Ryan Coogler stunned the world last year with the release of the horror/crime epic Sinners, and while the movie has been lauded as an incredible piece of modern original filmmaking, it’s also noteworthy that the writer/director was not shy about sharing his inspirations – including From Dusk Till Dawn, Salem’s Lot, No Country For Old Men and The Thing. Along with his own sensibilities and ideas, he synthesized special elements from all of those titles in the making of his 2025 feature, and that leaves me extremely intrigued to hear his aspirations to tell a story within the romantic comedy space a la the Rob Reiner classic When Harry Met Sally.

Coogler spoke about this idea in a Deadline interview alongside Sinners stars Michael B. Jordan, Wunmi Mosaku and Delroy Lindo – all of whom are up for major awards at the upcoming Oscars ceremony. When the conversation turned to exploring spaces previously untouched in his experience, the filmmaker explained that he hopes to make a wide variety of movies in what he hopes is a very long career:

With his first five movies, Ryan Coogler has gotten to make an intimate drama (Fruitvale Station), a sports movie (Creed), a pair of superhero blockbusters (Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) and most recently the aforementioned horror/crime blend in Sinners. But he is a movie-lover who loves all kinds of movies, and he doesn’t want to limit himself as a storyteller.

As far as specifics, he cited his very real interest in making a romantic comedy, and he cited When Harry Met Sally as an influence on a big picture scale. In addition to being remembered for its humor and the wonderful chemistry between Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, the film has staked a place in pop culture history for its examination of male-female friendships, and Coogler noted the immortality of its subject matter while paying tribute to the recently departed Rob Reiner:

We have seen romance in Ryan Coogler’s work – Michael B. Jordan forging memorable on-screen relationships with Wunmi Mosaku, Hailee Steinfeld, and Tessa Thompson in Sinners and Creed – but comedy would be a mostly fresh arena for the filmmaker (excluding the moments of levity that are featured in all of his movies). That being said, recognizing the man’s extreme talent, I have zero doubt that the man could make a rom com that is equally sweet, meaningful and hilarious.

We’ll have to wait and see what ultimately develops on the rom-com front for Coogler, and it may be a minute: in addition to developing a third Black Panther movie for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he is also now working on a X-Files reboot for Disney+/Hulu subscribers that just got a pilot order and is set to star Danielle Deadwyler.

It’s long been an understood truth that When Harry Met Sally… is one of the best romantic comedies of all time. Written by the late Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner, whose death we’re still trying to process, this legendary rom-com starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan is a lot of things to a lot of people. A go-to friends-to-lovers story, a classic ‘80s movie that gave birth to some of the most quotable lines of all time, a great fall film, and the list goes on. However, I’d like to add another descriptor: an iconic New Year’s Eve movie.

I know, I know, When Harry Met Sally… takes place over the course of a decade, has summer scenes, fall moments, Christmas, and just about everything else, but at the end of the day, this is an NYE movie for a number of reasons. Hear me out…

The Movie’s Climatic Moment Takes Place At A New Year’s Eve Party

From Harry Burns and Sally Albright’s first meeting to the classic “I’ll have what she’s having” scene to those adorable interviews with elderly couples, there are just too many wonderful moments. All of those take place throughout the year (or years, really), but the big scene, the one where Harry and Sally finally get together and share a passionate kiss, happens on… You guessed it, New Year’s Eve.

Everything about the final few minutes of the movie is just perfect. What starts as Harry walking through Washington Square Park (the spot where they first went their separate ways upon arriving in NYC) while looking sad and lonely, turns into a confrontation and perhaps the best back-and-forth interaction of all time:

• Sally Albright: I'm sorry, Harry. I know it's New Year's Eve. I know you're feeling lonely, but you just can't show up here, tell me you love me and expect that to make everything all right. It doesn't work this way.
• Harry Burns: I love that you get cold when it's 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle above your nose when you're looking at me like I'm nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes, and I love that you are the last person I wanna talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it's not because I'm lonely, and it's not because it's New Year's Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

However, When Harry Met Sally… isn’t a great NYE movie simply because of its final scene…

New Year’s Eve Is About Remembering The Past While Looking Toward The Future

It’s not just the climactic New Year’s Eve scene. If anything, the holiday is about looking back on cherished moments from the past year while looking toward the future, and that’s pretty much what this movie is about. Though there were as many bad times (and awkward moments) as there were good times over the course of the 10 years they’ve known each other, they simply can’t let go. Instead, they take what they’ve learned and experienced and use it to get to a better tomorrow, one where they are finally together. However, they still can’t agree on the meaning of “Auld Lang Syne.”

Before I go, I would also like to just add that a local movie house is playing When Harry Met Sally over the holidays. Can you guess when it’s playing? If you guessed New Year’s Eve, you would be right…

It’s been almost two weeks since Rob Reiner and his wife were tragically murdered, and in that time, I’ve had a lot of in-person conversations with family and friends about his career. I’ve also read a ton of tributes and obituaries and watched a lot of podcasts and interviews that featured people talking about his career. Mostly it’s been affirming to hear how much actors loved working with him and how many people were touched by his warmth and wisdom in real life. Beyond that, however, it’s also caused me to realize something about his career: I don’t see it the same way as most other people. At first it was kind of frustrating, but as I’ve sat with that realization, I’ve started to realize how special that is.

I’ve probably seen The Princess Bride fifty times. I think it’s one the funniest, quirkiest, most quotable and triumphant movies of all time. I like to watch it when I’m sick. I like to watch it when I’m sad or happy or bored or bemused. I like to watch strangers watch it for the first time on YouTube. It would easily make my personal top five, and yet, a lot of obituaries for the director didn’t even mention it, not even in passing. I spoke to several friends and family members who haven’t even seen it. Some have seen it and don't really like it.

I also love This Is Spinal Tap. I say “such a fine line between stupid and clever” at least once a week. It was a go-to movie for my friends and I to put on in high school, and I’ve watched so many interviews with musicians over the years who have talked about how scary accurate and hilarious it is. Anderson Cooper just gave an interview where he said he’s “obsessed” with it, and yet, I saw tweet after tweet talking about how many brilliant movies Reiner made in the 80s and 90s, and many of them didn’t even mention Spinal Tap. Easily more than half the people I’ve talked to about Reiner have never seen it or just watched it recently.

To me personally, those are the Rob Reiner movies. They’re the reasons why I consider him an all-time fantastic director, and yet, to a lot of other people, they’re just footnotes in his career. They have very little or nothing at all to do with why they were touched by Rob Reiner’s life.

For other people, the movie that matters is When Harry Met Sally or Stand By Me. For others, it’s A Few Good Men or Misery. One of those is the movie they watched over and over in high school, or it’s the one they put on for company when no one else is around. One of those cheers them up or helps them cry out their feelings. One or two or all four of them are meaningful in a special and emotional way.

You might be saying this is just an example of having preferences, but if you really think about it, there aren’t many directors in the history of Hollywood who have made as many different movies with completely separate fanbases as Reiner. He’s not a Wes Anderson who has an overt visual style and relatively consistent tone that cuts through many of his movies. He didn’t make films for his specific fans. He made different movies that were likely to appeal to different types of people.

At first I thought that was a little lonely and disconcerting, but the more I’ve thought about it, the more I’ve realized how special and affirming that is. In real life, we connect with different people in different ways. We have a friend who also loves the Bears and another who also loves going to fancy restaurants. We have a family member we can be really raw and emotional and sad with and another who shares a really disturbing sense of humor. Different people bring different sides of our personality out, and in a special way, Rob Reiner’s career shows that.

Following the tragic and shocking deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer, tons of his collaborators, friends and fans mourned this loss by posting tributes for the couple and the director's work. Now, Meg Ryan, who was one of the stars of Reiner's movie When Harry Met Sally, which is widely considered one of the best rom-coms ever made, has opened up about these deaths with an emotional tribute.

The day after Nick Reiner was charged with the murder of his parents, Meg Ryan posted about their deaths. She uploaded a sweet photo of herself and the director dancing together on Instagram, and wrote a long and heartfelt caption, which reads, in part:

When Harry Met Sally is a classic romance, and the ending was even inspired by Reiner and his wife’s love story. For many, myself included, this film is a favorite, and in the days since the couple’s passing, there’s been a lot of appreciation shown to both this rom-com starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal and the director’s other iconic work.

Many others who worked with Reiner have also shared emotional tributes for the late director and his wife, including Ryan’s co-lead, Billy Crystal, who released a statement to AP News with many of the couple’s other friends, including Albert and Kimberly Brooks, Martin Short, Larry David, and many more. Along with Ryan and Crystal, other stars from Reiner’s movies shared tributes, too, including Cary Elwes, who starred in The Princess Bride, Misery’s Kathy Bates, Stand By Me’s Jerry O’Connell and Corey Feldman and many, many more.

In the actress’s post, she wrote about how tragic these deaths are. She also explained that she hopes this story will not end in “impossible tragedy.” Here’s the rest of her statement:

In the comments of Meg Ryan’s emotional tribute to Reiner and Singer, many celebrities shared their support. This included her son, Jack Quaid, who commented:

Alongside him, other prominent actors and performers showed their love and support. Here are a few more comments:

• so sorry for your loss meg. thought of you instantly ❤️ -Rachel Zegler
• 🤍 -Julianne Hough
• 🤍-Jaimie Alexander

Overall, in the wake of this tragedy, there’s been a lot of celebration of Rob Reiner’s work. This has included posts and statements about his iconic films, like When Harry Met Sally. To this day, it’s considered one of the finest movies of the ‘80s, and it, along with other classic films like Stand By Me and The Princess Bride have cemented the director as one of the greats.

In the days since Reiner and Singer’s deaths, an investigation into their murders has been conducted. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and appeared in court, per the NYT. It was reported that Nick was seen arguing with his dad at Conan O’Brien’s party days before his death, and blood was found everywhere in his hotel room following his parents’ passing.

This is still a developing story, so as we learn more about their murders, we’ll keep you updated. Meanwhile, those who worked with Rob Reiner and those who loved his movies will continue to mourn the passing of him and his wife.

The film world is still grappling with the shocking reports surrounding the deaths of iconic director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner. As investigations continue and details remain fluid, the loss has prompted fans to revisit the body of work the Spinal Tap director leaves behind. And it’s an extraordinary one. From definitive Stephen King adaptations like Stand by Me and Misery to courtroom classics and the best romantic comedies, Reiner’s filmography helped shape modern Hollywood. What many fans don’t realize about one of his most iconic films, When Harry Met Sally, is that it almost had a depressingly different ending, until he changed it, and Reiner's wife is to thank.

As the former sitcom star explained in a past interview with CNN (via The Hollywood Reporter), the film began from a much more cynical place. Co-written with the late Nora Ephron, When Harry Met Sally was initially conceived during a period when Reiner had spent a long stretch alone, unsure whether lasting love was even possible. That uncertainty shaped the early drafts, including a far sadder trajectory for Meg Ryan’s Sally. He explained:

That single decision reshaped the original melancholy ambiguity of the ending, and was replaced with the now-iconic New Year’s Eve confession; Harry racing through a crowded party to tell Sally he loves everything about her, including the things that drive him crazy. It’s a declaration born from lived experience.

It’s one of those rare moments where real life doesn’t just inspire art — it actively rewrites it. As Reiner’s personal outlook shifted, so did the film’s emotional philosophy. Harry and Sally didn’t just end up together because the man telling the story had rediscovered faith in connection and long-term love.

It’s also a reminder of how collaborative and profoundly personal filmmaking can be. Michele Reiner altered the emotional DNA of one of the most beloved romantic films ever made. Without that relationship, When Harry Met Sally might still be clever, I mean, the iconic fake orgasm scene would still be funny, but it likely wouldn’t be the comfort-watch-classic, audiences return to year after year.

Revisiting that history now, amid heartbreaking and still-unfolding news, adds an extra layer of weight to the film’s legacy. Love didn’t just change Rob Reiner personally, but also changed his work. And in doing so, he gave generations of viewers an ending more hopeful than the one he once imagined.

As reporting around the tragic deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner continues to develop, fans and friends have taken to social media to share their grief. We at CinemaBlend extend our deepest condolences to the Reiner family and their loved ones during this profoundly difficult time.

Not everyone wants masked killers and new horror movies in their autumn lineup, and that’s perfectly fine. Some viewers prefer a steaming mug of cider, cozy socks, a warm blanket, and a movie that feels like it was filmed inside a pumpkin-scented candle.

If you love the cozy, romantic, and slightly mystical vibe of Practical Magic, these seven films are perfect companions for your 2025 movie schedule of crisp fall nights. These flicks might not have the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores, but they have all the mood, the colors, and the nostalgia—they bring the ultimate sweater-weather energy—without the terror. So light a candle, grab your favorite knit throw, and get ready for the cinematic equivalent of curling up by the fire.

Practical Magic (1998)

Let’s start with the ultimate fall comfort watch and witch-related flick, Practical Magic. Few films have ever captured autumn’s cozy-meets-melancholy atmosphere quite like this witchy gem starring Sandra Bullock (in my favorite of her movies) and Nicole Kidman as the Owens sisters. From its New England setting and candlelit kitchens to Stevie Nicks’ spellbinding soundtrack, it’s practically pumpkin spice in movie form.

The film blends the vibes of the best romantic comedies, with grief, sisterhood, and a touch of the supernatural, all with a ton of heart. The house itself is as iconic as the spellwork (and yes, the internet has spent decades trying to track down blueprints). There’s a reason Practical Magic resurfaces every fall on social media, and that’s because of it's warm, witchy, and full-of-heart, making it perfect for viewers who want a little magic without the mayhem. It is truly better than you remember, so cue it up and give it a watch.

Knives Out (2019)

If you prefer your fall movies with a little mystery instead of magic, Rian Johnson’s Knives Out is the ultimate non-scary thriller. Set in a sprawling, creaky mansion in Massachusetts, it’s basically a modern-day Agatha Christie tale. The autumnal setting, complete with iconic cozy turtlenecks, hot mugs of coffee, and dark wood interiors, makes it an ideal cold-weather pick.

Daniel Craig’s southern-fried detective, Ana de Armas’ charming nurse, and Chris Evans’ infamous cable-knit sweater are reason enough to watch. But the real joy of Knives Out is its playful tone — it’s suspenseful but never scary and clever but comforting. It’s the perfect “I want a Halloween vibe but also want to sleep tonight” kind of movie. With two films in the franchise and a third one on the way, the upcoming Wake Up Dead Man, Knives Out is a great fall movie, and there is no better time to cuddle up and get acquainted with the franchise.

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

I’m admittedly not the biggest Wes Anderson fan, except for his stop-motion work, and in my opinion, Fantastic Mr. Fox is a cinematic masterpiece, equivalent to your favorite cozy cardigan. With its warm orange palette, rustic soundtrack, and gentle humor, it feels tailor-made for fall. A page-to-screen adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book, it follows the clever Mr. Fox (voiced by George Clooney) as he tries to outwit a trio of grouchy farmers.

Every frame is a visual delight filled with golden leaves, corduroy textures, and homes lit by tiny lanterns. It’s as comforting as it is funny, appealing to kids and adults alike. If you’re the kind of person who keeps a fall aesthetic Pinterest board year-round, this is your movie. Seriously, for my money, this is one of Wes Anderson’s best movies and does not get talked about enough.

The Village (2004)

I will stand by the fact that M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village is one of his best films. I don’t care if people get hung up on ranking his twist endings and find this one underwhelming, which contributes to his mixed critical reception. If you put that aside, this is such an enjoyable film. It might technically be labeled a thriller, but make no mistake, The Village is more atmospheric than terrifying. The film’s hauntingly beautiful setting feels like a love letter to fall. Bryce Dallas Howard’s performance as the kind-hearted Ivy anchors the story, while James Newton Howard’s sweeping score adds a rich emotional layer.

There are moments of tension, sure, but this isn’t a jump-scare movie; it is instead a slow, thoughtful exploration of fear, love, and community. For those who like their fall films with a touch of unease and a lot of gorgeous cinematography, The Village scratches that autumnal itch without sending you diving behind the couch.

Coco (2017)

Pixar’s Coco might be set in Mexico rather than a small New England town, but its heart, family, memory, and tradition make it a beautiful addition to any fall movie list. Celebrating Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the film balances themes of love and loss with stunning visuals and music that will have you crying and humming along in equal measure, culminating in one of the best Latino movies of recent memory.

Miguel’s journey through the Land of the Dead isn’t scary — it’s vibrant, touching, and deeply human. With its marigold color palette and emotional resonance, Coco captures that autumnal feeling of remembering those who came before us. It’s a gentle reminder that family connections — even the ones that span lifetimes — are worth celebrating. This flick is up there with the best of Pixar’s films.

The Lake House (2006)

Yes, it’s technically a time-travel romance, but The Lake House is wildly underrated as a romantic movie. It also has all the melancholy, poetic energy of a fall evening. Starring Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves (in one of their most quietly affecting pairings), the movie follows two people who communicate across time by exchanging letters left in a mysterious mailbox.

The muted colors, reflective tone, and slow-burning storytelling make it perfect for the season. It’s wistful, a little sad, and somehow comforting — like rereading an old love letter or listening to a favorite song from another time. There’s no horror here, just a gentle ache and the kind of magic that could only exist in movies.

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

If fall had an official romantic comedy, it would be When Harry Met Sally. The scenes of Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal walking through Central Park’s golden leaves have become as iconic as any horror movie’s haunted house. It’s warm, funny, and endlessly quotable — "I’ll have what she’s having," anyone? — the ultimate comfort watch for anyone who’d rather sip cider than scream.

What makes When Harry Met Sally endure, beyond the witty dialogue and perfect chemistry, is its emotional honesty. It’s about love, yes, but also about friendship, growth, and timing — these are characters who don’t like each other at first, then grow to be best friends, and then fall in love. It’s a romantic comedy trope we don’t see much of these days, and that’s unfortunate, because it deals with themes that are timeless and resonate even more deeply as the weather cools and the year winds down. Watching it in October feels as essential as pulling out your favorite flannel.

Final Thoughts On Cozy, Not Creepy

There’s something special about fall, because it's the perfect blend of nostalgia and change, of endings and new beginnings. While the best horror movies may dominate the season, they’re not the only way to feel that autumn mood. Whether it’s the quiet sisterhood of Practical Magic, the sharp wit of Knives Out, or the bittersweet romance of The Lake House, these films remind us that coziness can be just as thrilling as a good scare.

When you look back on the best rom-coms of all time, one actress who appears in quite a few of them is Meg Ryan. From When Harry Met Sally to Sleepless in Seattle, she is a generational talent and a megastar within this genre. Well, that's important because Tom Blyth, who is starring in the upcoming book-to-screen adaptation of Emily Henry's rom-com People We Meet on Vacation, recently compared his co-star Emily Bader to Ryan. And, here’s the thing, I already 100% agree with him.

What Tom Blyth Said About Meg Ryan And His Co-Star Emily Bader

Thankfully, in the first weeks of the 2026 movie schedule, on January 9, to be exact, we’ll get to see the first Emily Henry adaptation ever, People We Meet on Vacation. It is set to star Tom Blyth and Emily Bader as Alex and Poppy, respectively, and people cannot wait to watch this friends-to-lovers romance with a Netflix subscription.

So, in anticipation of the release of People We Meet on Vacation, People asked Blyth about working on the movie. In response, he gushed about his co-star and compared her to Meg Ryan:

Well, that’s a big compliment! However, it doesn’t end there. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes star went on to explain why he thinks Bader is the new Meg Ryan, saying:

Now, I realize I haven’t seen Blyth and Bader as Alex and Poppy. However, I am a massive fan of Emily Bader’s other work, and based on the footage we’ve seen of this Emily Henry adaptation, I just know her co-star is right.

Emily Bader’s Work In My Lady Jane And The People We Meet On Vacation Trailer Prove Tom Blyth’s Point

Alright, allow me to take you back to 2024 and the tragically short-lived series My Lady Jane, which was led by Emily Bader and can be streamed with an Amazon Prime subscription. Jane was played by the PWMOV actress, and she led that fantastical period romance with passion, sass, intelligence and an incredibly quick wit. You know who else has all those endearing qualities? Meg Ryan.

Both actress are so incredibly expressive and play their characters with a confidence and passion that is infectious. You truly can’t help but fall in love with Jane and her love story, thanks to Bader’s genuine, romantic and laugh-out-loud performance as well as her undeniable chemistry with Edward Bluemel, who plays her character's love interest. You can say the same exact things about Meg Ryan, her scene partners, and her movies in general.

I think there’s a spark that Emily Bader has that Meg Ryan has too, and it seems Tom Blyth knows that as well. However, you can also see it on display in the teaser for People We Meet on Vacation:

I can’t help but make comparisons between Poppy and Sally, even though Bader's character is much more outgoing and spontaneous than Ryan's. The sass and spunk are similar to me, and you can see that on display in this trailer if you watch the way Bader’s character reacts to Blyth showing up or while eating food. Remind you of a particular diner scene in When Harry Met Sally?

Anyway, all this is to say, Tom Blyth is right. I 100% think Emily Bader has what it takes to be this next generation's Meg Ryan. They're both unique and incredibly endearing, and I hope People We Meet on Vacation proves that to everyone who isn't aware yet.

It’s a famous story. Back in 1989 when Nora Ephron and Rob Reiner were coming up with When Harry Met Sally, Meg Ryan swapped some of the tight writing to move the scene about faking orgasms to a diner. She also suggested she fake an orgasm publicly, which was not in the script. Rob Reiner then cast his already-famous mom Estelle in the scene, and she ended up with one of the most iconic lines in the movie, and in rom-com history as a whole. But filming an orgasm scene in front of your mom is not for the faint of heart.

Rob Reiner recently appeared on 60 Minutes as part of the press run he’s been doing for Spinal Tap 2, but forget exploding drummers, because what I was really interested in was the story about his mom and how it impacted one of the best rom-coms of all time. Luckily, CBS’ Lesley Stahl had to ask him about the famous scene from the room-com starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal. While the scene ultimately became iconic, it was more than a little awkward filming it in front of cameras and other people.

Intriguingly, a few years back, Ryan thanked Crystal for making the "orgasm" scene so easy to film. Sounds like it may have been easier for the actors than the director...

This isn’t the only time the scene, filmed at Katz’s Deli in New York, would lead to awkward moments. Ryan went on to have kids, including The Boys’ Jack Quaid, who had to confront the fact their mom was responsible for one of the most famous “orgasm” scenes ever in their own childhoods. Eventually, Quaid watched When Harry Met Sally when he signed on for a rom-com in Hollywood himself, but it was a long path to get there.

Still, It Was Rob Reiner's Own Idea To Sign On His Mom

Meanwhile, Katz’s Deli is still a popular establishment, and Billy Crystal himself went a couple of years ago on When Harry Met Sally’s anniversary. It was Crystal who ultimately wrote the “I’ll have what she’s having” line while they all collaborated on the scene, as Nora Ephron revealed in an interview years ago. Then, as the ideas continued flowing, Ephron remembered Rob Reiner suggested his mom.

He said of the epiphany moment:

Giving your mom the gift of an iconic movie line is priceless, but it sounds like what Estelle Reiner really cared about was the day with her son. I love that both things worked out exactly as they were intended.

Spoilers for Materialists, which was just released in theaters, are ahead! Read with caution, and go see the romance written and directed by Celine Song.

Whenever I watch one of the best rom-coms or a great romance movie, I’m always eagerly anticipating the love confession, the climactic moment where the characters finally accept and share their feelings for each other. Two of my favorite scenes like this are in the classics Pride & Prejudice and When Harry Met Sally. Now, the 2025 movie schedule’s newest romance, Materialists, also features a knockout love confession from Chris Evans that’s one for the books, and it’s similar to the two moments I just mentioned. Let’s chat about why.

So far, Chris Evans’s performance as John in Materialists has been receiving rave reactions. ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley called this his “best big-screen performance.” My CinemaBlend's review of Materialists also cited this as a career highlight for the actor. Meanwhile, Matt Neglia from Next Best Picture claimed that Evans gives “one of the great romantic monologues in cinema.”

I have to agree, Evans’ two-part love confession at the end of Materialists is amazing, and I had to talk to Celine Song about it. So, during our interview, I asked her about her favorite scenes like this and if any of them influenced this film. I cited When Harry Met Sally, and she agreed with that, before saying:

The Past Lives writer/director then told me why she loved these. Speaking about Mr. Darcy’s “I love you” moment in the field and Harry’s New Year’s Eve proclamation, she explained why the “neurotic” nature of both was why she adored them:

It’s worth noting that 2005’s Pride and Prejudice (a movie I adore) was a reference for Song, via A24. And she spoke at length about her love for Nora Ephron and When Harry Met Sally with People.

So, with all that in mind, it got me thinking even more about Chris Evans’ love confession in Materialists. The moment is split between two scenes, one at a wedding and the other outside an apartment. Like Mr. Darcy and Harry, there’s an urgency and rush to John’s confession, and he's more than ready to spend the rest of his life with Dakota Johnson's Lucy.

Then hearing him say, “You asked me how I could love you, I just do, it’s the easiest thing,” was when I really started thinking about these classic romances.

I couldn’t put my finger on why immediately, but Song explained it. All these confessions are neurotic; you can feel their nerves and anxiety as they were vulnerable, and it's always undeniably charming and heartfelt. The love they feel overtakes them, and it's impossible for my heart not to explode with theirs.

On top of that, like Billy Crystal and Matthew Macfadyen’s performances in their movies, Evans “means it,” as Song said. I believed every single word he said. And that, mixed with the urgency in his voice and vulnerability he was showing, made for a truly romantic moment that I’ll certainly remember forever alongside the epic confessions of love in Pride & Prejudice and When Harry Met Sally.

From "You had me at hello" to "I'm also just a girl standing in front of a boy asking him to love her," the best romantic comedies are full of swoon-worthy quotes and memorable one-liners. However, while popular rom-coms like all the best Julia Roberts movies, Meg Ryan classics and Reese Witherspoon favorites are generally packed with feel-good moments, sometimes they feature scenes of heartbreak, conflict, bad attitudes and poor behavior, which can often mean people saying quite hurtful things to each other. Here are 32 of the meanest things said to someone in a rom-com.

"Why Should I Listen To You, Anyway? You're A Virgin Who Can't Drive" - Clueless

Written by Amy Heckerling, the script for the '90s classic Clueless is full of iconic quotes and youthful slang. But one of the most brutal adolescent takedowns comes surprisingly from sweet transfer student-turned-cool girl Tai Frasier (Brittany Murphy), who manages to insult our leading lady Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) for not only the status of her virginity but also for failing her driver's test. Way harsh, Tai!

"That Was Yesterday. Today You're Just Some Girl Who Broke My Heart And Cut Up My Mother's Wedding Dress." - 27 Dresses

Katherine Heigl's Jane might be always a bridesmaid, never a bride, for much of the 2008 comedy 27 Dresses, but she's largely supportive of all of the newlyweds around her, even deeming to don some truly awful gowns as part of their bridal parties. However, when her own sister Tess (Malin Åkerman) manipulates her way into a proposal from the man Jane loves—all while wearing a chopped-up version of their mother's wedding dress—Jane rightfully lets her rage out.

"Waiting For You Is Like Waiting For Rain In This Drought. Useless And Disappointing." - A Cinderella Story

Like Cinderella meets You've Got Mail, the 2004 teen rom-com A Cinderella Story revolves around two internet pen pals from opposite ends of their high school's social scene: she, a lowly diner worker named Sam Montgomery (Hilary Duff) and he, the popular quarterback Austin Ames (Chad Michael Murray). When their identities are unmasked and Sam is left humiliated, she marches into the football locker room and gives him a talking-to.

"Harry, You're Gonna Have To Move Back To New Jersey Because You've Slept With Everybody In New York And I Don't See That Turning Helen Into A Faint Memory For You." - When Harry Met Sally...

Some of the funniest quotes from the classic Meg Ryan rom-com When Harry Met Sally... feature hilariously charged banter between our titular friends-turned-lovers Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan). But some of the memorable lines from the Rob Reiner-directed, Nora Ephron-penned flick come more from a place of hurt than humor, such as this alfresco argument where they trade some brutally honest feedback about each other's love lives.

"Don't, For One Minute, Think That You Had Any Effect Whatsoever On My Panties." - 10 Things I Hate About You

Julia Stiles's prickly 10 Things I Hate About You protagonist Kat Stratford may protest too much that she's not totally charmed by the persistent interest of bad guy Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger). She may declare that the only effect he has is on her "upchuck reflex," but her reaction to that swoon-worthy soccer-field performance of Frankie Valli's "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" certainly says otherwise.

"Sweetie, Your Skin Is So Dry It's Hurting My Face." - Crazy Rich Asians

To impress the wealthy and judgmental mother (Michelle Yeoh) of her beau, Nick Young (Henry Golding), while attending the lavish Singapore-set wedding of his best friend, Rachel Chu (Costance Wu) gets a much-welcome makeover from Nick's sassy second cousin Oliver T’sien (Nico Santos). Oliver's constructive criticism may have been admittedly harsh, but the reaction to Rachel's stunning wedding look was more than worth it.

"Where's The Cool, Fun, Smart, Beautiful Andie That I Knew? The One That Wanted To Be A Serious Journalist? You're Up, You're Down, You're Here, You're There, You're Like A Frickin' One-Woman Circus." - How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days

To make Matthew McConaughey's Benjamin Barry fall out of love with her, How to Lose a Guy in 10 days heroine Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) begins behaving outrageously: we're talking weeping over a love fern, ruining boys' night, nicknaming his manhood "Princess Sophia," the works. It's unsurprising, then, that Benjamin loudly laments that Andie has chaotically turned into a "one-woman circus" during a fight between the couple.

"Lower. [You're] The Pus That Infects The Mucus... That Cruds Up The Fungus... That Feeds On The Pond Scum. On The Other Hand, Thank You... For Loving Me That Much." - My Best Friend's Wedding

Julia Roberts's Jules Potter exhibits some seriously poor judgment in the 1997 romantic comedy My Best Friend's Wedding, kicking off a campaign to break up the nuptials of her lifelong friend Michael O'Neal (Dermot Mulroney) and his bubbly young bride Kimmy Wallace (Cameron Diaz). When Jules eventually confesses to Michael all of the sabotage she's been up to, he rightly and imaginatively tells her off but then, kindly, forgives his friend immediately.

"You Know What? You Are Rude And Mean And Sloppy And Frizzy. I Don't Like You At All!" - 13 Going on 30

Before leading the rest of the 13 Going on 30 cast into that iconic "Thriller" dance sequence to liven up her company party, Jennifer Garner's Jenna Rink and her co-editor-slash-best friend Lucy Wyman (Judy Greer) get into some words with rival magazine editrix Trish Sackett (Kiersten Warren) of Sparkle magazine. When Trish trashes Poise and tells them to change the publication's name to "Poison or Pitiful, whatever's more pathetic," Jenna partakes in some hilariously innocent smack talk.

"I Love This Man, And There Is No Way I'm Gonna Give Him Up To Some Two-Faced, Big-Haired Food Critic!" - My Best Friend's Wedding

If anyone—even a veritable America's Sweetheart like Julia Roberts—tried to ruin our wedding by smooching the groom, we'd react pretty much exactly like Cameron Diaz does in My Best Friend's Wedding. Her character confronts Roberts's scheming Jules Potter in the women's bathroom of a baseball stadium, and with onlookers cheering her on, Diaz knocks her tirade out of the park.

"I Do Not Need A Blind Date. Particularly Not With Some Verbally Incontinent Spinster Who Drinks Like A Fish, Smokes Like A Chimney, And Dresses Like Her Mother." - Bridget Jones's Diary

Taking inspiration from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Sharon Maguire's beloved 2001 title Bridget Jones's Diary features a similar enemies-to-lovers trajectory for our leading lady Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) and her eventual beau Mark Darcy (Colin Firth). However, after hearing Mark's harsh and haughty words about Bridget upon their first meeting at the Turkey Curry Buffet, we can't totally blame Bridge for initially writing him off as a wanker.

"Get Married, Make Babies! You Look So... Old! - My Big Fat Greek Wedding

A parent's criticism usually comes from a place of love, but that doesn't mean it doesn't hurt! In 2002's My Big Fat Greek Wedding, 30-year-old Toula Portokalos (actress-screenwriter Nia Vardalos) is living out her spinster days working at her parents' restaurant, with her dad Gus (Michael Constantine) giving her a hard time about settling down with a nice Greek man and making nice Greek babies. Instead, he gets John Corbett!

"If Staying Here Means Working Within 10 Yards Of You, Frankly, I'd Rather Have A Job Wiping Saddam Hussein's Arse." - Bridget Jones's Diary

Since he cheated on her and broke her heart—all while she was humiliatingly dressed as a Playboy Bunny—Bridget Jones' caddish boss-turned-boyfriend Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant) deserved every bit of this verbal takedown from our eponymous heroine (Renée Zellweger).

"Do You Prefer 'Fashion Victim' Or 'Ensembly Challenged'? - Clueless

Beloved '90s movie Clueless is as much about the clothes as it is the comedy, with characters like Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone), Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash) and Tai Frasier (Brittany Murphy) decked out in some majorly iconic outfits throughout the funny flick. However, style, or lack thereof, is also the subject of many insults in the movie, especially aimed at Cher's frenemy Amber Mariens (Elisa Donovan).

"Are You The Billionaire Owner Of Apple Computers? No? In That Case, You've Got No Right To Wear New Balance Sneakers, Ever." - Crazy, Stupid, Love.

At the center of the star-studded 2011 ensemble comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love is Cal Weaver (played by Steve Carell), a middle-aged dad and recently separated man who learns how to be more stylish and romantic to attract women. At his side is the debonair womanizer Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), who is fantastically funny and, yes, a little mean with his constructive criticism of Cal's dorky wardrobe.

"I Cannot Believe I Wasted My Prime Reproductive Years On You! I Hope You Have Terrible Karma And Come Back In The Next Life As A Nasty Little Lizard And Get Stepped On By Someone On A Hike! You Are Getting The Finger So Hard Right Now!" - Always Be My Maybe

In the 2019 friends-to-lovers flick Always Be My Maybe, comedienne Ali Wong plays Sasha Tran, a celebrity chef who is engaged to successful restaurateur Brandon Choi (Daniel Dae Kim). However, when Brandon delays their wedding yet again, Sasha brutally breaks up with him over the phone with increasingly colorful language.

"When Was The Last Time You Tweezed?...Ever Watch Sesame Street? You Know Bert?" - She's All That

One of the best makeover scenes in the rom-com genre can be found in the 1999 fan-favorite She's All That, where big-man-on-campus Zack Siler (played by Freddie Prinze Jr.) makes a bet to turn artsy nerd Laney Boggs (Rachael Leigh Cook) into the prom queen. That requires ridding Laney of her paint-splattered overalls and thick-rimmed glasses, so Zack enlists his stylish sister Mack (Anna Paquin) to offer some mercilessly worded assistance.

"I Thought You Said She Was Thin?" - Bridget Jones's Diary

It's one thing to have your partner commit infidelity—with the leggy, young coworker from the New York office, no less—but it's another thing entirely when you find out that the leggy, young coworker not only knows about you but also insults you straight to your face. Such is the romantic horror that happens to Bridget Jones, made even worse by the fact that the Brit regularly displays insecurity about her weight throughout the 2001 comedy.

