30 Best Date Night Movies Guaranteed to Make a Good Impression, Ranked

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“Sure,” they texted, “a movie sounds great”. Between skipping down the street and keeping the butterflies at bay, you’ve given no thought to what movie you’ll be watching. After a half-hour browse and a courteous “I don’t mind, you pick” you choose The Hangover, a safe bet. But this special night has no spark. There’s nothing to talk about, and they’re checking their phone constantly, probably to see what time it is.

Don’t let this happen to you. Movies and dates go together like butter and popcorn because cinema is among the most wonderful shared experiences: stories, laughter, and emotion help blossoming connections bloom. So whether you’re dating the one or just having fun, be ready with good date night movies that wow. The best among these will make lasting impressions that show you have great taste in films, increasing the chances of a second date.

30. 'Wedding Crashers' (2005)

Directed by David Dobkin

Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson clapping and smiling in Wedding Crashers.  Image via New Line Cinema 

Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn star as best friends, John and Jerry, who, every wedding season, attend strangers' weddings where they become the life of the party. When they crash the Secretary of Treasury's (Christopher Walken) daughter's wedding, they find themselves a bit in over their heads after Jerry hooks up with the Secretary's other daughter (Ilsa Fisher) and when John is immediately taken by another daughter (Rachel McAdams), leading the duo on an unexpected stay with the family at their vacation home.

Wedding Crashers is a hilarious romantic comedy that, despite its plot, also has sentimental moments that make it the ideal date night flick. The movie is full of physical and slapstick comedy that effectively breaks the ice on those slightly awkward first dates, providing enough comic relief to put any couple at ease. Between the string of ridiculous chaos that ensures and the all-star cast, Wedding Crashers is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression (in a good way!)

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Wedding Crashers

Release Date July 15, 2005

Runtime 119 minutes

Writers Steve Faber, Bob Fisher

29. 'The Princess Bride' (1987)

Directed by Rob Reiner

A wounded Wesley protects Buttercup with a sword in the forest in The Princess Bride Image via 20th Century Studios

When a boy (Fred Savage) is home sick from school, his grandfather (Peter Falk) tells him a story about a brave farmboy, Westley (Cary Elwes), who must find his true love, Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright), before she marries a loathsome prince (Chris Sarandon). With the help of a few friends, Westley must overcome a series of obstacles and fight his way to rescue his beloved princess before it's too late.

The Princess Bride is a 1980s cult classic that puts a humorous spin on a classic fairy tale, conveying the perfect balance of comedic romance and thrilling action to satisfy any viewer. The movie ranks as a crucial date night movie because it has something for everyone, so if you're at odds with your date about what to watch, The Princess Bride is the best choice to settle any debate.

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The Princess Bride

Release Date October 9, 1987

Runtime 98 minutes

Writers William Goldman

28. 'Crazy, Stupid, Love.' (2011)

Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa

Jacob, played by Ryan Gosling, stands by Hannah, played by Emma Stone, in 'Crazy, Stupid, Love'. Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Steve Carell stars as a husband and family man, Cal Weaver, who, despite his seemingly picturesque life, discovers that his wife has been having an affair and wants a divorce. At the age of forty, Cal finds himself completely lost in the modern dating world and decides to hire a smooth-talking player, Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), to teach him the ropes.

Crazy, Stupid, Love is an excellent pick for any date night and will have viewers both laughing and crying by the end. Gosling and Carell are a hysterical duo who pull out all the stops with their deadpan and sarcastic humor, presenting a difficult situation in a relatable and approachable light. Whether you're in your 20s or in your 40s, Crazy, Stupid, Love is noted for its realistic view of anyone who finds themselves struggling in the dating world, deeming it to be a solid pick for date night.

