It’s almost Valentine’s Day, which means one of two things: you’re either looking forward to the perfect romantic evening with a special someone or gearing up for a night of takeout, fuzzy socks, and a movie that won’t judge you for finishing an entire tub of ice cream. Whether you’ve decided on a quiet movie night with your loved one, your girl gang, a cute family Valentine’s Day celebration with your kids, or simply by yourself, playing the right film is essential.
Now, not all romantic movies are created equal. Some leave you questioning your life choices (why don’t I live in a rom-com where strangers fall in love at bookstores?), while others remind you that love can be messy, hilarious, and sometimes downright ridiculous. That’s why we’ve done the hard work of curating a list of Valentine’s Day movies that deliver the romance, the laughs, and also a few (ok, lots and lots) of tears.
So grab your popcorn (and maybe a box of tissues) because these are the movies you need to watch this Valentine’s Day.
ANYONE BUT YOU
Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell deliver peak rom-com energy in this witty, tension-filled love story set in Australia. There’s banter, fake dating, an enemies-to-lovers trope, and that viral “Unwritten” moment. What more could you ask for?
CRAZY, STUPID LOVE
A rom-com with multiple love stories, Crazy, Stupid, Love balances hilarious moments with heartfelt ones. Steve Carell, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, and Ryan Gosling make this a must-watch.
HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU
Love isn’t always as simple as the movies make it seem, and this ensemble rom-com proves it. Following multiple interconnected relationships, He’s Just Not That Into You explores dating miscommunications, unrequited crushes, and the occasional grand romantic gesture. It’s funny, painfully relatable, and packed with an A-list cast, including Jennifer Aniston, Bradley Cooper, and Scarlett Johansson. If you’ve ever overanalyzed a text message, this one’s for you.
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
Yes, it’s a Disney movie, but let’s be honest: Troy and Gabriella’s love story is still iconic. Between secret duets, high school drama, and a romance that somehow survives multiple musical numbers, it’s pure feel-good fun. If you haven’t revisited this in a while, it’s time.
HOW TO LOSE A GUY IN 10 DAYS
This early 2000s classic gives us fake dating (again), a battle of wills, and a rom-com power couple in Kate Hudson andMatthew McConaughey. It’s ridiculous, hilarious, and still holds up 20 years later.
LA LA LAND
Few movies capture the highs and lows of love quite like La La Land. It’s got stunning visuals, unforgettable music, and a romance that feels almost too good to be true. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling’s characters fall for each other while chasing their dreams in LA, but as their ambitions grow, so do the sacrifices. It’s beautiful, bittersweet, and will have you thinking about fate, timing, and what could have been long after the credits roll.
MAMMA MIA
This movie is pure joy. A sun-drenched Greek island, a wedding, three potential dads, and Meryl Streep grooving to Dancing Queen. What’s not to love? Plus, if you need more after the credits roll, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again is equally delightful.
SERENDIPITY
Two strangers meet, sparks fly, but instead of exchanging numbers, they leave their potential romance up to fate. Years later, they’re still wondering, what if? If you’re a sucker for missed connections, destiny, and second chances, this one’s for you.
TANGLED
Forget just being a kids’ movie; Tangled is one of Disney’s best love stories. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider have incredible chemistry; the animation is gorgeous, and I See the Light is pure magic. Plus, Flynn’s sarcastic humor? Iconic. Perfect for a family night in on V-Day or the week pulling up to it.
THE IDEA OF YOU
Anne Hathaway stars as a 40-year-old single mom who falls for a 24-year-old global pop star (played by Nicholas Galitzine) after a chance encounter at Coachella. What starts as a casual fling quickly turns into something deeper—forcing them to navigate the pressures of fame, age gaps, and public scrutiny. Based on the hit novel, The Idea of You is steamy, emotional, and proof that love doesn’t come with an expiration date.
THE PROPOSAL
A high-powered boss (Sandra Bullock) convinces her assistant (Ryan Reynolds) to marry her so she doesn’t get deported. What follows? Hilarious moments, unexpected romance, and Betty White being an absolute queen.
WE LIVE IN TIME
Starring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, We Live in Time follows a couple through different stages of their relationship, capturing the joy, heartbreak, and everything in between. It’s the kind of film that sneaks up on you, delivering an emotional gut punch when you least expect it. If you’re in the mood for a beautifully told, deeply moving romance, this one’s a must-watch (just maybe have tissues ready).
WEDDING SEASON
Asha and Ravi pretend to be dating to get their parents off their backs, but, surprise, they actually fall for each other. It’s charming, funny, and a refreshing take on modern love.
ALSO READ: THESE VALENTINE’S DAY NAIL DESIGNS ARE SO GOOD, EVEN CUPID WOULD APPROVE.