"You With Your Theme Park, Multi-Level, Homogenize-The-World Mochaccino Land. You've Deluded Yourself Into Thinking That You're Some Sort Of Benefactor, Bringing Books To The Masses. But No One Will Ever Remember You, Joe Fox...You Are Nothing But A Suit!" - You've Got Mail

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are two rom-com partners we think are overdue for an onscreen reunion, but in You've Got Mail, their characters couldn't want to spend less time with each other. Ryan plays Kathleen Kelly, who runs the quaint neighborhood bookseller The Shop Around the Corner; Hanks portrays Joe Fox, the head of major bookstore chain Fox Books. Their rivalry cuts deep, as evidenced by Kathleen's harsh words to Joe—but that rivalry soon turns to romance.

"Snap Out Of It!" - Moonstruck

Arguably, the worst reply to you telling someone that you love them is for them to smack you across the face and yell, "Snap out of it!" Though not the most romantic response to a declaration of love, the scene did cement Moonstruck as one of Cher's best movies, with the music icon winning an Oscar for playing a widowed Italian American woman who falls in love with her fiancé's estranged younger brother (played by Nicolas Cage).

"I Love Your Sweater. Does That Come In A V-Neck?" - The 40-Year-Old Virgin

The infamous waxing scene from The 40-Year-Old Virgin is the stuff of comedy legend, with Paul Rudd previously revealing that all of the actors' reactions were genuine as they watched star Steve Carell get his chest hair ripped off IRL. Making things even funnier is the savage, on-the-spot jokes that the cast came up with while watching the body-wax horror before them, including Rudd declaring that Carell's exceptionally hairy torso resembled a pullover sweater.

"Yeah, You Just Take Soupy-Sales To Prom I Can Think Of So Many Cooler Things To Do That Night. Like, You Know What, Bleek? I Might Pumice My Feet, Uh, I Might Go To Bren's Unitarian Church, Maybe Get Hit By A Truck Full Of Hot Garbage Juice, You Know? Cause All Those Things, Would Be Exponentially Cooler Than Going To Prom With You!" - Juno

The quirky love story between 16-year-old high-schooler Juno MacGuff (played by Elliot Page) and her track-team BFF Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera) is certainly an unconventional one, seeing as how the teen girl falls pregnant with his baby before they've even begun dating. But just because they weren't technically together doesn't mean that Juno didn't clearly harbor romantic feelings for her longtime pal, as she gets plenty jealous when Paulie asks another girl to prom.

"I've Never Met Anyone So Manipulative, So Deceitful, And I'm in Politics!" - Sweet Home Alabama

They say you never forget your first love and that's certainly true for Melanie Smooter (Reese Witherspoon), the small-town girl turned big-city fashion designer who left her Alabama hometown as well as her estranged husband Jake Perry (played by Josh Lucas and not Matthew McConaughey, despite popular belief) behind. However, years later, at her wedding to the wealthy Andrew Hennings (Patrick Demsey), she not only comes clean about her rural roots but also her lingering feelings for Jake. It goes without saying that Andrew's powerful mother, New York City mayor Kate Hennings (Candice Bergen), is not pleased to hear about Melanie's deception.

"You Didn't Think You Became Popular For Real, Did You? Oh, You Did? That's So Sweet." - She's All That

A late-'90s retelling of Pygmalion, She's All That centers on Zack Siler (Freddie Prinze Jr.), a popular jock who boasts he could make any girl at his high school popular. His buddy Deah (Paul Walker) suggests artsy outsider Laney Boggs (Rachael Leigh Cook) and, using his own popularity as well as a strategic makeover as a status boost, Zack manages to get Laney nominated for prom queen. However, when the bet is revealed to Laney, Zack's ex-girlfriend Taylor (Jodi Lyn O'Keefe) digs the knife in even further with her cruel words.

"You Are Afraid To Be Alive. You Are Afraid To Live. You're A Hypocrite. You're A Conformist. You're A Liar. I Opened Up To You And You Judged Me." - Silver Linings Playbook

Jennifer Lawrence's Oscar-winning performance as widow Tiffany Maxwell in Silver Linings Playbook is an unflinchingly alive and bracingly funny one. Equal parts volatile and vulnerable, Tiffany is not one to back down from a fight, and that's certainly the case in this scene-causing blowup between her and Bradley Cooper's Pat Solitano Jr.

"I've Never Treated You Like A Prostitute." - Pretty Woman

With all of its Roy Orbison-soundtracked shopping montages and flower-filled grand gestures, it's easy to forget at times that Pretty Women is very much about a street worker, a fact that Richard Gere's Edward Lewis unkindly reminds street walker Vivian Ward (a dazzling Julia Roberts) of after offering her an apartment, a car and money with which to take care of herself—everything but his heart.

"It's Sentimental Tacky Crap! Do We Look Like The Kind Of Store That Sells 'I Just Called to Say I Love You'? Go To The Mall." - High Fidelity

The Jon Cusack-led rom-com High Fidelity centers on the romantic antics of record-store manager Rob Gordon, and along with offering up a fittingly fantastic soundtrack, the 2000 title is filled with memorable music-related moments. Several of them revolve around Rob's Championship Vinyl cohorts Dick (Todd Louiso) and Barry (Jack Black), the latter of whom does not hold back when it comes to rudely judging their customers' musical tastes.

"You Old, She Pregnant. Can't Have A Bunch Of Old Pregnant Women Running Around!" - Knocked Up

This interaction from Judd Apatow's Knocked Up is actually doubly mean, as it kicks off with Leslie Mann's mom-of-two Debbie hilariously rages against a nightclub bouncer (Craig Robinson) who went let her and her pregnant sister Alison (Katherine Heigl) through the venue's velvet ropes. ("You know what, you may have power now, but you are not God. You're a DOORMAN!") But said bouncer makes things even more hilarious when he plainly lays out exactly why he's denying the women entry.

"I Don't Think We Have Anything For You. You're Obviously In The Wrong Place. Please Leave!" - Pretty Woman

The scene birthed one of the greatest clapbacks in cinema history: "You work on commission, right? Big mistake! Big, huge!" But before Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) could get that delicious revenge against the snooty shopkeepers who slighted her in Pretty Woman, the sex worker was sadly on the receiving end of the boutique employees' mean condescension.

"I Don't Think You're Supposed To Wear White Jeans After 1983." - Never Been Kissed

Never Been Kissed may be one of Drew Barrymore's best movies, but admittedly, if undercover reporter Josie Gellar really wanted to blend into the crowd while posing as a high-school student, an all-white outfit complete with a feather boa might not have been the most inconspicuous ensemble for her first day. Still, Josie did not deserve the mean-girl comments of South Glen South High's resident popular clique Kirsten (Jessica Alba), Gibby (Jordan Ladd) and Kristin (Marley Shelton).

"I'm Going To Help You Rediscover Your Manhood. Do You Have Any Idea Where You Could Have Lost It?" - Crazy, Stupid, Love.

In Crazy, Stupid, Love., sleek Casanova Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling) gives newly separated dad of three Cal Weaver (Steve Carell) some much-needed pointers on how to dress well, how to talk to women, and so on. And though his intentions are charitable and kind, the way he offers up criticism to Cal could be a bit kinder.

"Thank You Josh. I SO Need Lessons From You On How To Be Cool. Tell Me The Part About Kenny G Again?" - Clueless

The back-and-forth banter between Alicia Silverstone's Cher Horowitz and Paul Rudd's Josh Lucas are some of the best parts of that mid-'90s favorite, Clueless. And though Cher certainly gives him a hard time about his clothes. his classes and his Nietzsche-reading ways, it's not long until she realizes that she's "majorly, totally, butt crazy in love with Josh!"

It has been a pretty good time to be a fan of When Harry Met Sally… in the early days of 2025. The stars of the 1989 romantic comedy classic, Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, reprised their titular roles in a Super Bowl ad for Hellmann’s Mayonnaise and, the following month, appeared at the 2025 Academy Awards together to present this year’s Best Picture Oscar winner, Anora. A couple of weeks later, I scored a VHS copy of the film, which is how I watched it for the first time in years.

This was also the first time I watched director Rob Reiner and writer Nora Ephron’s witty, thought-provoking masterpiece knowing an interesting behind-the-scenes fact that I actually think is one of the most fascinating and, especially, heartwarming details about When Harry Met Sally… Read on to learn all about it.

The "How We Met" Stories Are Based In Fact

When Harry Met Sally… follows the evolving relationship between the two central characters from strangers who hate each other to platonic friends to passionate lovers over the course of 12 years. Placed in between those notable chapters in their lives are documentary-style scenes in which married couples recall how they met, the last of which features Harry and Sally telling their story. Excluding that final moment, each of the stories from these scenes is based in truth.

Reiner explains in a DVD featurette that, while these interstitials are performed by actors, the stories they tell were collected by Ephron, who interviewed real couples about their “meet-cutes” and incorporated the memories into her screenplay. Reiner got the idea for these sequences when he asked the father of his friend, Alan Horn, how he met "Mrs. Horn," and he immediately “lit up” at the opportunity to talk about it. The filmmaker then realized that everyone has a good story about how they met their spouse, which became the general basis for When Harry Met Sally...

Making When Harry Met Sally… Is Rob Reiner's Own "How We Met" Story

Another fascinating detail about When Harry Met Sally… is that the film originally ended on a more heartbreaking note. Instead of their happily ever after, the rut in their friendship after an awkward one-night stand would prove ultimately irreparable. The reason, as Reiner revealed to CNN’s Chris Wallace, was that, after 10 years of the single life following his divorce from the late Penny Marshall, he could not imagine falling in love again.

Everything changed when he fell in love during the production of When Harry Met Sally… Reiner explained to James Corden on a 2016 episode of The Late Late Show that, after meeting his wife, Michele Singer, he and Ephron decided to give Harry and Sally the happy ending that audiences would come to cherish forever.

Reiner was certainly on to something when he realized that everyone has a good “how we met” story. He just didn’t realize that he was about to experience his own while making a movie based on that very concept. It is yet another reason why When Harry Met Sally… is one of the all-time most important movies about the mystery of love.

There is nothing that makes one’s heart melt quite like a person declaring their desire to spend the rest of their lives with another. This does not just go for real life but also for fictional marriage proposal on both the big and screen alike. The following are some of the most unique and romantic examples we have ever seen.

Maggie Proposes To Ike (Runaway Bride)

In one of Julia Roberts’ best romantic comedy movies, 1999’s Runaway Bride, her character, Maggie Carpenter, spends the entirety of the movie struggling with her ability to commit and her tendency to leave her grooms at the altar. That is until she meets columnist Ike Graham (Richard Gere) and shows how far she has come from the moment she fell for him by popping the question herself.

Patrick Proposes To David (Schitt's Creek)

Schitt's Creek is one of the most heartwarming and simply best sitcoms of all time and a key reason is the romance between David Rose (co-creator Dan Levy) and Patrick Brewer (Noah Reid). Their relationship hits its adorable peak when Patrick takes David to his favorite spot to make the "easiest decision" of his life and presents him with a set of four engagement rings to match the four rings he usually wears on his right hand.

Jamie Proposes To Aurelia (Love Actually)

Easily one of the more uplifting storylines from 2003's Love Actually is that of cuckolded writer Jamie (Colin Firth), who falls for Portuguese housekeeper Aurélia (Lúcia Moniz) while spending the holiday at his French cottage. After they part ways, he learns her language (and almost gets all the words right) to ask her to marry him in front of a full crowd at the restaurant where she works.

Dexter Proposes To Rita (Dexter)

After his girlfriend, Rita Bennett (Julie Benz) becomes unexpectedly pregnant with their son, Dexter Morgan (Michael. C Hall) finds the courage (and the right words, which he borrows from another murderer) to make the ultimate commitment to her despite his commitment to slaughtering Miami's worst. Unfortunately, their marriage came to a tragic end in the fourth and, arguably, the best season of Dexter when, in one of TV's most shocking cliffhangers, he discovers his wife has been killed by The Trinity Killer.

Robbie Proposes To Julia (The Wedding Singer)

In just about Adam Sandler's best romantic-comedy movie, 1998's The Wedding Singer, Robbie (Sandler) ultimately stops Julia's (Drew Barrymore) impending nuptials to the wrong guy with an impromptu serenade on a plane with help from first-class passengers, including Billy Idol as himself, and the airline staff. He never says "Will you marry me?" but the next scene is their wedding so we can assume they were essentially engaged at this moment.

Schmidt Proposes To Cece (New Girl)

In the pilot episode of New Girl, Schmidt (Max Greenfield) was forced to donate a $5 bill to the Douchebag Jar after proclaiming he would marry Cece (Hannah Simone) the day he met her. He would then present that exact bill to her when he finally popped the question after several frustrating seasons of back-and-forth dating and flirting.

Ian Proposes To Toula (My Big Fat Greek Wedding)

The big question that leads to the eponymous main event from My Big Fat Greek Wedding is, actually, one of cinema's more simple marriage proposals, occurring spontaneously while Toula Portokalos (Nia Vardalos) and Ian Miller (John Corbett) are lying together in bed. Still, it is a memorable scene from the 2002 hit and a memorable moment for the romantic-comedy movie genre in general for how well it depicts the couple's mutual passion.

Jim Proposes To Pam (The Office)

The two-part Season 5 premiere of The Office marks a pivotal moment in Jim and Pam's relationship timeline, as Pam (Jenna Fischer) has been taking art classes in New York. When Jim (John Krasinski) requests to meet her halfway (but actually "not halfway," based on Pam's math) at a gas station in the pouring rain, he surprises her with the question she (and viewers) have been waiting for.

Andrew Proposes To Margaret (The Proposal)

In 2009's The Proposal, Margaret Tate (Sandra Bullock) initially blackmails her assistant, Andrew Paxton (Ryan Reynolds), into marrying her so the Canadian-born editor can avoid deportation. However, after she catches genuine feelings and cancels their fake wedding, he realizes his true feelings and makes a genuine proposal to her.

Chandler Proposes To Monica (Friends)

One of the most famous tearjerker moments from Chandler and Monica's relationship timeline on Friends almost begins in disaster after a surprise run-in with Monica's (Courtney Cox) ex, Richard (Tom Selleck), on the night Chandler (Matthew Perry) planned to propose. This convinces him to feign disinterest in marriage to savor the surprise, but that only seems to make things worse until he turns out to be the surprised one, showing up at their apartment to find Monica surrounded by candles. When she tearfully can not finish her own attempt to pop the question, Chandler finishes the act.

Harry Proposes To Sally (When Harry Met Sally)

Harry's (Billy Crystal) climactic confession to Sally (Meg Ryan) at the end of 1989's When Harry Met Sally during a New Year's Eve party is not exactly a marriage proposal per se. However, it is an admission that he wants to spend the rest of his life with her (and wants the rest of his life to start "as soon as possible") and in one of the most beautifully constructed speeches in cinematic history.

Jake Proposes To Amy (Brooklyn Nine-NIne)

Arguably the best episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine sees the precinct participating in their fifth annual Halloween heist, which Det. Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero) believes she has won when she finds the championship belt in the evidence locker. However, her boyfriend, Det. Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg), advises her to take a better look at the inscription on the belt, which reads, "Amy Santiago, will you marry me?"

Landon Proposes To Jamie (A Walk to Remember)

A memorable Nicolas Sparks adaptation that predates The Notebook is 2002's A Walk to Remember, in which troubled teen Landon Carter (Shane West) unexpectedly falls for shy Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore). After discovering that she has leukemia, he decides to propose to her under the night sky as a comet passes by so that he can marry her before she succumbs to her illness.

Niles Proposes To Daphne (Frasier)

On Frasier, Niles Crane (David Hyde Pierce) attempts to plan the perfect marriage proposal to Daphne (Jane Leeves), complete with a string quartet, kid actors dressed as angels, and a dinner prepared by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. However, when Daphne arrives at the apartment with the flu, Frasier (Kelsey Grammer) must help his brother covertly escort the performers out. It is then that Niles decides it is still the perfect time to pop the question.

Johnny Proposes To June (Walk The Line)

Director James Mangold's 2005 music biopic, Walk the Line, sees Johnny Cash (Joaquin Phoenix) make two attempts to propose to June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). After his first go at it on a tour bus has unfavorable results, The Man in Black tries again by interrupting a public musical duet and tells her that he cannot finish the song until he gets an answer. She tells him, yes.

Ben Proposes To Leslie (Parks And Recreation)

In the fifth season of Parks and Recreation, the future seems uncertain for Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and Ben Wyatt (Adam Scott) because the latter might be forced to move to Florida for work. Instead, at the end of the episode, "Halloween Surprise," he unexpectedly shows up to propose to the politician, who interrupts him a couple of times to better remember how perfect everything in her life is at that moment.

Wade Proposes To Vanessa (Deadpool)

The way Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) pops the question to Vanessa Carlysle (Morena Baccarin) is perfectly on brand for 2016's hilarious superhero movie, Deadpool. The future Merc with a Mouth's engagement ring of choice (which is revealed to have been hidden between his butt cheeks) is a Ring Pop.

Blaine Proposes To Kurt (Glee)

For the moment when Blaine (Darren Criss) popped the question to Kurt (Chris Colfer) on Glee, the show depicted the moment the only way it could have. Kurt's friends from McKinley help perfect the proposal by participating in a rendition of The Beatles' "All You Need Is Love."

Nick Proposes To Rachel (Crazy Rich Asians)

Admittedly, the scene from Crazy Rich Asians in which Nick Young (Henry Golding) asks Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) to marry him is a bit cliché-ridden, especially since it takes on an airplane. However, considering the ups and downs the couple had faced in director Jon M. Chu's hit 2018 adaptation of Kevin Kwan's novel, they deserved an old-fashioned storybook climax.

Mike Proposes To Rachel (Suits)

Before her marriage to Prince Harry captured the world's hearts, Meghan Markle, as Rachel Zane, shared a captivating onscreen romance with fellow Suits cast member Patrick J. Adams as Michael Ross. The lawyer first lists off all the reasons why he loves the paralegal-turned-attorney before presenting her with his grandmother's ring at the moment he asks for her hand in marriage.

Jim Proposes To Katherine (Hidden Figures)

The astonishing true story depicted in 2016's Hidden Figures is complemented by an astonishing marriage proposal by military officer Jim Johnson (Mahershala Ali) to mathematician Katherine Goble Johnson (Taraji P. Henson). He begins by cooking her and her family a special dinner before surprising her with a ring and an admission that he called his mother the day after he met Katherine to tell her that she was the one he would marry.

Barney Proposes To Robin (How I Met Your Mother)

The two-part Season 8 mid-season finale of How I Met Your Mother reveals that nearly everything we have seen Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris) do that season has been part of an elaborate ruse from his famed Playbook. However, the ultimate goal of the play is not to get his off-and-on lover Robin Scherbatsky (Cobie Smulders) into bed but to finally reignite their relationship and get her to make the ultimate commitment with him, which she tearfully accepts on the rooftop of the World Wide News building.

Edward Proposes To Sandra (Big Fish)

In director Tim Burton's 2003 fantasy Big Fish, Edward Bloom (Ewan McGregor) experiences love at first sight with Sandra Templeton (Alison Lohman) and, despite her having a fiancée, proceeds to ask this woman he barely knows to marry him multiple times. She finally breaks off her current engagement after Edward picks thousands of daffodils, her favorite flowers, and gathers them in an unbelievable assortment outside her house.

Brian Proposes To Charlie (Shrinking)

In the acclaimed Apple TV+ series, Shrinking, Brian (Michael Urie) creates an elaborate plan to ask his longtime boyfriend, Charlie (Devin Kawaoka), to marry him, which includes singing a song with help on piano from Jimmy (Jason Segel), who ruins it by drunkenly regurgitating. A frustrated Brian then admits his intentions to Charlie, who, before Brian can even compose himself to officially ask the question, readily accepts.

Mr. Darcy Proposes To Elizabeth (Pride And Prejudice)

Director Joe Wright's 2005 adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice features one of the most romantic movie quotes of all time. Despite his once rivalrous relationship with Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley), Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfayden) tells her, "You have bewitched me body and soul," during one of the multiple times he asks for her hand in marriage.

Ben Proposes To Miranda (Grey's Anatomy)

One of the most romantic moments from Grey's Anatomy begins in the middle of an operation when Ben Warren (Jason Winston George) expresses his disappointment that he and Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson) were unable to work on the daily crossword. In the OR, Miranda pettily begins completing the puzzle herself and comes to discover that the answer to the clue, “My question to you,” is, "Will you marry me?" and that the entire crossword was crafted by Ben.

Ronny Proposes To Loretta (Moonstruck)

In 1987's Moonstruck, Loretta Castorini (Cher) becomes engaged to Johnny Cammareri (Danny Aiello) but unexpectedly falls into an affair with his brother, Ronny (Nicolas Cage). Everything works out, however, when Johnny calls off the engagement for his mother's sake and, seconds later, Ronny borrows the ring to ask for Loretta's hand in marriage.

Glenn Proposes To Maggie (The Walking Dead)

Taking place in a post-apocalyptic wasteland overrun with reanimated corpses, The Walking Dead is not quite what one would call a romantic show but does give audiences a romance to root for between Glenn Rhee (Steven Yeun) and Maggie Green (Lauren Cohan). The former pizza deliverer would make his relationship with her official by presenting her with a ring he pulled off a walker's finger.

Andrew Proposes To Melanie (Sweet Home Alabama)

Andrew Hennings (Patrick Dempsey) is, ultimately, not the man we are supposed to root for Melanie Carmichael (Reese Witherspoon) to end up with in 2002's Sweet Home Alabama. However, the way he pops the question by walking her into a room full of various engagement rings for her to choose from is a dream scenario.

Toby Proposes To Kate (This Is Us)

Toby Damon (Chris Sullivan) pays a good amount of money to make his unique way of proposing to Kate Pearson (Chrissy Metz) a reality on This is Us. He unzips multiple hoodies that each read a different section of the phrase, "Will you marry me?"

Jeremy Proposes to Kristen (Think Like A Man)

In Think Like a Man, commitmentphobe Jeremy Kern (Jerry Ferrara) is so overwhelmed with emotion when popping the question to Kristen (Gabrielle Union) that he accidentally says, "I want to be your wife, and I want to be your husband," before quickly correcting himself. It is easily one of the sweetest moments from the 2012 adaptation of Steve Harvey's self-help book.

Ross Proposes To Emily (Friends)

While Ross Gellar's (David Schwimmer) marriage to Emily (Helen Baxendale) proved to be ill-fated, his spur-of-the-moment decision to ask her to marry him right before she is supposed to leave for London is still one of the sweetest moments from Friends.

There are so many reasons why When Harry Met Sally… is one of the best rom-coms of all time. Not only do you get to see the A+ chemistry of Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, but it’s a perfect movie to see best friends becoming lovers and an excuse to visit Katz’s Deli, which is a famous place due to the movie’s popular fake orgasm scene. Crystal admits that fans of the Bob Reiner-directed flick still throw the film’s quotes at him, but there’s one line he’s still surprised to get and it’s not what you think.

Written by the late Nora Ephron, the Meg Ryan rom-com had some of the funniest quotes that were both witty and natural. You can’t forget lines like “They don’t make Sunday [days-of-the-week underpants]…because of God,” or “I drove him away. And I'm gonna be forty...someday!” Apparently, the male lead of When Harry Met Sally…, Billy Crystal, can’t forget either as he told People fans love to send the film’s quotes his way after 35 years. But, there’s one particular quote the New York City native still gets. And no, it’s not from the iconic Katz Deli scene. It’s “Baby fish mouth:”

While everyone loves to point out the well-known fake orgasm scene, it’s a delight to know that fans love When Harry Met Sally...’s Pictionary scene. In this hilarious moment, the entire group gets together to play the charades-inspired word-guessing game. As Sally tries to draw “Baby talk,” Harry’s friend, Jess, shouts, “Baby fish mouth!” which humorously makes absolutely no sense. But that’s what was so memorable about this scene because it’s very relatable to desperately shoot nonsensical answers to ensure a win even if your guess is a long shot. With a T-shirt out in the open “sweeping the nation,” maybe this underrated phrase can go viral in today’s generation.

But of course, Billy Crystal’s much-quoted line that’s sent his way is “I’ll have what she’s having.” This was when Harry and Sally were having lunch at Katz Deli and Sally was trying to prove that women can fake an orgasm with an uproarious demonstration out in the open. This leads to an older woman listening in the background, played by Rob Reiner’s mother, to deliver the quotable line we all know. While Crystal admitted that particular line isn’t his favorite to hear when he’s having a bad day, he still told People how touched he was that fans still resonate with that scene:

You better believe that fans are all over “I’ll have what she’s having.” Back in 2013, a flashmob recreated the Katz Deli scene on location with twenty other improv actors added to the mix to create fake sex sounds. Keira Knightley also did a parody of the When Harry Met Sally… scene for Vanity Fair’s montage of classic movie recreations. Most recently, Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan reunited to fake another orgasm for a Super Bowl LIX commercial to advertise how good Hellman’s mayonnaise is. A surprise cameo of Sydney Sweeney had the lucky actress be the one to deliver the legendary line. It proves the impact of the New York-set rom-com still hasn’t escaped the minds and hearts of fans and its cast.

It may be surprising to Billy Crystal that fans quote "baby fish mouth" to him, but it goes to show that "I'll have what she's having" isn't the only unforgettable line of When Harry Met Sally... As the Oscar-nominated movie was funny from beginning to end, scenes other than the Katz Deli moment deserve to be shown some love too. You can watch every funny quotable line in the 1989 rom-com available on your Paramount+ subscription.

The 2025 TV schedule will soon mark Super Bowl LIX, and with that annual event comes a number of commercials. Set to show up in an ad are Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, who are also joined by Sydney Sweeney. Ryan and Crystal are reuniting years after starring in one of the best romantic comedies ever, When Harry Met Sally..., and the ad revisits their iconic characters in a Katz Deli scene. Now, the veteran actors explain why they returned to stun another room full of deli patrons.

Of course, before hearing the actors' comments, you need to feast your eyes on the commercial itself, in all its nostalgic glory. Not only does it aptly pay homage to Rob Reiner's beloved 1989 film, but it also shows that his two lead actors still have that spark of chemistry. Check out how the stars faked another orgasm:

Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan spoke to CNN about somewhat continuing the friend-to-lovers story established in their classic film. The actor and comedian, who previously reminisced at Katz's Deli, has long spoken about how important When Harry Met Sally... still is to him. During the interview, the You’ve Got Mail star revealed that her desire to join the ad stemmed from it being a confirmation to fans (and to her and Crystal) that their characters, Sally Albright and Harry Burns, are still good after all these years:

As a fan, I’m with the Sleepless in Seattle actress. Even if this opportunity to revisit the characters comes with a side of Hellmann’s Mayo, I’ll take it. After 35 years of viewers watching the movie, it’s a nice homage and a lovely peek into Harry and Sally's lives today. It’s good to know that all involved believe that not much has changed for the two and that the two leads are still close. (On that note, Ryan even recently roasting Crystal over the infamous orgasm scene.)

And we have to mention that quick Sydney Sweeney cameo paired with the famous, "I'll have what she's having," line.

Sydney Sweeney's presence, while unexpected, doesn't hurt. It also makes sense why she was tapped, since she’s been making waves with rom-coms more recently. Although, I personally would’ve liked to have seen Billie Lourd, the daughter of late WHMS alum Carrie Fisher, in the spot to give the reunion that little extra special touch.

Billy Crystal went on to agree with his colleague's sentiments about reuniting. He also opened up about how their relationship was on set years ago and how it compares today:

I think Billy Crystal may be hitting on the fact that few likely expected a reunion to arrive via a Hellmann's mayo commercial for the Super Bowl, but why not? It seems like both performers were pleased to jump at the chance to get back into these prolific characters. And, as one of the many When Harry Met Sally lovers, I'm glad they agreed -- and brought Sydney Sweeney along for the ride. The commercial is super sweet and serves as a reminder of why fans fell in love with the titular couple in the first place.

The commercial will be one of the many to air amid Super Bowl LIX, which you can watch on Sunday February 9th on CBS or stream with a Paramount+ subscription.

When Harry Met Sally is largely considered to be one of the best romantic comedies of all time, and yet I had never seen it before. I’ve seen just about every other Nora Ephron-penned film, but I was always hesitant to check it out in case I wound up hating it. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case, and I absolutely adored the Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal-led flick. In fact, I loved it so much that it made me realize how desperate I am for more slow-burn, friends-to-lovers-style romantic comedies.

The 1989 film begins in 1977 when college graduates Sally Albright (Ryan) and Harry Burns (Crystal) decide to carpool up to New York City to start their adult lives despite only having one mutual friend. The car ride is tumultuous, to say the least, and the two parted ways without exchanging any contact information. Five years later, their paths cross when they wind up on the same flight, but once again, they separate without sharing information.

When their paths cross again five years later, Harry and Sally are both single for the first time in years and decide to try to be friends. They spend an entire year dancing around each other before they sleep together, complicating their relationship. In the original ending, Harry and Sally don't end up together, but thankfully, director Rob Reiner changed it, and instead, the pair end up confessing their love for each other at a New Year's Eve party.

In today’s movie climate, a film covering 10 years is largely unheard of, especially in the romantic comedy genre. If you look at any of the top rom-coms from the last five years, you’ll find that most of them take place over a few days or weeks at most, thrusting the leads into epic, fast-moving relationships with flashy set pieces and high stakes. Slow-burn, friends-to-lovers stories are seen more in television shows like Netflix’s One Day or even Abbott Elementary, thanks to Janine and Gregory’s relationship.

While it makes sense for this time of romance trope to be explored in television shows where there is more time to explore these types of relationships, the classic status of When Harry Met Sally and its ability to continue to move new audiences, like me, is proof that people do want more slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romances.

In my opinion, they’re way more believable than the “love-at-first-sight” style movies that have been dominating the genre for quite some time. I always have a hard time believing two strangers could fall in love in an instant, so movies that set up characters as friends first always work better for me. Plus, there’s just so much more tension when two characters are engaged in a will-they, won’t-they type of relationship, especially when it spans a decade.

Sure, it can be frustrating watching two people dance around each other when it’s clear that they’re made for each other, but it’s the fun kind of frustrating. And it makes the pay-off when they finally get together so much more worth it.

If it was up to me, more romantic-comedy writers would study everything When Harry Met Sally did right and implement it in their own films. Since movies take so long to make, we probably won’t see a resurgence of slow-burn, friends-to-lovers movies in the 2025 releases, but there is always 2026!

Unfortunately, When Harry Met Sally isn’t streaming anywhere, but it is available to rent on Apple TV and Prime Video. And if you’re really interested in seeing if slow-burn romances are better than love-at-first-sight ones, consider checking out Ephron and Ryan’s other film, Sleepless in Seattle -- which I watched for the first time last year.

New York can be one of the most romantic cities in the world. Sure, it's not Rome or Paris, but as U.S. cities go, it's easy to see why so many people find the ultimate in romance in some of the best rom-coms ever made. Whether it's Harry and Sally, Nick and Nora, or any of the other dozens of movie couples who have found love in The Big Apple, we love to watch them fall for each other.

When Harry Met Sally...

When Harry Met Sally... is a stone-cold classic and probably the first movie everyone thought of when they read the title of this story. Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) take a long to get there, but ultimately find love in the big city, all while New York plays a major role in the background, especially that legendary scene at Katz's Deli.

Friends With Benefits

One of the more modern takes on the rom-com in New York is Friends With Benefits with Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake. Like a lot of New Yorkers, they start off just as friends starting successful careers in the Big Apple. That leads to the "benefits" part, until, finally, they commit to each other after a huge public display of affection at Grand Central Station.

Annie Hall

You can't have a list like this and leave a Woody Allen classic off like Annie Hall. One of the definitive rom-coms of the '70s and one of the greatest "New York movies" ever made. Woody Allen's reputation isn't what it was, and for good reason, but you can still admire this wonderful work of art.

Splash

The Ron Howard-directed Splash seems to be the forgotten NYC rom-com. Tom Hanks, in one of his earliest roles as a romantic lead, teams up with Daryl Hannah for a literally fish-out-of-love story in this classic tale of boy meets mermaid. She even names herself Madison after the name of the avenue in Manhattan.

Hitch

Of all the movies on this list, Hitch, in a weird way, may be the most accurate example of dating in a city like New York. It's mostly a muddled mess where no one really catches all the "signs" and everyone kind of walks through a lot of missed chances. Of course, it ends like any great rom-com with all the right people in love with each other.

Coming To America

For whatever reason, Coming To America isn't always thought of as a rom-com, but obviously it is. When a future king goes to look for his queen of course he goes to...Queens. It's rare that any New York movie, especially a rom-com takes place outside of Manhattan, so that makes Coming To America all the more refreshing.

Maid In Manhattan

Ah, the class divisions in New York. They can be stark, and they can be broken in movies, just as in real life. Such is the case of the Jennifer Lopez classic Maid In Manhattan. Lopez plays a maid who is too smart for her station and Ralph Fiennes plays an upper-crust politician that find unlikely love with each other.

How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days

An advertising exec played by Matthew McConaughey and a fashion magazine writer played by Kate Hudson have competing motivations to fall in love and out of love quickly for career advancement. Yep, that sounds like New York! Career over love! After spending time together all over the city, however, love wins, of course. There's even a moment in the movie where they watch another NYC rom-com classic, Sleepless In Seattle.

Sleepless In Seattle

It may say "Seattle" in the name, but come on, Sleepless In Seattle is really about falling in love in New York. They even recreate the scene in An Affair To Remember when they agree to meet atop the Empire State Building! It's one of the two classic Tom Hanks/Meg Ryan rom-coms set in New York and has to be on this list, despite its name.

13 Going On 30

The best trick that 13 Going On 30 pulls is never being creepy, despite the fact that a 13-year-old is in a 30-year-old's body, kind of like Big (which does get a little creepy). Jennifer Garner plays the older Jenna, and while the romance is kept to a minimum as she is living her older life (which was really more like a dream?), the true rom part of this com comes at the end when she and Matty (Mark Ruffalo's character) finally fall in love as kids again.

You've Got Mail

It doesn't get more classic than You've Got Mail. Not only are the leads Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, a classic pairing, but the story of two enemies who find love is as old as time itself. The fact that Tom Hanks' character wants to put Meg Ryan's store out of business is the icing on the New York cake.

Moonstruck

Moonstruck just oozes New York City from Brooklyn to the Upper West Side. It's working class New Yorkers making a mess of love at every turn and it's as realistic as it is funny. In the end, of course, it all works out, but boy does it take a lot to get there.

Breakfast At Tiffany's

Is there a more iconic rom-com than Breakfast at Tiffany's or a more iconic character than Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly? Sure, there are some problematic parts in the movie, like Mickey Rooney's offensive character, but the movie is still one of the most romantic of all time, and deserves to be on any list like this.

Confessions Of A Shopaholic

If you watch enough rom-coms set in New York, you learn that a lot of characters are writers or otherwise employed by magazines. It seems most of the world thinks that's one of the only jobs in the Big Apple and such is the case with Confessions Of A Shopaholic. In it, a writer and an editor find unlikely love after getting off on the wrong foot, though that doesn't deter either from going after what they want.

Nick And Nora's Infinite Playlist

If you lived in New York in the '00s and you loved music, undoubtedly you occasionally found yourself at the legendary Lower East Side venue Arlene's Grocery. That's where Nick (Michael Cera) and Norah (Cat Dennings) meet in Nick And Nora's Infinite Playlist and it pretty much makes it the most "New York" rom-com of the era.

Set It Up

The set for Set It Up is pretty "New York-y" as two overworked assistants conspire to set their bosses up and relieve some pressure on their jobs. While it works at first, so their free time is taken up keeping their bosses together. Of course, in all that time, the two assistants, played by Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell, also fall in love. Classic.

