The Watchlist & Must read
Romantic comedy, or rom-com, films have a special place in all of our hearts. Especially for our loyal readers, they make us laugh, cry, and believe in the magic of love. The 2000s era gave us some of the most iconic and beloved romcoms. These films continue to enchant new generations. A recent resurgence of the 2000s and Y2K culture has allowed us to once again dive into the classics we grew up loving. Rewatching these films is not only enjoyable because of the quality of the films, but also because they are comforting to those of us who grew up watching them. Here are the top 10 rom-com films of the 2000s that everyone should watch.
1. Legally Blonde (2001)
Elle Woods is the original girlboss. In the film Legally Blonde, a young woman who, in an attempt to win back her ex-boyfriend, goes to Harvard Law School for her law degree. This film is not just about love though. It's also about self-discovery, resilience, and rising above stereotypes. It proves that you can be intelligent and stylish, all while being a fantastic reminder that you should never underestimate your abilities.
2. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
In this film, a journalist begins to relay all her thoughts, opinions, and insecurities into a journal that becomes a record of her hilarious life story. Bridget Jones is relatable, funny, and utterly charming, and her quest for love and self-improvement is something all of us can relate to. This film is a delightful reminder that our imperfections are what make us human, and love can find us when we least expect it.
3. Love Actually (2003)
This ensemble romcom is the perfect holiday film about love and relationships. Love Actually follows an interconnected group of people and the events of their love life during the holiday season. This film explores various facets of love - from unrequited crushes to longtime marriages. It's heartwarming, funny, and a genuine celebration of love in all its forms.
4. The Princess Diaries (2001)
In this movie, a young woman, Mia Thermopolis lives every girl's dream - discovering she's a princess! Unbeknownst to her, she is the heir to the throne of a European kingdom. However, Mia must be tested by her grandmother to see if she is worthy of the role or not. While the film is not just a romcom, the sweet love story between Mia and Michael makes this film a classic about embracing love and your true self.
5. 13 Going on 30 (2004)
Living every child's dream of finally growing up, Jenna is a 30-year-old woman with the heart of a 13-year-old girl. One day, after wishing to grow up on her birthday, she wakes up as her 30-year-old self. Jenna takes us on a journey to rediscover the importance of friendship, love, and honoring your inner child.
6. Notting Hill (1999)
Although technically this film is from the late '90s, Notting Hill carries its charm well into the 2000s. Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant deliver stellar performances in this love story. In the film, the two stumble upon one another while Julia Roberts' character, Anna Scott, is in London shooting a film. After a chance encounter, Hugh Grant's character, William Thacker, is taken for a whirlwind ride in the life of Anna.
7. The Proposal (2009)
Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds are a perfect pair in this romcom about a determined executive and her assistant. The two pretend to be engaged when Sandra Bullock’s character, Margaret Tate, is told that she is going to be deported and sent back to Canada because of an expired visa. Their chemistry is undeniable, the jokes land every time, and the Alaskan backdrop adds a unique and unexpected twist to the setting of the film.
8. 27 Dresses (2008)
In 27 Dresses, Jane, Katherine Heigl's character, is the everlasting bridesmaid. At one of the many weddings she attends, Jane meets a man named Kevin Doyle whom she connects with over the same pessimistic view on marriage. Throughout the film, they explore their connection that coincidently began with their distaste for relationships. This film highlights the importance of self-discovery and embracing your own needs and desires, even when you may feel like you are always in second place or the runner-up.
9. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
This unique and introspective rom-com explores the complexities of memory and love. When a woman decides to get a memory-erasing procedure to forget her ex-boyfriend, the ex-boyfriend spirals out of control and gets the same procedure. However, while erasing their memories, he finds himself regretting the decision to get rid of her forever. Can he stop the procedure before it’s too late? Can the woman’s procedure be reversed? It's not your typical romantic comedy, but its thought-provoking and psychologically impactful storyline and stellar performances make it a must-watch.
10. 500 Days of Summer (2009)
This film is a fresh, and debatably most realistic, take on romance, showing that love isn't always straightforward, simple, and understandable. Tom, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, is exploring the complications of his confusing love with Summer, played by Zooey Deschanel. Summer reciprocates her appreciation for Tom in a way Tom does not expect, and he is left to figure out what it all means. Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt give honest and relatable performances that resonate with anyone who's ever experienced the highs and lows of a relationship.
The Takeaway
The 2000s could be considered the heyday of rom-com films. Everywhere you looked there was a new rom-com starring Hollywood's top actors. This era delivered some of the most memorable and cherished rom-com that we continue to think about, view, and discuss to this day. These films teach us about love, self-discovery, and being thankful for those around us. They show us the importance of embracing our imperfections and the meaning of loving genuinely. So, grab your popcorn, your favorite blanket, and a friend or two, and get ready to laugh, cry, and fall in love with these timeless films.
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