27. 'The Wedding Singer' (1998)

Directed by Frank Coraci

Drew Barrymore as Julia smiling next to Adam Sandler as Robbie in The Wedding Singer Image via New Line Cinema

Adam Sandler stars as a wedding singer, Robbie Hart, who is a bit of a local celebrity and comes highly recommended by every couple who hires him. When Robbie is engaged to be married to his longtime sweetheart, he completely falls apart after she leaves him at the altar. Despite swearing off performing at weddings, Robbie agrees to help a soon-to-be bride, Julia (Drew Barrymore), plan her upcoming wedding, but as they spend more time together, Julia begins to have second thoughts.

Set in 1985, The Wedding Singer is ranked as the ultimate romantic comedy and was the first collaboration between Sandler and Barrymore, who have an undeniable on-screen chemistry that is impossible to resist. Sandler and Barrymore deliver lighthearted humor and natural romance that sets The Wedding Singer apart from other rom-coms. For those looking for an easy-going love story full of laugh-out-loud comedy, The Wedding Singer is right up your alley for your next date night.

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The Wedding Singer

Release Date February 13, 1998

Runtime 95

Director Frank Coraci

Writers Tim Herlihy

26. 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' (2008)

Directed by Nicholas Stoller

Mila Kunis and Jason Segel sitting together in Forgetting Sarah Marshall Image via Universal

When Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) finds out that his longtime girlfriend and television star, Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell), is leaving him, he falls into a deep depression and is convinced by his brother to take a vacation to Hawaii. While this is great advice, Peter's trip takes an unexpected turn when Sarah and her new boyfriend (Russell Brand) are staying at the same resort. Despite the awkward coincidence, Peter ends up spending time with one of the hotel's employees (Mila Kunis) who breaks him out of his shell and reminds him that life goes on.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall is a raunchy romantic comedy that pulls out all the stops of the unfortunate and wonderful aspects of love and heartbreak, woven intricately through non-stop humor. Segel and Kunis are a pure delight who play well off each other's witty, dry humor, creating a more than convincing on-screen couple. Aside from Segel and Kunis, the supporting cast is another underrated gem in this outrageous comedy and will have everyone in stitches by the end of the date.

25. 'An Affair to Remember' (1957)

Directed by Leo McCarey

Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr in An Affair to Remember Image via 20th Century Fox

Perhaps one of the most timeless romantic movies is An Affair to Remember, which pairs beloved actor Cary Grant and British thespian Deborah Kerr. In the movie, strangers Nickie Ferrante and Terry McKay spark a connection aboard an ocean liner in transit across the Atlantic ocean. Despite being betrothed to other people, Nickie and Terry promise to see each other on top of the Empire State Building if they’re sure of each other after six months.

However, an unfortunate accident prevents Terry from fulfilling his promise. It’s an essential romance film to watch due in large to the palpable chemistry between its lead characters, as well as its plot that highlights how love truly conquers all odds. Watching the film with your date can easily turn into a core memory, with you and your partner getting lost in the movie’s dramatic shipboard romance story. – Jom Elauria

An Affair to Remember Movie Poster
An Affair to Remember

Release Date July 11, 1957

Runtime 119 minutes

Director Leo McCarey

24. 'Palm Springs' (2020)

Directed by Max Barbakow

Nyles and Sarah drinking while floating on a pool in 'Palm Springs' Image via Hulu

A chance encounter at a Palm Springs wedding becomes a life-altering event for wedding attendees Nyles (Andy Samberg) and Sarah (Cristin Milioti). Thrust into a time loop, they find themselves reliving the same day over and over. What begins as surreal panic becomes a catalyst for personal growth. As they navigate this bizarre predicament, they confront past mistakes, shed their inhibitions, and discover a surprising connection.