Big

Okay, so first, we just have to get this out of the way: yes, there is a level of weirdness to Big. Josh (Tom Hanks) is really 12-years-old and Susan (Elizabeth Perkins) is... much older and it's not just that. That said, it's still an amazing and funny rom-com and its most iconic scene takes place at FAO Schwarz which was, at the time, one of the most famous stores in New York City

Enchanted

It only takes a little while to see how the fairy tale world and New York City differ in Enchanted. The city can be a harsh place, but at its heart, it's just as...enchanting... as anything in a fairy tale, as this movie eventually proves.

Serendipity

Serendipity is all about fate and missed connections. John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale star in his underrated and often frustrating rom-com that is as much about New York and all the amazing locations in it as it is about falling love in those locations.

27 Dresses

Always the bridesmaid, never the bride is the theme of 27 Dresses and while New York doesn't play as central a role as many of the other movies on this list, the movie is set there and frankly, it seems like the only city in the world where someone would have been a bridesmaid 27 times, including twice in one night like Katherine Heigl's character.

The Proposal

Okay, so The Proposal is pushing the limit a little here. It starts in NYC and it ends in NYC, but in between most of the action takes about as far away from New York, but spiritually and geographically as possible. Ryan Reynolds' character, who is forced into a relationship with Sandra Bullock's so she can remain in the country as an immigrant, takes her home to Sitka, Alaska. On the other hand, it does seem like New York would be the one place such a ridiculous situation could even come to life.

Bride Wars

When best friend turn into bitter rivals over their respective wedding dates, at the heart of the disagree surrounds both brides dream venue, the Plaza Hotel in New York City. It's the most "New York" New York wedding venue that exists.

Made of Honor

Tom (Patrick Dempsey) and Hannah (Michelle Monaghan) are best friends in New York City, despite Tom's womanizing. When Hannah leaves for a long trip and comes home with a fiance, Tom realizes he loves her. It takes the rest of the movie and quite a few disasters later for the love connection to happen.

Definitely, Maybe

For a Canadian guy, Ryan Reynolds is great at playing the lead in New York rom-coms. Definitely, Maybe fits that bill, and like sooo many other NYC romantic comedies, his character plays an ad exec. Maybe that is the way to identify what makes a rom-com a New York rom-com.

Kate And Leopold

Kate And Leopold takes place in New York over two centuries, so not only do viewers get modern New York, but they have the pleasure of 19th-century, bustling New York. The town so nice they named it twice gets two eras to show off.

Two Weeks Notice

Coney Island is an iconic neighborhood (and beach) in New York and it's at the center of the meeting of Lucy (Sandra Bullock) and George (Hugh Grant) in Two Weeks Notice. Though it follows a pretty formulaic rom-com path, it's still a funny and cute movie that certainly deserves a spot on this list, it's a rom-com that's better than you remember.

It Could Happen To You

1994's It Could Happen To You is one of the most "New York" movies that we've ever seen. Not only does Nicholas Cage play a New York City police officer, but the movie ends with a balloon ride over Central Park. Plus some of the most iconic spots in New York play their own role, like the Plaza Hotel and Yankee Stadium.

No Reservations

The mid-2000s were the beginning of the "chefs as rockstars" era of pop culture. It was also when dictatorial chefs ruling the kitchen with an iron fist also became popular in the culture. No Reservations has both in abundance and it's all set in the West Village.

Just My Luck

Another New York rom-com, another ad exec. Well, PR in this case, but who wants to split hairs? This time, it's Lindsay Lohan playing the employee of a PR firm. She's a woman with the best luck until she encounters Jake, who has nothing but bad luck, at a party and they kiss. Suddenly, their fortunes have switched. Hilarity ensues and every evens out with a chance encounter at Grand Central Station.

Picture Perfect

Jennifer Aniston first became famous with a role on TV that famously was set in New York, and she's also filmed a rom-com or two in the city, like Picture Perfect, alongside Jay Mohr in one of her earlier comedies, in 1997. You're never going to guess, but she's a struggle ad executive in New York City, and... do we really need to say anymore?

How To Be Single

How to Be Single is full of love triangles and dubious relationships, which is actually pretty spot-on for dating in New York in your twenties. Dakota Johnson plays Alice, who can't seem to find love and rejects what is right in front of her sometimes. So, again, very New York.

Something Borrowed

New York City plays less of a central role in Something Borrowed than other movies on this list. Still, it's Kate Hudson, in New York, so, how can you leave it off a list of New York rom-coms?

From Julia Roberts to Reese Witherspoon, there are several rom-com queens scattered throughout the kingdom, but Meg Ryan's filmography makes a very strong case for the crown. When Harry Met Sally..., Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail — the charismatic actress has fronted some of the best romantic comedies of all time, and after a break from the silver screen, she returned to the beloved genre with 2023's What Happens Later. Along the way, the star has uttered some adorably funny quotes in her numerous rom-com flicks — here are 32 of our favorites.

"All Men Are Sure It Never Happened To Them And All Women At One Time Or Other Have Done It, So You Do The Math." - When Harry Met Sally...

The infamous Katz's deli scene from When Harry Met Sally... is the stuff of movie legend — it was reportedly Meg Ryan's idea to have her character fake pleasure in the middle of the restaurant — boosted by the cheeky banter between Sally Albright and Billy Crystal's Harry Burns.

"'Just Call Me Joe'? As If You Were One Of Those Stupid 22-Year-Old Girls With No Last Name? 'Hi, I'm Kimberly!' 'Hi, I'm Janice!' Don't They Know You're Supposed To Have A Last Name? It's Like They're An Entire Generation Of Cocktail Waitresses!" - You've Got Mail

For much of You've Got Mail, Meg Ryan's character Kathleen doesn't know that her e-mail pen pal is actually Joe Fox (played by Ryan's frequent rom-com partner Tom Hanks), her bookstore rival threatening to put her out of business. When she finds out that the "Joe" that she met at a book publishing party is actually the Joe Fox of big-box bookseller Fox Books, hilarity ensues.

"I Am Having All These Fantasies About Some Man I Have Never Even Met... Who Lives In Seattle!" - Sleepless In Seattle

The premise of the Nora Ephron-directed classic Sleepless in Seattle is certainly a romantic one — taking after An Affair to Remember, it follows a journalist (Ryan) who becomes enamored with a widowed architect (Hanks) after the latter's son calls into a talk radio program. That doesn't make it any less absurd, as Ryan's character Annie Reed hilariously realizes in the rom-com.

"Harry, You Might Not Believe This, But I Never Considered Not Sleeping With You A Sacrifice." - When Harry Met Sally...

Can men and women actually be friends? That's the whole thesis of When Harry Met Sally... and in the early days of Harry Burns and Sally Albright's connection — when they're merely snarky traveling companions — it certainly seems so, given that Sally doesn't seem to immediately swoon at the sight of Harry.

"Oh, Right. Where You Come From, Toast Is The Result Of Reflection And Study!" - Kate & Leopold

The 2001 sci-fi rom-com Kate & Leopold sees a 19th-century duke (Hugh Jackman) time-traveling to early-aughts New York City, where he encounters and falls in love with career woman Kate (Ryan). Given the contrast between their given time periods and vocations, it's not a shock that the twosome at times butt heads, such as when it comes to the effectiveness of the modern-day toaster.

"What Happens To Me When I'm Provoked Is That I Get Tongue-Tied And My Mind Goes Blank. Then I Spend All Night Tossing And Turning Trying To Figure Out What I Should Have Said. What Should I Have Said, For Example, To A Bottom Dweller Who Recently Belittled My Existence?...Nothing. Even Now, Days Later, I Can't Figure It Out!" - You've Got Mail

During one of the e-mail correspondences between Meg Ryan's "Shopgirl" and Tom Hanks's "NY152" in You've Got Mail, Kathleen Kelly bemoans her lack of finding the perfect insult to unleash when someone upsets her. As fans of the film know, she certainly finds those words later on during a heated run-in with Joe Fox.

"I Drove Him Away. AND I'm Gonna Be Forty...Someday!" - When Harry Met Sally...

Despite the copious tears that Sally Albright cries in this scene, it is one of the funniest in When Harry Met Sally... Meg Ryan's character is mourning the fact that her ex-boyfriend Joe (Steven Ford) has moved on and is getting married. Equally bad, she says, is that she'll soon turn 40 — in eight whole years, Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) jokingly reminds her.

"When A Man Is A Widower, Why Do We Say He Was Widowed? Why Don't We Say He Was Widowered?" - Sleepless In Seattle

Annie Reed's grammatical query in Sleepless in Seattle is a good one, especially since the man she is falling for is a recent widower. The sad backstory for Tom Hanks's character Sam Baldwin not only shaped the dynamic between him and his onscreen son (Ross Mallinger), but also reportedly Nora Ephron's script — Meg Ryan's character initially was written to have been recently dumped, but Sam's situation was deemed tragic enough already.

"Waiter, There Is Too Much Pepper On My Paprikash." - When Harry Met Sally...

This quote can arguably be credited to co-star Billy Crystal, too, since both Sally Albright and Harry Burns utter it in a memorable scene from When Harry Met Sally..., which sees the characters visit a museum and sillily converse about too much pepper on paprikash and “pecan piiiie.”

"It happened In Spain. People Do Really Stupid Things In Foreign Countries!" - You've Got Mail

Elderly bookkeeper Birdie (played by the one and only Jean Stapleton) in You've Got Mail has lived. Need proof? She may or may not have fallen in with Francisco Franco back in the 1960s. Kathleen (Meg Ryan) brushes it off as a mere case of traveler's overexcitement, to which boyfriend Frank (Greg Kinnear) retorts: "They buy leather jackets for much more than they're worth. But they don't fall in love with fascist dictators!"

"You See? That Is Just Like You, Harry. You Say Things Like That, And You Make It Impossible For Me To Hate You." - When Harry Met Sally...

With a speech like the one Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) gives to Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) at the end of When Harry Met Sally... — in which he details all of the random things he loves about her, from the fact that she gets cold " when it's 71 degrees out" and takes "an hour and a half to order a sandwich" — we can't blame her for getting teary-eyed.

"I'm Not Saying I Want Him Dead. But, Should That Occur... People Die Every Day, Why Should He Be Any Different? I'm Just Thinking On My Feet, Though. I Don't Have To Decide The Death Part Right Now, I Can Just Wait And See How I Feel Once His Dignity's A Thing Of The Past." - Addicted To Love

Trying to get over an ex is tough but Maggie (Meg Ryan) in the 1997 black comedy Addicted to Love takes it to another level — she seeks revenge on her ex-fiancé Anton (Tchéky Karyo) by partnering up with Sam (Matthew Broderick), the ex of Anton's new lover Linda.

"Yes, I Do, and I Just Told The Most Terrible One To The Man I'm About To Marry. Do You Feel That Any Lie Is A Betrayal?" - Sleepless In Seattle

Consider it a case of an overly loud jet engine — when Annie Reed (Meg Ryan) mistakenly thinks that her airplane seatmate asked her if she hates lying, instead of flying, she hilariously gives the stranger this overly intimate response during their flight to Seattle.

"You're Afraid Of The Commitment? You're Gonna Have To Love And Honor Me For About 30 Seconds, You Can't Handle That?" - Joe Versus the Volcano

Joe Banks (Tom Hanks) and Patricia Graynamore (Meg Ryan) definitely don't have what you'd call a traditional white wedding in the 1990 rom-com Joe Versus the Volcano — the new couple has to immediately jump into a fiery tropical volcano as part of a deal Joe made with Patricia's wealthy dad. (Don't worry, they ended up being fine.)

"Once I Read A Story About A Butterfly In The Subway, And Today I Saw One! It Got On At 42nd And Off At 59th, Where, I Assume, It Was Going To Bloomingdales To Buy A Hat That Will Turn Out To Be A Mistake, As Almost All Hats Are." - You've Got Mail

Before their identities are revealed at the end of You've Got Mail, Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) wins over Joe Fox's (Tom Hanks) heart with her funny musings over email, including this butterfly-related tangent. As Joe declares to a friend in the movie: "Kevin, this woman is the most adorable creature I've ever been in contact with."

"Did You Know There Are 452 Official Kinds Of Cheese In This Country, Isn't That Amazing? To Find 452 Ways To Classify What Is Essentially A Bacterial Process? Don't You Think That's Amazing?" - French Kiss

You can't really blame Kate (Meg Ryan) for waxing poetic about all of the fresh cheese you can find in France—the country sure knows its way around funky fromage. If she wasn't so busy unknowingly smuggling a stolen diamond necklace into Paris for Kevin Kline's Luc Teyssier, she'd have plenty more cheese-snacking time.

"Now Those Were The Days When People Knew How To Be In Love. They Knew It! Time, Distance...Nothing Could Separate Them Because They Knew It Was Right, It Was Real!" - Sleepless In Seattle

We can't blame Annie Reed (Meg Ryan) — who is a big fan of the heartbreaking Cary Grant classic An Affair to Remember— for conflating a movie romance with real life. We do the same thing every time we watch one of Ryan's rom-coms!

"I'd Like The Chef's Salad, Please, With The Oil And Vinegar On The Side And The Apple Pie A La Mode. But I'd Like The Pie Heated, And I Don't Want The Ice Cream On Top, I Want It On The Side, And I'd Like Strawberry Instead Of Vanilla If You Have It. If Not, Then No Ice Cream, Just Whipped Cream, But Only If It's Real. If It's Out Of A Can, Then Nothing." - When Harry Met Sally...

One of the loveable quirks about Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) in When Harry Met Sally... is that she's a waiter's worst nightmare, with very picky eating habits and a good deal of neurosis. Thankfully, in Harry Burns (Billy Crystal), she finds a romantic partner who not only doesn't mind her tableside fussiness but also finds it quite charming.

"I Have You To Thank For It. For The First Time In My Life, When Confronted With A Horrible, Insensitive Person, I Knew Exactly What I Wanted To Say And I Said It!" - You've Got Mail

"That was a perfect blend of poetry and meanness," a stunned Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) tells his bookstore rival Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) in You've Got Mail, after the latter had "a breakthrough" and delivered a scathing criticism of his character ("If I really knew you, I know what I would find. Instead of a brain, a cash register. Instead of a heart, a bottom line.")

"Not Once. It's This Very Cold, Hard Mexican Ceramic Tile." - When Harry Met Sally...

Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) mournfully recounts to her pal Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) how she and her ex Joe never took advantage of the fact that they didn't have kids and thus had all of the time and freedom to hook up on the kitchen floor. It was because the relationship wasn't right, and neither were the floors.

"I Love Daisies! They're So Friendly. Don't You Think Daisies Are The Friendliest Flower?" - You've Got Mail

Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) is totally right: this bloom-based observance that the bookstore owner utters in You've Got Mail is your reminder to go buy yourself a bouquet of daisies. Your day will instantly be brighter.

"Harry, You're Going To Have To Try And Find A Way Of Not Expressing Every Feeling That You Have, Every Moment That You Have Them." - When Harry Met Sally...

Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) has her fair share of quirks — her penchant for precise food orders, for one — but Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) is no slouch in that department, too, including his brutal honesty and brooding nature. Hence why Sally has to give him a needed dose of tough love when he loses it over an ugly wagon-wheel coffee table in When Harry Met Sally... It wouldn't be a good enemies-to-lovers story without it!

“What Are You Doing? What Is That? What Are You Doing? You’re Taking All The Caviar? That Caviar Is A Garnish!” - You've Got Mail

We don't know about you, but we'll never look out a bowl of Beluga pearls quite the same way after Kathleen Kelly's hilariously heated harangue over caviar etiquette in You've Got Mail. Equally funny is Tom Hanks' Joe Fox scooping up the bulk of the fish eggs just to spite her.

"It Means Nothing. It Was Written Before I Went Out There. Before The Ho. The Only Thing Is, She Didn't Look Like A Ho. She Looked Like Somebody We Would've Been Friends With." - Sleepless In Seattle

Annie Reed's support system in Sleepless in Seattle is in the funny form of BFF and editor Becky, played by Rosie O'Donnell. In one scene, the girlfriends have a gabbing debrief after Annie returns back from Seattle to scope out Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks) and the "ho" he was dating.

"I Sleep Naked. It's The Only Way I'm Comfortable, So Don't Think Of It As A Come-on, Because If You So Much As Breathe In My Direction, I Will Nail Your Willy To That Beam." - Addicted to Love

In Addicted to Love, Matthew Broderick's Sam and Meg Ryan's Maggie are two jilted lovers who resort to a bunch of nasty schemes to break up their respective former partners. But clearly Maggie doesn't want them to confuse revenge with romance, as she sets clear boundaries about their sleeping arrangements.

"They Don't Make Sunday...because Of God." - When Harry Met Sally...

In the exceptionally talk-y romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally..., we learn a lot of intimate information about our leading lady Sally Albright (Meg Ryan), including that she wears days-of-the-week underwear. The set's lack of Sunday underpants hilariously caused some relationship issues with her ex Sheldon.

"No Dying Now, Mr. Messinger. Not Until You Give Me Seth's Phone Number." - City of Angels

In the 1998 fantasy-romance City of Angels, guardian angel Seth (Nic Cage) finds a human buddy in the form of Nathaniel Messinger (Dennis Franz), one of the hospital patients of Dr. Maggie Rice (Meg Ryan). Talk about a literal wing man!

"Jeff Said It Would Last Longer With The Show On To Distract Him. Got All The Answers Wrong Except For Sports. By Double Jeopardy!, He Was Done; By Final Jeopardy!, He Was On His Way Home." - French Kiss

In the '90s rom-com French Kiss, Meg Ryan's character Kate humorously offers up the details of her devirginization at 18 years old with a jock named Jeff. The experience apparently included a basement, Valentine's Day and, oddly, game-show legend Alex Trebek.

"She Was A Real Romantic, My Mom. When, When Prince Charles And Lady Di Got Married, She Had A Party, She Made Crumpets And Jam. It Was Like A Super Bowl Party, But For Moms. She Cried For A Week." - Kate & Leopold

Luckily for Kate (Meg Ryan) — and her mom — her romance with time-traveling gent Leopold (Hugh Jackman) turned out far more successful than the doomed marriage between Prince Charles and Diana Spencer.

"You Know, I'm So Glad I Never Got Involved With You. I Just Would Have Ended Up Being Some Woman You Had To Get Up Out Of Bed And Leave At 3:00 In The Morning And Go Clean Your Andirons, And You Don't Even Have A Fireplace, Not That I Would Know This." - When Harry Met Sally...

Little did Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) know, she very much did eventually get involved with Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) but luckily for these two enemies-turned-lovers, we don't think Harry would be kicking Sally out of bed in the wee hours anytime soon.

"Why Do You Wear The Same Clothes All The Time? Why Won't You Give Me Your Phone Number? Are You Married? Are You Homeless? Are You A Drummer?" - City Of Angels

Seth (Nicolas Cage) from City of Angels has a good answer to all of Maggie's (Meg Ryan) questions: she might be a mortal woman but he's actually a full-fledged angel!

"I Wanted It To Be You. I Wanted It To Be You So Badly." - You've Got Mail

Okay, sure, the final lines of You've Got Mail aren't exactly "ha ha" funny but it is ironically funny that the man Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) has been secretly pining for the whole time turned out to be her archnemesis Joe Fox (Tom Hanks.)

One of the best things about movies is that they come in all shapes and sizes, with something for audiences both young and old, near and far, and here and there. Over the years, Best Picture winners have consisted of all kinds of genres ranging from dramas to musicals, biopics to comedies, and so much more.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about just some of the countless different genres, stick around. Let’s break down 32 different genres and an example of a movie that belongs to each.

Action - Die Hard (1988)

One of the best action movies ever made, Die Hard essentially reinvented the genre with its story about a down-on-his-luck cop named John McClane (Bruce Willis) traveling across the country to save his marriage only for the reunion to be thwarted by a group of terrorists. Though Willis’ iconic character isn’t as jacked as those played by Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, the everyman quality to him makes him an all-time hero.

Sci-Fi - Jurassic Park (1993)

Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park could fall into multiple genres, but since it deals with genetically modified dinosaurs being brought to life, it’s one of the best representations of sci-fi. One of the best book adaptations of all time, this massive summer blockbuster is as great today as it was back in 1993, both in terms of story and its state-of-the-art visuals.

Comedy - Blazing Saddles (1974)

Whenever talking about the funniest movies ever made, it doesn’t take long for the conversation to turn to Blazing Saddles, Mel Brooks’ 1974 comedy Western about a plot to destroy a frontier town and a sheriff’s attempt to save its good and fair residents. But the plot is just secondary to the countless jokes, ribs, and wild situations that are found throughout this incredibly funny and outrageous comedy classic.

Documentary - Grizzly Man (2005)

As far as I’m concerned, Werner Herzog is one of the greatest documentarians of all time. Much like his feature-length films, the acclaimed filmmaker’s collection of non-fiction titles strays from the norms of the genre, creating unique pieces of art in the process. This is especially true for Grizzly Man, Herzog’s 2005 exploration of the life and tragic death of Timothy Treadwell, a conservationist who thought it was better to die with a bear than live with man.

Mockumentary - This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

There were mockumentaries that came before it, but This is Spinal Tap was a watershed moment for the genre. Rob Reiner’s 1984 chronicle of struggling heavy metal band Spinal Tap turns it to 11 (quite literally) with its scenes of rock n roll, excess, and over-the-top characters who are thinly veiled caricatures of famous English groups of the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Slasher - Scream (1996)

If you were to tell someone where to start with the slasher genre, Wes Craven’s Scream would be a great place to start. Though it’s not the best horror movie of all time, this landmark film is full of references to the films that came before it, has a wonderful meta dynamic, and perhaps the greatest opening scene of all time.

Superhero - The Dark Knight (2008)

To some, Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight is the pinnacle of the superhero movie genre. This 2008 blockbuster takes elements from comic book movies and combines them with the realism of a gritty crime thriller and classic action flicks like Heat to create an incredible experience. Plus, Heath Ledger’s Joker is a force of pure chaos that needs to be seen.

Animation - My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

One of the most iconic Studio Ghibli films, My Neighbor Totoro is not only a great animated film but also a tremendous introduction to the fantastical world of Hayao Miyazaki. Released in 1988, this delightful film follows two young girls as they move to the countryside with their father a befriend a mythical creature known as Totoro.

Drama - Casablanca (1942)

Deciding on one film to use as an example of the drama genre is no easy task, but Casablanca is a classic that everyone needs to watch at least once in their life. The timeless story of American ex-pat Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) helping old flame Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman) and her finance escape the Nazis while also revisiting the events that led to their split is something to behold.

Fantasy - The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring (2001)

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is the perfect place to start if you want to dip your toes into the waters of the fantasy genre. All the elements that make this type of film so beloved can be found throughout Peter Jackson’s impressive 2001 film that kicks off one of the greatest adventures of all time.

Sports - Major League (1989)

One of the best baseball movies ever made, Major League is also one of the funniest sports comedies you can find. Though not for younger audiences, this hilarious underdog story is all killer and no filler with its tale of the lowly Cleveland Indians defying the odds by putting together an unlikely championship team.

Romantic Comedy - When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Often considered the best romantic comedy, When Harry Met Sally is 90-plus minutes of pure joy. The on-screen chemistry between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in this 1989 classic directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron is off the charts and filled with one iconic scene after another.

Horror - The Thing (1982)

John Carpenter, one of the great horror directors of the 20th century, really outdid himself with The Thing, his 1982 adaptation of John W. Campbell’s Who Goes There. The paranoia, the claustrophobic spaces, the incredible cast led by Kurt Russell, and those terrifying creature effects from Rob Bottin make this an unforgettable classic.

Crime - The Godfather (1972)

Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather is a family drama, an epic coming-of-age story, and a mobster movie, but above it all, it’s a transformative crime film. This sprawling story about the Corleone organization, told through the eyes of Vito (Marlon Brando) and Michael (Al Pacino) is worthy of all the praise it’s received over the past 50-plus years.

Musical - La La Land (2016)

Okay, there are classic musicals like An American in Paris and Singing in the Rain that are far more prestigious than La La Land, but Damien Chazelle’s 2016 throwback is a great entry point. The song and dance numbers performed by Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are stupendous and the romance at the center of its story is wonderful, to say the least.

Western - Tombstone (1993)

One of the greatest Western movies, Tombstone has everything you’d want in the genre: shootouts, colorful characters, legendary mustaches, and some of the best movie quotes of all time. Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Bill Paxton, and Sam Elliott were all made for their respective roles as some of the most iconic gunslingers and lawmen in the Old West.

Noir - Double Indemnity (1944)

If you’ve taken any type of class on the history of American cinema, there’s a chance you’ve seen Double Indemnity by now. This 1944 film noir staple follows insurance salesman Walter Neff (Fred MacMurray) as he gets in way over his head when dealing with Phyllis Dietrrichson (Barbara Stanwyck), a dangerous femme fatale with a plan to cash in on a life insurance policy.

Suspense - The Sixth Sense (1999)

The Sixth Sense is a lot of things – horror, thriller, family drama. But above all, it’s an intense suspense film about a young boy (played by Haley Joel Osment) who can see dead people and his therapist (played by Bruce Willis) who tries to help him make sense of the supernatural ability.

Coming Of Age - Lady Bird (2018)

Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird is one of the funniest, most sincere, and most realistic coming-of-age stories of the 21st century. Set in the early 2000s, the movie follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) as she deals with the fallout of her decision to move across the country upon graduating high school.

Time Travel - Back To The Future (1985)

There’s a good chance Back to the Future comes to mind when most people think about great time travel movies, and for good reason. This 1985 sci-fi adventure film hits in all the right places, features a career-defining performance from Michael J. Fox, and introduces the world to the coolest time machine of all time.

Historical Drama - The Age Of Innocence (1993)

Though Martin Scorsese is known more for his crime films, he put out one of the best historical dramas in 1993 with his adaptation of The Age of Innocence. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Winona Ryder, the film took a lot of chances and pushed the genre in a new direction.

Disaster - The Poseidon Adventure (1972)

One of the craziest disaster films, The Poseidon Adventure has a simple yet effective premise: what would happen if a cruise ship was flipped upside down by a massive wave? Survival, questions about morality, and Gene Hackman in a turtleneck make this a must-watch movie.

Dystopian - Escape From New York (1981)

Escape from New York, which takes place in a future where the city has been turned into a walled-off prison colony, is just such a legendary dystopian film. When the U.S. president’s plane is hijacked and crashed in lower Manhattan, it’s up to Snake Plisken (Kurt Russell) to save the day.

Family - The Princess Bride (1987)

The Princess Bride is one of those movies that just never gets old, no matter how many times you watch it. With a great story, unforgettable characters, and expressions of true love (and revenge), there’s a lot for the whole family to enjoy.

Biographical Drama - Schindler's List (1993)

The same year Steven Spielberg dazzled audiences with Jurassic Park, he made us cry with Schindler’s List, a moving biographical drama about a man (played by Lian Neeson) who goes to great lengths to save Jewish prisoners at a German concentration camp.

Stop-Motion Animation - The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

What’s this? What’s this? Oh, just one of the best stop-motion animation movies ever made. Released in 1993, The Nightmare Before Christmas has become a staple of the spooky season with its eccentric characters, sometimes grotesque scenes, and some lovely songs written and performed by Danny Elfman.

War Movie - Platoon (1985)

War is Hell, and few movies capture that sentiment better than Platoon. Released in 1985, Oliver Stone’s Vietnam War movie is neither triumphant nor pleasant, but instead a realistic and gut-wrenching depiction of combat and its effect on people. Truly unsettling and incredibly emotional, this Oscar winner is a tour de force.

Psychological Thriller - Seven (1995)

David Fincher made his mark on the world with Saven, his 1995 psychological thriller about a serial killer obsessed with the seven deadly sins and the two detectives assigned to stop the madness before it’s too late.

Buddy Action - Midnight Run (1988)

The ‘80s gave us all kinds of great buddy action movies, including Midnight Run, a hilarious and endearing cross-country affair about a down-on-his-luck cop-turned-bounty-hunter (played by Robert De Niro) trying to bring a mob accountant (played by Charles Grodin) to his court date. But things aren’t always as easy or clear as they seem.

Raunchy Comedy - Ted (2012)

There have been some great raunchy comedies over the years, with the likes of Porky’s and There’s Something About Mary quickly coming to mind. But one of the best options, especially for more modern audiences, is Ted, the 2012 comedy about a man (played by Mark Wahlberg) and his friendship with his childhood teddy bear (voiced by Seth MacFarlane). Though it sounds innocent, this wild comedy is anything but.

Silent Film - City Lights (1931)

If you’ve ever wanted to jump into the world of silent movies, Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights is going to be a great introduction. Released in 1931, this classic film follows Chaplin’s tramp as he falls in love with a blind flower girl and goes from there. Romance, drama, pratfalls, you name it, it’s all here.

Spoof Film - Airplane! (1980)

There has long been a tradition of spoof films in Hollywood, and no film does the format better than Airplane!. Released in 1980, this legendary comedy pokes fun at the disaster genre with outrageous jokes, scenarios, and so much more.

Film fans often flock to see the locations where their favorite movies were made, like the ones on this list. Whether it's a place crucial to the plot of a movie, like the prison in The Shawshank Redemption, or a seemingly minor spot like the burger place in Dazed & Confused, these 32 locations have become iconic for their use on film. 

Hook & Ladder Company 8 - Ghostbusters

The coolest thing about Hook & Ladder Company 8, located on North Moore Street in the Tribeca neighborhood of New York City is that the firehouse, which is still an active station, has incorporated the Ghostbuster's logo into its crest. The building is not run down at all, as seen in the movie, and at almost any time of day, you'll see fans of the movie taking selfies. 

Quick Stop Groceries - Clerks

Kevin Smith famously made Clerks on a minuscule budget. One way he cut costs was to film overnight in his actual place of employment, the Quick Stop Groceries convenience store in Leonardo, NJ. The store is still in business, all these years later and you can be sure they play up the fact that the movie was filmed there. 

King's Cross Station - The Harry Potter Series

King's Cross Station is one of a few train stations in London, and while it's always been a well-known station, its fame leaped to another level with the Harry Potter series. You see, it's there, on platform 9 3/4, that Harry and the rest of the Hogwarts students catch their train to school. Of course, there isn't really a platform 9 3/4, but there is a photo op for fans at the real station now.  

West 167th Street Stairs - Joker

In the Highbridge neighborhood of The Bronx is an unassuming staircase connecting Shakespeare Ave. and Anderson Ave. There are similar stairs in New York City, but none are as famous as the West 167th Street Stairs, where Joaquin Phoenix famously danced as the titular character in Joker. 

Haystack Rock - The Goonies

The Haystack Rock formation off the coast of Cannon Beach in Oregon has been a famous geological spot for decades. For movie fans, it's immediately recognizable from The Goonies as the beach where the kids emerge after finding One-Eyed Willie's pirate ship. It's been used in other movies as well, like Twilight and Point Break. 

Top Notch Burgers - Dazed & Confused

Dazed & Confused does such an incredible job putting the audience right in the middle of the '70s, it's become one of the most beloved cult classics of all time. One major reason it just oozes 1970s teen car culture is the Top Notch Burgers that the characters cruise through. It's a real restaurant in Austin, Texas, where the movie was set and filmed. 

Fox Plaza - Die Hard

2121 Avenue of the Stars, which is most well known by its former name, Fox Plaza, is most famous for being the building where Hans Gruber and his band of merry men commit their robbery in Die Hard. The building, in Los Angeles, was brand new when it was used for the movie in 1988. Eagle-eyed viewers might also recognize it as one of the collapsing buildings at the end of Fight Club. 

South Seas Apartment Complex - The Karate Kid

The South Seas Apartment Complex in The Karate Kid is a pretty typical apartment building in the LA area. It is a real place, with that name, just like in the movie. It's located in Reseda, but it's actually pretty nice, nothing like it looks in the classic '80s movie.

The Philadelphia Museum Of Art - Rocky

There are a lot of really famous sites to see in Philadelphia. Constitution Hall, The Liberty Bell, Pat's and Geno's cheesesteak stands, and, of course, the steps that lead up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. They were made most famous by Sylvester Stallone in Rocky when the titular character runs up them and celebrates at the top as "Gonna Fly Now" plays triumphantly. 

Georgetown Stairs - The Exorcist

The Exorcist is one of the scariest movies ever made and one of the eeriest things about it are the steep steps just outside the MacNeil household. They are used a few times in the movie, and it's good when they appear. The real stairs are located in the same neighborhood of Washington DC, Georgetown, where the movie is set, at Prospect St and 36th St NW. 

Seaside, FL - The Truman Show

The fictional town where The Truman Show takes place is both fictional for the movie, and fictional in the movie, as it's really just a soundstage where the TV show is filmed, unbeknownst to Truman (Jim Carrey). It was filmed in a real town, however. Seaside, FL looks pretty much exactly as it does in the movie and the house where Truman lives in the movie is where Congressman Matt Gaetz grew up. How's that for an odd coincidence? 

Katz's Deli - When Harry Met Sally

Katz's Deli, on Houston St. in Manhattan, has long been one of the most famous delis in New York City, but it reached new heights of fame after the legendary scene in When Harry Met Sally after Sally (Meg Ryan) does her famous performance of her faking it in bed. 

Chippewa Square Bus Stop - Forrest Gump

The Baby Boomer fever-dream hit movie Forrest Gump takes place over decades, but it's all told by Forrest (Tom Hanks) from one location, a bench at the Chippewa Square bus stop in Savannah, Georgia. It's where the character sits chatting with different people as he tells them his life story, which for some reason is like a box of chocolates. 

Fox Theatre, St. Louis - Escape From New York

If you ever wondered what city could stand in for a dystopian New York City that has been turned into an island prison, it was late '70s St. Louis, MO. The movie was filmed all over the city, including the Fox Theater, located on Grand Ave. The theater at the time was in disrepair and in desperate need of a renovation. Thankfully it got one and today is in much better shape than it was in the movie. 

Timberline Lodge - The Shining

It may be one of the most famous locations on this list - Timberline Lodge, which is the hotel that stands in for The Overlook Hotel in The Shining. The lodge, Mt. Hood, WA, is still open today and draws not only skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, but fans of the horror classic. 

Hôtel Sidi Driss - Star Wars

The Hôtel Sidi Driss in Matmata, Tunisia is one of the most unique hotels in the world, and so it's fitting it would serve as a home on a planet way out of this world. Movie audiences will immediately recognize it as the home of Luke Skywalker and his aunt and uncle at the beginning of the first Star Wars movie. If you're a fan, and you're in the neighborhood, the hotel is still open and taking reservations. 

7B Horseshoe Bar- The Godfather Part II

It goes by many different names. 7B and Horseshoe Bar are the two most people call it. It's still open, right at the corner of 7th Street and Ave. B in Manhattan. It's been there for years and has been used in a few film productions, but none more famous than in The Godfather Part II. It's where the botched assassination of Frank Pentangeli took place. 

Ohio State Reformatory - The Shawshank Redemption

One of the best movies of the '90s has to be The Shawshank Redemption. While the film is set in Maine, the home state of the book's author Stephen King, it was filmed in the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio. It had closed as a prison just a few years before they filmed it, so that certainly helps bring some authenticity to the movie. 

Bosse Field - A League Of Their Own

With some of the best moments in a baseball movie ever, A League Of Their Own has endured for years. So has the minor league baseball field where it was filmed, Bosse Field in Evansville, IN. Though it's a minor league park, it's still the third oldest baseball stadium in the country, behind Wrigley Field and Fenway Park and it retains all the charm it has in the movie. 

