with the line 'I think I would miss you even if I had never met you' swoon !!

What the heck? Kate and Jude are siblings in the movie. How many times have you seen it?

The proposal is one of my favorites!!! :)

@Rebecca purcell lol so true!

Nothing like Serendipity...

Love my big fat Greek wedding and the proposal

Hey guys am new here wassup?

500 days of summer is easily one of my absolute fav movies!!

I'm gonna watch Lars and the real girl tonight ... Thankk uuuuu!!!

Wimbledon ! Yes must watch love it

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