Romanticism is all around us, but what if we want to change it up a bit? I’ve collected a few of my favourite films that play around with the romantic idea and give their own unique spin on the tried and tired formula.

1.     The 10th of February 2016 was the fabled Valentine’s Day, all around the world people were being treated by their loved ones. However, Ryan Reynolds had a different way to show his love and blessed us with Deadpool. Deadpool is, at its heart, a romantic comedy – except just with A LOT of gore, violence, profanity and every break in the fourth wall that you’d ever want. Deadpool tells the story of Merc with a Mouth Wade Wilson (a Marvel Comics character) who becomes subject to an experiment which causes him to gain superhuman qualities and becomes the hilarious anti-hero Deadpool. So much about this film make it endlessly quotable and enjoyable for many repeat viewings, if you’re feeling bloodthirsty this Valentine’s Day, the gratuitous gore and red will be perfect for you.                    

2.     ZomCom. That’s the coined phrase with Shaun of the Dead – it’s a romantic comedy… with zombies. SofD is arguably one of the most original takes on both genres and combines them with perfect balance due to writer/director Edgar Wright and a memorable ensemble cast including the likes of Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, and Bill Nighy. It follows the everyday man Shaun and his struggles with his girlfriend Liz, as well as his best friend Ed. Oh yeah, and zombies. The story involves love, loss, happiness, sadness, and a pint. No. Lots of pints. Everything about this film is just pure brilliance, so if you just want a good laugh from a heartfelt story then this is a good choice. You can find this classic on most streaming platforms now, including Netflix and Amazon Prime – but it can also be seen on television late at night.

3.     Moonrise Kingdom was delivered to us on a golden platter by the phenomenal Wes Anderson. It tells the sweet story of young love amongst a rebelling boy scout and a local girl, as well as the pursuit of the former by his scout troop. The thing that makes this film so unique is Wes Anderson’s simply stunning cinematography and just how beautiful the film is, it’s one of the most visually brilliant films in a long time and combining that with an entertaining comedic romance it makes for a rather fantastic film. The cast consists of icons such as Bill Murray, Edward Norton, and Bruce Willis to help make the entire ride a pleasant one. Also be sure to check out the fantastic Grand Budapest Hotel too.

4.     Booksmart is a quirky coming of age comedy revolving around two girls’ last day of school and how they want to go out in a blaze to be remembered. It shines a light nicely on LGBT relationships without ever being too much or forcing it. It’s surprisingly heartfelt for what it was as well as being a genuinely funny at times. It most definitely succeeds at its job and easily stands out to be one of the better films of 2019 when in comparison to many others in its genre. Available on Amazon Prime!  

​5.     Greta Gerwig’s directorial debut proved to be one of the best films from 2017, even earning a best picture nomination. It’s a coming of age tale focused on a young girl in Sacramento who gives herself the titular name ‘Lady Bird’ (Saoirse Ronan) and how she finds love and loss in her home town.  It’s a heart-warming story with both shocking and emotional moments that linger with the audience for a long time after watching it, which ultimately helps to build the re-watchability and enjoyment. Best thing? You can find this straight on Netflix too.      

6.     ​Honestly, I think that Call Me By Your Name is one of my favourite films of all. It has a beautiful atmosphere using visuals and character development that makes you want to be there with the characters and experience the gorgeous Italian summer. Everything about this film is stunning, the performances are believable, the original soundtrack by Sufjan Stevens is near perfection, the story is stunning, and so much more. It follows the story of Elio (Timothée Chalamet) as he experiences summer and comes to term with his sexuality through Oliver (Arnie Hammer), and how the two’s relationship develops and changes with the short time they can have together. The film also has one of the most daunting endings ever, it’s beautiful. Luckily, this gem can be found on Netflix too!

I really do hope that you find some use in this list, each of these films are well worth a watch and aren't too hard to find if you search a little bit!