Mountain Lake Lodge - Dirty Dancing

In the 1960s, when Dirty Dancing was set, inclusive vacation spots like the Mountain Lake Lodge in Virginia dotted the American countryside. Most have long closed, but the Mountain Lake Lodge has survived and you can still visit and stay there, just like Baby and her family did in the movie. The actual cabin where the Housemans stayed is even available for rent. 

1 Wall Street Court - John Wick

Most of New York City - Manhattan at least - is a grid. But there are a few spots where the grid breaks down and creates odd-shaped blocks, leading to oddly shaped buildings. 1 Wall Street Court is one of those buildings, which makes it the perfect exterior for the mysterious Continental Hotel in the John Wick series where hitmen and criminals can enjoy a drink and a good night's sleep without one eye open looking for enemies. 

The Best Little Chapel - The Hangover

Las Vegas is famous for a lot of reasons, including all the tiny wedding chapels all over town. One famous chapel isn't actually a chapel, though. There are a lot of famous locations in The Hangover, most notably Caesar's Palace (Caesar didn't actually live there). One place you'll have a hard time finding unless you know where to look is The Best Wedding Chapel, as it's really just a youth hostel on Las Vegas Blvd. that was dressed up to look like a wedding chapel. Still, you can see the parking lot and all the hilarious signs behind the location as you quote all your favorite lines from The Hangover.

Matamata, New Zealand - Lord Of The Rings

This is a unique entry on this list as it's now famous for what the Lord of the Rings series did for the town. It's where The Shire was built and much of the set remains today as a tourist attraction for the millions of fans of the movies. It really does feel like you're stepping into the movies. 

Christmas Story House - A Christmas Story

"Ah, there it is. My house, and good old Cleveland Street," is how A Christmas Story begins. The house is almost a character all itself, with the sketchy furnace and the leg lamp, etc... The real house is in the City of Cleveland, but it's at 3159 W 11th St, not on Cleveland St. It's also worth noting that while most of it was filmed in Cleveland, it's set in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana.

The Dakota Building - Rosemary's Baby

The Dakota, at 72nd and Central Park West in New York, is one of the most famous apartment buildings in the world, and one reason for that is that it's the setting for the terrifying Roman Polanski film, Rosemary's Baby. It's the perfect building to set the film, with his is dark neo-gothic architecture and large, lavish apartments. The Dakota is also infamous for being where John Lennon was shot and killed in 1980, while he lived there. 

Forks, WA - Twilight

For fans of the Twilight series, the town of Forks, Washington is the homeland. Both the books and the movies are set in a small town in a remote part of the state west of Seattle. It's now a tourist hot spot, though most of the movie was filmed in locations other than Forks. 

El Coyote - Once Upon A Time In Hollywood

El Coyote is a legendary Mexican restaurant in LA that dates back to the 1930s. It's also where Sharon Tate and her friends ate their final meal on August 9th, 1969 before they were murdered by the Manson Family. For his movie Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, Quentin Tarantino filmed the scene of the friends eating not only in the same restaurant but in the very same booth where they sat all those decades ago. 

Lighthouse Café - La La Land

The Lighthouse Café is a great jazz spot that sits in Hermosa Beach, California near LA. It was the location for one of the most famous scenes that movie critics often call a "love letter to Los Angeles," La La Land. 

Drayton House - Saltburn

The English countryside is filled with amazing, ornate homes that are often used for filming, sometimes they are the location for TV shows, like Downton Abbey, and other times it's for movies like Saltburn. For the latter, the makers of the film used the stately Drayton House in Lowick, Northamptonshire.

Kualoa Ranch - Jurassic Park

Kualoa Ranch in Hawaii has to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. It makes sense it would be the setting for quite a few TV shows and movies, including Lost,  Magnum P.I., Pearl Harbor, and maybe the most famous movie filmed there, 1993's Jurassic Park. 

The Tasty - Good Will Hunting

Sadly, this is a location you can no longer visit, as it closed a few years ago. For decades, however, The Tasty Diner in Harvard Square was a late-night favorite for drunk college students from all over Boston. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck made sure it found its way into their movie about Boston, Good Will Hunting. 

Görlitz Department Store - Grand Budapest Hotel

The exterior of the titular Grand Budapest Hotel might have been a model, but the interior and lobby were actually a beautiful - and vacant - department store in Görlitz, Germany. Sadly, while the building is still standing, it is still unused. 

I am an absolute sucker for a good enemies-to-lovers plotline. Whether it's the best enemies-to-lovers movies or the best enemies-to-lovers relationships in TV shows, it draws me in every time. So, in honor of that, we're going to dig into the best enemies-to-lovers relationships in movies and TV that still make me swoon.

Mia And Nicholas (The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement)

I feel like The Princess Diaries series is a forgotten Disney company movie, but I know that there are a certain number of people out there who are still craving to see a third. And man, I would give anything to see Mia and Nicholas again. Truthfully, they weren't the biggest enemies, but the tension was there, and they had such good sarcastic banter. 

Leslie And Ben (Parks And Recreation)

It's hard to remember a time when Leslie and Ben didn't get along because their relationship always felt so pure in later seasons. But they were not friends when Ben entered the show. Eventually, they learned to respect each other, and that respect later turned to love, and it made me adore the Parks and Recreation cast so much. 

Tyler And Nora (Step Up)

Tyler and Nora are a vital example of enemies that tend to have more in common than you'd think. Step Up is one of the best dance movies out there, and truthfully, I could watch these two dance and fall in love slowly over an hour again and again. I mean, they were so good that the two actors were married in real life for a time. 

Quinn And Logan (Zoey 101)

As someone who grew up watching Zoey 101, seeing Quinn and Logan get together was eye-opening. I never realized that the cute boy could get the nerdy girl, and what made it even better is that it really did feel like genuine love—one that was confusing at first but turned out to be the most healthy relationship of everyone. 

Melanie And Jake (Sweet Home Alabama)

Reese Witherspoon's best movies will always include Sweet Home Alabama, and the critical relationship of that movie, Melanie and Jake, defined my expectations of romance. What makes them so good is the fact that they already have a past, so there's tension there, and it's like lovers turning into enemies and then turning back into lovers. Adorable. 

Max And Kyle (Living Single)

Living Single is probably one of the most classic sitcoms of all time, and of course, it had to have a great enemies-to-lovers storyline with Max and Kyle. These two ripped at each other for years, but eventually, they ended up in the same bed and became one of the best couples in the series. 

Elizabeth And Mr. Darcy (Pride & Prejudice)

I literally could not think of a better example of enemies to lovers than Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. They are the prime pick for something like this. I don't even need to explain why they make me swoon. Heck, I need my own, Mr. Darcy. 

Josh And Mindy (Drake & Josh)

If we're being honest, Josh and Mindy were the perfect couple in Drake & Josh. They started off as nemesis because both of them excelled at being, well, smart, which they both seriously loved. Eventually, enough push and pull led to them getting together, and they wound up having a hilarious relationship—one that I still quote with my own partner, where he even says, "One condition: I get to be the boyfriend."

Jake And Neytiri (Avatar)

I know! A part of me forgot they were enemies to lovers after how loving they were to each other in Avatar: The Way of Water. But Neytiri literally hated Jake—which she had the right to. His people invaded her home and killed her loved ones. But once he started to see the beauty behind her culture and began to love her for her, everything changed. 

Jon And Ygritte (Game Of Thrones)

The Game of Thrones cast features several relationships, most of which end in disaster or pain, and Jon and Ygritte are the perfect example of that. The two went from enemies to lovers and then back to enemies, but right at the very end, she gets an arrow through the heart—a shocking Game of Thrones moment that still makes me sad. 

Cher And Josh (Clueless)

It always blows my mind when I rewatch Clueless and see young Paul Rudd because he literally looks the exact same. Then it blows my mind to remember that Cher develops feelings for her ex-stepbrother, and I try to recall that this movie is fictional. This is the definition of a crazy enemies-to-lovers romance—one I can barely believe. 

Clarke And Lexa (The 100)

The 100 was hands down one of the best CW shows, and one of the best relationships on there was Clarke and Lexa, known as Clexa to the fans. They are another excellent example of people who were enemies to lovers to kind of enemies to so much more before it was all stolen away – and yes, I still remember the online protests. It was a time to be alive. 

Damon And Elena (The Vampire Diaries)

Admittingly, I hopped on The Vampire Diaries train much later in the game, but the number of people who were obsessed with Damon and Elena blew my mind—which is crazy considering they ended up finding their happy ending. They were heated towards each other, but as he started to change more, they got together. 

Johnny And Baby (Dirty Dancing)

Ohhh, Dirty Dancing is the ultimate "hate at first sight" because these two were not on the same wavelength. However, when the two are forced to train together for a competition, sparks begin to fly, and it's there that you really start to see just how well they fit together. 

Anthony And Kate (Bridgerton)

Look, I'm a massive fan of Bridgerton’s sweet romances just as much as the next person. I love the story of Colin and Penelope, and I adore Daphne and Simon. But these two brought the spice that was desperately needed for this story. Anthony and Kate did everything but get together and kiss in the second season of Bridgerton, which made that tension delicious. 

Lou And Will (Me Before You)

Emilia Clarke's best movies will always include Me Before You because she kills it in this movie, but I consider it a challenge not to cry during this film. Lou and Will are the purest examples of a love that you never thought you would have, but the moment you realize just how good it is, it's ripped from you. They weren't the best of friends at first, but man, when this ending hits, it hits. 

Cece And Schmidt (New Girl)

I love the New Girl cast, and I love Schmidt the most. A big reason is that Cece and Schmidt are hilariously adorable. Yes, there were indeed some significant differences and toxic moments between them along the way, but in the end, they were a pretty healthy couple who had grown a lot. I was fully rooting for them. 

Andy And Benjamin (How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days)

These two are honestly secretly enemies in the schemes they are doing, using them for their advantage. But what happens when actual love begins to take over? Of course, hilarities happen, and yes, you will laugh and cry and love Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey that much more. 

Mia And Sebastian (La La Land)

While my opinion on the La La Land ending has changed, I'll openly say that the enemies-to-lovers romance between Mia and Sebastian is actually pretty accurate to how it would happen in real life. These two just somehow always run into each other at their worst moments and basically make a love story out of it – you can't help but love that. 

Maria And Captain Von Trapp (The Sound Of Music)

The Sound of Music is one of those movies that, when you watch it as an adult, you really start to understand it so much more. While the music is fantastic, the love story that grows between Maria and Captain Von Trapp makes it that much better because it's love in its purest form. 

Klaus And Caroline (The Vampire Diaries)

The Vampire Diaries featured plenty of love affairs that either ended happily or terribly, and one that I have to point out is Klaus and Caroline in The Vampire Diaries. These two were the epitome of hot and cold, but man, if it didn't draw you in, you didn't didn't have a heart. They'd be at each other's throats one episode and then make out ten episodes later. You have to love it. 

Loretta And Ronny (Moonstruck)

Moonstruck is a great movie overall, and honestly, Loretta and Ronny have one of the best romances that I've seen in a film because it feels natural. It's all about that slow realization about the person who drives you crazy and how, sometimes, it could be the person you least expect to be who gives you the passion you are looking for. 

Mickey And Ian (Shameless)

I could go on for hours about Mickey and Ian from the Shameless cast. Oh my God – if you were on Tumblr during this time, I salute you. We are soldiers who somehow survived the heavy influx of all the shipping of these two. Beginning off as literal enemies who were at each other's throats to getting married several seasons down the line, you can't help but love them. 

Emma And Hook (Once Upon A Time)

Okay, okay, I'm going to admit something. Hook was definitely one of my first significant boy crushes, and I was the hugest fan of this relationship between him and Emma, which is an enemy-to-lover relationship. Even the way they fought when they were enemies was so steamy, and when they finally got together, I felt like I had won the lottery. We truly won. 

Patrick And Kat (10 Things I Hate About You)

10 Things I Hate About You is one of the most iconic teen comedies of all time, mainly because of the steamy chemistry between Heath Ledger's Patrick and Julia Stiles' Kat. These two, from the beginning, have this sarcastic nature that is so endearing to you, but as the film goes on, and he tries to win her back, you learn to love them more. 

Belle And The Beast (Beauty And The Beast)

They are the blueprint. Belle and the Beast are pure enemies to lovers. While there was really no fighting between the two, Belle traded herself over to save her father from the Beast, therefore making her his prisoner. She was not a massive fan of him. But as they started to get to know each other, love blossomed in the best way. 

Catra And Adora (She-Ra And The Princesses Of Power)

Look, if anyone knows me, they know I'm a huge fan of cartoons. I don't care if some of these might be meant for kids, but these two are just such a great pair. It felt that for years, these two wouldn't get together, but eventually, they did, and it felt like the world was at peace, if just for that one moment, after so many years of fighting. 

Andrew And Margaret (The Proposal)

The Proposal is one of those films that I put on when I know I'm going to need a good laugh because you can't laugh at Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock as Andrew and Margaret. These two have such quippy, sarcastic banter, and when love eventually comes despite their hating start, it's some of the best you'll witness. 

Logan And Veronica (Veronica Mars)

As someone who hadn't watched Veronica Mars for a long time but had friends who had, they always said Logan and Veronica were the perfect example of enemies to lovers. They started not on a positive note, but another favorite trope of mine – forced proximity – makes them work together – and sparks begin to fly. 

Giselle And Robert (Enchanted)

Okay, so they weren't really enemies, per se – more like grumpy x sunshine – but there's no denying that Robert was not a fan of Giselle whatsoever when they first met. But her bubbly nature was too much to say no to, and he probably fell even harder than her. 

Kathleen And Joe (You've Got Mail)

There are a few Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks movies we could point to, but we'll stick with You've Got Mail for now because it's a great enemies-to-lovers romance. These two are rivals in real life but secretly online penpals, unknowingly, to the other, and when they eventually find out, it's how they fall after that makes it so good. 

Harry And Sally (When Harry Met Sally)

While they are friends for a good portion of the movie, these two do not get along at first in When Harry Met Sally. Sally hates Harry's whole vibe, but eventually, they fall for each other in the very end. 

Gosh, this makes me want to rewatch all these shows and movies. I need some good romantic comedies with these storylines. 

Have you ever looked back at some of the most famous movie quotes and wondered how the screenwriter could have come up with that? Well, believe it or not, some of those memorable lines (and even some iconic moments in their entirety) were not part of the script and were invented on set and even on the spot while the camera rolled, either out of incident or by some instance of spontaneous creativity. The following are some of the most legendary examples of improvised moments from the movies.

"I'm Walkin' Here!" (Midnight Cowboy)

There is some debate regarding if the most oft-quoted moment from the X-rated Best Picture Oscar winner, 1969’s Midnight Cowboy, was really off the top of Ratso actor Dustin Hoffman’s head. However, the Academy Award winner claimed to The National Post that, on the first take, a cab pulled out right in front of him, to which he responded with genuine frustration, “I’m walkin’ here!” while managing to stay in character.

"Here's Johnny!" (The Shining)

Despite being one of the most iconic moments from one of the best horror movies of all time, Jack Torrance screaming “Here’s Johnny!” after axing his way through a bathroom door feels slightly out of place in 1980’s The Shining. That is because, according to The Independent, Jack Nicholson ad-libbed the line, which Stanley Kubrick initially did not realize was a reference to Ed McMahon’s catchphrase from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

"Alright Alright Alright" (Dazed And Confused)

A phrase that will forever be associated with Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey is also on the funniest lines from 1994’s Dazed and Confused: “Alright alright alright.” He explained to Kelly Ripa and guest host Christian Slater on Live! that the first words he ever spoke on film were a spur-of-the-moment way of expressing “confirmation” for the three most important things in David Wooderson’s life: his car, rock ’n roll, and illicit substances.  

Edward Closes The Jewelry Box On Vivian (Pretty Woman)

The signature moment from 1990’s Pretty Woman when Edward (Richard Gere) snaps a jewelry box lid on Vivian’s (Julia Roberts) hand was nothing more than a prank on the then 22-year-old actor in an effort to “wake her up a little. Director Garry Marshall revealed this to ET, who agree that it is the moment America “fell in love” with the future Academy Award winner and makes it thankful the blooper made the final cut.

Aragorn's Furious Cry (The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers)

In 2002’s The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen) sounds like he is in genuine pain when he, after witnessing a pile of dead orcs, kicks a helmet and lets out a bloodcurdling yelp. That is because, as Peter Jackson revealed on a making-of featurette, when the actor’s foot hit the solid metal helmet on the fifth take, he broke two of his toes, resulting in the impassioned scream.

Ryan's Last Memory Of His Brothers (Saving Private Ryan)

In Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan, Captain John Miller (Tom Hanks) learns that the titular soldier he and his crew have been tasked with rescuing is not the most noble gentleman when he recalls the last time he saw his brothers alive. According to Peter Bart’s book, The Gross, Matt Damon came up with the darkly comic story involving a young woman knocked unconscious and a barn nearly burnt to the ground the day it was shot.  

"Are You Talkin' To Me?" (Taxi Driver)

Not only was Robert De Niro’s legendary “Are you talkin’ to me?” speech from 1975’s Taxi Driver not in Paul Schrader’s script, but the entire scene almost did not happen because the film was behind schedule. Director Martin Scorsese told Stephen Colbert on Late Show that, in the moment, he had convinced his producers to let him keep shooting the ad-lib to its completed form.

"I Don't Want To Go!" (Avengers: Infinity War)

Tom Holland revealed in a video for GQ that a technique he uses to cry on command is repeating a tonally appropriate phrase in his head until the tears well up. The phrase he chose for the scene before Peter Parker turns to dust in Avengers: Infinity War was, "I don't want to go!" which he, instead, decided to say out loud to Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark, perfecting the devastating moment from the 2018 Marvel flick.

Andy's Chest Wax (The 40-Year-Old Virgin)

One of the most unsettling behind-the-scenes facts of all time is that Steve Carell requested that Andy’s famous chest waxing scene in 2005’s The 40-Year-Old Virgin be real and shot in one take, as he recalled in a BBC Radio 1 interview. While many of the things that he says were previously written — including “Kelly Clarkson!” which came courtesy of Seth Rogen — each of Carell’s painful reactions are genuine

The Most Annoying Sound In The World (Dumb and Dumber)

Many of Jim Carrey’s best quotes came right off the top of his head, including one of the funniest moments from 1994’s Dumb and Dumber. Jeff Daniels confirmed in a video for GQ that he was surprised when his co-star blurted out “the most annoying sound in the world” in the middle of a take. 

Lecter Mocks Starling's Accent (The Silence Of The Lambs)

When discussing ad-libs from 1991's The Silence of the Lambs, most people reference Hannibal Lecter's iconic hiss, but that allegedly improvised choice is not the only moment of that kind from Clarice Starling's first meeting with the psychopath. Jodie Foster revealed in her MasterClass episode that Anthony Hopkins came up with the idea to mock her character's accent off the cuff, which initially frustrated the actor, but ultimately added a fascinating layer of manipulation to the role.

Most Of Sgt. Harman's Dialogue (Full Metal Jacket)

While R. Lee Ermey did not exactly come up with his lines as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman on camera, much of his dialogue from Full Metal Jacket was created off the top of his head beforehand. The former Marine revealed in an interview with The History Channel that he would improvise lines reminiscent of his days in the service in front of a tape recorder and the "juiciest" lines were added to the Oscar-nominated script.

Peter Hugs Tony (Spider-Man: Homecoming)

What makes Tony Stark and Peter Parker some of the funniest MCU characters is the brilliant way Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr. manage to play off each other in the moment, such as one memorable moment from 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming. Holland told Kevin McCarthy from Fox 5 in Washington DC that he thought it would be funny if the teen otherwise known as Spider-Man hugged the man otherwise known as Iron Man as he was opening a car door for him, and he turned out to be right.

Buddy's Excitement About Santa (Elf)

Elf might not have become one of the funniest Christmas movies ever if not for Will Ferrell’s commitment to the role of Buddy and his off-the-cuff comedic talent. According to a video by Rotten Tomatoes, the North Pole-raised human’s irritatingly loud reaction to learning “Santa” is visiting Gimbel’s came out of the former SNL star’s belief that his response would have to be the most “jubilant” possible.

"He Stole My Line" (Good Will Hunting)

Will’s (Matt Damon) final message to Sean (Robin Williams) in 1997’s Good Will Hunting, which mentions having to “see about a girl,” is a callback to a story his therapist told him earlier, which he points out by saying, “He stole my line.” Damon revealed in a video for Vanity Fair that the late comedian’s final quote in the movie was not in his and Ben Affleck’s Oscar-winning screenplay, but he knew the moment he heard it that nothing could have ended the film better.

“Leave The Gun. Take The Cannoli” (The Godfather)

A look back on many of the most iconic lines from Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather by THR reveals that one quotable moment was not originally written the way it was said in the final product. Richard Castellano, as Peter Clemenza, was only supposed to say, “Leave the gun,” but Ardell Sheridan (his real-life and onscreen wife) recommended he add, “Take the cannoli,” in reference to an earlier scene when her character asks him to bring dessert.

"I Love Lamp" (Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy)

When Brian Fantana (Paul Rudd) points out that Brick Tamland (Steve Carell) is "just saying things [he's] looking at," that was, indeed, exactly what Carell was doing. According to Page Six, he did not have any lines for the scene in 2004’s Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, so director Adam McKay instructed him to just say whatever came to mind.

"You Can't Handle The Truth!" (A Few Good Men)

Do you think you can handle the truth about the most celebrated line from 1992 A Few Good Men? According to Judith Humphrey’s book, Impromptu: Leading in the Moment, Col. Nathan Jessup’s (Jack Nicholson) final stinger in his courtroom face-off with Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise) was originally written by Aaron Sorkin as “You already have the truth,” but the Academy Award winner changed it on the spot.

The Pecan Pie Scene (When Harry Met Sally...)

In the 1989 romantic-comedy movie classic, When Harry Met Sally…, Harry’s random decision to have him and Sally speak in a strange accent and converse about having pecan pie was really as spontaneous as it feels. As Billy Crystal shared on The View (via Business Insider), he provided no warning about the bit to Meg Ryan, whose look to the side at one point was to director Rob Reiner, who silently instructed her to go along with it. 

Joker Applauds Gordon's Promotion (The Dark Knight)

Despite what rumors have suggested, Heath Ledger’s playful reaction to the delayed hospital explosion in 2008’s The Dark Knight was not improvised. However, Christopher Nolan told BBC Radio 1 that the late Oscar winner did come up with a lot of memorable moments on set, including when Joker sarcastically claps after Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman) is appointed Commissioner.

The Laugh-Filled Police Line-Up Scene (The Usual Suspects)

Have you ever wondered why 1995’s The Usual Suspects cast starts to randomly break into laughter while grouped together in a police station line-up? Kevin Pollack revealed on a DVD extra that, which you do not hear in the final cut, Benicio del Toro started breaking wind and did so enough times to send his co-stars reeling.

"My Mom And Dad Are Gonna Be So Mad At Me!" (Scream)

As he revealed in a joint EW interview with him and Skeet Ulrich, Matthew Lillard ad-libbed several of Stu Macher’s lines from the climax of Scream. This includes his especially iconic response to learning that Sidney (Neve Campbell) called the police and him and Billy (Ulrich).

“You Hit Me In The Ear!" (Fight Club)

Apparently, the first time the Narrator throws a punch at Tyler Durden in 1999’s Fight Club was really as painful as it looks, as Edward Norton told Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show. Director David Fincher instructed him to hit Brad Pitt for real and he ended up hitting his co-star in the ear, leading to Pitt's genuine reaction.

Luther Taunts The Warriors (The Warriors)

For the final scene of the 1979 thriller, The Warriors, director Walter Hill wanted to add more to the scene and asked David Patrick Kelly, as Luther, to help add something to spice things up. The actor recalled to Book and Film Globe how he decided to put three glass bottles on his fingers, clink them, together, and come up with his iconic chant, “Warriors, come out to play!” on the fly.

“You Serious? I Just Told You That A Moment Ago" (Zoolander)

In a hilarious moment from Zoolander, the dim-witted title character (played by star and director Ben Stiller) has to ask disgraced hand model, J.P. Prewitt (David Duchovny) why male models are used in assassination plots twice. In an oral history about the 2001 comedy by Vanity Fair, Duchovny recalls improvising his character’s somewhat irritated response to Derek Zoolander’s repeated question.

"... Cinderella Story..." (Caddyshack)

One of the funniest quotes from Caddyshack is an extensive monologue by Bill Murray as greenskeeper Carl Speckler, narrating his own pro golf fantasy. According to Golf.com, no dialogue was actually written for the now iconic scene that was ad-libbed by the former SNL star on camera.

"I'm The King Of The World!" (Titanic)

Easily the most oft-quoted moment from Titanic is when Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) shouts “I’m the king of the world” — a line that was “made up on the spot.” Director James Cameron revealed in an interview with BBC Radio 1 that, after trying several other lines, he fed the now iconic quote to the future Oscar-winning actor through a walkie-talkie, instructing him to really sell it.

Mr. Blonde's Dance (Reservoir Dogs)

One of the things that makes the torture scene from 1992’s Reservoir Dogs so unsettling is the way Vic “Mr. Blonde” Vega (Michael Madsen) taunts Officer Marvin Nash (Kirk Baltz) with a dance to “Stuck in the Middle with You.” According to THR, Madsen invented his playful moves to the Stealers Wheel song in the moment.

“Molly, You In Danger, Girl" (Ghost)

In a funny scene from the 1990 romantic horror thriller, Ghost, Sam (Patrick Swayze) asks medium Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg) to tell his lover, Molly (Demi Moore), what he says word-for-word, including “Molly, you’re in danger.” According to Variety, it was Goldberg’s idea for her to instead say, “Molly, you in danger, girl.”

Most Of The Dinner Scene (Mrs. Doubtfire)

Chris Columbus revealed to Yahoo! that the majority of what Robin Williams said during the climactic restaurant scene in Mrs. Doubtfire was off the cuff. The director even admitted that he would put multiple cameras on the actor just to keep up with his rapid-fire process.

"Move The Leg" (Captain America: Civil War)

As co-director Anthony Russo revealed on the commentary track for 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, Tom Holland forgot his blocking during a scene when Peter Parker and Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) discuss his double-life as Spider-Man. This prompted the Iron Man actor to instruct Holland to give him room to sit on the bed but stay in character while doing it.

Calvin Candie's Bleeding Hand (Django Unchained)

One of the most infamous behind-the-scenes facts about Django Unchained is that Leonardo DiCaprio, as Calvin Candie, actually cut his hand during his racist monologue at the dinner table. However, Broomhilda actor Kerry Washington clarified on The Drew Barrymore Show that the blood he smears on her face was not his own, but faux blood that they decided to incorporate into the scene after the fact.

It just goes to show you that some of the most magical moments in moviemaking are not the ones you plan in advance.

From being the all-time greatest Oscars host to appearing in some of the best romantic comedies of all time to headlining a beloved Pixar animated film, Billy Crystal has been all over the place for the past half-century. During that time, he’s given movie and TV audiences countless lines, quips, and zingers that have become parts of our everyday lives. Here are 32 of those hilarious quotes that we just can’t get enough of…

"When I Buy A New Book, I Read The Last Page First." - When Harry Met Sally

Harry Burns will forever be one of Billy Crystal’s most iconic characters thanks to quotes like this one from When Harry Met Sally. Though macabre in that his character reads the last line so that he knows how the story ends in the event of his death, the line tells you more about Harry than a long, drawn-out monologue.

"Well, It Just So Happens That Your Friend Here Is Only Mostly Dead." - The Princess Bride

Billy Crystal is only in The Princess Bride for a cup of coffee, but he makes the most of his brief screentime with this unforgettable performance as Miracle Max. Watching him tell Inigo Montoya and Fezzik that Westely is only “mostly dead,” before explaining the different stages of death is the gift that keeps giving.

"I Tried To Be A Man Of The People, I Had A Payphone In My Car" - Comic Relief '87 Opening

The Comic Relief specials created by Bob Zmuda raised a ton of cash while also providing some much-needed laughs. This is especially true for the opening of the 1987 special where Billy Crystal and Robin Williams played two former bigwigs who are now bums on the street corner asking for money and trading stories about how far they’ve fallen. Crystal’s line about a payphone in his car is especially hilarious and a little dark.

"But Every Time I Went To Taste The Cheese, The Thing Came Down Right On My Tongue! I’m Tellin’ Ya — After Forty, Fifty Times, I Couldn’t Even Feel The Cheese, Much Less Taste It." - Saturday Night Live

One of the best recurring sketches on Saturday Night Live in the ‘80s was the “Do You Know What I Hate?” bit featuring Billy Crystal and Christopher Guest. And while just about every sentence is funny in the various incarnations, Crystal’s Willie talking about the trouble he got into when trying to set a mousetrap is at the top of the list. The delivery, the imagery, and the expressions on his face are all on point. 

"Hi Curly, Killed Anyone Today?" - City Slickers

A lot of what makes City Slickers, one of the best '90s movies, work so well is the chemistry between Billy Crystal and eventual Oscar winner Jack Palance. The gruffness of Palance’s beloved Curly played so well against Crystal’s Mitch Robbins, especially in this classic interaction out on the cattle drive.

"That's It, I'm Out Of Ideas. We're Closed. Hot Air Balloon? Too Expensive, Giant Slingshot? Too Conspicuous. Enormous Wooden Horse? Too Greek." - Monsters, Inc.

The pairing of Billy Crystal as Mike Wazowkski and John Goodman as James P. “Sulley” Sullivan in Monsters, Inc. was a match made in comedy heaven, and the best friends and coworkers at times feel like an old married couple. This dynamic can be seen in this classic moment when Mike grows increasingly more frustrated when his ideas for the “Boo” situation don’t seem to be impressing anyone.

"You Look Marvelous!" - Saturday Night Live

Billy Crystal’s portrayal of Fernando Lamas as an over-the-top talk show host produced one of the best Saturday Night Live catchphrases, which just so happens to be one of the comedian’s funniest TV lines of all time. Dare you say, it’s “marvelous”?

"Owen, You Gotta Get It Throughout Your Thick Head: I May Be A Lot Of Things, But I'm Not A Killer" - Throw Momma From The Train

Throw Momma from the Train is one of the darkest comedies in Billy Crystal’s stellar filmography, as well as one of the funniest. The dark and sometimes disturbing tone of the film is best illustrated by this quote from Crystal’s Larry Donner to Danny DeVito’s Owen Lift when the latter tries to get the former to kill his mom.

"Come Out, Come Out, Mr. Doody, And Swim In The Swimming Pool." - Parental Guidance 

Is Parental Guidance one of the movies featuring Billy Crystal? No, not really. However, this 2012 family-friendly comedy does have a hilarious sequence where Crystal has to sing to his grandson to get him to go “number two” in a public restroom. And yeah, it’s in the form of a song.

"You Go Downstairs, You Shed A Tear, And You Say, 'It's A Shame. She Would Have Loved This Movie." - America's Sweethearts

America’s Sweethearts is one of those early 2000s rom-coms that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough, which is a shame. In the movie, Billy Crystal plays Lee Phillips, a tenacious publicist who’ll do anything to save a movie threatened by the breakup of stars Eddie Thomas (John Cusack) and Gwen Harrison (Catherine Zeta-Jones), including leaking a misleading photo that causes a media firestorm.

"Like When You Go Bowling And You Know You're In Someone Else's Shoes" - Friends

There were a lot of famous actors on Friends outside of the cast, including a random appearance by Billy Crystal and Robin Williams. In this improvised scene, Crystal and Williams have a hilarious conversation about infidelity that leads to this absurd simile that’s just too much.

"I Don't Like Heights. This Is Why I Stopped Growing At Fifth Grade." - My Giant

My Giant may not be the most well-liked Billy Crystal movie, but this 1998 comedy co-starring Romanian basketball player Gheorghe Mureșan saw the actor poke fun at his own height or lack thereof with this humourous line.

"Come On, Don't Talk Back, Mime Is Money." - This Is Spinal Tap

Hearing a mime talk is funny on its own, but hearing Billy Crystal as a mime talking is on a whole other level. And guess what, that’s exactly what happens in Rob Reiner’s hilarious mockumentary, This Is Spinal Tap, in a short yet unforgettable scene where Crystal gives another mime, played by Dana Carvey, some much-needed wisdom.

"You Rush A Miracle Man, You Get Rotten Miracles." - The Princess Bride

Miracle Max is full of great lines in his brief stint in The Princess Bride, including this one where he explains why you shouldn’t rush a miracle man. Well, unless you want a rotten miracle.

"And My Mother, Disguised As An East German Judge, Gave Me A 5.6" - When Harry Met Sally

The conversations between Billy Crystal’s Harry Burns and Meg Ryan’s Sally Albright are what make When Harry Met Sally so dang good. And one of the funniest of those chats comes partway through the movie when Harry describes a dream where he’s being judged (by his mom) on his love-making skills.

"He's A Lost Soul, He's A Dented Can, He's Behind Me, Isn't He?" - City Slickers II: The Legend Of Curly's Gold

City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly’s Gold pales in comparison to its predecessor in just bout every way, but this brilliantly awkward and perfectly timed scene when Jon Lovtiz’s character is introduced early on in the movie is nothing short of golden.

"Don't You Have A Dark Side? I Know, You're Probably One Of Those Cheerful People Who Dot Their 'I's' With Little Hearts." - When Harry Met Sally

The way the words roll off of Harry Burns’ (Billy Crystal) tongue in this classic conversation with Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) in When Harry Met Sally is something that never gets old. While brash, the description is spot-on.

"Sulley, You're Not Supposed To Name It. Once You Name It, You Start Getting Attached To It." - Monsters, Inc.

The transformation experienced by Billy Crystal’s Mike Wazowski in Monsters, Inc. is one of the best in terms of a character letting go of their insecurities and fears to become a parent. It’s just that this quote, which comes after Mike and Sulley (John Goodman) find Boo, is before the little monster has his grant epiphany.

"What Is My Goal Here, To Make You A Happy, Well-Adjusted Gangster?” - Analyze This 

Analyze This, a movie that features a great Tony Bennett cameo, is built around the on-screen parking of Billy Crystal and Robert De Niro, which ultimately leads to some unforgettable moments. One that comes up all the time, is an interaction between Crystal’s psychiatrist character and De Niro’s mafioso that leads to one of the funniest lines in the movie.

"Amnesia Dust, You Throw A Pinch, The Kid Forgets Everything That Happened The Last Few Seconds, [Throws Dust] That's How It Works." - Tooth Fairy

Released a year or so before Dwayne Johnson found his footing in Hollywood and became one of the biggest box office draws of the century, he starred in the 2010 family-friendly comedy, Tooth Fairy. Though the movie is kind of whatever, it does have a hilarious interaction between Johnson’s character and Billy Crystal’s fairy who teaches the new recruit the power of “amnesia dust,” several times.

"For Two Years I Ran A Hollywood Studio, But You Can't Trust Those People" - Deconstructing Harry

Deconstructing Harry is one of the wildest Woody Allen movies, which is saying something, and it also features a stellar ensemble cast that includes Billy Crystal playing the devil. In this fantastical sequence where Allen’s character visits Hell, he meets the man in charge who jokes about all the jobs he’s had in the past, including a short time running a film studio.

"While You're At It, Why Don't You Give Me A Nice Paper Cut And Pour Lemon Juice On It?" - The Princess Bride

As far as character introductions go, it doesn’t get much better than Miracle Max (Billy Crystal) bringing up his past in The Princess Bride. Before we even get a chance to meet the guy obsessed with MLTs, he throws this salt, err, lemon, on the wound.