You can spice up your date night with Palm Springs as it offers a thought-provoking and hilarious plot. It takes the classic time-loop concept and injects it with humor and heart, with standout performances from Samberg and Milioti, making viewers laugh out loud while rooting for their unconventional love story. Beyond the entertainment, Palm Springs offers plenty to discuss on your date. The unique blend of sci-fi and romance creates a conversation starter, which is perfect for getting to know your date's perspective on love and destiny. – Jom Elauria

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Palm Springs

Release Date July 10, 2020

Runtime 90 minutes

Director Max Barbakow

Writers Andy Siara

23. ‘Bridesmaids’ (2011)

Directed by Paul Feig

The main cast of Bridesmaids posing for a photo Image via Universal Pictures

One of Paul Feig’s stronger comedies, Bridesmaids is the go-to choice for anyone looking for a well-written flick that’s neither crass nor cheesy. Down-on-her-luck Annie (Kristen Wiig) has just been appointed maid of honor by her childhood best friend Lillian (Maya Rudolph). Although she’s elated about the engagement, deep down she’s scared about what this might mean for their friendship. Determined to give Lillian the best bridal experience, Annie pulls out all the stops to give the future bride what she wants.

But when Lillian’s other bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey, and Ellie Kemper) start one-upping Annie, she starts bringing out her competitive side - even if it costs her her dignity. With memorable scenes like the food poisoning fiasco and Annie’s drunken airplane meltdown, Bridesmaids doesn’t shy away from getting into Annie’s insecurities and victim complex, giving the comedy a much more genuine touch. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

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Bridesmaids

Release Date May 13, 2011

Runtime 125 minutes

Director Paul Feig

22. 'Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist' (2008)

Directed by Peter Sollett

nick and norah's infinite playlist0 Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist romanticizes the concept of date night: galavanting through New York City after hours, hopping from one bar to another, and falling in love with a stranger. Indie band bassist Nick (Michael Cera) is recently dumped by his hot ex-girlfriend Tris (Alexis Dziena). In an attempt to patch up his broken heart, Nick’s friends get him to perform a gig in the city to take his mind off Tris. There he meets Norah (Kat Dennings), who asks her to be her pretend boyfriend for five minutes, sealed with a fake kiss.

Their charade isn’t over yet. When Norah’s drunken best friend suddenly disappears, the two scour the streets looking for her, all while searching for an elusive secret show that’s been the talk of town. From sloppy make-out sessions to a man dressed up as a cig-smoking Jesus, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist is the right choice to vicariously live through someone else’s date night. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

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Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist

Release Date October 3, 2008

Runtime 89 minutes

21. 'The Holiday' (2006)

Directed by Nancy Meyers

The Holiday

Whether it’s summer or winter, any time’s a good time for a cute Christmastime flick. The Holiday follows two lovelorn women from two different continents. Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz), an uber-successful movie trailer producer based in sunny Los Angeles, just got dumped by her cheating ex-boyfriend Ethan. Meanwhile, all the way in London, hapless wedding column writer Iris Simpkins (Kate Winslet) is still hung up over her unrequited love for her newly engaged colleague.

Following their chance encounter through a house exchange website, the two women impulsively decide to switch homes for the holidays. Little do they know, they’re about to meet their potential loves during their silly little trip. Pairing Diaz’s cool-girl goofiness and Winslet’s introverted charm, The Holiday is a safe bet for anyone looking for a lighthearted movie with genuine chemistry and an abundance of chuckles. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

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The Holiday

Release Date December 14, 2006

Runtime 138 Minutes

Director Nancy Meyers

Writers Nancy Meyers

20. 'Say Anything' (1989)

Directed by Cameron Crowe

John Cusack and Ione Skye sit in a car together and laugh and smile in Say Anything. Image via 20th Century 

For viewers looking for a relatable and heartwarming summer romance movie, Say Anything is the right pick. In it, Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack), a high school graduate, falls for the intelligent and beautiful Diane Court (Ione Skye). Despite their contrasting social backgrounds, their connection is undeniable. His genuine affection, persistence, and unwavering pursuit eventually win over Diane's heart.

