The ultimate Valentine’s Day movie guide
The top picks for celebrating with a valentine or otherwise
Isabella Sanchez / Assistant Arts & Culture Editor / The USD Vista
Either the most anticipated holiday or the most dreaded, Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Although it is also about expressing love for family and friends, the holiday is most commonly associated with romance. However, even if there isn’t a valentine in the picture, it’s still possible to enjoy this day to the fullest. There is no need to plan a fancy dinner or send flowers – Valentine’s Day plans can simply be laying in bed and enjoying a classic rom-com or a romantic drama film. For this romantic season, there is truly a film for everybody.
For the hopeless romantic… “50 First Dates”
Appeasing not only the die-hard Adam Sandler fans but the romantics, “50 First Dates” is a perfect pick. Adam Sandler stars as veterinarian, Henry Roth, who falls in love with teacher Lucy Whitmore (Drew Barrymore). Everything seems perfect until Henry realizes Lucy has a unique condition that makes her forget him the next day. Undeterred by this fact, Henry makes it his personal mission to recreate the perfect first date for her every day. While it causes some teary-eyes, it also brightens the mood with some undeniable humor. If anything, Henry and Lucy’s love story proves that love can defy anything, no matter the odds.
It is available to stream on Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV.
For someone with a valentine… “Valentine’s Day”
There is nothing more fitting than to celebrate V-day by watching a movie named after it. With a star-studded cast, it follows various Los Angeles locals’ love stories, which are all somehow connected. The film explores all different types of romantic relationships: old flames, crushes, first dates, and more. Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Garner, Taylor Swift, and Anne Hathaway are only a few of the celebrities starring in this Valentine’s flick.
It is available to stream on HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.
For the rom-com fan… “Always Be My Maybe”
One can never go wrong with a good ol’ rom-com. “Always Be My Maybe” follows the aftermath of a reunion between two former childhood best friends, Sasha (Ali Wong) and Marcus (Randall Park). After Sasha runs into Marcus in San Francisco, their undeniable connection resurfaces. But, are they really compatible with such different lifestyles? Watch to find out. Plus, Keanu Reeves makes an unforgettable cameo, so it is definitely worth the watch.
It is available to stream on Netflix.
For the galentines… “Bridesmaids”
This female-driven comedy is perfect for spending the 14th with friends. The movie follows Annie’s life (Kristin Wiig) during the time where she is set to be her best friend’s (Maya Rudolph) maid of honor. Despite Annie’s life being a mess, she is determined to show up for her best friend and her bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa Mcarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey, and Ellie Kemper). Annie ends up leading everyone on a wild adventure to the wedding chapel. In this film, men take a backseat while female friendships take center stage .
It is available to stream on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.
For someone who doesn’t mind spending V-day single… “Marriage Story”
Want a more realistic portrayal of love? One that doesn’t include any extravagant declarations of love, falling in love at first sight, or an airport chase? Then “Marriage Story” should be your first pick. In this award winning film, Charlie (Adam Driver) and Nicole Barber (Scarlett Johansson) go through the trials and tribulations of marriage. The story maintains a perfect balance between comedy and romantic drama, ultimately highlighting relationship dynamics and divorce. Most importantly, there is no romantic fluff present in this film.
It is available to stream on Netflix.
For someone who thinks “The Notebook” is too basic… “This Means War”
This action-packed love story is anything but conventional. The film follows CIA operatives and bestfriends FDR Foster (Chris Pine) and Tuck (Tom Hardy) as they vie for the same girl (Reese Witherspoon). Despite being the CIA’s most elite duo, their successful partnership is put to the ultimate test. Before long, the two find themselves in an all-out battle for love.
It is available to stream on Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.
The 14th no longer has to be the most dreaded day in February. It also doesn’t have to only mean spending a ridiculous amount of money on the “perfect” date or an extravagant gift. It can simply be spent binge-watching a good V-day flick.