For the couple in love, romance is always at the forefront. All you see when you walk out the door is the beauty and joy that is in your own heart. You see older couples strolling down the street and imagine yourself in their shoes one day. You see other young couples canoodling and smile knowingly, as if you share a secret that everyone else is missing out on. And of course, the only movie posters that draw your eye are those with a happy couple on the front. If you’re looking for a few flicks to make your Valentine’s Day special and reflect the love you’re feeling, here are some that will fan the flames.
1. Casablanca (1942). When you opt to enjoy one of the greatest love stories of all time, you’ll also get a dose of spy drama with this timeless classic. It’s got a little something for both the ladies and the gents, so don’t think you have to suffer through a sappy chick-flick to get romantic with your movie choice for this lovey-dovey holiday.
2. Say Anything (1989). If you haven’t seen the iconic climax where young-and-in-love Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack) holds up the boom box blaring Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes” outside Diane Court’s (Ione Skye) window like a modern Cyrano de Bergerac, then you are missing out on one of the most romantic moments in cinematic history. Make this a must-see for Valentine’s Day and your own lady love will be like putty in your hands.
3. Love Actually (2003). Love is messy, as you’ll see in this look at the romances that make up many different lives. Sometimes you end up kissing the prime minister at a children’s play. And sometimes you meet a super-model mom that looks like Claudia Schiffer (schwing!). Then there are times when it turns out the love of your life is your fat manager (who else has been through it all with you?). This film explores the many facets of love in a refreshing and often humorous way.
4. Immortal Beloved (1994). With stunning visual tableaus and the tempestuous music of Beethoven to fuel this romantic drama, you’ll be transported into the world of the virtuoso who couldn’t hear a note he composed and the tortured soul of a man who lost the only woman he ever truly loved. If you thought Gary Oldman ruled as Dracula, just wait until you see this lesser-known portrayal of the life and love of Ludwig van Beethoven.
5. The Notebook (2004). This movie is both poignant and powerful. It explores the lifelong love of two people who are torn apart by circumstance but find their way back to each other again and again.