The movie is known for its iconic scene where Lloyd holds a boombox playing Peter Gabriel's “In Your Eyes" outside Diane's window. It's a heartfelt movie about young love, with relatable characters that date-goers can't help but root for. Viewers should get ready to be swept away by Lloyd and Diane’s sweet and sincere love story that acts as a reminder that sometimes, the most unlikely people find love in the most unexpected places. – Jom Elauria

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Say Anything...

Release Date April 14, 1989

Runtime 100 minutes

Writers Cameron Crowe

Producers James L. Brooks, Paul Germain

19. '50 First Dates' (2004)

Directed by Peter Segal

adam-sandler-drew-barrymore-50-first-dates-1 Image via Sony Pictures 

50 First Dates explores the story of Henry (Adam Sandler), a playboy veterinarian captivated by the beautiful Lucy (Drew Barrymore). However, Lucy has a memory condition that causes her to forget everything every day due to a car accident and forgets him every day But because Henry is Smitten with Lucy, he decides to embark on a daily mission to make Lucy fall in love with him anew.

50 First Dates goes beyond the typical rom-com fluff. Critics rave about the on-screen magic between Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, making viewers believe in their love story. The film's central theme of love's resilience is beautifully portrayed as Henry tirelessly tries to win Lucy's heart every day. Filled with heartwarming moments and hilarious antics, Henry's persistence pays off in the most touching way, leaving viewers feeling closer to their dates and ready to discuss their own love stories. – Jom Elauria

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50 First Dates

Release Date February 13, 2004

Runtime 99minutes

18. 'La La Land' (2016)

Directed by Damien Chazelle

Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling dancing together in 'La La Land' Image via Lionsgate

La La Land is a rewatchable 2010s movie musical that captures the magic of love and ambition. It’s a modern musical that follows Mia (Emma Stone), a starry-eyed actress, and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz purist, who decides to chase their dreams in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Their connection ignites into a passionate love story, brought to life through breathtaking musical numbers and dazzling visuals. But as their careers flourish, unexpected challenges force them to make difficult choices that test their love.

La La Land is a date night movie that goes beyond popcorn and giggles — transcending a typical rom-com by offering breathtaking visuals, a captivating soundtrack, and a story that explores the highs and lows of life. Without a doubt, the film's ending will encourage viewers to reflect, creating a memorable date night experience. – Jom Elauria

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La La Land

Release Date December 9, 2016

Runtime 128 Minutes

Director Damien Chazelle

Writers Damien Chazelle

17. 'The Big Sick' (2017)

Directed by Michael Showalter

Kumail and Emily at a dinner party in 'The Big Sick'. Image via Amazon Studios/Lionsgate

Romantic comedies are a dime a dozen. While there are a few standouts, the genre paradoxically has little to offer if you’re trying to watch something that incites romantic feelings and is also a good movie (no offense, rom-com lovers). To impress a date with a romantic comedy, you have to come from somewhere different.

That’s where one of the best date movies, The Big Sick, comes to your aid. A true story, it’s far from your stock romantic comedy with tiring tropes. It follows the story of Pakistani comic Kumail (Kumail Ali Nanjiani) who starts a relationship with American graduate student Emily (Zoe Kazan). When she suddenly has a serious illness that ends with her in a coma, Kumail confronts his anxieties around his traditional Muslim parents and forms an unexpected bond with Emily's mom and dad. The Big Sick is real, an original and genuine account of true love that induces laughing bellies and locking eyes. It's among the good date movies that are not for everyone, but those who love it will consider it one of their favorites forever.

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The Big Sick

Release Date July 14, 2017

Runtime 120 minutes

16. 'I Love You, Man' (2009)

Directed by John Hamburg

still of peter and sydney in i love you, man

Love and dating are awkward at the best of times, and movies that capture them can help the whole experience feel much more normal. Vicarious embarrassment strikes up familiar feelings and helps people empathize with the more cringe-worthy parts of life. This is precisely what I Love You, Man has in store for viewers.