"Either God Is In The Salvage Business Or Bigfoot Took My Car!" - My Giant

Billy Crystal makes the most of his performance in My Giant, which leads to some outrageous lines sprinkled throughout Michael Lehmann’s 1998 comedy. This includes this hilarious quote that manages to include both God and Bigfoot in the same sentence.

"I Couldn't Catch A Ball. Well, It's Hard To Catch With Your Face. I Had The Word 'Spalding' Written On My Forehead 'Til I Was About Six." - Memories Of Me

What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger, or at least leads to a great joke somewhere down the line. This is true for Billy Crystal’s character in the Henry Winkler-directed comedy, Memories of Me, where he talks about a sports injury that he won’t soon forget.

"Well, It's Just That You Get To Do All The Dangerous Stuff, And I Get To Parallel Park" - Running Scared

Running Scared, the 1986 buddy cop movie not to be confused with another film of the same name, features the tremendous pairing of Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines, one that leads to some hilarious moments along the way. Case in point, this interaction between the two Chicago cops best illustrates their relationship.

"What's The Matter With You? We Never Discuss Mr. Vitti's Health Outside The Family" - Analyze This

Analyze This does a great job of poking fun at iconic gangster movie lines. One scene in particular works really well when Billy Crystal’s Ben Sobel slaps a mobster and manages to reference both The Godfather and HIPPA violations.

"Well Then, Let Me Be The First To Say Farewell!" - Forget Paris

The ‘90s had all kinds of comedies with professional athletes playing themselves, but few come close to the absurdity seen in Forget Paris. The sequence that takes the cake in absurdity is the one where a dejected NBA ref Mickey Gordon (Billy Crystal) ejects Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from his farewell game. 

"Mr. Klein Died Today, Leaving A Wife, Two Children, And A Spacious Three-Bedroom Apartment With A Wood-Burning Fireplace." - When Harry Met Sally

Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) trying to rationalize why obituaries and classified ads should be on the same page in When Harry Met Sally is a moment that, like the movie itself, just gets better with age.

"You And The Wife Retire To Fort Lauderdale, You Start Eating Dinner At Two, Lunch Around Ten, Breakfast The Night Before" - City Slickers

Mitch Robbins (Billy Crystal) walking a group of elementary school students through the sad series of events that awaits them in old age at the beginning of City Slickers is so good. Sure, it’s depressing, but that’s what makes it so much fun.

"Dodgeball Was The Best, Oh Yeah. I Was The Fastest One Out There. Of Course I Was The Ball." - Monsters, Inc.

Mike Wazowski is the king of self-deprecating humor in Monsters, Inc. and one of the best examples of this comes when the not-so-large and not-so-scary creature talks about being the ball in dodgeball as a kid. Ouch!

"You Should Knock First Because There's Some Kind Of Weird Bear In There." - The Comedians

The Comedians, a short-lived FX comedy starring Billy Crystal and Josh Gad, didn’t get too much love when it was released in 2015, but that doesn’t mean the show wasn’t funny, because it was. There’s one scene where Crystal’s character invites Gad’s character over for dinner and tries to warn him about a series of disasters waiting to happen, including a bear. Yes, a real, “kind of weird” bear.

"I'm On Vacation, Ahhhh!" - City Slickers

City Slickers saw Billy Crystal perform a tremendous amount of physical comedy, especially when the cattle drive starts. This is where this hilarious and hilariously painful quote comes into play.

It’s safe to say that Billy Crystal has given audiences some of the most outrageous, unforgettable, and hilarious quotes over the years. And who knows what could have been if he had been on SNL for more than one season?

I don’t think I’d be remiss in saying When Harry Met Sally... is one of the best rom-coms of all time. It manages to accomplish this with a neat and tidy happy ending and one of the most classic wooing lines of all time: “I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” Billy Crystal’s iconic comment has endured for decades, but if you were to ask Rob Reiner, he’d tell you that wasn’t his proposed ending to his and Nora Ephron's movie, at all.

How When Harry Met Sally Originally Ended

As it turns out, When Harry Met Sally very nearly had a bittersweet ending in which Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s characters did not end up together. Rob Reiner recently spoke to CNN’s Chris Wallace about putting together the 1989 classic film, and while he's opened up about When Harry Met Sally's original closing scene in previous interviews, he explained how Nora Ephron had originally crafted the ending of the film. 

Prior to the filming of the rom-com, Rob Reiner had been married from 1971-1981 to fellow director Penny Marshall; Reiner had adopted her daughter Tracy during the course of their marriage. After they split, he mentioned he’d been alone for quite some time and the dating pool looked bleak.

His interview with Chris Wallace gets into the original wrapping up point, but information has been bandied about regarding the early meetings of Rob Reiner, script writer Nora Ephron and producer Andy Scheinman too. It was the director and producer sharing stories about their own personal lives that led Ephron to the first draft of the script and that original ending. Real-life experiences helped craft some of When Harry Met Sally’s other famous sequences too, as Reiner mentioned in an interview with AV Club.

The Katz's deli scene and Sally being a crazy orderer who likes everything just so is one of the most memorable traits of any rom-com character to date, and again, this was a moment crafted from a real-life interaction. Given how Reiner's love life was going at the time, it's no wonder he wanted a bittersweet ending for Harry and Sally -- after all women and men can never really "be friends."

Mostly the quote above makes it clear the movie came together at a rapid clip and that real-life moments impacted where the characters were going. So, what happened to change their minds about the ending? Apparently, this was Reiner’s idea and you can thank his current wife Michele Singer for changing his attitude.

Why Rob Reiner Flipped The Script And Changed The Ending 

In general, Nora Ephron has said in the past that Harry and Sally were based on herself and Rob Reiner, and the characters allowed them to explore their opposite personalities and takes on life onscreen. Harry is "neurotic" like Rob and Sally is "single-minded" like her, as she reported in 2014. Billy Crystal has said some of Harry and Sally's best banter came from him and Reiner, as well. With that in mind, the ending could have gone either way.

Cutting back to 2024, whilst Reiner was talking about the movie, he mentioned his decades-long marriage to Michele Singer and how he met her while the film was still in production. Prior to that he'd felt a bit more jaded about relationships, but after meeting Michele, he was more inclined to feel optimistic about men and women. 

It’s as simple as that. Reiner was happier in his personal life and he wanted Harry to have that happy ending, so he made it happen on the fly. The end result was a movie that made just shy of $100 million during its domestic theatrical run and has endured in the pop culture lexicon in the years since. 

When Harry Met Sally also features a slew of vignettes from other couples who have been married. While we know those moments were real-life stories recreated by actors on the big screen, those scenes are among the most poignant in the film, and it makes me wonder if they were a late add after Rob met Michelle, as well. 

I suppose that's a story for another day...

It's the setting of cinema's most infamous (fake) orgasm scene, but When Harry Met Sally star Billy Crystal shockingly hasn't been back to New York's iconic Katz's Deli since filming the acclaimed romantic comedy all the way back in 1989. That is, until now. Crystal not only returned to the landmark location but, while doing so, he shared other memories, including how he managed to confuse co-star Meg Ryan while they were on set. 

To celebrate the comedian-actor's recent Kennedy Center honor — bestowed by the United States National Cultural Center to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture — the actor sat down with CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King at Katz's to discuss his decades-spanning career, including the making of that beloved rom-com. 

During the chat, the Emmy winner recounted how he first met longtime friend and collaborator Rob Reiner while appearing on All in the Family; the filmmaker would, of course, go on to direct classic Billy Crystal movies like The Princess Bride and, yes, When Harry Met Sally. When speaking of man who directed him and Meg Ryan at the noted deli, Crystal said:

Billy Crystal is, of course, referencing the movie's gloriously silly "there is too much pepper on my paprikash" scene, featuring his Harry Burns and Meg Ryan's Sally Albright doing goofy voices while visiting a museum. The actor also detailed to Gayle King how his improvised use of that goofy voice initially confused his famous leading lady:

I think a number of us probably would've reacted in the same manner had we been in the lead actress' shoes, though you can't argue with the final product. Many interesting tidbits have been revealed about the Rob Reiner-directed movie in the 34 years since When Harry Met Sally first hit theaters. That includes the fact that it was initially supposed to have a super depressing ending and that Meg Ryan helped come up with the famous "I'll have what she's having scene."

Upon revisiting the setting of the movie's most memorable moment—the Lower East Side deli even has a sign indicating exactly where Harry and Sally sat in the film—Billy Crystal weighed in the enduring love for the fake orgasm scene: 

The actor added that the movie has become "more important" to him as the decades have passed, with new generations being charmed by the relatability of Harry and Sally's story. As he puts it, he and Meg Ryan "represent" the newer generations of people that fall in and out of love all the time. That's a sweet sentiment, and it's wonderful that he was not only able to return to the iconic Katz's Deli but also that he still holds this classic film in such high regard.

And in case you want to revisit the charming romance for yourself — or see it for the very first time — you can watch Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally with a Paramount+ subscription. 

Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s When Harry Met Sally… came out 34 years ago, and we still can’t stop talking about it and that famous fake orgasm scene. In one of the most memorable moments of the friends-to-lovers rom-com, Sally demonstrates to Harry at Katz’s Deli how easy it is for a woman to fake an orgasm, leading a female customer to hilariously tell the waiter, “I’ll have what she’s having.” While looking back at what online daters call one the best romantic comedies of all time, the 62-year-old actress roasted Crystal over their iconic scene in a LOL moment.

You can argue that the orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally… was a pivotal moment in cinema for breaking the taboos of female pleasure. The “I’ll have what she’s having” quote was also a hilarious touch that made the scene laugh-out-loud hilarious. Hollywood Life reported that the film’s lead Meg Ryan was at the Kennedy Center Honors in Washington, D.C. amusingly roasting her male lead co-star and one of the night's honorees, crediting him for helping to make this scene a success. She said:

While Meg Ryan gave it her all with loud moans and table-thumping in public, Billy Crystal also played a vital (and funny) role in the scene. The Princess Bride actor was a real natural just sitting there with a straight face while watching his co-star’s performance from across the table. The disbelief on his face as well as annoyance at watching his friend successfully prove how simple it is for women to feign pleasure during sex is incredible. 

I think the point proven in this scene is what makes this Rotten Tomatoes-favored movie so memorable. Sally is constantly proving Harry wrong about his theories about women and opposite-sex friendships. It shows what an impact two people can have on each other.

Believe it or not, the conception of the orgasm scene wasn't just through the comedic stylings of director Rob Reiner and writer Nora Ephron. Meg Ryan helped come up with her famous moment when Reiner told her they wanted to show how women feel during sex compared to just their male counterparts. With actions being louder than words, the Rom-Com Queen had the idea of reenacting how women feel instead of just talking about it in the scene. 

The fact that she’s doing this at a restaurant in front of everyone with no shame proves her point to Harry, and it shows women everywhere they shouldn’t be ashamed when discussing the subject. Another little touch Ryan put in there was taking a bite of the coleslaw after her exaggerated presentation as if it were nothing. It’s moments like these, and Billy Crystal's reaction, that prove the rom-com is comedy gold.

According to Meg Ryan’s roast, only Billy Crystal can make a scene about a woman faking an orgasm so easy to accomplish in When Harry Met Sally... However, these two had chemistry that was off the charts, and they were an excellent comedy duo for a reason. 

Take a look at our best romantic comedies list if you’re in the mood for some love and laughter. You can also make sure to look at our 2023 movie releases before the month of December is over to plan your next trip to the cinema.

These days we know Kerry Washington for her standout roles in critically acclaimed shows like Scandal and movies like Ray. However, before that, she starred in supporting roles, and she explained how she was beginning to feel typecast as “the white girl’s best friend.” Recently, she opened up about this chapter in her career, and she explained how a movie she made with Meg Ryan marked a turning point. 

In 2004, Washington co-starred with Ryan in the film Against the Ropes. The movie was loosely based on the first successful female boxing manager, who the Sleepless in Seattle star played. The Scandal actress played her “coworker and confidante,” as she described in an excerpt of her memoir Thicker Than Water (via EW). She continued to talk about making the movie, and how she was starting to feel  typecast, saying:

Before this film, Washington had played the friend of Julia Stiles’ character in Save the Last Dance, and she had another role like that in the pilot Wonderfalls. She said Against the Ropes was the last time she took the role of “the white girl’s best friend.” She explained why the movie with Meg Ryan was her final one like this:

Continuing to recall this point in her career, and opening up about why she wanted to play different kinds of characters, she wrote:

Not long after she made this change, Washington went on to star in Ray and The Last King of Scotland. 

Ray also came out in 2004, and both Washington and Jamie Foxx received great acclaim for it. To this day, it’s considered one of the best movies of the 2000s and a biopic about Black musicians everyone should watch. It’s also one of Foxx’s best movies, and he won an Oscar for his performance. Overall, Ray is regarded very highly, and it stands out as a major highlight in Washington's career. It also came right after Against the Ropes.

Then, in 2012, after eight years of taking on some great roles in movies, Kerry Washington landed her role as Olivia Pope in Scandal, which was historic. She became the Black first woman to lead a network drama in 38 years, per EW, the show was wildly popular, and she got two Emmy nominations for her performance. 

Kerry Washington is truly a legend, and it’s inspiring to hear about how she overcame hurdles and achieved her goals throughout her career. Due to the fact that she made the decision to work toward different types of roles after Against the Ropes, she went on to land some of her best characters, and she continues to impress audiences with her incredible performances.  

Both Kerry Washington and Meg Ryan have careers worth admiring, and they’re both super busy at the moment. The When Harry Met Sally actress is making her return to acting with the rom-com What Happens Later. It’s slated on the 2023 movie schedule for a November 3 premiere. Meanwhile, along with her memoir, the Scandal star recently starred in the series UnPrisoned, which is available with a Hulu subscription. 

It is hard to imagine coming up with a list of the best romantic comedies without including one, two, three, or more of Nora Ephron’s classic movies, both as a director and writer. Throughout her life and career, the three-time Oscar nominee gave the world some of the funniest and most unforgettable movie moments as well as a level of genuine human emotion that is both heartbreaking and breathtaking.

Though the beloved journalist, writer, and director passed away at age of 71 in June 2012, Ephron’s more than a dozen movies have kept her spirit with us for the past decade. And while we’re all familiar with undeniable classics like When Harry Met Sally and You’ve Got Mail, there are other films either written or directed by Ephron that are also worth checking out. Here’s how to do just that… 

Sleepless In Seattle (1993)  - Writer/Director

After hearing widower Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks) open up about his late wife on a radio talk show, reporter Annie Reed (Meg Ryan) throws caution into the wind and puts everything at risk, including her engagement, to meet the man she can’t help but admire. Though not her directorial debut, Nora Ephron established herself as a must-watch filmmaker with Sleepless in Seattle, a defining 1993 movie.

Buy/rent Sleepless in Seattle on Amazon.

You've Got Mail (1998) - Writer/Director

Oblivious to the fact they are bitter enemies in the real world, Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) and Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) begin a swirling, and completely anonymous, relationship after meeting in an AOL chat room. Nora Eprhon’s seminal rom-com, You’ve Got Mail, is also a time capsule to the waning days of the 20th century.

Stream You’ve Got Mail on Max.
Rent/buy You’ve Got Mail on Amazon.

This Is My Life (1992) - Writer/Director

Nora Ephron made her directorial debut with her 1992 adaptation of This Is My Life, a short and sweet comedy about Dottie Ingels (Julie Kavner), a single mother who sets out to trade her cosmetics job at Macy's for a microphone as a stand-up comic. Though not as remembered as her rom-coms, Ephron’s first outing as a director is still worth a watch.

Rent/buy This is My Life on Amazon.

Mixed Nuts (1994) - Writer/Director 

A cute Christmas comedy featuring Steve Martin, Adam Sandler, and Madeline Kahn? Say no more! Released in 1994, Mixed Nuts centers on a man named Philip (Martin) as he attempts to keep his suicide-prevention hotline open during the holiday season, which proves to be no easy task. This one is wacky, quirky, and full of heart.

Rent/buy Mixed Nuts on Amazon.

Michael (1996) - Writer/Director

When a pair of reporters (William Hurt and Robert Pastorelli) and a supposed angel expert (Andie MacDowell) catch wind of an angel spotting in the heartland, the group travels to Iowa to get to the bottom of the unbelievable story. However, instead of finding some yokel with gimmicked wings, they find what could very well be the real thing (John Travolta) in Michael.

Rent/buy Michael on Amazon.

Lucky Numbers (2000) - Director 

In 2000, Nora Ephron came out with Lucky Numbers, a crime caper starring John Travolta as a popular yet nearly bankrupt weatherman who attempts to pull off a lottery scam to save his failing snowmobile business. Though not the late filmmaker’s best work, this movie is still amusing and features one hell of a cast including Lisa Kudrow, Tim Roth, Ed O’Neill, and Bill Pullman, to name a few.

Rent/buy Lucky Numbers on Amazon.

Bewitched (2005) - Writer/Director

When struggling actor Jack Wyatt (Will Ferrell) is given the role of Darrin Stephens in the remake of the classic sitcom, Bewitched, he quickly learns that Isabel Bigelow (Nicole Kidman), the actress hired to play the iconic Samantha Stephens, has far more in common with her character than anyone would have guessed. 

Stream Bewitched on Hulu.
Stream Bewitched on Prime Video

Julie & Julia (2009) - Writer/Director

More than a quarter-century after Meryl Streep stole the show in Nora Ephron’s screenwriting debut, Silkwood (an '80s movie that doesn’t get talked about enough), the beloved actress appeared in what would be the filmmaker’s final movie, 2009's Julie & Julia. Partly focused on the life and career of famed chef Julia Child (Streep) with the other half focused on blogger Julie Powell (Amy Adams) as she attempts to make each of Child’s 500+ recipes, this charming biographical comedy is equally amusing and moving.

Stream Julie & Julia on Tubi.
Rent/buy Julie & Julia on Amazon.

When Harry Met Sally (1989) - Writer

Though When Harry Met Sally is a Rob Reiner movie, and a great one at that, it’s hard to imagine the timeless story of Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and not also think about its screenwriter, Nora Ephron. Perhaps the best friends-to-lovers romantic comedy of all time, this movie, with its outstanding writing, is perfect, absolutely perfect.

Stream When Harry Met Sally on Max.
Stream When Harry Met Sally on Prime Video

Heartburn (1986) - Writer

Based on her book, which was inspired by her marriage to Carl Bernstein, Nora Ephron’s Heartburn, directed by Mike Nichols, tells the story of Manhattan writer Rachel Samstat (Meryl Streep) and political columnist Mark Forman (Jack Nicholson) as they attempt to change, and change one another, to make their relationship work. Building a family (and a home of their own) is hard work for the couple in this 1986 romantic dramedy.

Stream Heartburn on Max.
Rent/buy Heartburn on Amazon.

Cookie (1989) - Writer

Directed by Susan Seidelman, Cookie is a Nora Ephron-penned 1989 comedy that follows a troubled youth named Carmela “Cookie” Voltecki (Emily Lloyd) as she is taken under the wing of her biological father, a recently paroled gangster by the name of Dominick “Dino” Capisco (Peter Falk). Diane Wiest, Bob Gunton, and Jerry Lewis all show up in this oft-forgotten crime comedy.

Rent/buy Cookie on Amazon.

My Blue Heaven (1990) - Writer

One month before Martin Scorsese came out with Goodfellas, the iconic gangster movie adapted from a book written by her husband, Nicholas Pileggi, Nora Ephron came out with My Blue Heaven, which was also inspired by the life of Henry Hill. This time around, Steve Martin plays Vinnie Antonelli, a mobster in the witness protection program. Though he’s supposed to keep a low profile, that’s not an easy task for the loud and colorful Antonelli, much to the chagrin of Barney Coopersmith (Rick Moranis), the federal agent keeping him out of trouble.

Rent/Buy My Blue Heaven on Amazon.

Hanging Up (2000) - Writer

And then there is Hanging Up, the 2000 dramedy about three sisters – Meg Ryan, Lisa Kudrow, and Diane Keaton (who also directed it) – as they put their own lives on hold to tend to their ailing father (Walter Matthau in his final role). Nora Ephron wrote the screenplay alongside her sister and frequent collaborator, Delia, who wrote the book on which the film was based.

Rent/buy Hanging Up on Amazon.

If you’re looking for a laugh, a reason to cry, or want to check out a forgotten gem, these Nora Ephron movies will certainly do the trick. 

When Harry Met Sally is one of those movies you just have to see – here at CinemaBlend, we even consider it to be one of the best romantic comedies of all time. While the whole movie is a classic, it’s honestly worth watching solely for the legendary scene in Katz’s Deli, in which Sally (Meg Ryan) loudly demonstrates to Harry (Billy Crystal) how easy it is to fake an orgasm. If you ask Meg Ryan, though, it sounds like she recently learned there’s at least one person out there who wishes they could un-see the moment – her son Jack Quaid. 

During her decades-long career, Meg Ryan has established a reputation as rom-com royalty, thanks to unforgettable performances in films like Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve Got Mail, and When Harry Met Sally. Her incredible career no doubt served as an inspiration to her son Jack Quaid, who’s forged his own path in Hollywood through TV series like The Boys and films like Oppenheimer. But in a recent conversation with Carol Burnett for Interview Magazine, Meg Ryan revealed that her son recently found himself in a precarious situation when he encountered a part of her When Harry Met Sally legacy: 

The scene in question features Meg Ryan delivering what is probably the most memorable fake orgasm committed to film – and if you haven’t seen it yet, you really need to in order to understand why Quaid may have been feeling a bit conflicted at encountering that piece of cinema history. Take a look at the iconic moment here: 

Standing in the same location where your mom famously faked an orgasm you might feel a bit like walking in on your parents in a compromising moment, only magnified to a much greater power. So, it’s easy to understand why Jack Quaid felt some embarrassment. Still, it sounds like he was a pretty good sport about the whole thing. It would probably be hard not to be, though – even with the awkwardness, knowing your mom starred in one of the most beloved movies of all time has to be pretty cool. 

Many movie fans are still seeing When Harry Met Sally for the first time, even though it's been more than 30 years since fans first fell in love with it, so if you haven't seen it yet, you're not alone. The good news is that if you have a Max subscription, you can watch the beloved rom-com, that legendary scene, right now. And be sure to keep an eye on our 2023 movie release guide to see what other amazing rom-coms might be hitting theaters soon. 

Meg Ryan is the romantic comedy darling of the silver screen. Throughout the '80s and '90s, the actress starred in some of the most iconic rom-coms of all time like When Harry Met Sally..., You’ve Got Mail, and Sleepless in Seattle. However, after her directorial debut Ithaca in 2015, the Top Gun actress stepped away from Hollywood. Now, after an 8-year break from acting, Ryan is finally returning to the screen for the film What Happens Later, and she is opening up about what kept her away from the movie business for almost a decade. 

Why Meg Ryan Left Hollywood

The rom-com actress was one of the most famous in Hollywood for over 30 years, but after directing her first film in 2015, she decided to take a well-needed break. As for why she stepped away, she has named her commitment to family and her uncomfortability with fame as primary reasons. In 2018, the Joe Versus The Volcano star revealed she never intended to act in the first place. She told Gwyneth Paltrow in 2018 (via ET): 

After a while, this relationship with fame and acting took a toll. She told the New York Times Magazine in 2019 that she felt the experience isolated her, and she felt burnt out after balancing being a mom and her acting career. She explained:

She reiterated her commitment to her children and family as a reason for stepping away from show business in 2019 to People. Ryan explained that her ambitions weren’t fueled by her acting career, but rather, her family's happiness. She said:

The Doors actress seemingly set a great example for her family during her break as her son, Jack Quaid, has become a big star himself, and he is currently starring on the hit Amazon series, The Boys. Her other child, Daisy True Ryan, is 19, and Meg Ryan has lovingly shared photos of her and Jack bonding on social media in the past. Her commitment to family is clear, and she seems to be happy she was able to take a step back and enjoy family life following her iconic career. 

Meg Ryan's Return To The Big Screen

Thankfully for fans of Meg Ryan, the actress is making her return to the big screen in a major way. She is directing and starring in a new rom-com titled What Happens Later. She stars alongside X-Files alum David Duchovny, who plays a former flame of Ryan’s. Their characters get snowed in at an airport and reignite their love for each other. 

This is a big return to acting for the actress, who hasn’t starred in a movie since 2015. Romantic comedies are familiar territory for the star, so fans couldn’t be happier to see Ryan return to her old stomping ground. Hopefully, there are even more projects to come. 

You can see What Happens Later when it hits theaters on October 13. Meg Ryan fans can also check out our feature on the Addicted To Love star’s best movies and where to watch them. For more information on what else is heading to cinemas later this year, make sure to consult our 2023 movie schedule. 

People love a good romance. Even if you’re not someone who reads the genre, if a popular story ends up becoming one of several book to screen adaptations, you might still be one of millions to check it out when it debuts, and with high hopes that it’ll become one of the best romantic comedies of all time. While fans have plenty of options in that regard, and do everything from watch great romantic movies with action and comedy to stream amazing rom-coms on Peacock, like any other type of movie, it can be hard to know whether or not you’ll enjoy what’s to come.

So, we thought we’d put together a list of amazing romantic comedies that have over 90% critical ratings on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, to help you make your streaming choices. The entries are likely to reveal options you may not even be aware of, as many of the incredibly popular rom-coms of the past 30 or so years simply aren’t rated high enough to be included. If you want to see what did make it, let’s dig in!

Fire Island (2022) - 94%

Inspired by Pride and Prejudice, this film starring Joel Kim Booster (who also wrote it) and SNL’s Bowen Yang focuses on a group of queer buddies who head to the titular legendary locale for their traditional vacation, but see their friendships tested while looking for love. Fire Island was praised for being “breezily entertaining,” and we can all use more of that, especially when it comes to characters that offer LGBTQ+ representation.

His Girl Friday (1940) - 99%

As a beloved film of the screwball rom-com genre, it’s no surprise that His Girl Friday makes the cut. Rosalind Russell and Cary Grant star as ex-spouses, and when his newspaper editor realizes that her investigative reporter will soon quit because she’s gotten engaged, he attempts to keep her in the fold by giving her a tempting assignment. This one is a classic for a reason, and it still holds up today.

Rye Lane (2023) - 98%

This is one of the few recently-released rom-coms to be rated this highly, so take note. Rye Lane follows recently heartbroken twenty-somethings, Dom (David Jonsson) and Yas (Vivian Oparah), who become acquainted over the course of an adventurous day in their South London neighborhood while figuring out how to move on. If you want a visually intriguing tale that’s also “smart, funny, and heartwarming,” you can’t go wrong here.

Shakespeare In Love (1998) - 92%

The popular late ‘90s film focuses on a (fictional) love story between the famed playwright, William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes), and a woman who’s disguised herself as a man to appear in one of his plays (Gwyneth Paltrow), who ends up inspiring Romeo and Juliet. While not historically accurate, the fun is in the look of the movie and the performances, and with Shakespeare In Love nabbing 13 Oscar nods (winning seven), it became one of the most celebrated rom-coms of the past few decades.

Broadcast News (1987) - 98%

Holly Hunter ‘s Type-A news producer is becoming attracted to the handsome but dim-witted reporter (William Hurt) who represents everything she hates about reporting, causing complications with her talented best friend (Albert Brooks), who’s been secretly in love with her for years. Broadcast News is another multiple Oscar nominee, and was added to the U.S. National Film Registry, so history is on your side if you choose to watch.

To All The Boys I've Loved Before (2018) - 98%

Sometimes you just need a sweet teen rom-com, and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before fits the bill perfectly. While anyone who’s seen this type of movie before will easily figure out how Lana Condor and Noah Centineo’s characters will fall in love, the performances make it special. It’s also one of several hilarious romantic comedies with Asian-American leads.

When Harry Met Sally (1989) - 91%

Here’s one of the few modern films in the genre which is so beloved by all that it actually crossed 90% on RT, and When Harry Met Sally is such a classic that I barely have to say anything about it at all for you to understand why. Many would likely say that the fake orgasm scene alone is worth its rating.

The Philadelphia Story (1940) - 100%

Our first perfect score of this list! The story follows Katharine Hepburn’s socialite, her ex-husband (Cary Grant), and a tabloid reporter (Jimmy Stewart) prior to the woman’s remarriage to another man, and her realization that she’s attracted to all three. Another golden era classic (also starring Grant), which ranks high for its “wonderfully witty script,” among other virtues.

The Big Sick (2017) - 98%

Star Kumail Nanjiani co-wrote this “funny, heartfelt, and intelligent” tale with his wife, Emily V. Gordon, which is based on their real experiences of starting their culture clash-filled relationship right before health issues lead to her being in a coma. The duo aced the telling of their own story, as The Big Sick was beloved and nominated for the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

Splash (1984) - 91%

This “warmly funny” story of man/mermaid love did big business and wowed critics as well, with the added benefit of “charming performances” from Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. Splash also nabbed an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

Roman Holiday (1953) - 95%

It’s possible that there’s never been a more charming romantic comedy than Roman Holiday, which follows a swamped princess (Audrey Hepburn) who takes a night off from her duties and begins falling for an American reporter (Gregory Peck). It’s another classic, and for good reason.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018) - 91%

The idea of someone realizing they’re out of their depth with the well-to-do and somewhat disapproving family of their boyfriend/girlfriend has certainly been done before, but likely not with such a “surfeit of visual razzle dazzle” as was seen in the 2018 mega-hit, Crazy Rich Asians. And, we still want that sequel!

Set It Up (2018) - 92%

Set it Up delighted millions (critics included) with a Netflix subscription in 2018, as it focuses on a duo of overworked assistants who set their workaholic bosses up to date in order to free up their own personal time. 

The American President (1995) - 91%

What happens when a widowed president who’s up for reelection begins dating a lobbyist? Critics loved how The American President answered that question with “poignant observations” and “political bite.”

It Happened One Night (1934) - 98%

Another golden age screwball classic, It Happened One Night follows an impetuous heiress (Claudette Colbert) as she falls in with a reporter (Clark Gable) who agrees to reunite her with her husband for a scoop, but, of course, love complicates things. Definitely watch the movie said to be “unsurpassed” by the rom-coms it’s inspired.

Palm Springs (2020) - 94%

Who wouldn’t want to watch a “refreshingly original” movie where two wedding guests stuck in a time loop fall in love? Use your Hulu subscription to enjoy it.

Enough Said (2013) - 95%

A divorced, single mom (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) is very happy with her new romance, until she realizes a new friend who keeps putting down her own ex is talking about said new beau (James Gandolfini). Not a lot of rom-coms follow a couple in their middle years, but Enough Said does it, and in a way that’s “wryly charming.”

Groundhog Day (1993) - 94%

Again with the time loop goodness, as Bill Murray’s weatherman is stuck repeating the same day and eventually falls for his new producer (Andie MacDowell) despite himself. Critics called it “smart, sweet, and inventive,” and, you know what? They’re right!

Sing Street (2016) - 95%

This ‘80s-set teen romance follows a boy who starts a band to impress a girl, but the simple story is set as a “feel-good musical” that will definitely lighten any load you might be feeling.

High Fidelity (2000) - 91%

This John Cusack starrer, which follows a record store owner as he talks a walk down memory lane with his own failed romances, became a near instant classic for its “entertaining story” and “rock-solid soundtrack.”

Say Anything (1989) - 98%

Possibly the first rom-com starring Cusack that people (especially ones of a certain age) think of, Say Anything helped break the teen rom-com mold with its “equally funny and heartfelt” story of an underachiever courting the smartest girl in school. It’s still a winner all these years later.

Four Weddings And A Funeral (1994) - 96%

One of the few modern classics that truly rank high, critically. The “winsome performances” of Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell are certainly part of that, but Four Weddings and a Funeral is also worth watching for its “irresistibly breezy humor.”

Moonstruck (1987) - 92%

As “one of the decade’s most appealing comedies,” just try watching this Oscar-winning film starring Cher (who won Best Actress) and Nicolas Cage without a smile on your face. It’s impossible!

Bull Durham (1988) - 97%

This story of two minor league baseball players (Kevin Costner and Tim Robbins) and the groupie (Susan Sarandon) who romances them both is said to show the Yellowstone cast member at “his funniest and most charismatic,” but I don’t think most who’ve seen it would object to that praise being heaped on all of the stars.

Pillow Talk (1959) - 94%

We’re heading back to the olden days now, for a delightful rom-com about a smart, independent interior designer (Doris Day) who finds herself falling for her playboy neighbor (Rock Hudson) when he courts her under false pretenses. Like many of these movies, Pillow Talk sparkles with great performances, and should leave viewers joyful.

The Shop Around The Corner (1940) - 99%

I’m guessing that many won’t know that this lesser-known Jimmy Stewart film (which was, itself, based on a play) actually inspired a modern classic that didn’t make this list: You’ve Got Mail. With the latter’s relatively paltry 70% Fresh rating compared to the former’s whopping 99%, you can’t go wrong watching the original.

L.A. Story (1991) - 93%

L.A. Story seems like another forgotten gem, as I never hear anyone talk about the rom-com that shows Only Murders in the Building cast member “Steve Martin at his silly, sweetly soulful best.” We follow his weatherman as he romances two very different women, all while (at least believing) he’s getting secret messages from an electronic billboard.

The Lady Eve (1941) - 99%

Once you watch this Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda-starring film about a female con artist who seeks to get back at the mark who dumped her after she was actually developing real feelings for him, you’ll know why it’s seen as a story that “inspired countless battle-of-the-sexes comedies.”

Top Hat (1935) - 100%

Our second (and last) film with a perfect RT critical score, Top Hat is legendary both for its many Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers dance scenes and for being a “glamourous and enthralling” treat.

Tootsie (1982) - 90%

This hit rom-com about a perfectionist actor (Dustin Hoffman) who poses as a woman to find work and ends up falling for his co-star (Jessica Lange) definitely rates for its laugh-out-loud funny dialogue, but the performances from the whole cast are not to be missed.

If nothing else, you now always have an incredibly fulfilling romantic comedy to watch when your movie-loving heart is in need of it.

I consider myself a romantic comedy connoisseur. I have seen so many, from major blockbusters to indie favorites to ones that no one seems to have seen but me. It’s one of my favorite genres.  You would think because I love this type of movie so much that I have seen every major romantic comedy out there. However, some of the most popular ones I haven't watched, including the famous one starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. I have never seen When Harry Met Sally, or if I have, I have no recollection of ever watching it.  

You would think I would have watched it many times, because I adore Meg Ryan movies, especially her romantic comedies, and I know many consider this one of the best romantic comedies of all time. But, nope, I didn’t know what happened When Harry Met Sally.  

 Now I know, and I have some thoughts. 

Do I Like Opposites Attract Rom-Coms? 

This is probably one of the most obvious opposites attract films I have ever seen. This made me wonder: Wait, are any of my favorite romantic comedies in that category?

Not a romantic comedy, but Katniss and Peeta are definitely one of my favorite book couples that fit into that category, the same with many of Nicholas Sparks’ romantic movie couples that I love, but what about romantic comedies? I think Clueless may be one of the few of my favorite that neatly fits into the opposites attract category.

Seeing how well the trope works in When Harry Met Sally made me want to see more of those types of rom-coms. There are plenty of great enemies to-lovers movies, but that's not the same. This film may be one of the best versions of this type of romantic movie, and maybe it’s time for the genre to add more of them, or maybe I need to find and watch more of them. 

Either way, I want more opposites attract rom-coms.

