Rom-coms have gotten a bad rap for many years. Yes, they can be cheesy but sometimes that’s what you love about them. The great thing about Netflix, though, is that it has the classics that we all grew up with, as well as modern romantic comedies that offer a new take on the genre. With Netflix originals, it has brought the cool-factor back to rom-coms, along with greater diversity to a genre that was notoriously lacking. All in all, there are many awesome rom-coms currently available on Netflix US (head’s up: it’s still possible to watch these titles even if you’re outside the US). Here are some of our favorites:
1. Always Be My Maybe
Source: Netflix
A recent addition to Netflix, Always Be My Maybe, centers on the reunion of childhood sweethearts Sasha (Ali Wong) and Marcus (Randall Park). You may recognize Wong from her hilarious stand-up specials and Park from sit-com Fresh Off the Boat. The pair have grown apart and lived very different adult lives. Sparks still fly between these old flames, so what ensues is a will-they-won’t-they situation that has you glued to the screen.
2. Mamma Mia!
Source: Netflix
Can you believe that Mamma Mia! is now over ten years old? That’s right, the iconic rom-com was released in 2008. With huge stars, such as Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and 007 himself, Pierce Brosnan, the movie was always going to be a winner. It might be time to crack open a bottle of wine with your gal pals and re-watch the movie. The fun part is singing along with all of the songs you know and love.
3. Alex Strangelove
Source: Netflix
This is a coming of age and coming out story for the titular character, Alex. Our protagonist goes through the trials and tribulations of modern teenagers. Things get complicated for Alex when a guy comes on the scene who he may have a crush on… The trouble is, he already has a girlfriend. This movie has been lauded as “a refreshingly honest look at teenage sexuality.”
4. Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Source: Netflix
Produced by Judd Apatow, the dude behind most of the popular rom-coms and comedies of the noughties, Forgetting Sarah Marshall is an absurdly funny and sweet movie. It was also released in 2008, so it has probably been a while since you watched this movie. If you stick it on, there’s no doubt you’ll be lolling and falling in love with Jason Segel’s heartbroken character all over again.
5. The Incredible Jessica James
Source: Netflix
The modern dating game is tough, and the feisty protagonist Jessica James (Jessica Williams) is well aware of the fact. But the film is just as much about girl power as it is romance. Williams plays opposite Irish funnyman Chris O’Dowd, as the pair attempt to forget their recent exes and move past a cycle of negative relationships together. Let’s just say, the movie is as dope as its strong female character.
6. Valentine’s Day
Source: Netflix
This movie acts as an anthology of several interconnected love stories. Its popularity may be due to its massive, star-studded cast which includes Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx, Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, Bradley Cooper and many more. The producers probably couldn’t have packed in any more Hollywood stars if they tried. If you’re looking for a heart-warmer, then you should watch (or re-watch) Valentine’s Day.
7. Notting Hill
Source: Netflix
A classic British rom-com from the ‘90s, Notting Hill, stars a floppy-haired Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Both critics and audiences are fans of this one. It’s not really surprising, as Notting Hill is an all-time favorite for many rom-com lovers. If you decide to watch it again, be prepared to feel all gooey inside when you see our “girl, standing in front of a boy asking him to love her.”
Just thinking about these movies will give you all the feels. You can’t deny that Netflix has a super range of titles.. Romantic comedies attract fans from all over the world, after all.