Watching Paul Rudd and Jason Segel’s bromance bloom is a hilarious and heartfelt adventure (and makes for one of the more unconventional date night movie ideas). Rudd plays the incredibly awkward Peter Klaven, who realizes how few male friends he has in the lead-up to his wedding in I Love You, Man. He may have a fantastic job, a loving wife, and a gorgeous home, but Peter feels pressured and disheartened by the lack of friendships in his life. With time ticking until his wedding, he embarks on a mission to find a best friend. The comedy ensemble cast includes Andy Samberg, JK Simmons, and Rashida Jones.

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I Love You, Man

Release Date March 20, 2009

Runtime 105 Minutes

Director John Hamburg

Writers John Hamburg, Larry Levin

15. 'Lion' (2016)

Directed by Garth Davis

still of saroo looking pensive in lion Image via TWC

When you’re just starting out dating, an epic can be a risky move should it be too long. But epics can answer some important questions about your crush: How empathetic are they? Can they follow a story? Do they ask too many questions? Is it kind of cute when they do? To answer these questions and more, look no further than Lion. The powerful true story of Saroo Brierley (Dev Patel), who, at five years old, is separated from his family and must fend for himself. After 25 years, he goes in search of them once again.

Dev Patel’s performance is as elegant as the cinematography, and the narrative is deep and uplifting. It's not the typical pick for a date night movie, which is exactly why Lion could be the perfect choice for a certain type of viewer. The biographical drama film can motivate, inspire, and move to tears, so be warned.

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Lion

Release Date November 25, 2016

Runtime 118minutes

Writers Luke Davies

14. 'Yes, God, Yes' (2019)

Directed by Karen Maine

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Racing hearts, the flickering of the small screen accentuating the sparkle in their eyes. All you want is to move your sweaty hand over to theirs before it’s too sweaty, but you can’t. The tension builds and builds, their laugh is so cute! They are so cute. Their hand moves onto your leg, and your eyes meet.

If there was ever a mood setter with excellent writing behind it, it’s probably Yes, God, Yes starring Stranger ThingsNatalie Dyer. It's centered on Catholic girl Alice (Dyer) and her newfound path towards sexual liberation, which was triggered by a racy AOL chat. The coming-of-age comedy-drama tackles sexuality and religious guilt with clever humor anchored by Dyer's performance. Hormones alone fuel this film and weave a tale of sexual self-discovery, and is guaranteed to provide laughs in between the steam.

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Yes, God, Yes

Release Date July 24, 2020

Runtime 78 minutes

Director Karen Maine

Producers Chris Columbus, Eleanor Columbus, Sophie Mas, Arianne Fraser, Rodrigo Teixeira, Delphine Perrier, Lourenço Sant'Anna, Katie Cordeal

13. 'Decision to Leave' (2022)

Directed by Park Chan-wook

A man and a woman look at each other in Decision to Leave

Director Park Chan-wook's romance mystery film is the unconventionally artsy pick for those considering critically acclaimed great date night movies. It revolves around a married detective Jang Hae-jun (Park Hae-il) with insomnia who comes across a bizarre murder case, and soon finds himself falling for the prime suspect and the victim's widow, Chinese immigrant Song Seo-rae (Tang Wei).

With remarkably innovative cinematography, a tense yet quirky atmosphere, and a truly twisted romance, Decision to Leave is the ideal choice for anyone dating a cinephile (or a true crime fan). The tension between Seo-rae and Hae-jun is palpable, and it's engrossing to see how their dynamic changes as the detective discovers more about her husband's "accident." It's among the best recent South Korean movies that will certainly go down in cinematic history as one of the greats.