The Makeup And Costumes In When Harry Met Sally Are Great 

Over the course of the movie’s 12-year period, I am completely sold that they are in their early 20s to early 30s. I give credit to the costume and makeup department for making the age transition believable. I also applaud them for capturing the decade with their clothing and makeup choices.

As stated, I have seen so many Meg Ryan movies, but I think this is the first one where I kept thinking “I love her outfit.” Sally is definitely a movie fashion icon. We don’t talk about her wardrobe enough as a society.

There Are So Many Famous People That I Didn't Know Were Associated With This Film 

I only know that Nora Ephron is associated with this movie because I love her movies, including Sleepless in Seattle and all its Christmasness. Therefore, I am constantly trying to make it through her filmography, but just kept putting off When Harry Met Sally. 

I also had no clue how she was tied to this film. Now I know she was a producer on it and wrote the script. The opening credits also let me know that it was directed by Rob Reiner. I had no idea this was one of his movies.

I also learned that Harry Connick Jr. was established enough in his career in the '80s to be part of the soundtrack and music arrangement. Additionally, I didn't know that Carrie Fisher was in it. She was one of the best parts of the movie, and it’s definitely one of her roles worth watching.

The team in front and behind the camera really help make this a memorable film.

The Couples Talking To The Camera Section May Be My Favorite Part Of When Harry Met Sally

The short segments that have couples talking about their love stories are just so charming. Each couple had an entertaining story. It’s also just a reminder of how almost everyone has a unique love story, both fictional (like these couples) and real couples.

Every couple also has a compelling story. Even something as simple as a grocery store meeting can be fascinating when you learn more context, details, and more of the evolution of the relationship. I also loved how it comes full circle with Harry and Sally speaking about their relationship at the end. It contextualizes those couple scenes and gives them more of a purpose. 

The "I'm Sorry" Scene May Be The Film's Best Declaration Of Love 

When Harry Met Sally is for people who like talking. It’s very much a movie where conversations are Harry and Sally’s love language. There aren’t many big romantic gestures, but small ones. This may make it a rom-com that's more grounded in reality than most, but I still like my big gestures — unrealistic or not.

One of the film’s best small gesture moments is after Harry and Sally get into a big fight. Harry asks to say something and then apologizes and hugs her. This is such a big moment and character development for him.

The Harry we get to know is very confident in always being right. He will shout his wrongness just to hear his own voice. Therefore, when he doesn’t continue to fight and try to prove his point, it shows how much he loves her. Not losing or hurting her is more important to him than continuing to argue.

Harry saying he’s sorry doesn’t seem like something that happens often. It’s with those simple words that you know he loves her and needs her. He loves her a lot. 

I Preferred Harry And Sally As Just Friends 

One of the reasons I delayed watching When Harry Met Sally is because, for a long time, I believed it wasn’t the typical romantic comedy. I thought it was one about platonic friendship. I expected Harry and Sally to not end up together but be soulmates in the friendship way, and help each other find romantic love with other people. 

One day, I found out that my belief was wrong. They end up together. I really liked my idea, so I lost interest in seeing the movie. Obviously, my idea is likely not going to make romantic comedy fans happy, especially those who want to see the characters end up together.

I respect that, but I wanted what I wanted. I still think the friend idea would have been really interesting and show that men and women can actually be friends. They can also be non-romantic soulmates. However, I did really enjoy Harry’s final declaration to Sally. It is the film’s biggest romantic gesture. I also liked seeing them happily talk about their love story and wedding at the end. 

I also did enjoy what the film had to say about love and relationships. It's a sweet idea that sometimes people fall for their best friend, and the concept of the right person at the wrong time rings true. 

Other Thoughts 

We still have other stuff to discuss about When Harry Met Sally, besides whether I should make dressing like Sally my whole personality from now on. 

• I would have paid a lot of money to see a Jess (Bruno Kirby) and Marie (Carrie Fisher) spin-off movie. I really enjoyed their relationship and love story.
• The last names Albright and Burns are such a fun obvious note to their opposite personalities and also how they fit.
• For a moment, I was hoping this was about to be one of those set in Chicago movies. I was disappointed when it turned into another one of those movies set in New York. 
• Talking to (texting) a friend while you watch a movie together from separate homes is very relatable. 
• Harry may have one of the best movie developments and emotional glow ups. I went from finding him annoying to enjoying him by the end. 
• I loved that it’s a film about 30-somethings who really experience life before finally finding their soulmates. That seems somehow revolutionary in the world of romantic comedies.

This is definitely one of the best Billy Crystal movies along with being one of the best Meg Ryan ones. It’s not one of my favorite romantic comedies, but I am glad I finally watched it. I also now understand why people adore it so much. 

Rent/buy When Harry Met Sally on Amazon. 

Great love isn’t just about romance and attraction, it’s often about finding someone you click with as a friend as much as a partner. And while falling in love with your closest friend isn’t necessarily recommended in the real world (that can get messy, folks), it’s certainly a tried-and-true trope that has made for some of the best romantic comedies of all time.

With it being the best month of the year to snuggle up to a great rom-com and Valentine’s Day on the horizon, check out the best friends-to-lovers romantic comedies Hollywood has given us over the years. There are a lot of classics on here! 

Just Friends (2005)

Sometimes falling in love with your best friend can mean some awkward, unreciprocated feelings. Just Friends tells the story of Chris (Ryan Reynolds), who confesses his feelings for his high school bestie Jamie (Amy Smart) and is met with rejection. 10 years later, when the estranged friends run to each other in their hometowns during the holidays, Chris’ unresolved feelings resurface. Between all the comedic hijinks of Just Friends, including a hilarious standout performance from Anna Faris, and the relatable embarrassment that comes with going back home, Just Friends is a really fun movie with this trope. 

Stream Just Friends on HBO Max. 

When Harry Met Sally (1989) 

I mean, this is the most classic rom-com there is, and yes, it’s very much friends-to-lovers. When Harry Met Sally follows Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s titular characters over 12 years as their close friendship unexpectedly leads to a great love story for the two of them with the backdrop of Manhattan and some iconic sweater fashion from them both. The movie also has them talking through an intriguing dialogue about whether men and women can just be friends? 

Stream When Harry Met Sally… on HBO Max. 

No Strings Attached (2011)

Another great rom-com that pertains to a popular question in dating regarding friendships is No Strings Attached. The 2011 movie starring Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman is about two best friends who decide to get physically intimate with the rule to not to get too invested in each other. The movie helmed by the late Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman is stacked with charm that makes it a friends-to-lovers must watch. 

Stream No Strings Attached on Paramount Plus.

Imagine Me & You (2005)

While there has been an influx of LGBTQ+ romantic comedies made in recent years, Ol Parker’s 2005 film Imagine Me & You was ahead of its time. The British movie centers on a newly married woman, Piper Perabo’s Rachel, who befriends Lena Headey’s flower shop owner character, Luce. The women become fast friends who soon learn they also have an attraction between them. Imagine Me & You explores forbidden romance in tandem with societal fears of being queer all wrapped up with some cozy rom-com moments. 

Rent Imagine Me & You on Amazon. 

Yesterday (2019)

If you’re looking for a higher concept romantic comedy that plays into the beloved friends-to-lovers trope, check out the 2019 film Yesterday. The movie is about Himesh Patel’s HD suddenly becoming the only person in the world who remembers who The Beatles are and using their songs to gain worldwide fame. All the while, Lily James plays his longtime best friend who gets pushed to the side as he follows his music dreams. It’s an interesting ‘what if’ for Beatles fans and a really sweet rom-com about appreciating what’s in front of you. 

Rent Yesterday on Amazon. 

Love And Basketball (2000) 

Gina Prince-Bythewood’s directorial debut before she went on to helm action movies like The Old Guard and The Woman King was 2000’s Love and Basketball. The modern classic stars Sanaa Lathan’s Monica and Omar Epps’ Quincy as childhood best friends who’ve always dreamt of being pro basketball players. The movie follows the pair over the years as they each try and pursue their passions to mixed results, and how their longtime friendship blossoms into a love story. 

Stream Love and Basketball on HBO Max. 

Always Be My Maybe (2019)

Another great movie about childhood friends who unexpectedly find love down the line is 2019’s Always Be My Maybe. The movie stars comedian Ali Wong as Sasha, who is a celebrity chef and newly single woman who returns to her hometown of San Francisco to oversee the opening of her new restaurant. Along the way, she runs into boy next door, Randall Park’s Marcus, who lives with his father and plays in a small band. Always Be My Maybe is as hilarious as it is sweet as Sasha and Marcus reconnect. 

Stream Always Be My Maybe on Netflix. 

Love, Rosie (2014)

Based on the best-selling romance novel of the same name, Love, Rosie tells another story of two best friends throughout their lives with Sam Chaflin and Lily Collins as its leads, Alex and Rosie. During Rosie’s 18th birthday party, which Rosie is drunk at, the pair kiss, and the next day while she is nursing a bad hangover, she says she wishes the night never happened. Mistaking her words as rejection for him making a move, they remain friends for years as his hidden feelings remain at bay. It’s such a warm will-they-won’t-they comfort movie! 

Stream Love, Rosie on Paramount Plus. 

She’s The Man (2006) 

She’s The Man is a modern spin on William Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night about a teen who poses as her brother so she can play on a soccer team. Amanda Bynes is very funny as Viola as she tries to navigate passing off a teen boy and secretly falls for her roommate and teammate, Channing Tatum’s Duke. The pair become best friends, but little does Duke know that his newest soccer buddy is secretly Viola the whole time. 

Stream She’s The Man on Paramount Plus. 

13 Going On 30 (2004)

Razzles, anyone? One of the cutest friends-to-lovers romantic comedies has got to be 13 Going On 30, starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo. The movie is about a teen girl named Jenna who wishes she is “thirty, flirty and thriving” and wakes up one day at that age, surprisingly estranged to her best friend in the whole world, Matty. When Jenna goes out of her way to reconnect with Matty and change the trajectory of her adult life, it becomes a rather fun and dazzling movie that’s become a favorite for many. 

Rent 13 Going On 30 on Amazon. 

Along with these awesome friends-to-lovers movies, Netflix has a new one coming up with Your Place Or Mine, starring Ashton Kutcher and Reese Witherspoon. You can check that out on February 10 with a Netflix subscription. 

The Pretty in Pink kiss in the parking lot, Harry running through Washington Square Park to profess his love to Sally, and Fever Pitch showing the Red Sox breaking the “Curse of the Bambino” will forever go down as some of the most memorable endings in romantic comedies. However, as iconic as those final moments are, each of those movies, and a couple of others, almost looked entirely different before they premiered on the big screen. 

But, how were each of those all-time great romantic comedies supposed to end? Funny you should ask, because we’re about to break down a handful of titles that almost had very different endings that either never left the pages of the screenplay, were cut after poor test screenings, or in the case of the 2005 Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore movie, were changed by one of the most electric moments in modern sports history. Before we get too far, please note there are major spoilers for each of the five movies being discussed…

When Harry Met Sally… (1989)

Considered one of the best romantic comedies of all time, When Harry Met Sally… ends with the titular characters (played Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan) reuniting and professing their love for one another at a New Year’s Eve party after their awkward sexual encounter a few months earlier. As the partygoers around them count down until the ball drops, the pair have a heated conversation that ends with Harry telling Sally, “I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” 

After that, the movie cuts to the final interview segment, only this time instead of older married couples, it’s Harry and Sally talking about their wedding that took place just three months after the party. However, this wasn’t the original ending, as Rob Reiner told PeopleTV (via EW) in 2018:

So, why the big change? Well, Reiner met his wife, Michelle Singer, while making the movie and was inspired to come up with a happier ending with screenwriter Nora Ephron.

Pretty Woman (1990)

Garry Marshall’s 1990 landmark romantic comedy, Pretty Woman, ends with Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) climbing out of the moonroof of his limousine and climbing up Vivian Ward’s (Julia Roberts) fire escape to show his commitment to the woman he loves. However, the film’s original ending, much like the rest of J.F. Lawton’s initial script, was much darker and didn’t have that fairytale ending that resulted in the movie making more than $460 million at the box office.

When speaking with Patricia Arquette as part of Variety’s Actors on Actors series, Roberts explained that the original ending in the script saw Vivian being thrown out of the limo into a dark alley with nothing more than the money being thrown on top of her. Diane Lane, who was up for the role at one point, also spoke about the darker tone of Lawton’s screenplay during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, stating that the eventual comedy hit was “Disney-fied” before it was released.

My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)

Seven years after Julia Roberts got her man in Pretty Woman, the A-lister appeared in another box office smash hit romantic comedy with 1997’s My Best Friend’s Wedding. The movie centers around New York City food critic Julianne “Jules” Potter as she realizes she’s in love with her best friend, Michael O’Neal (Dermot Mulroney), just before he’s set to marry Kimmy Wallace (Cameron Diaz). The story ends with a heartbroken yet understanding Jules moving on at the wedding before having a dance with her friend George Downes (Rupert Everett) who’s a surprise guest.

Though not as drastically different as other movies on this list, the original ending did have one minor change that reportedly was not a hit with test audiences, according to director P.J. Hogan. In a 2017 EW interview, Hogan revealed that Jules met a new guy at the wedding instead of having a meaningful dance with George. A few months after principal photography wrapped, Roberts was back on set (with a wig) to film the new ending.

Fever Pitch (2005)

The Farrelly Brothers’ 2005 adaptation of Nick Hornby’s Fever Pitch has an ending that coincides with one of the biggest moments in modern sports history: the 2004 Boston Red Sox World Series victory. The movie ends with Ben Wrightman (Jimmy Fallon) and Lindsey Meeks (Drew Barrymore) kissing on the field at Busch Stadium in St. Louis after the Red Sox swept the Cardinals to break the “Curse of the Bambino.” This wasn’t how the movie was supposed to end, but no one knew Boston history was about to be made.

In November 2004, after Boston secured its first World Series title in nearly a century, EW reported that the original plan was to have the scene of Lindsey running on the field during a Red Sox playoff game serve as the final scene, but fate had other plans. After production had wrapped, the Farrelly Brothers, Fallon, Barrymore, and a camera crew went to the deciding Game 4 of the World Series to capture the epic moment and completely change the final act of the movie.

Pretty In Pink (1986)

And then there is Pretty in Pink, John Hughes’ 1986 teen romantic comedy starring Molly Ringwald as high school senior Andie Walsh, as she falls head over heels for Andrew McCarthy’s Blane McDonough, who strings her along for most of the movie. That all changes at the end, when Blane admits to being a jerk and professes his love for Andie at senior prom as the movie draws to an end. However, the film originally had a different ending, one that saw Andie end up with her best friend Duckie Dale (Jon Cryer) before a test audience booed it, as director Howard Deutch told CinemaBlend in 2020:

Writer John Hughes was quick to make to make the necessary changes to the script, and the film has since gone down as one of the most iconic of the “Brat Pack” era.

Each of these five romantic comedies were changed in some shape or form before they were finally released. Who knows, maybe we’ll find out the same thing about some of the 2022 new movie releases at some point in the future.

Few film fans can deny that any time is a good time to curl up on the couch with your favorite snacks and enjoy a movie marathon of any genre. But, if you want to come away from your movie night with lots of warm and fuzzy feels, we all know that one of the best options is to dive right in by streaming some of the best romantic comedies currently on offer. 

If this is what you’re currently after, or anticipate such a desire coming along soon, we have an awesome list of great rom-coms that are streaming right now, and can be delighted in as long as you have an HBO Max subscription. OK, let the rom-com love begin!

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

This great romantic comedy is one to make you smile. Crazy Rich Asians, starring Constance Wu and Henry Golding, follows a couple that travels to Singapore, only for the girlfriend to find out that her fiancé's side of the family is insanely rich. Now, she has to find a way to fit in and impress his family. 

I could say a lot about this movie, but I think everyone should watch it at least once without spoilers. The Crazy Rich Asians cast is great, and there’s a lot of cool behind the scenes stuff too you should know once you watch it. Such a heartwarming film. 

Stream Crazy Rich Asians on HBO Max.

Sleepless In Seattle (1993)

This Nora Ephron-directed gem is definitely famous for a reason. The story follows the unlikely long-distance romance of engaged Annie (Meg Ryan) and recently widowed Sam (Tom Hanks), which is significantly helped along by Sam’s determined son, Jonah (Ross Malinger).

Most rom-com conversations are nothing without at least a mention of this summer hit, which has a number of memorable scenes to go along with its funny, heartwarming story. Be sure to check out the fascinating Sleepless in Seattle behind–the–scenes facts after you watch!

Stream Sleepless in Seattle on HBO Max. 

Crazy Stupid Love (2011)

If you’re looking for a great romantic comedy that has an awesome ensemble, then you need to check out Crazy Stupid Love. This film follows a man who is in the state of a marriage that is falling apart, so in order to make himself feel better, he tries to pick up women at bars – and fails miserably. A womanizer takes pity on him and decides to teach him to actually pick up women. –. 

This film is honestly one of the better romantic comedies that I’ve seen in years just because the Crazy Stupid Love cast has such good chemistry with each other, but what really makes it better than most is the acting. You have the amazing Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone and more. It’s truly a standout movie. 

Stream Crazy Stupid Love on HBO Max.

Mrs. Winterbourne (1996)

You may not have heard of Mrs. Winterbourne, but it features one of the more intriguing rom-com set ups involving mistaken identity. When the pregnant and penniless Connie (Ricki Lake) boards a train to get out of the rain, she meets newlywed Hugh Winterbourne (Brendan Fraser) and his pregnant wife. After a horrible accident, though, Connie finds herself being mistaken for Hugh’s wife and is taken in by his rich mother, Grace (Shirley MacLaine), and his doubtful identical twin brother, Bill (also a delightful Brendan Fraser).

This movie is an unexpected delight for those who like enemies-to-lovers romances, and it features some LGBTQ+ representation, as well.

Stream Mrs. Winterbourne on HBO Max.

Two Weeks Notice (2002)

Sandra Bullock stars as lawyer and activist Lucy, who takes a job as chief counsel to billionaire real estate developer George (Hugh Grant). But, he’s also slept with nearly all of Lucy’s predecessors, and while the two have a decent (and non-sexual) working relationship, the pressures of the gig become too much, prompting Lucy to give notice that she’s quitting, leading both of them to realize that there might be something more between them.

It would seem that you can’t go wrong when you combine the rom-com forces of Bullock and Grant, as was done in this film. Two Weeks Notice offers viewers a light and funny slow burn romance that is very much propelled forward by the undeniable charm of its stars.

Stream Two Weeks Notice on HBO Max. 

Father Of The Bride (2022)

In this remake of the classic comedies released in 1950 and 1991, Father of the Bride stars Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan as two parents who are going through a divorce, but when their children come home, one of them announces that she intends to marry her fiance in one month. For the sake of their children, they put it to the side to be there for her, but life turns upside down in many different ways. 

Honestly, I actually like this remake more than the 1991 version. Not only does it feature a stellar cast, but the jokes just feel like they land better. I do love Steve Martin in the first remake’s lead role but Andy Garcia rocked it too – and Gloria Estefan is always a win. This HBO Max original is worth the time. 

Stream Father of the Bride on HBO Max. 

You’ve Got Mail (1998)

Want to talk about a classic rom-com, check out You’ve Got Mail. This movie is another good enemies to lovers classic of two rival business owners who end up connecting over the littlest thing - through instant messaging. 

It’s certainly one of the best Meg Ryan movies, but Tom Hanks is awesome in this as well. Give it a watch if you haven’t seen it yet. 

Stream You’ve Got Mail on HBO Max. 

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Chance encounters are rare, which is what makes When Harry Met Sally so great following several moments in their lives that define their relationship. 

I mean, we all know that one diner scene from the movie, but I promise the rest of the film is awesome as well and so funny, especially starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. Thank God it didn’t have a depressing ending.

Stream When Harry Met Sally on HBO Max.

The Wedding Singer (1998)

In this classic Adam Sandler movie, The Wedding Singer is about a man (Adam Sandler) who works as a wedding singer, but his life changes when he’s broken up with by his girlfriend, and he ends up falling for a nice woman (Drew Barrymore) who is getting married to the wrong guy. Now, he must find a way to show his love. 

Who isn’t a fan of seeing Sandler and Drew Barrymore unite on a movie screen together? These two are pure movie magic and you can’t convince me otherwise. You just have to love them. 

Stream The Wedding Singer on HBO Max.

She’s All That (1999)

You really can't do a more classic romantic comedy than She’s All That starring Rachael Leigh Cook and Freddie Prinze Jr. When Zack is broken up with by his girlfriend, his friends make a bet with him that he could make any girl the most popular girl in school in six weeks, and his friends choose Laney Boggs, one of the most unpopular girls in school. But what he doesn’t count on is falling for her. 

A modern adaptation of Pygmalion and My Fair Lady by George Bernard Shaw and George Cukor, this is probably one of the most well known teen films for a reason and it’s so funny. There was even a remake years later on Netflix called He’s All That – but respectfully, this one is much better.

Stream She’s All That on HBO Max.  

My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding (2002)

Next up, we have My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding. Starring Nia Vardalos and John Corbett, this movie follows a young Greek-American woman who falls in love with a man. The only issue is that he’s not Greek, which causes plenty of issues for her and her messy, crazy family. 

It’s certainly a memorable title, and once you watch the movie, you can see why it would be called that, as it’s hilarious. What makes it even more special is that Nia Vardalos actually wrote it based on her own experiences, so you know it’s extra awesome and funny. 

Stream My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding on HBO Max. 

Boomerang (1992)

There’s nothing like an Eddie Murphy movie, and the same can be said for this rom-com. The story sees Murphy’s successful ad exec, Marcus, come to terms with his status as a very non-committal dater after he begins seeing Jacqueline (Robin Givens), who is essentially a female version of himself, right as he also starts to fall for the much sweeter Angela (Halle Berry).

It’s always good to watch characters learn some important lessons about love, but even better when it can be done with the kind of humor imparted by Boomerang. Plus, if you watch this one you’ll be looking at one of the best Halle Berry movies from when the rising star was still just getting started.

Stream Boomerang on HBO Max.

Wedding Crashers (2005)

Wedding Crashers is a hysterical comedy following two men who blatantly crash weddings to pick up women. But one of these crashes ends up taking a turn, and their whole scheme starts to become undone. 

Both Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson are complete gems in this movie and deserve all the praise in the world. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes facts about the movie so be sure to check those out once you watch them. 

Stream Wedding Crashers on HBO Max.

Maid In Manhattan (2002)

Arguably one of Jennifer Lopez’s best romantic comedies to date, Maid in Manhattan is the story of a young woman working as a maid in a high-profile hotel in order to provide for her son, when one day she ends up meeting a big-time politician, and her life changes forever. 

There’s plenty of reasons to give this movie a chance. You have Jennifer Lopez in her prime of romantic comedies, as well as Ralph Fiennes before Harry Potter. You also have a cute love story in New York City. What else is there not to love?

Stream Maid in Manhattan on HBO Max. 

The Holiday (2006)

Nancy Meyers is another behind–the–scenes rom-com queen, and the writer/director hit pay dirt here. The Holiday focuses on unlucky in love Englishwoman Iris (Kate Winslet, in one of her best movies) and similarly afflicted Los Angeles movie trailer producer Amanda (Cameron Diaz) switching homes for the holidays to get away from their troubles for a couple of weeks, during which time they each find solutions to their romantic problems.

In a rarity, this film gives us two romances to root for, while we also get to enjoy home design porn as only Meyers can deliver it.

Stream The Holiday on HBO Max.

The Truth About Cats & Dogs (1996)

I happen to think this movie is one of the forgotten treasures of ‘90s rom-coms, despite it getting solid reviews when it was released. As a reinterpretation of Cyrano de Bergerac, and follows as insecure radio host Abby (Janeane Garofalo) convinces her model neighbor and friend, Noelle (Uma Thurman), to pose as Abby when handsome photographer Brian (Ben Chaplin) shows interest in her.

Look, we’ve gotten more than a few versions of this type of story, but aside from the fact that The Truth About Cats & Dogs puts the female characters front and center, it’s also a sweet, delightfully funny story that will have you rooting for Abby and Noelle, even when things get tense between the two.

Stream The Truth About Cats & Dogs on HBO Max. 

Friends With Benefits (2011)

Starring Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis, Friends with Benefits is exactly as the title says – two friends who decide to start having sex with the other without becoming a couple. But obviously, things don’t go as planned, and doing this only complicates things further. 

I feel like I probably don’t need to go into why this is a funny romantic comedy. The film itself has two stars that have fun chemistry together and the premise is a tale as old as time. You really can’t get better than two friends who are just starting to get to know each other that way. 

Stream Friends with Benefits on HBO Max. 

I know there are a lot of movies on this list, which might make it hard to pick just one, but would you really have it any other way? You now have many very good options for your rom-com movie night (or morning…or afternoon) and can stream to your heart’s content (or until you start to fall asleep)...happy binging!

What makes a good romantic comedy? Is it the style of humor? The location where it takes place? The soundtrack? Surely, most will agree that the chemistry between the love interests is crucial. In fact, based on our picks for the absolute best romantic comedies of all time, a lot of factors come into play when identifying what makes us laugh or swoon or even tear up a bit if the mood is right. So let’s get on to the list. Those of us at CinemaBlend with a passion for rom-coms got together and rated our picks for the absolute best romantic comedy movies of all time… 

50. High Fidelity

When talking about meet-cutes, there are few movies that could make a list of rom-coms that are more sad sack than High Fidelity. But the Nick Hornby book-turned-film manages to be very funny, much of it due to the performance from John Cusack as Rob, whom one roots for despite his obvious poor understanding of the ladies in his life. The movie is carried along by an A+ soundtrack, a zany performance from Jack Black, and surprising turns from ‘90s icons Catherine Zeta Jones, Tim Robbins, Joan Cusack, Lisa Bonet and more. It’s a great movie to curl up with in the winter and an even better movie to throw on after a break up. Watch, this rundown will now sell five copies. 

49. Crazy Stupid Love

Crazy Stupid Love is surprising in the best way. It tells the story of Cal (Steve Carell), who is dealing with a divorce from his wife Emily (Julianne Moore), and his friend Jacob (Ryan Gosling) is teaching him to be a playboy while dealing with his own love life after Hannah (Emma Stone) rocks his world. 

From re-creating the Dirty Dancing lift to what might be one of the greatest plot twists ever, the laughs come at a mile a minute in this film, and it’s pure joy. Also, how could we forget, this movie brought Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling together for the first time, and for that, we’re eternally grateful. 

48. 50 First Dates

Adam Sandler can and has made his share of rom coms over the years, but there’s something particularly magical about what happens when he and Drew Barrymore fall in love on screen. The 2004 Hawaii-set 50 First Dates is plenty goofy, as Sandler’s Henry learns that his crush, Barrymore’s Lucy, will – due to a brain injury from an accident in her past – forget him all over again every morning. The concept creates all sorts of setups for funny quips, but finds staying power in how it inspired a unique love story all about patience and acceptance.  Plus, you know a movie is iconic when it recontextualizes The Beach Boys’ “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and The Wizard Of Oz’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in a way that will have one never hearing them the same again, without recalling Henry and Lucy’s quirky love story anyway. 

47. 13 Going On 30

13 Going on 30 turns twenty in 2024, if you can believe it, and now, we’re cementing it as one of the best romantic comedies out there. The film follows a young teen who wishes to be “thirty, flirty and thriving,” only to wake up one morning to find her wish has come true. She’s thirty and living in New York City, working at a fashion magazine. 

While the romance in 13 Going on 30 takes a bit of a backseat in comparison to the life lessons Jenna is taught (like don’t try to change yourself for others), it’s still one that makes us smile. The 13 Going on 30 cast is great, and Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo have chemistry that is tough to beat. 

46. Never Been Kissed

Never Been Kissed is an ode to the awkward high school nerds. The ones who may have been late-bloomers but eventually found their spotlight. Drew Barrymore is another queen of the romantic comedy world. She always delivers a charismatic performance and creates likable heroines. 

Her characters are never without flaws but that makes them more appealing. Barrymore’s Josie bumbles her way through high school (again) in a very funny but sweet way. Michael Vartan and Barrymore’s chemistry is really what makes the film such a great romantic comedy. The final moments of Never Been Kissed make you kick and twirl your hair with glee. 

45. Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Forgetting Sarah Marshall is way more than its top-of-the-line embarrassing breakup scene where Jason Segel’s Peter, well, bares his peter because he’s so shocked by the end of his five-year romance with Sarah (Kristen Bell). Aside from hilarious performances from Segel, Bell, Mila Kunis, and a number of other funny people, the story of attempting to move past a relationship that wasn’t as perfect as you’d previously thought while unexpectedly falling for someone else when you really think you’re not ready is one lots of people can likely relate to. Laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming is how we like our rom-coms, and this is an R-rated comedy that still delivers big time.

44. Pretty In Pink

Howard Deutch’s Pretty In Pink has one of the best movie soundtracks with songs like “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” by The Smiths and the titular track by The Psychedelic Furs, but it’s the story at the center of this “Brat Pack” classic that makes it so charming. Written by John Hughes, the film follows Andie Walsh (Molly Ringwald) as she begins to venture outside of her social group after falling for Blane McDonnagh (Andrew McCarthy), a popular prep from her high school.

The clash of cultures, ideals, and social classes leads the high school senior on a remarkable journey where she sets out to find out who she really is and what she wants out of life.

43. Love Actually

Why settle for one love story when you can have ten? Love Actually explores a spectrum of different types of love through its loosely connected characters, and while there’s plenty of romance to be found, there’s also grief, anger and heartbreak. It’s no surprise that this has become a Christmas classic — and is one of the best movies of the 2000s — as legendary rom-com director Richard Curtis assembled an astonishing ensemble cast that includes Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson and Colin Firth, to name just a few. Not all of Love Actually’s stories resonate with every viewer, but with so much going on, everybody’s sure to find something to love.

42. Love, Simon

Love, Simon was a massive deal when it was released because it was the first movie by a major Hollywood studio to focus on a gay teenage romance. Nick Robinson plays Simon, a high school senior who is coming to terms with his sexuality. Not yet ready to come out, Simon finds himself exchanging anonymous emails with a fellow gay classmate whom he begins to fall for. 

The movie includes a swooning romance with one of the best grand gestures at the end, but it also explores the nature of coming out and how complicated that can be, even though the people in Simon’s life are supportive. It’s safe to say there wouldn’t be as many LGBTQ+ romantic comedies if it wasn’t for this one. 

41. Bridget Jones's Diary

This early-aughts retelling of one of literature’s greatest romantic comedies—Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice—gave us a plucky heroine for the ages in Ms. Jones, a thirtysomething London singleton played to perfection by Renée Zellweger. It’s rare when a rom-com performance gets acknowledgment from the Academy, but Zellweger’s turn as the clumsy, chain-smoking yet utterly charming lass earned her a much-deserved Oscar nomination. 

In the Sharon Maguire-directed comedy, our usually unlucky-in-love leading lady finds herself in the middle of a love triangle featuring two very eligible (and very British) bachelors: Hugh Grant’s rakish Daniel Cleaver and Colin Firth’s mysterious Mark Darcy. The latter has a leg up, though, because he likes Bridget just the way she is. And so do we.

40. Licorice Pizza

PT Anderson’s Licorice Pizza gives us a romance we’re not sure if we should be rooting for. The age gap, life circumstances, morals and common sense should push Alana and Gary apart, but through waterbed schemes, acting dreams and his relentless determination, they’re repeatedly drawn together, despite her better instincts. It’s awkward and uncomfortable but also vibrant and full of life in a way that thoughtfully shows just how many similarities and differences there are between your teenage years and your twenties. Plus, acting newbies Cooper Hoffman (the son of Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Alana Haim are both fantastic, and the film features an absolutely unhinged supporting turn from Bradley Cooper that needs to be seen.

39. Crazy Rich Asians

Based on the novel of the same name and directed by Jon M. Chu, Crazy Rich Asians was a huge rom-com when it released in 2018, telling the story of a young woman who has to travel to Singapore to meet her fiance’s family – only to find out that they are incredibly rich. 

Crazy Rich Asians tells a story that aims to make you laugh but also make you swoon at the same time at the undeniable chemistry between Constance Wu and Henry Golding. Not only that, but you’ll be entranced by the wealth of this family – the wardrobe alone must have made up the entire budget of the film. However, you’ll stay for the sweet yet complex romance. 

38. The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement

The original Princess Diaries is delightful as a story about a teen who learns she’s a princess, but it’s the sequel that finds a spot on this particular list. The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement sees Mia (Anne Hathaway), facing an arranged marriage due to a law that says she can’t take the throne without a husband beside her. Romantic sparks fly between Mia and Nicholas (Chris Pine), a man who’s also vying for the throne. Be it the chemistry between Hathaway and Pine, the fantastic cast – including Julie Andrews, Raven-Symoné, Hector Elizondo and more – Garry Marshall’s direction, the screenplay from Shonda Rhimes, or other talents involved, there’s a lot that works, and continues to hold up not only as a charming rom-com, but one for the whole family. 

37. Easy A

While Emma Stone has appeared in several critically-acclaimed movies, like The Favourite, Poor Things or even La La Land (which earned her an Academy Award), one of the stand-out movies has to be Easy A. 

Telling the story of a teenager who decides to build up a promiscuous reputation to become popular instead of mocked, Easy A is as raunchy as a rom-com can get without diving into the “too much” category. It’s hilarious in its line delivery, comedic timing, and so much more, and there’s nothing quite like watching Emma Stone sing “Pocketful of Sunshine” again and again. 

36. Trainwreck

Eagerly embracing love and commitment isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. In fact, for some people,  it’s extremely difficult, even when presented with the perfect opportunity for romance with a truly great person. Such is the case for Amy Schumer’s character, a writer who reluctantly falls for Bill Hader’s sports doctor character in Judd Apatow’s Trainwreck. 

The movie is not at all your typical fairytale. Life and love in Trainwreck are messy, but the movie embraces that mess with surprisingly sweet moments and great chemistry from its leads. And this is all complimented with raunchy humor and a fantastic supporting cast, including John Cena, Brie Larson, Vanessa Bayer, LeBron James and Tilda Swinton, among others. 

35. My Best Friend's Wedding

My Best Friend’s Wedding should not work: Jules Potter’s (Julia Roberts) scheme to sabotage the nuptials of her lifelong friend—and longterm back-up plan—Michael O'Neal (Dermot Mulroney) and his bubbly fiancée Kimmy Wallace (Cameron Diaz) is not only ill-advised, it’s also downright cruel. She messes with Michael’s job, gets Kimmy’s family involved, and even ropes in her gay BFF (a pitch-perfect Rupert Everett) to pretend to be her lover. 

Jules is undoubtedly the villain of her own rom-com and yet the megawatt charm of ’90s-era Julia Roberts is blinding enough that you can’t help but sympathize with her character’s behavior. And she’s so matched by the equally dazzling Diaz that you don’t even mind when the “wrong” girl gets the boy in the end. 

34. 500 Days Of Summer

500 Days of Summer in many ways is an anti-romantic comedy. It shows the delusions that sometimes overtake us when looking for the ideal mate. We want them to be perfect so badly that sometimes we don’t really see them. Nonetheless, 500 Days of Summer uses the genre to tell a story about a man who confuses his idea of love with actual love. 

Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel both make their characters layered and human. Their flaws make their love story feel honest and heartbreaking. Romantic comedies are often charming because of their whimsical nature, but movies like 500 Days of Summer show the messiness of love, especially when one refuses to leave the fantasy. 

33. Say Anything

Cameron Crowe’s Say Anything is one of those movies most famous for a single image, in this case, the shot of John Cusack standing with a boombox held above his head. But what’s better than the image itself is the context and terrific story that leads up to that quintessential ‘80s moment. 