Decision to Leave Movie Poster
Decision to Leave

Release Date October 14, 2022

Runtime 138 minutes

Director Park Chan-wook

Writers Park Chan-wook, Seo-kyeong Jeong

12. 'About Time' (2013)

Directed by Richard Curtis

Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams as Tim and Mary about to kiss in 'About Time.' Image via Universal Pictures

Romantic comedies aren’t known for their deep subtext. If you’re single and longing for love, that’s not necessarily bad. Romance without the inconveniences of reality makes for great escapism. But a magical love story full of big ideas makes for a more memorable experience, which is what director Richard Curtis offers with his 2013 work of art.

About Time is a love story with a time travel twist that follows Tim (Dohmnall Gleeson), who discovers he can travel back in time. At first, it’s fun, but things become increasingly complicated when he meets the love of his life. As Tim navigates his newfound power in this refreshingly grounded time travel movie, he learns that it's the small things in life that truly matter. Enchanting performances by Dohmnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams contrast a light, fun tone with the deepness of time’s relationship with love.

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About Time

Release Date September 4, 2013

Runtime 123 minutes

Director Richard Curtis

Writers Richard Curtis

11. 'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World' (2010)

Directed by Edgar Wright

Michael Cera and Mary Elizabeth Winstead drinking in Scott Pilgrim vs the World Image via Universal Pictures

A fun rom-com and action film, director Edgar Wright's Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a beloved cult classic that tells the story of the titular protagonist (played by Michael Cera), an awkward bass guitarist who falls for badass skater Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). Unfortunately, Ramona has a deadly past, with ex-boyfriends who go after Scott one by one to challenge him.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is an iconic love letter to the graphic novels the film is based on (written by Bryan Lee O'Malley). It's fun, hilarious, and at times, achingly sweet, largely due to the protagonist's awkward nature contrasted with Ramona's bold personality. There's no dull moment in the 2010 film that truly feels like a comic book that has come to life. Anyone cuddling up next to a comic book fan should definitely pick this for an amusing and romantic date night.

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Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

Release Date August 12, 2010

Runtime 113 minutes

Director Edgar Wright

Writers Edgar Wright, Michael Bacall

10. 'Brokeback Mountain' (2005)

Directed by Ang Lee

Brokeback Mountain

Sometimes you need a good old-fashioned tear-jerking love story that no red-blooded human can hold tears back from watching. Movies like The Notebook and Dear John do this undeniably well. But there are those, and there are the greats. If you or your date haven’t already seen Brokeback Mountain, have you ever really experienced true love on-screen?

Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal’s chemistry is palpable as they play two cowboys who fall into forbidden love in what is still considered one of the greatest LGBTQ+ movies ever made. Everything about this movie is simply breathtaking, and it does go to some deeply emotional places. It's more for audiences in the mood for something heavy and hard-hitting, and for those who aren't necessarily expecting the happiest of endings.

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Brokeback Mountain

Release Date December 9, 2005

Runtime 134 minutes

Writers Larry McMurtry, Diana Ossana

9. 'Her' (2013)

Directed by Spike Jonze

Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore on a ferry in Her Image via Warner Bros.

Complex social commentary and budding romance are a tricky mix. Opposing opinions may cause a boiling over of tensions, but healthy debate might emulsify as your date challenges you in new and exciting ways. But this is why it’s called chemistry, and a movie that can do the love and commentary together is the solution.

2013’s Her stars Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore, a heartbroken writer who falls in love with an operating system called Samantha, masterfully voiced by Scarlett Johansson. Her explores the contemporary definitions of intimacy and identity, especially relevant post-pandemic. As Theodore falls in love with someone who isn't even technically human, it calls into question the nature of romance itself and the isolation that modern technologies can cause. It delivers this message without being heavy-handed, of course, with the intimate soft dystopian romance movie being a one-of-a-kind pick for an interesting date night.

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Her

Release Date December 18, 2013

Runtime 126minutes

8. 'Sleepless in Seattle' (1993)

Directed by Nora Ephron

Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks standing outside looking at one another, a young boy beside Hanks in the movie Sleepless in Seattle. Image via TriStar Pictures

Nobody can get wrong with Nora Ephron. Sleepless in Seattle stars Hollywood legend Tom Hanks as the grieving Sam Baldwin. It’s been eighteen months since his wife’s passing, but the grieving Sam is still not over her death. Meanwhile, his young son Jonah (Ross Malinger) decides to take his father’s fate into his own hands. Ringing in a national radio talk show under Sam’s name, Jonah chronicles how perfect Sam’s marriage was with his late wife, and how much he truly misses him.

Not long after, Sam starts to receive multiple phone calls from women across the country, most of whom sympathize with Sam’s story. Among those is the engaged writer Annie Reed (Med Ryan), who can’t help but be fascinated by the widow. If there’s one thing Ephron does best, it’s establishing a strong emotional connection between her characters, no matter how different they are. Sleepless in Seattle shows that everyone, no matter their backgrounds, needs love like it’s oxygen. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

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Sleepless In Seattle

Release Date June 24, 1993

Runtime 105 Minutes

Director Nora Ephron

Writers Nora Ephron, David S. Ward, Jeff Arch

7. 'Amélie' (2001)

Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet

Audrey Tautou softly smiling while holding an umbrella in Amelie Image via Miramax Films

An essential French film, Amélie is the perfect way to transport any date night to the whimsical, stylistic, and stunning streets of Paris. It's centered on the titular character (played by Audrey Tautou), who secretly improves the lives of everyone else around her, while ignoring her own feelings of loneliness. She's scared of confronting her own anxieties related to her past and would rather help those around her instead. When she meets a charming man one day, everything changes.

A fantastic feel-good movie with an artsy touch, Amélie is a wonderful reminder of the kindness and love that exists all around the world (for those willing to look for and accept it). Tautou gives an endearing performance as the charming and likable protagonist, who reminds viewers how small actions can have huge effects. It's the ideal choice for a light-hearted and feel-good type of evening that will end in smiles and maybe even happy tears.

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Amélie

Release Date April 25, 2001

Runtime 122 Minutes

6. 'Your Name' (2016)

Directed by Makoto Shinkai

Mitsuha Miyamizu and Taki Tachibana separated by a glowing star in 'Your Name' Image via Toho

For lovers of anime, Your Name is a film that needs no introduction. The massively popular animated movie follows the fantastical romance that forms between two people who have never even met – high school students Taki Tachibana (Ryunosuke Kamiki) and Mitsuha Miyamizu (Mone Kamishiraishi). They grow close when they begin to inexplicably swap bodies and soon start making small positive changes in each other's lives.

A body swap, romance, sci-fi, and fantasy film all at once, Your Name is a great choice for both new and established anime fans. As Mitsuha and Taki learn more about each other's lives in the process of swapping bodies, they inevitably form a distinct but strong connection despite never having technically met. Be prepared for its exciting story to suddenly turn emotional after an iconic twist that transforms its deceptively simple premise.

Your Name (2016)
Your Name

Release Date August 26, 2016

Runtime 106 minutes

5. 'In the Mood for Love' (2000)

Directed by Wong Kar-wai

Maggie Cheung and Tony Chiu-Wai Leung in 'In the Mood For Love' (2000) Image via Universal Pictures

In the mood for something different, gorgeous, and unique? Then director Wong Kar-Wai's acclaimed masterpiece is the film for date night. In the Mood for Love is set in 1962 where a journalist Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung Chiu Wai) forms an unlikely bond with a new friend Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung Man-yuk). The duo begins falling in love after they realize their respective partners are cheating on them, but fall short of forming a true physical relationship, settling for longing stares and palpable intensity instead.

The tension between the two leads has cemented the protagonists as having some of the best chemistry in cinematic history. Their forbidden love is told through stolen glances, mournful music, and stylistic visuals that will have audiences mesmerized and thinking about seizing the moment while they can. In the Mood for Love is one of the best date night movies to watch for an artsy feel without having to walk around a museum.