The movie follows the unlikely romance shared by the underachieving Lloyd Dobler (Cusack) and valedictorian Diane Court (Ione Skye) that blossoms the summer following their high school graduation. Though infatuated with one another, the couple faces a series of obstacles over the summer, including being from different social groups, an IRS investigation, and a looming prestigious fellowship in England that could break them apart.

32. Chasing Amy

Though it’s still one of Kevin Smith’s best movies, Chasing Amy, which stars Ben Affleck, Joey Lauren Adams, Jason Lee, and an appearance by Jay and Silent Bob, definitely feels like a ‘90s movie. What we mean is, some of the concepts, like a lesbian who falls deeply in love with a man, and the insecurity that a male character feels about a female character’s sexual history, seems pretty dated by today’s standard. That said, the emotions in this one are super raw, and by the end of it, you’re left with a very real feeling of what could have been. 

31. Something's Gotta Give

When it comes to Nancy Meyers’ best movies, Something’s Gotta Give has to be at or near the top. This 2003 romantic comedy puts Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton up against one another as a wealthy womanizer and prolific playwright, respectively, who are forced to spend a few days together in the Hamptons. What starts as a clash of personalities and ideologies slowly turns into an unexpected romance as the pair learn they have more in common than originally thought.

The movie has all the staples of Meyers’ work with incredibly written characters, captivating dialogue, and a kitchen that belongs in a museum. Oh, and the supporting cast, which includes Keanu Reeves and Frances McDormand, adds a nice touch.

30. To All The Boys I've Loved Before

To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before quite literally resurrected the teen romantic comedy genre and has gone on to be one the most hilarious romantic comedies with Asian-American leads. Based on the best-selling series of the same name, the first movie centers on Lara Jean, a high school student who fantasizes about love but has never been in a relationship. When her secret love letters to past crushes accidentally get mailed, she finds herself in a fake relationship with Peter, the school’s it boy. 

The original movie celebrated its 5th anniversary in 2023, and it still is one of the best according to fans because it shows Lara Jean and Peter falling for each other for real despite their fake arrangement. Their love is magical in the way all first love is, but it’s the chemistry between Lana Condor and Noah Centineo that really seals the deal.

29. The Big Sick

What happens when “in sickness and in health” pops up way earlier than you anticipated? That’s the crux of this 2017 rom-com, which stars Kumail Nanjiani in a story inspired by his own relationship with wife Emily V. Gordon. (The couple co-wrote the film’s script, which earned them an Oscar nomination.) Nanjiani plays an aspiring comedian whose new girlfriend Emily (played by Zoe Kazan) unexpectedly falls into a coma, leaving him to deal with the fallout and, even more worryingly, their families. 

Echoing another rom-com classic—Sandra Bullock’s While You Were Sleeping—Kumail falls for his future-in-laws (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano) as he waits for Emily to wake up, but also has to contend with his own Pakistani parents, who’ve been trying to set him up for an arranged marriage. From cultural differences to chronic illnesses, The Big Sick lovably manages to make seemingly unfunny subjects feel both romantic and comedic. 

28. Harold And Maude

Harold and Maude is a taboo romance that wins over the audience. On paper, a woman in her 70s (near 80s) falling in love with a man in his 20s almost seems criminal, but Hal Ashby — against all odds  — warms you to the pairing. The film is about a lot more than just the friendship turned romance between Harold and Maude, but the romance helps elevate some of the film’s messages. 

One of those messages is to live your life at maximum capacity. Maude doesn’t let her age or societal norms dictate how she lives. She then passes this wisdom on to Harold. Harold and Maude makes it clear that Maude will not be Harold’s only love, but she will likely be his greatest. To experience such a transformative love story is what most aspire to obtain. 

27. While You Were Sleeping

If you want someone to give a relatable, endearing, and earnest romantic comedy performance, you call Sandra Bullock. She is truly one of the stars of the genre. While You Were Sleeping best demonstrates how Bullock can make you fall in love with her, no matter the crazy plot. Bill Pullman isn’t particularly known for his romantic comedy work, which is a shame. He’s undeniably attractive and bewitching in While You Were Sleeping. He oozes sexiness in the most subtle and appealing ways. 

Bullock and Pullman’s chemistry makes it a must-watch romantic comedy, but it's also a heartwarming tale about family. Bullock’s Lucy doesn’t just fall for Jack but the whole Callaghan clan. The themes of family and merriment make While You Were Sleeping a perfect holiday romance movie as well. 

26. Palm Springs

There are probably more gleefully weird rom-coms than Palm Springs, but it’ll likely be difficult for many people to think of one. As one of our rare sci-fi romantic comedies, it sees Andy Samberg’s Nyles and Cristin Milioti’s Sarah as strangers who attend a wedding, then get stuck together in a time loop. We watch as he and Sarah experience the same day together, growing closer as they try to make sense of and have some wackadoo fun with their new, oddball existence.

The film makes the most of the time loop scenario in how it keeps pushing both characters past their breaking point so that they continue to grow through every insane repeat of the day, learn more about themselves, each other, the world at large, and what it really means to love and accept someone despite having witness the results of their dark thoughts and nonsensical behavior.

25. Bridesmaids

Rom-coms love to talk about love, but it’s usually the typical scenario of pursuing that great romance, with grand gestures and huge lessons. Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids isn’t that sort of movie, or at least isn’t completely focused on the entanglements of the awkward Annie (Kristen Wiig). 

If there was a true love story to follow in this movie, it’s that of Annie and her best friend/bride-to-be Lilian (Maya Rudolph). But besides that, everything you’d want out of a rom-com is present in the script co-written by Wiig and Annie Mumalo; right down to Melissa McCarthy’s Academy Award nominated comic relief. To appreciate Bridesmaids’ brilliance is to realize that this very R-rated comedy isn’t afraid to leave it all in the middle of the street in the name of a laugh. And after over a decade, director Paul Feig’s reasons for why it holds up have aged all the better.

24. Red, White & Royal Blue

Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, Red, White & Royal Blue was one of the biggest new releases of 2023, at least in the streaming world. Though slight changes were made from the book, the movie follows the First Son of the United States Alex, and Prince Henry of Wales as they go from enemies to friends to lovers. Throughout the movie, the two bond over their alienating positions and their desire to make the world a better place. 

When Red, White, & Royal Blue was released, queer fans around the world found the movie super healing. As far as rom-coms, the movie has some pretty amazing quotes that are hard to forget. Above all else though, fans continue to stream it over and over again because Alex and Henry get a happily ever after at the end, which, unfortunately, is all too uncommon for queer love stories. 

23. Notting Hill

“I’m also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her” is without a doubt one of the most iconic and quotable lines in the history of romantic comedies and one of the reasons Notting Hill is such a joy to watch time and time again. Released in 1999, Roger Michell’s rom-com about a travel book store owner (played by Hugh Grant) and a Hollywood star (played by Julia Roberts) falling in love after a chance encounter on the street is nothing short of magical in every way imaginable.

Even after repeated viewings and despite knowing how things end, it’s impossible to not get caught up in the drama and the “will they or won’t they” aspect of the swirling romance at the center of Notting Hill.

22. Clueless

Clueless is a brilliant take on the delightfully witty Emma. This modern version of Jane Austen’s popular novel delivers in performance, writing, and romance. It works both as a straightforward comedy and as a classic rom-com. Alicia Silverstone exemplifies on-screen charm as she makes Cher the clueless best friend that everyone wants. 

Over his many decades in Hollywood, Paul Rudd has become the man next door. The charismatic best friend or boyfriend. Clueless helped set Rudd on this trajectory. Silverstone and Rudd’s glorious chemistry makes it impossible to not root for Cher and Josh to end up together, despite the complexity of their enemies to lovers, former-sibling status. Clueless has rightfully earned its place as a comfort movie. A movie that film lovers (especially rom-com fans) can watch time and time again and still experience the same amount of wonder with each viewing. 

21. The Wedding Singer

Whoever cast Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore together in The Wedding Singer should have become a millionaire for that contribution to the film alone. After director Frank Coraci’s 1998 classic hit it big, there was no turning back. A new pair of rom-com legends was born, and repeated team ups were basically a done deal.

As Sandler’s jilted wedding entertainer slowly falls for Barrymore’s limitlessly sweet waitress, the sort of ‘90s comedy hijinx you’d expect out of a Happy Madison movie is definitely present. But at the same time, this picture marked a very important turning point for the SNL veteran. The Wedding Singer wasn’t just a good Adam Sandler comedy, it also gave him a chance to play a romantic lead. And if anyone had any doubts about whether this was a good idea or not, I dare you to watch the man sing “Grow Old With You” and not feel moved.

20. Breakfast At Tiffany's

Audrey Hepburn’s best films include many from her time in Hollywood, but I can’t think of one that is more iconic than Breakfast at Tiffany’s. This film, nominated for five Academy Awards, follows a young woman trying to marry for money, but in the process, falls in love with a struggling writer. 

This film is the perfect example of how you never really know when love is going to hit. You can make plans, but when you meet the one, it doesn’t matter what social status they are – you just want to be with them. Featuring Hepburn in one of her best performances, Breakfast at Tiffany’s not only gave Hollywood one of the most epic love stories out there, but a brilliant move overall – and don’t even get us started on the fashion. Holly is a snazzy dresser.

19. Pretty Woman

Yes, I know that “Pretty Woman” is for sure stuck in your head right now, and truthfully, it’s the perfect place to be, because everything about Pretty Woman is great. Starring Julia Roberts in one of her best rom-com movies, Pretty Woman tells the story of a Hollywood escort who is hired by a wealthy man to be his date to several social functions over the course of a week. 

As they spend more time together, their business deal turns romantic, and it’s fair to say that in many ways, Pretty Woman was the blueprint for rom-coms for several years after. Featuring undeniable chemistry from Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, and a love story that will make any romantic swoon, Pretty Woman is one of those films that is a must-watch.

18. The Holiday

Who hasn’t dreamed of just jumping on a plane and traveling to a foreign country to get away from it all? That’s the situation Iris (Kate Winslet in one of her best movies) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz) find themselves in in The Holiday, when heartbreak leads the strangers to agree to switch houses for two weeks. It’s funny how running away from their lives leads to them having to confront some hard truths about themselves, and it’s a delight to watch them do so — Iris with the help of a couple of new friends, including Jack Black’s Miles, and Amanda in developing feelings for Iris’ brother, single dad Graham (Jude Law). 

With Nancy Meyers’ direction and Hans Zimmer’s score, The Holiday has become a beloved holiday classic that will leave you inspired to find your gumption, because anything can happen when the Santa Anas blow.

17. Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook follows Bradley Cooper’s Pat when he moves back in with his parents (Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver) after spending time in a mental institution learning how to live with bipolar disorder. While staying there, and attempting to reconnect with his ex, he meets Jennifer Lawrence’s Tiffany, a widow, and they form a connection as they both reconcile with their lives. 

The two end up bonding, and they decide to compete in a dance competition. As they practice they grow closer, and so begins a chaotic and beautiful relationship. Jennifer Lawrence won her Oscar for Silver Linings Playbook, and for good reason. This gorgeous movie about acceptance and love is quick-witted and deeply moving as it tells the story of these two people finding themselves and supporting each other. 

16. Set It Up

Before Glen Powell was starring opposite Sydney Sweeney in Anyone but You, he was putting his rom-com acting skills to the test in the 2018 Netflix rom-com Set It Up. Zoey Deutch and Powell both play executive assistants whose lives revolve around making their demanding bosses happy. In order to get their own lives back, the two decide to set up their bosses and end up falling for each other along the way. 

There’s something magical about Set It Up and yet it’s one of the most underrated romantic comedies. Brimming with humor and romance, the movie is also a story about the professional and personal woes young twenty-somethings are currently facing in the world. While it’s been several years since its release, fans and the director are still hoping for a sequel that reunites this incredible cast. 

15. Sleepless In Seattle

Maybe it’s the soundtrack. Maybe it’s the seemingly effortless charm of its entire cast. Maybe it’s the way the story makes us feel a mixture of warmth and humor and hope and a little bit of sadness as we follow the two leads on their destined paths toward one another. It’s probably a little bit of everything that makes Nora Ephron’s Sleepless in Seattle work so well, and it continues to hold up as one of the best romantic comedies of all time. It doesn’t hurt that Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are undeniably likable as love interests in this tale of a grieving widower finding love again after tragedy, which continues to be a timeless classic. 

14. Four Weddings And A Funeral

Directed by Mike Newell and written by Richard Curtis, the 1994 romantic comedy Four Weddings and a Funeral is one of those romantic comedies that you just have to watch whenever it’s on TV, even if it’s three weddings in by that point. With a blend of side-splitting humor, great romance, and one of the most emotional eulogies you’ll see in any movie, not just comedies, this timeless classic captures the full human experience.

Hugh Grant, with his portrayal of the soon-to-be-married Charles who has second thoughts after meeting Andie MacDowell’s Carrie at a wedding, became a massive star and a staple of the romantic comedy genre upon its release. It’s hard to imagine Grant’s rom-coms like Notting Hill, Two Weeks Notice, and About A Boy happening without Four Weddings and a Funeral.

13. You've Got Mail

You’ve Got Mail marked the third time Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks worked together and it’s so iconic, that fans are still begging for the two to reunite for another rom-com. The movie follows Kathleen, a struggling children’s bookstore owner, who starts an anonymous online romance with a man. The man in question ends up being Joe Fox, the owner of the corporate bookstore that just moved in, jeopardizing her own shop. 

Not only do Ryan and Hanks have amazing chemistry in the movie, but it was written by the Queen of Rom-Coms, Nora Ephron, and her daughter Delia. It pulls out all the stops from witty banter in the form of an AOL chat room, heartfelt monologues and grand gestures, and of course, it’s the perfect example of the enemies-to-lovers trope.

12. Coming To America

Sing it with me. “Sheeee’s yoooour queen to beee.” – John Landis’ Coming to America is one of, if not the best Eddie Murphy movies of all time. The story of a prince who is willing to give it all up to find true love, Coming to America is the quintessential ‘80s movie, which is buttressed by both Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall taking on multiple roles. From Prince Akeem, to Akeem’s friend, Semmi, to a Jewish barber, to of course, Sexual Chocolate lead singer, Randy Watson, the laughs come fast and furious in this romantic comedy. 

That said, the best thing about this movie is probably the courtship between Prince Akeem and Lisa McDowell, played by Shari Headley. In the end, Coming to America is a simple love story with a lot of laughs, but seriously. What else could you possibly want? 

11. 10 Things I Hate About You

Inspired by Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, 10 Things I Hate About You follows Kat (Julie Stiles) as her sister Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) attempts to set her up with a boy so her father will let her date. Enter Patrick, played brilliantly by Heath Ledger, the boy hired to win Kat over. So, begins a tale as old as the great playwright with all the early 2000s energy we absolutely adore.

This film expertly incorporates lines from Shakespeare’s play into a quintessential early ‘00s story filled with shenanigans that include a grand gesture involving the song “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” paintball and an iconic house party.Overall, 10 Things I Hate About You is incredibly intelligent and buckets of fun, plus its supporting cast is stacked with the likes of Allison Janney, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and David Krumholtz. And at the center of it is Kat and Patrick’s enemies-to-lovers relationship that bursts with chemistry.  

10. Punch-Drunk Love

Punch-Drunk Love is a lot of things, including a bit unusual and occasionally dark, but at its heart is a charming, humorous love story. If there’s one scene alone that secures its spot on this list, it’s the one set to Shelley Duvall’s “He Needs Me” from the Popeye soundtrack, when Barry (Adam Sandler) tracks Lena (Emily Watson) down in Hawaii, and their connection leads to romance, including some twisted and adorably bizarre pillow talk. Sure, he eventually has to confess that it’s not a coincidence that he’s there, but based on her reaction, she’s kind of ok with that.

As is the case with other Paul Thomas Anderson movies, there’s a mounting tension that builds in the movie. Barry Egan is almost constantly on the move in his bright blue suit, whether it’s dealing with work issues, his overbearing sisters or his occasional bouts of rage. And amidst an abandoned harmonium, being blackmailed by people running a phone sex hotline, and a plan that includes a whole lot of pudding, Barry forms a connection with Lena, who seems to see him the way no one else does. 

9. Obvious Child

Jenny Slate has made a run of movies in which she plays very funny characters dealing with some tough subjects, and no I’m not talking about The Secret Life Of Pets, but rather projects like Landline or most memorably Obvious Child. It was in the latter that Slate’s character Donna had an unusual meet cute, followed by an unplanned pregnancy. Yes, this film is very much still a rom-com, and while a story of a new relationship that simultaneously tackles a tough subject like an abortion is not the normal fodder for a popcorn flick, Obvious Child stands out from the pack. 

Gillian Robespierre’s film is witty, thoughtful, sharply written, poignant and a narrative that many women can identify with and relate to, though is rarely normalized on the big screen. Just don’t go into this one expecting a bombastic “I Love You Baby” finale or a boombox-over-the-head ending, because it’s really not that kind of movie.

7 (Tied) As Good as it Gets

There are few characters more hilariously unlikeable than Melvin Udall (Jack Nicholson). The successful author is rude, bigoted and generally insensitive, but in As Good As It Gets, we see him take several turns for the better once he’s forced to help his recently assaulted neighbor (Greg Kinnear) as he becomes closer to Carol (Helen Hunt), the only waitress at his favorite restaurant who can stand/handle his horrid behavior. 

One of the many great things about this film is that it shows how two wildly different people can grow to respect, enjoy and even love each other and just how transformative that process can be, all while making us laugh and hope for Carol and Melvin’s Happily Ever After. Hunt and Nicholson have amazing tension that turns into a similar level of great romantic chemistry, and they sparkle so much in their respective roles that both nabbed Oscars for their work. If you haven’t seen this one at all, or in a while, the sweet moments and funny bits still hold up, and you should definitely add one of Jack Nicholson’s best movies to your queue soon.

7 (Tied) Amelie

For a lot of people, Amélie was not just the first French film they ever watched, it served as their introduction to the enchanting world of international cinema. Released in 2001, Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s charming, ambitious, and tremendously shot romantic comedy follows a young and beautiful yet incredibly lonely woman named Amélie Poulain (Audrey Tautou) as she explores life, love, and her own imagination in Paris. Putting her own happiness on the back burner, the introverted and quirky waitress spends her days trying to improve the lives of those around her so that at least someone can find love and meaning in the world.

What makes this Paris-set movie so beloved and popular nearly a quarter-century after its release is the way Jeunet takes elements of the traditional rom-com and adds a unique flair and sense of place to it, resulting in a unique and unforgettable experience. It also doesn’t hurt that Tautou is at her best when portraying the whimsical young woman with a bob haircut and hunger for adventure and wonder.

6. Groundhog Day

Sure, most people remember Harold Ramis’ Groundhog Day as that Bill Murray movie where he repeats the same day over and over again. And why wouldn’t they remember it as such since it’s probably Bill Murray’s funniest role.. However, what people sometimes tend to forget is that, at its heart, the movie is really a love story between a weatherman and his new producer. The weatherman in question is, of course, Bill Murray, and his new producer is played by Addie MacDowell. 

Day after day, Bill Murray’s character, Phil Connors, learns to at first revel in a life with no consequences, and then despise it. But, the one constant in his time loop is that MacDowell’s character, Rita Hanson, is usually at the center of just what he needs in his life. Throughout the film, Connors goes from being selfish, to learning to care about others, and then finally, to learning to love Rita Hanson. Yes, it’s a very silly movie, but it’s also a beautiful one as well. Plus, you’ll never hear the song, “I Got You Babe” the same way ever again. 

5. The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride is a story for someone who doesn’t want to be told a story. As Peter Falk tries to cheer up on-screen grandson Fred Savage while he’s home sick from school, screenwriter William Goldman’s epic love story/adventure/comedy starts with the perfect foundation for a timeless story. Because when someone doesn’t want you to tell them a story, that’s when you pull out all the stops.

Director Rob Reiner’s movie is not only a perfect rom-com, but it also allows both sides of that coin to have moments of pure joy. It even goes above and beyond, giving us everything from Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin) and his quest to avenge his father, to Fezzig (André the Giant) proving that not all massive men want to crush and destroy. What reigns supreme though is the romance between Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) and Westley (Cary Elwes). You don’t question that romance for a second, and even viewers that aren’t into “the kissing parts” root for these young lovers every step of the way. By the time The Princess Bride concludes, we’re all like Fred Savage’s Grandson character: ready to hear it all over again, the same time tomorrow.

4. About Time

Time travel has long proven to be a stunning device to center great movies, and in 2013’s About Time, the concept was cleverly woven into the romantic comedy genre in an unforgettable way. Written and directed by Richard Curtis, who famously brought other movies on this list to life like Love Actually, Bridget Jones’s Diary and Notting Hill, About Time tells the story of Tim (Domhnall Gleeson), an unassuming gent who is unlucky in love, and finds out one day he has the ability to travel through time at his whim. 

When Tim meets Mary (Rachel McAdams), he’ll travel as much in time as he can to get things right with her. What starts as a fun rom-com with a science fiction bent, transpires into something more, as About Time explores how precious each moment we get with our loved ones truly is, whether it be with our significant others, family or friends. As the best rom-coms do, the 2013 movie not only is a great commentary on modern romance, with plenty of laughs weaved in, it also feels very honest, and is quite the tearjerker as well.

3. The American President

You might not think a budding relationship between the President of the United States and an environmental lobbyist would make for one of the best romantic comedies of all time, but with the superb writing of Aaron Sorkin and endearing leads like Michael Douglas and Annette Bening, that’s exactly what The American President is. The meet-cute happens when President Andrew Shepherd walks into a meeting just as Sydney Ellen Wade makes a disparaging remark at his expense. Rather than get angry, the widower seems amused, and he ends up asking her out.

But it’s not so easy to be the president and someone’s boyfriend, especially during a re-election year, when fulfilling your duties to the country leads to your girlfriend getting fired. Bening’s scathing parting words — “You just lost my vote.” — are a thing of beauty, and oh what a world where sending a bill through to Congress can be a big romantic gesture. The combination of an idealized universe, one of the all-time best fictional presidents, and two ridiculously compatible characters spouting smart dialogue make this one rom-com you can enjoy over and over.

2. Annie Hall

Annie Hall isn’t your typical romantic comedy. Those looking for the conventional reassuring structure of meet-cute to courtship to adversity to marriage will be disappointed, but Annie Hall is among the top movies on this list because it has so much to say about relationships. How we choose our partners, how we argue with them, how we decide to move in or not move in with them, how we drift apart, how we break up how we sometimes see the best in lovers and sometimes see the worst— it’s all analyzed and shown here, sometimes in subtle ways that let the viewer draw their own conclusions and sometimes in very overt statements we get from the narration. 

Also, it’s hilarious, sometimes in the exact way you’d expect from Woody Allen, like in a scene where he’s invited over in the middle of the night to kill a particularly large spider– and sometimes in offbeat and unexpected ways like when we got a scene with subtitles of what each character is thinking. It’s all so sharp and clever that it would probably get old or feel preachy if it wasn’t held together by an all-time Diane Keaton performance. Her Oscar-winning turn here is somehow both relatable and full of eccentric and quirky charm and is the biggest single reason why this movie is so fondly remembered decades later.

1. When Harry Met Sally...

Can two people, who are attracted to each other, really just stay friends? It’s a question many of us have had to ask ourselves time and time again, and the premise of Nora Ephron’s rom-com masterpiece, When Harry Met Sally. The 1989 movie tracks the lives of Meg Ryan’s Sally and Billy Crystal’s Harry through a decade of knowing each other, from first meeting on a ride-share in New York City to an all-time great movie moment with Harry's New Year’s Eve confession at the end, with both sincerity and tons of charm. 

From Ephron’s razor-sharp dialogue, Rob Reiner’s honest direction, the lush autumn New York setting and the magnetic chemistry between Crystal and Ryan, that will have one saying, “I’ll have what they’re having,” we’ll be talking about great rom-coms and When Harry Met Sally in the same sentence for eons to come. We want to spend the rest of our lives revisiting that one, and another rewatch cannot come soon enough. 

As evidenced by the variety of movies above, not all love stories take the easy road, but some of the best ones do it with a bit of humor and a lot of heart. 

There are few cities, both in the United States and globally, that have appeared in as many movies as New York City. There’s just something about the location, its people, and its mix of cultures that makes the “Big Apple” the perfect place to tell a story, whether it be some of the greatest romantic comedies, drama, action, and several Best Picture winners

But, truth be told, there is a seemingly endless list of New York City movies going back to the early days of cinema, from classic silent films up to modern times, making it an arduous task to come up with a few titles to choose from. Worry not, though, for we have put together a list of movies almost as big as the city itself and where you can find them streaming or for purchase.

Wall Street (1987)

Undoubtedly one of the best stock market movies, as well as one of the meanest, Oliver Stone’s Wall Street is a tour de force. In this quintessential ‘80s film, Charlie Sheen takes on the role of the ambitious yet naive Bud Fox, a young stockbroker who makes the most of a first impression with his hero, the vicious Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas).

It’s hard to imagine a movie with the title Wall Street taking place anywhere else besides New York City, its busy streets, chaotic stock exchange, and fine-dining establishments. The city is treated more like a character than a setting, which adds to the film’s tension.

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Home Alone 2: Lost In New York (1992)

If you ever wondered what it would be like for a kid to spend a few days alone in New York City with nothing more than the clothes on his back, his whits, and his dad’s credit card, we have the perfect movie for you. Released in 1992, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York follows Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) as finds himself separated from his family over the holidays once again, only this time he’s in the “City That Never Sleeps” instead of a sleepy Chicago suburb.

Yeah, Home Alone 2 uses a lot of the same gags, tropes, and plot points as its predecessor, but there are a few aspects that were better than the original. And, the idea of a megacity being a kid’s personal playground is one that never gets old.

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Annie Hall (1977)

Certain things haven’t aged well in Annie Hall, but there’s no denying the fact that Woody Allen’s 1977 classic is not only one the director’s best films, it’s also a quintessential New York movie. The movie follows the relationship between Alvy Singer (Allen) and Annie Hall (Diane Keaton) as they fall in and out of love and come to terms with the reality of their situation.

Yeah, several scenes indeed take place outside of New York City, specifically the Los Angeles sequences, but the “Big Apple” is essentially third billing. At times, it feels like the city is another lover in the Hall-Singer dynamic, one that slowly begins to break the relationship apart.

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Breakfast At Tiffany’s (1961)

One of the most iconic films of the ‘60s, Breakfast at Tiffany’s follows Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn) and Paul Varjak (George Peppard), two strangers who strike up quite a relationship after moving into the same apartment building. With this “will they or won’t they?” dynamic to their relationship, the pair navigate life, love, older and more wealthy prospects, and the chaotic nature of New York City.

This brilliant adaptation of Truman Capote’s novella is outrageously funny, has a lot of heart and soul, and captures a certain era of mid-century New York. Highly influential, it’s easy to see the impact of the film on both cinema and culture in the years that followed its release.

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The Warriors (1979)

Though probably not one of the first things to come to mind when thinking about the best New York movies, few films have used the city better than The Warriors. Taking place over a single night, this cult classic follows the titular gang as they make their way back to Coney Island through any means necessary.

Brawling their way through multiple boroughs and the unique and iconic gangs that call them home, the Warriors take the viewer on a dark, violent, and rather unorthodox tour of NYC. Released in 1979, the movie also feels like a time capsule to one of the craziest eras in the city’s history.

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Coming To America (1988)

One of the funniest fish-out-of-water movies ever made, Coming to America has been considered an Eddie Murphy classic since pretty much the day of its release back in 1988. This absurdly funny comedy follows Prince Akeem Joffer (Murphy) the heir to the Zamundan throne travels to Queens to find a wife. After meeting the woman of his dreams, Lisa McDowell (Shari Headley), Akeem does everything in his power to win her over, even if that means working at her dad’s McDonald’s knockoff. 

We don’t witness a lot of the glitz and glamour of New York as typically seen in many movies of its era, but Coming to America does take the audience on an unofficial tour of one of the city’s most notorious and culturally significant areas.

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25th Hour (2002)

Spike Lee’s 2002 drama, 25th Hour, follows Monty Brogan (Edward Norton) as he spends his last night walking the streets of New York City before turning himself in to start a seven-year prison sentence. With his freedom quickly evaporating, the convicted drug dealer contemplates running away from it all.

One of the first movies to be shot in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, 25th Hour captures the fractured exterior of New York City and the nation as a whole. You can feel the hurt, loss, and confusion at any given point in the gripping drama and are immediately taken back to that strange period that has since become a distant memory.

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West Side Story (1961)

Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise’s 1961 adaptation of the landmark Broadway musical, West Side Story, tells a modern-day Romeo and Juliet story but instead of being set in 15th-century Verona, this takes place in the streets, alleys, and on the fire escapes of 1950s New York City, where the Jets and Sharks are constantly at one another’s throats.

There are few musicals, both those about New York City and in general, that are as beloved as West Side Story, a movie that has not only withstood the test of time, it has gotten better with each passing day. And, it’s hard to imagine Maria (Natalie Wood) and Tony (Richard Beymer) risking it all and falling for one another anywhere besides the Upper West Side.

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Miracle On 34th Street (1947)

When the Santa hired to headline the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade shows up drunk, a man claiming to be the real Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) takes his place and becomes an immediate sensation in the retailer’s flagship store, where he enchants children and adults alike who can’t help but fall under his spell.

George Seaton’s 1947 Christmastime classic, Miracle on 34th Street, beautifully captures the mood of New York City at the height of the holiday season with its story, characters, and undeniable charm. You could argue it's just an extended ad for Macy’s, but few Christmas movies use some of the Big Apple’s biggest institutions so well.

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When Harry Met Sally... (1989)

Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally… tells the story of Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) as they go from two college graduates who want nothing to do with one another to two young professionals madly in love with one another, even if they don’t want to admit it.

When Harry Met Sally… is one of those quintessential New York City movies, one of those timeless films that make you want to jump on a plane and fly to “The City That Never Sleeps” in hopes of finding all the locations of all those incredible scenes whether it be a diner, Washington Square Park, or even where the Meadowlands once stood.

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Tootsie (1982)

Upon realizing that no one wants to work with him, struggling New York actor Michael Dorsey (Dustin Hoffman, in a performance that somehow didn’t win an Oscar) dresses up as a woman and creates the Dorothy Michaels persona. After getting a small part on a daytime soap opera, Dorothy becomes an overnight sensation thanks to her feisty attitude.

Sydney Pollack’s 1982 comedy, Tootsie, while mostly taking place in a TV studio, has some memorable New York City moments, including the iconic shot of Dustin Hoffman, dressed as Dorothy, walking through the streets of the Big Apple; a scene that has been recreated in movies like Elf.

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The Godfather (1972)

Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather tells the story of the Corleone crime family over the course of more than a decade, with a primary focus on Vito (Marlon Brando) and his son and successor, Michael (Al Pacino), and how the two men change over time.

Some of the most pivotal moments in The Godfather take place in and around New York City. There’s the attempted hit on Don Vito Corleone, Paulie Gatto’s (Johny Martino) assassination with the Statue of Liberty in the background, Michael Corleone killing a rival mob boss and crooked cop at a Bronx restaurant, and Sonny Corleone (James Caan) being ambushed and murdered at a toll booth. It’s hard to imagine the movie without the city and the other way around.

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Manhattan (1979)

Woody Allen plays Isaac Davis, a TV writer who finds himself unfulfilled in life, professionally, romantically, and personally. A lot of that changes when Isaac meets Mary Wilkie (Diane Keaton), a smart and opinionated writer who just so happens to be his best friend’s mistress.

There is no doubt about it, Manhattan is an unapologetic love letter to the city of New York. I mean the film’s opening, with its montage of beautiful shots of the city accompanied by “Rhapsody in Blue” and Allen’s character fumbling to start a book, tell you what the movie is about before we even meet a single character. Brilliant!

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Big (1988)

Frustrated with his size, 12-year-old Josh Baskin (David Moscow) makes a wish that turns him into a fully-grown adult (Tom Hanks) and sets off to make a new life in New York City. Little does he know, but being a child stuck in a man’s body will soon give him the upper hand when he gets offered a job with a toy company.

One of the great things about Penny Marshall’s Big is the way it captures what you would imagine it feels like to be a kid on your own in one of the busiest (and scariest) cities on the planet.

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Trading Places (1983)

After becoming the pawns in a sinister game carried out by a pair of brothers in which they are forced to switch places, Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd) and Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy) team up, not to get even, but to get revenge.

Directed by John Landis, Trading Places has one of the most sinister Wall Street-centric schemes to come out in the 1980s (as well as one of the best riches-to-rags stories), but the performances by Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd turn it into not only one of the best New York movies but one of the greatest comedies of all time.

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Speedy (1928)

Ted Wilde’s 1928 iconic silent film, Speedy, stars Harold Lloyd as Harold “Speedy” Swift, a young man so deeply devoted to his girlfriend that he will do anything he can to stop the diabolical competitor of her family’s business from putting them out of business for good.

If you want to see what New York City was like in the years before the Great Depression, look no further than Speedy. The movie takes us to some of the most iconic landmarks of the city, including Yankee Stadium, where the hero has a run-in with Babe Ruth that is just something else.

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Ghostbusters (1984)

The biggest and baddest ghosts the Big Apple has ever seen are on the loose, and the only people who can stop them are a group of failed scientists and an everyman just looking for a job.

It is hard to think of a movie that yells out “New York City” in the 1980s more than Ivan Reitman’s 1984 classic, Ghostbusters. I mean, where else are you going to see a ghost in the confines of the New York Public Library, a demon dog running through Central Park, or a marshmallow man walking the streets of the city?

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Do The Right Thing (1989)

When a disagreement over whose picture should be on the wall of a Brooklyn pizzeria explodes into a massive ordeal, the entire neighborhood gets caught up in the racial and social tension that has been building up for years.

Spike Lee has always had his finger on the pulse of New York City, which is shockingly clear in his 1989 classic, Do the Right Thing, which is one of the best movies on Amazon. By not shying away from the problems affecting the city, Lee is able to paint an accurate picture of the area he knows and loves.

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Taxi Driver (1976)

One of Martin Scorsese’s best movies, Taxi Driver puts you in the passenger seat with one of the most deranged characters ever written, Robert De Niro’s Travis Bickle. Mostly confined to his cab and decrepit apartment, Bickle slowly begins losing touch with reality.

New York City has its problems today, but nothing compared to the version of the city seen in Taxi Driver. This look back on a long-gone era (and city) is shockingly violent and doesn’t leave you hope, but there’s no denying its place in cinematic history.

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All of these movies capture a different feeling or era of New York City and help those who have never visited the Big Apple get a glimpse at what life is like in the famous city. And, who knows, maybe that tradition will continue with some of the upcoming 2024 new movie releases.

Despite never really wanting to be an actress, Meg Ryan has done quite well for herself on the big screen over the years. One of the most beloved Hollywood stars of the past 35-plus years, and an actress who has been in more than a few of the best romantic comedies of all time, Ryan is one of those people you can’t help but watch whenever she’s on the screen. 

In honor of her contributions to cinema throughout her career, we have put together a list of the best Meg Ryan movies and just about all the ways you can watch, whether it’s on a streaming service or old-fashioned physical media. There are a lot of movies (13 in total) to break down, so let’s get this show on the road.

When Harry Met Sally… (1989)

Rob Reiner’s 1989 classic romantic comedy, When Harry Met Sally…, has a simple yet terrifically effective premise: boy meets girl, girl hates boy, boy runs into girl every couple of years, they become friends, and slowly fall in love with one another. 

Everything about When Harry Met Sally… just works. Nora Ephron’s writing is to die for, the supporting cast is about as good as it gets, and the two leads — Billy Crystal’s Harry Burns and Meg Ryan’s Sally Albright — have this undeniable chemistry and charm. And, let's not forget perhaps the most iconic scene in all of romantic comedies either.

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Sleepless In Seattle (1993)

A few years after writing When Harry Met Sally… Nora Ephron wrote and directed the second best romantic comedy of all time: Sleepless in Seattle. The movie centers on widower Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks) as he becomes an overnight sensation after his son calls into a syndicated radio program in hopes of finding someone for his dad. On the other end of the country is Annie Reed (Meg Ryan), who becomes infatuated with his story.

There is no denying Sleepless in Seattle's place in conversation of the best romantic comedies of all time. The story, cast, and even music, all work together to create this timeless classic that shows just how good a movie can be when the stars align.

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You've Got Mail (1998)

Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks got together for a third time in Nora Ephron’s 1998 romantic comedy, You’ve Got Mail. This time around, the two play rivals Kathleen Kelly and Joe Fox, who own and operate two completely different types of bookstores in New York City. Despite despising one another in real life, they unknowingly fall for one another online.

You’ve Got Mail is probably the most dated of the three movies starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks, but it does serve as a time capsule to the culture of the late 1990s. Sure, it's cheesy and a little too sentimental at times, but it's one of those movies you can't help but watch whenever it's showing on TNT some random Sunday afternoon.

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Joe Versus The Volcano (1990)

Before they fell in love over the radio and AOL, Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks fall for one another in the face of death. John Patrick Shanley’s offbeat romantic comedy, Joe Versus the Volcano, follows Joe Banks (Tom Hanks), a beaten down man who embarks on a journey to uncover the meaning of life before he jumps to his death in a volcano.

No surprise her, but Tom Hanks is to die for as the neurotic Joe Banks, but it’s really Meg Ryan who steals the show. Taking on not one, not two, but three different characters throughout the movie, each one more different than the last. You really see her range with this triple-threat.

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Top Gun (1986)

Tony Scott’s legendary '80s movie, Top Gun, mostly follows Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) as he sets out to prove his worth to his superiors and fellow Navy pilots, but also himself. Meg Ryan comes into play as Carole Bradshaw, the wife of Maverick’s wingman Nick “Goose” Bradshaw (Anthony Edwards) in two of the movie’s most memorable scenes.

Despite only having a few credits to her name by the time Top Gun came out, it’s hard to tell by the way Meg Ryan takes command of the screen. Whether it’s the light-hearted bar scene (“Hey, Goose, you big stud!”) or her emotional moment later on in the movie, it’s easy to see how she became a massive star not long after. 

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The Doors (1991)

Oliver Stone’s 1991 biographical drama, The Doors, tells the story of the astronomical rise and quick fall of the band’s lead singer and lyricist, Jim Morrison (Val Kilmer). Because Morrison’s real life journey, and that of The Doors, featured Pamela Courson (Meg Ryan) so much, it should come as no surprise that his longtime partner would have a major role in this sprawling epic.

One of the best things about Meg Ryan’s performance in The Doors, besides her commitment to the role, is the fact that she (like the woman she is portraying) is so complex throughout the movie. Her back-and-forth relationship with Val Kilmer's version of Jim Morrison also grounds the movie that could have very well gotten too carried away.

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Courage Under Fire (1996)

Edward Zwick’s 1996 military drama, Courage Under Fire, centers on Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Sterling (Denzel Washington) as he attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the death of helicopter pilot Captain Karen Emma Walden (Meg Ryan), who is to be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

A more dramatic role than seen in her romantic comedies, Meg Ryan still manages a way to bring out the most in her character through her sheer likability and charm, which really humanizes Karen Walden. Even though this is more remembered as a Denzel Washington movie, Ryan shows can pull off more than romantic comedies.

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Innerspace (1987)

Joe Dante’s 1987 sci-fi comedy, Innerspace, follows Tuck Pendleton (Dennis Quaid) as he shrinks down to a near-microscopic size as part of a revolutionary experiment. When outside parties attempt to sabotage the operation, Tuck finds himself transferring from one body to the another, including that of his estranged girlfriend, Lydia Maxwell (Meg Ryan).

Throughout Innerspace it is easy to see why Meg Ryan would become such a bankable star in years following its release, as the movie allows her to riff alongside co-star Martin Short and show off her charm and comedic timing.

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French Kiss (1996)

Lawrence Kasden’s 1996 romantic comedy, French Kiss, centers on a woman named Kate (Meg Ryan) whose attempt to confront her cheating fiancé in Paris is upended by a charismatic and prolific thief named Luc (Kevin Kline). 

Part romantic comedy and part crime caper, French Kiss is an overall good time, especially for fans of the two leads. It has a great story and the chemistry shared by Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline is to die for.

Get it on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Prelude To A Kiss (1992)

Released in 1992, Norman René’s fantasy romance, Prelude to a Kiss, tells the story of Peter Hoskins (Alec Baldwin) and Rita Boyle (Meg Ryan), whose relationship becomes all the more complicated when Rita’s consciousness is swapped with that of an elderly man after he kisses her. 

Prelude to a Kiss isn’t your standard romantic comedy and has a lot of fun with a concept. I mean, where else are you going to see Meg Ryan act like she's an elderly man trapped in a woman's body? It's fun, it's sweet, and features some of the star's signature charm.

Stream Prelude to a Kiss on Starz.
Get it on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

When A Man Loves A Woman (1994)

After years of severe alcohol abuse and several close calls involving her young children, Alice Green (Meg Ryan) decides to finally seek help and make a change before it’s too late. But when her decision forces her to take a look at her relationship with her husband Michael (Andy Garcia), she finds out she’s not out of the woods yet.

Luis Mandoki’s 1994 romantic drama, When a Man Loves a Woman, features one of the rawest Meg Ryan performances. Her vulnerability and emotional range only make the movie better, especially when she tells the heart-wrenching story about misplacing her young daughter while drunk.

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Addicted To Love (1997)

Griffin Dunne’s 1997 romantic comedy Addicted to Love follows two broken-hearted strangers, Maggie (Meg Ryan) and Sam (Matthew Broderick), who are brought together to get back at exes who just so happen to be in an affair.

Meg Ryan plays a character with a harder edge than we’re used to seeing her portray, which gives Addicted to Love a unique quality when compared to her more toned-down Nora Ephron characters. Plus, her chemistry with Matthew Broderick adds a nice touch to the movie.

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Kate And Leopold (2001)

Kate McKay’s (Meg Ryan) life is thrown for a loop when she meets and falls in love with Leopold (Hugh Jackman), a 19th-Century duke who is mysteriously transported to the early 21st Century.

If you are looking for a movie where a modern woman falls in love with a man out of time, then James Mangold’s 2001 fantasy romantic comedy Kate & Leopold is the movie for you. Sure, the movie has a silly concept, but Meg Ryan and Hugh Jackman are so great together, you sort of forget some of the movie's problems.

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This is just a portion of the great Meg Ryan movies that are available streaming, but it is a good place to start. If you want to know about everything new coming to theaters and streaming services, check out our list of all the 2022 new movie releases. 

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It’s that time of year again — the days are shorter, there’s a crispness in the air, and the leaves are changing. What better way to bring in the autumn months than with a marathon of the best fall movies. With classic romantic comedies like When Harry Met Sally, instant classics like Knives Out, and oh so many sports movies, there are countless great films to fill up the hours of those cool September weekends, long October nights, and lazy November Sundays. To help you get the most out of your time, we’ve put together a list of the best fall movies and how to watch them.

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

When Harry Met Sally, directed by Rob Reiner, tells the story of Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan), and the different stages of their relationship as they go from two college graduates arguing about the viability of male-female friendships to soulmates.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Some of the movie’s best scenes take place during the fall, particularly Harry and Sally talking about recurring sex dreams while walking through New York and the hilarious football game where Harry tries to talk about his divorce with Jess (Bruno Kirby) in the middle of the wave.

Stream When Harry Met Sally on HBO Max.

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Buy When Harry Met Sally on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Knives Out (2019)

When novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) dies under suspicious circumstances, detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is brought in to investigate. With every family member a suspect, it’s up to Blanc to get to the bottom of this murder mystery.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Maybe it’s the sweaters, leaves on the ground, or a general sense of chilliness that makes Rian Johnson’s 2019 whodunit, Knives Out, such a fun treat to revisit each fall. No matter what draws you back to the unique story, this is a must for anyone looking for one of the best movies on Amazon.

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Buy Knives Out on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

October Sky (1999)

Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal) and a group of friends make a rocket of their own, even if everyone else but their teacher, Miss Riley (Laura Dern), thinks they're crazy. Miss Riley soon becomes all the support they need.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Joe Johnston’s October Sky has fall written all over it. Cold air, fallen leaves in West Virginia, and the October 1957 launch of Sputnik 1, are three examples in this great biographical drama.

Stream October Sky on Peacock.

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Buy October Sky on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Dead Poets Society (1989)

At the start of the fall 1959 semester at the prestigious Welton Academy preparatory school, unconventional yet influential English teacher John Keating (Robin Williams) comes into the lives of his students, forever changing the way they look at themselves and the world around them.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Just like wind shaking leaves from a tree, John Keating gives his students the knowledge and confidence to fall from their branches in Peter Weir’s Academy Award-winning coming-of-age drama, Dead Poets Society. The teenage boys undergo a tremendous shift in their lives just as the seasons change in the early days of autumn, a change that will forever stick with them.

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Buy Dead Poets Society on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Rudy (1993)

What Rudy Ruettiger (Sean Astin) lacks in size, he makes up for tenfold with his drive and positive outlook as he tries to pull off the impossible by joining the famed Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team as a walk-on.

Why it’s a great fall movie: David Anspaugh’s 1993 classic Rudy will forever be one of the best sports movies of all time thanks to its unforgettable story of an underdog going against the grain to make his dream a reality, no matter what it takes or costs. As the fall football season gets into full swing, there’s no better time than now to watch this timeless classic.

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Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

After being a mild-mannered fox with a wife, son, and weekly newspaper column, Foxy Fox (George Clooney) grows tired of his predictable life and decides to go back to his old ways. When the wise-cracking fox, his family (voiced by Meryl Streep and Jason Schwartzman), and friends become the targets of three local farmers, they finds themselves in a race for survival.

Why it’s a great fall movie: One of the best Wes Anderson movies, this 2009 adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr. Fox just looks like a fall movie with its warm color palette and visuals of fruit and grain harvests.

Stream Fantastic Mr. Fox on Disney+.

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Buy Fantastic Mr. Fox on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Just when it seems like things can’t get much crazier for Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper), he meets recently widowed Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence). As a way for both to move on with their lives following episodes of severe trauma, the pair enter a dancing competition.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Set in Philadelphia in the middle of the NFL season, David O. Russell’s Silver Linings Playbook is a damn near perfect fall film. With an inspirational story about living with a mental illness, rebuilding bridges, and finding new meaning in life, it’s also one of the best movies on Netflix.

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For Love Of The Game (1999)

Billy Chapel (Kevin Costner) is in the middle of throwing a perfect game, but he can't stop thinking about his on again, off again relationship with Jane Aubrey (Kelly Preston) between each New York Yankee batter.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Sam Raimi's For Love of the Game is part baseball movie and part love story about a couple destined to be a part of each other’s lives despite the odds. A lot of the movie takes place in various seasons, but it always comes back to that fateful fall day in New York.

Stream For Love of the Game on Showtime.

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Buy For Love of the Game on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

Will Hunting (Matt Damon) isn't your typical genius, but behind that hardened exterior is a level of intellect few have seen before. When Will has a run-in with the law, professor Gerald Lambeau (Stellan Skarsgard) takes him under his wing and introduces him to therapist Sean Maguire (Robin Williams).

Why it’s a great fall movie: There is something about Gus Van Zant’s Good Will Hunting, which was written by stars Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, that shouts autumn. Conversations in Boston Common, stories set in Red Sox World Series lore, and talk of Sunday afternoons watching the Patriots play all come to mind.

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Remember The Titans (2000)

T.C. Williams High School becomes integrated for the 1971 school year, forcing football players of different walks of life to be teammates. Under the leadership of new head coach Herman Boone (Denzel Washington), the players’ triumphs on the field pale in comparison to the ground they break off the gridiron.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Remember the Titans remains not only one of the best high school football movies but also one of the best sports movies in general. And, with the movie primarily taking place during the Titans’ 1971 football season, there’s no reason not to consider this one of the best fall movie options.

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Buy Remember the Titans on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

The Cider House Rules (1999)

Homer Wells (Tobey Maguire) lives at a Maine orphanage under the care of Dr. Wilbur Larch. But, when Wilbur tells Homer he wants him to take over the orphanage and the care of those in need of his services, Homer flees to find a life of his own, connecting with Candy Kendall (Charlize Theron), the girlfriend of World War II pilot Wally Worthington (Paul Rudd).

Why it’s a great fall movie: There are few places as beautiful as New England on a crisp fall day, and Lasse Hallström’s 1999 coming-of-age drama The Cider House Rules proves that.

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Little Women (2019)

Jo March (Saoirse Ronan) sets out to write about the bond she shares with her three sisters and their life in Massachusetts. Inspired by their extraordinary lives and everything that has happened to them over the years, Jo hopes to capture the magic of sisterhood.

Why it’s a great fall movie: Greta Gerwig’s 2019 adaptation of Little Women makes some slight deviations from Louisa May Alcott’s novel of the same name, but the core of this timeless story remains the same. And it’s true that Little Women features all the seasons throughout its sprawling narrative, but one can’t help but think of fall whenever watching it.

Stream Little Women on Starz.

Rent/Buy Little Women on Amazon.

Buy Little Women on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

Planes, Trains And Automobiles (1987)

Neal Page (Steve Martin) wants to be home for Thanksgiving, but fate has other plans. When his travel plans are thrown out the window, Neal is trapped with Del Griffith (John Candy), who becomes his companion in this heartfelt buddy road trip movie.

Why it’s a great fall movie: There are few Thanksgiving movies that compare to John Hughes’ Planes, Trains and Automobiles. With one side-splitting moment after another and a lot of weight in the final act of the movie, this beloved classic features a great story about the meaning of family and friendship.

Stream Planes, Trains and Automobiles on Hulu.

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Buy Planes, Trains and Automobiles on DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon.

As the temperature continues to drop and the leaves start to change, hopefully these movies remind you of the beauty of fall and its warm memories. However, if you’re looking for something new, take a look at our list of all the remaining 2021 new movie releases.

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With six Emmys, a Tony Award, a Mark Twain Prize, and several adoring fans around the world, Billy Crystal is one of Hollywood's most famous and celebrated comedians, and he has produced decades of great film and television throughout the years. Whether you know him best for his starring roles in When Harry Met Sally and City Slickers, his scene-stealing supporting turns in The Princess Bride and This is Spinal Tap, or his voice-only performances in Monsters Inc. and Monsters University, Crystal has delighted audiences, both young and old, for generations, and that tradition now continues with Disney+'s Monsters at Work, where he reprises his role as Mike Wazowski.

If you love the veteran comedian, here are the Billy Crystal movies and shows that you should stream.

Monsters At Work (Disney+)

A streaming series that explores what happens when the employees of Monsters Inc. get their energy from children's laughs rather than their screams.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Though it borrows more from the aesthetics of workplace sitcoms than the two films that built this monster-filled world, Monsters at Work is an amusing, appealing addition to the Pixar canon, providing the award-winning animation studio with a chance to try their hand at weekly television. It's not as screamingly funny, particularly as the early episodes follow the mold of other sitcoms (animated or otherwise) in this vein, but it does give viewers plenty of ample opportunities to spend time in this inventive world. This time around, Billy Crystal and John Goodman take on supporting roles as Mike and Sulley, respectively, but their vocal performances remain as entertaining as ever (even if you can hear their ages creeping through). If you love the original Monsters Inc. and its 2013 prequel, you'll have a good time with this new sequel series.

Stream Monsters At Work on Disney+.

When Harry Met Sally (HBO Max)

Two close pals (Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan) wonder if they can become more intimate without ruining their friendship.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: If there's a perfect romantic comedy, Rob Reiner's exceptionally charming When Harry Met Sally might very well be it. From Nora Ephron's sharp-as-a-tack screenplay to Reiner's warm-hearted direction to the delightful interplay between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, this fun, smart, believable dynamic is benefitted from being emotionally honest, intellectually stimulating, and enjoyable comfort food. Thus, this years-spanning rom-com is a delectable treat with a lasting taste, leaving you immensely satisfied by its renewable pleasures. It's also, quite likely, Crystal's greatest starring role, capturing his comedic and dramatic prowess with an attentive eye and a beating heart. He fits into this part splendidly, and his chemistry with Ryan is tremendously winsome and touching. There are few movies capable of capturing all these great qualities in one wonderful package. When Harry Met Sally is always a welcome addition to date night.

Stream When Harry Met Sally on HBO Max.

Rent When Harry Met Sally on Amazon.

Throw Momma From The Train (Amazon Prime/PlutoTV)

An author struggling with writer's block (Billy Crystal) forms a wicked bond with his student (Danny DeVito) to get rid of the women who ruin their lives.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Though it wouldn't have the same ruthless confidence of his latter directorial features, including The War of the Roses and Matilda, Danny DeVito's punchy feature directorial debut, Throw Momma From the Train, was a clever, crudely entertaining dark comedy, one that elevated greatly by the sharp buddy chemistry shared between Billy Crystal and DeVito, along with a towering Oscar-nominated supporting turn from the late Anne Ramsey. Though it often favors a broad approach that lacks the sharp precision of DeVito's follow-up films, he knows how to follow the funny. While Crystal's mostly in straight-man-mode here, he's able to get some wryly funny moments throughout this vengeful lark and plays a good foil to his scheming co-star/director. It's not a runaway smash, but it's a fun time.

Stream Throw Momma From The Train on Amazon Prime and PlutoTV.

Buy Throw Momma From The Train on DVD/Blu-Ray on Amazon.

Standing Up, Falling Down (Starz/Hoopla)

A struggling stand-up comedian (Ben Schwartz) forms an unlikely companionship with a lonely, alcoholic dermatologist (Billy Crystal).

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: While the script might not venture far outside of conventions, Matt Ratner's Standing Up, Falling Down is a warm, wistful surprise, one that's elevated by sharp performances from Ben Schwartz and Billy Crystal and the mismatched chemistry they share. In fact, Crystal, as an alcoholic dermatologist with no sense of direction in his twilight years, gives one of his finest performances in years — maybe even one of his best ever. His carefully measured, emotionally searching sadsack is a welcome refrain from the quick-to-please actor, showing us a performer who hasn't gotten enough opportunities of late to showcase his versatile talents. For all its familiar story beats (and low-budget limitations), this returning-to-the-nest oddball couple romp is witty and wistful enough to win you over. It's also just refreshing to see something so uniquely patient, delicate, and rewarding from Crystal again.

Stream Standing Up, Falling Down on Starz and Hoopla.

Rent Standing Up, Falling Down on Amazon.

Soap (Tubi)

A night-time parody of daytime soap operas.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Playing the part of Jodie Dallas, the openly gay son of Cathryn Damon's Mary Campbell, Billy Crystal found early success in the ensemble of ABC's well-liked spoof series, Soap. Though it received mixed reviews and controversy upon its debut, Soap has since been lauded as one of the funniest shows on television, and while Crystal's role wasn't central, it gave him exposure at an early age. Particularly as the show made its way into syndication, it was easier for Crystal to expand his fanbase and win audiences over with his charm and wit. While soap operas aren't as commonplace as they once were, the show has remained a conversation starter for how it depicts a number of taboo (or once-taboo) topics in a lighthearted fashion. If you love Crystal, it's a fun show to go back and revisit. That said, the latter seasons are harder to find.

Stream Soap Seasons 1 and 2 on Tubi.

Buy Soap Seasons 1 and 2 on Amazon.

The Princess Bride (Disney+)

A fairytale adventure about a beautiful young woman (Robin Wright) and her one true love (Cary Elwes), told as a bedtime story by a kindly grandfather (Peter Falk).

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: There are few movies more quoted and beloved than The Princess Bride. With its swashbuckling mix of fantasy, romance, comedy, and adventure, this spellbinding fairy tale story has something for everyone to enjoy, finding a way to make familiar storytelling tropes feel fresh and innovative again. It also has one of the finest comedy casts in ages. Along with Cary Elwes and Robin Wright playing our central lovers, the star-studded ensemble includes Mandy Patinkin, Peter Falk, Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn, Chris Sarandon, Peter Cook, Andre the Giant, Carol Kane, and Billy Crystal. Regarding the latter, Crystal provides a memorable, make-up-heavy cameo as Miracle Max, an old, cantankerous, wise-cracking healer who lives in the woods. He's in the movie for less than 10 minutes but he's uproariously, side-splittingly funny — perhaps even quite literally.

Stream The Princess Bride on Disney+.

Rent The Princess Bride on Amazon.

This Is Spinal Tap (HBO Max)

A behind-the-scenes mockumentary following Spinal Tap, one of England's loudest bands, during their eventful, ill-fated tour.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Providing a brief cameo in the ironic role of a wisecracking mute, Billy Crystal received one of his earliest screen credits as Morty the Mime in Rob Reiner's endlessly quotable rock mockumentary, This Is Spinal Tap. Compared to the main cast, Crystal doesn't get more than a couple of scenes to shine. But even from an early age, it was clear that his quick timing and sharp comedic delivery were always precise and gut-bustlingly funny. Fittingly enough, Crystal only ever needed a few words to crack a smile, and this role — while not the one he'll be remembered for, even if it's one of his best movies — gave us an early indication of what the A-list comedy star would achieve later in his career. Because, frankly speaking, it's rare for a mime to inspire a lot of chatter.

Stream This Is Spinal Tap on HBO Max.

Buy This is Spinal Tap on Amazon.

Monsters Inc. And Monsters University (Disney+)

Two Pixar movies centered around the misadventures of Sulley (John Goodman) and Mike (Billy Crystal), two top-ranking employees at Monsters Inc., an energy-producing factory that generates power by scaring human children.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Even without the magic of computer animation, Billy Crystal is quite an animated character. Therefore, it was a given that he would give a great performance with only his vocal cords. Sure enough, Crystal gives life to one of his most famous and lovable characters as Mike Wazowski, a one-eyed, brown-horned, green-skinned, loud-mouthed monster who's the loyal co-worker, best friend, and roommate of James P. "Sully" Sullivan (voiced by John Goodman). Through his crackling wit and crooning voice, Crystal is a big ball of energy in both Monsters Inc. and its charming prequel, Monsters University. As buoyant and bouncy as can be, Crystal is at his best when he can riff and rattle. That's certainly the case here.

Stream Monsters Inc. on Disney+ and Monsters University on Disney+.

Rent Monsters Inc. on Amazon and rent Monsters University on Amazon.

61* (HBO Max)

In 1961, New York Yankees' Roger Maris (Barry Pepper) and Mickey Mantle (Thomas Jane) race to break Babe Ruth's 1927 single-season home run record.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Admittedly, Billy Crystal's directorial filmography can leave something to be desired. His ambitious debut, Mr. Saturday Night, didn't quite stick the landing, and his sophomore film, Forget Paris, also received mixed notices. Sadly, Crystal's latest feature, this year's Here Today, is deeply felt but also maudlin, fussy, and forgettable, lacking the precision of its emotionally-yearning intentions. Only HBO's 61*, Crystal's third film, found widespread critical acclaim. The baseball period drama is very sentimental, perhaps overly so, but it's aided nicely by its two lead performances from Barry Pepper and Thomas Jane as the legendary Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle, respectively. In the only film where he stayed strictly behind the camera, Crystal made a conventional-but-charming look back at a similar era for America's favorite past-time, and he tells this tale with warm affection and a sharp eye for performances.

Stream 61 on HBO Max.

Rent 61 on Amazon.

City Slickers (HBO Max)

Unhappy middle-aged New York yuppies (Billy Crystal, Bruno Kirby, Daniel Stern) venture to a southwest cattle drive to reclaim their waning youth.

Why It's Worth Watching If You Love Billy Crystal: Though it doesn't always find a proper balance between its midlife dramatics and its slap-happy comedy, it's easy to see why City Slickers was such a celebrated hit in the early '90s. Boosted nicely by the chatty chemistry shared between our three adventure-seeking leads, played by Billy Crystal, Bruno Kirby, and Daniel Stern, and spacious enough to let us soak in the wide majesty of the western plains between the yuks, this concept-heavy, character-focused comedy is something that probably wouldn't be made today, which makes it easy to appreciate its nostalgic yearning on an extra level. It's also benefitted greatly by Jack Palance's tough-nut, Oscar-winning supporting turn. Though Crystal feels oddly dialed back here, perhaps to communicate his general sense of displacement in life, he scores a few easy laughs throughout this rough-riding but easy-to-please studio dramedy.

Stream City Slickers on HBO Max.

Buy City Slickers on Amazon.

Monsters at Work premieres a new episode every week on Disney+.

The list of the best ‘80s movies is a massive and diverse list of everything from iconic action movies to Best Picture winners, and so much more. With so many great movies having come out in the penultimate decade of the 20th century, keeping track of all those rom-coms, sci-fi thrillers, horror flicks, and tear-jerking dramas is no easy task.

Looking for a way to revisit your favorites from the ‘80s while waiting for those new releases on the 2025 movie schedule? Well, come with us as we explore the best the ‘80s had to offer and how to watch those movies on some of the best streaming services. There’s a lot to unpack, so let’s go back to the ‘80s with these great movies…

The Big Chill (1983)

The Director: Lawrence Kasdan

The Cast: Glenn Close, Kevin Kline, William Hurt

What It’s About: A group of college friends reunite to bury one of their own who has committed suicide. Together for the first time in years, the once close-knit gang examine their college experience and what has changed.

What To Expect: With one of the best movie soundtracks ever assembled, incredible performances by some of the biggest ‘80s stars, and an unflinching story about friendship and identity, The Big Chill has it all.

• Stream The Big Chill on Max.
  Rent/Buy The Big Chill on Amazon.
• Get The Big Chill on DVD on Amazon.

Major League (1989)

The Director: David S. Ward

The Cast: Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, Wesley Snipes

What It’s About: After discovering that their team’s new owner is planning on tanking the team to relocate to sunny Florida, the ragtag group of misfits that make up the Cleveland Indians take matters into their own hands and attempt to pull off the impossible.

What To Expect: One of the best baseball movies of all time, Major League hits the triple crown of a sports flick: comedy, drama, and all kinds of web gems.

• Rent/Buy Major League on Amazon.
• Get Major League on DVD on Amazon.

Clue (1985)

The Director: Jonathan Lynn

The Cast: Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, Michael McKean

What It’s About: Six seemingly random strangers, who appear to have nothing in common with one another, are summoned to a mansion for dinner, only to discover they are in the middle of a murder mystery where no one can be trusted, not even the staff.

What To Expect: With its multiple endings, hilarious gags, and unforgettable performances by some of the funniest people in Hollywood, Clue takes a classic board game and turns it into a classic whodunit comedy.

• Rent/Buy Clue on Amazon.
• Get Clue on DVD on Amazon.

Honey, I Shrunk The Kids (1989)

The Director: Joe Johnston

The Cast: Rick Moranis, Matt Frewer, Amy O’Neill

What It’s About: After being in the wrong place at the wrong time, a group of teenagers are turned into a fraction of their normal size and are forced to survive the dangerous hellscape that is their backyard.

What To Expect: One of the most hilarious Rick Moranis movies, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, is full of great practical effects, a wild story, and some of the most iconic movie moments of the ‘80s.

• Stream Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on Disney+.
• Rent/Buy Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on Amazon.
• Get Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on DVD on Amazon.

Field Of Dreams (1989)

The Director: Phil Alden Robinson

The Cast: Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta

What It’s About: Ray Kinsella’s (Kevin Costner) life is forever changed after hearing a mysterious voice whisper “If you build it, he will come” while out in his cornfield.

What To Expect: What follows is one man’s journey to “ease the pain” of his hero, an odyssey that concludes with one of the most emotional scenes in any sports movie.

• Rent/Buy Field of Dreams on Amazon.
• Get Field of Dreams on DVD on Amazon.

Raising Arizona (1987)

The Director: The Coen Brothers

The Cast: Nicolas Cage, Holly Hunter, John Goodman

What It’s About: A down-on-their-luck couple goes to extreme lengths to have a baby of their own, even if that means kidnapping one from a wealthy family.

What To Expect: One of the Coen Brothers’ best movies, Raising Arizona has a perfect blend of comedy and crime, as well as no shortage of iconic and unforgettable characters.

• Rent/Buy Raising Arizona on Amazon.
• Get Raising Arizona on Blu-ray on Amazon.

9 to 5 (1980)

The Director: Colin Higgins

The Cast: Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton

What It’s About: A trio of fed-up secretaries team up to get even with their sexist boss, but things get out of hand when they learn their dream may have come true.

What To Expect: In addition to having one of the best movie songs of all time, 9 to 5 also has one of the best premises of the ‘80s and a cast that is untouchable.

• Rent 9 to 5 on Amazon.
• Get 9 to 5 on DVD on Amazon.

A Christmas Story (1983)

The Director: Bob Clark

The Cast: Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon

What It’s About: A young boy named Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) tries to convince everyone from his parents to his teacher and even Santa Claus himself to bring him a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.

What To Expect: Made up of a series of vignettes showcasing life in 1940s Indiana, A Christmas Story perfectly captures childhood obsession and what happens when reality brings your dreams crashing down.

• Rent/Buy A Christmas Story on Amazon.
• Get A Christmas Story on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Adventures In Babysitting (1987)

The Director: Chris Columbus

The Cast: Elisabeth Shue, Anthony Rapp, George Newbern

What It’s About: After being stood up by her boyfriend, high school senior Chris Parker (Elisabeth Shue) decides to spend the night watching a group of young siblings. What at first seems like a quiet night and easy money quickly turns into anything but.

What To Expect: Adventures in Babysitting, one of the best movies set in Chicago, is full of great and hilarious moments, all kinds of danger, and Elisabeth Shue in all her glory.

• Stream Adventures in Babysitting on Disney+.
• Rent/Buy Adventures in Babysitting on Amazon.
• Get Adventures in Babysitting on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Airplane! (1980)

The Directors: Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, Jerry Zucker

The Cast: Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Leslie Nielsen

What It’s About: With the crew and passengers incapacitated and no one else left to land the plane, a nervous pilot has to rise to the occasion and save the day.

What To Expect: The 1980 disaster film spoof, Airplane!, answers the question: what happens when a man who’s afraid to fly is the only one who can prevent a jumbo-jet from crashing?

• Rent/Buy Airplane on Amazon.
• Get Airplane! on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Aliens (1986)

The Director: James Cameron

The Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Lance Henriksen, Michael Biehn

What It’s About: After spending decades floating through space, Ellen Ripley is awoken and sent with a group of highly-trained space Marines to investigate a mining colony that has gone dark.

What To Expect: Ripley is back with a vengeance in James Cameron’s 1986 sci-fi action flick, Aliens, and she isn’t stopping until the final Xenomorph is launched into outer space.

• Rent/Buy Aliens on Amazon.
• Get Aliens on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Back To The Future (1985)

The Director: Robert Zemeckis

The Cast: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Llyod, Lea Thompson

What It’s About: When Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) steps into a DeLorean time machine and is transported back to 1955, he must avoid high school bullies and a younger version of his own mom if he wants to get back to 1985.

What To Expect: With great time-traveling scenes, Michael J. Fox at his best, and some hilarious scenarios (both in the past and the present), Back to the Future has everything you’d want in an ‘80s movie.

• Rent/Buy Back to the Future on Amazon.
• Get Back to the Future on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Batman (1989)

The Director: Tim Burton

The Cast: Michael Keaton, Jack Nicholson, Kim Basinger

What It’s About: After falling into a vat of toxic chemicals, one of Gotham’s most ambitious and dangerous criminals is transformed into the prince of crime, and only Batman can stop him.

What To Expect: Tim Burton’s dark and moody 1989 unconventional superhero film, Batman, forever changed the face of comic book movies and gave audiences one of the best representations of the iconic character.

• Stream Batman on Max.
• Rent/Buy Batman on Amazon.
• Get Batman on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Beetlejuice (1988)

The Director: Tim Burton
The Cast: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin

What It’s About: When the efforts by a ghostly couple (played by Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) to scare away the new owners of their country home are fruitless, they turn to a spirit by the name of Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) to regain control.
What To Expect: More than 35 years after its release, Beetlejuice remains one of the most inventive, iconic, and hilarious additions to Tim Burton’s massive library of movies.

• Stream Beetlejuice on Max.
• Rent/Buy Beetlejuice on Amazon.
• Get Beetlejuice on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

The Director: Martin Brest

The Cast: Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton

What It’s About: A wise-cracking and rebellious Detroit police officer comes to Los Angeles to track down those responsible for his best friend’s murder.

What To Expect: Expect to laugh, like a lot, because this Eddie Murphy classic starts and doesn’t stop until the credits roll.

• Stream Beverly Hills Cop on Paramount+.
• Rent/Buy Beverly Hills Cop on Amazon.
• Get Beverly Hills Cop on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Big (1988)

The Director: Penny Marshall

The Cast: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia

What It’s About: When 12-year-old Josh Baskin (David Moscow) wishes he was a little bigger, he gets his wish and then more when he wakes up to find he has been transformed into a full-grown adult (Tom Hanks).

What To Expect: Penny Marshall’s timeless comedy sees Baskin navigate 1980s New York City, but as a child trapped in a man’s body and various situations.

• Stream Big on Disney+.
• Rent/Buy Big on Amazon.
• Get Big on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Bill And Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)

The Director: Stephen Herek

The Cast: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, George Carlin

What It’s About: Strange things are afoot at the Circle K in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure when two dopey high schoolers (played by Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves) are given access to a time-traveling phone booth to pass their history exam and keep their band together.

What To Expect: Looking for righteous time-traveling sequences, air guitar, and Napoleon going to a water park? Well, look no further.

• Rent/Buy Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure on Amazon.
• Get Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Blade Runner (1982)

The Director: Ridley Scott

The Cast: Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young

What It’s About: Blade Runner follows replicant hunter Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) as he tracks down four escaped criminals who have returned to Earth from an off-world colony.

What To Expect: What starts off as a simple game of cat and mouse slowly turns into something much more complex.

• Rent/Buy Blade Runner on Amazon.
• Get Blade Runner on Blu-ray on Amazon.

Blue Velvet (1986)

The Director: David Lynch

The Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Dennis Hopper, Isabella Rossellini

What It’s About: College student Jeffrey Beaumont (Kyle MacLachlan) becomes involved with the dark and twisted world of his town’s criminal underbelly after finding a dismembered ear.

What To Expect: Come in expecting Lynchian twists and turns, unforgettable characters (that you’ll want to forget), and a great soundtrack.

• Rent/Buy Blue Velvet on Amazon.
• Get Blue Velvet on Blu-ray on Amazon.

The Blues Brothers (1980)

The Director: John Landis

The Cast: Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Carrie Fisher

What It’s About: Two brothers attempt to get their old band back together to help save the orphanage in which they were raised.

What To Expect: In the mood for great music, even better characters, and quite possibly the best car chase of all time? Well, look no further than The Blues Brothers.

• Stream The Blues Brothers on Prime Video.
• Rent/Buy The Blues Brothers on Amazon.
• Get The Blues Brothers on Blu-ray on Amazon.