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In the Mood For Love

Release Date March 9, 2001

Runtime 98 Minutes

Director Kar-Wai Wong

Writers Kar-Wai Wong

4. 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' (2004)

Directed by Michel Gondry

Joel and Clementine lying on the ice from Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Image via Focus Features

Indie cinema has so much depth to offer but can be a little intense or nonsensical for first-timers. Whether you’re a cinephile looking to introduce your date to the indie world or looking for an accessible introduction yourself, you need a digestible think piece. Michel Gondry's 2004 cult classic can be the perfect choice for precisely that.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind stars Jim Carrey as Joel Barish and Kate Winslet as Clementine Kruczynski in the perfect 2000s indie film. Set in a reality where technology can erase memories of old flames, the thought-provoking movie follows a couple that seems to keep finding each other despite seemingly never having met before these instances. Its non-linear narrative soon reveals that Joel and Clementine were once lovers who had memories of their relationship wiped after a painful breakup. The storyline and performances are brilliant and mesmerizing, and the ending is bittersweet and unforgettable, with the film still one of the best sci-fi romance movies out there.

3. 'Past Lives' (2023)

Directed by Celine Song

Past Lives Greta Lee Teo Yoo Image via A24

Past Lives is Celine Song's tremendous debut that has already garnered a reputation as being among the best modern romances ever put to the big screen. It's centered on Nora (Greta Lee) and Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), who were extremely close childhood friends, but were then separated by Nora's move outside of South Korea. It spans several decades, but mostly focuses on the period when Hae Sung decides to visit Nora in New York, finally reconnecting with her after years of on-and-off communication.

The film depicts their emotional reunion, which lasts for a week, as well as the awkward love triangle that starts to form with Nora's husband, Arthur (John Magaro). Throughout this period, the pair reflect on their past and how it's intertwined with their present, their fears and hopes, regrets, and dreams. Past Lives is a deeply profound and moving story that reminds viewers about the value of loving in the present, and is a particularly thoughtful pick for date night.

Past Lives Movie Poster
Past Lives

Release Date January 21, 2023

Runtime 106 minutes

2. 'When Harry Met Sally…' (1989)

Directed by Rob Reiner

Billy Crystal looks at Meg Ryan who is looks at the camera smiling in When Harry Met Sally Image via Columbia Pictures

When Harry Met Sally… addresses the universe’s age-old question: can a man and woman be friends without sex? The slow-burn rom-com, with a plot that spans over 12 years and three months, begins with a meet-cute between Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and Harry Burns (Billy Crystal). Sharing a car from the University of Chicago to New York, the two ultimately bond throughout the 18-hour journey. As they learn more about each other’s personalities, they discover that they have very contrasting views on friendship and love.

But you know what they say about love: opposites attract. Years later, Sally and Harry would meet each other at different time points. Constantly searching and failing in their quest for love, it slowly becomes clear that the two are made for each other, culminating in an explosive, heartfelt confession near the end of the movie. A timeless classic, When Harry Met Sally… is a timeless classic in the date movie department. — Dyah Ayu Larasati

when-harry-met-sally-movie-poster.jpg
When Harry Met Sally

Release Date July 21, 1989

Runtime 95 minutes

Writers Nora Ephron

1. 'Before Sunrise' (1995)

Directed by Richard Linklater

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy in 'Before Sunrise' Image Via Warner Bros

Sometimes you just know. And when you do, you need something special. Something that ignites in both of you that floaty, dreamy feeling. Something big, with sequels. Something as investment-worthy as the two of you. That's the kind of feeling a certain 1995 classic romance inspires in most audiences.

Allow Richard Linklater to captain you on an odyssey of love and chemistry with Before Sunrise. Two travelers in Vienna, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), meet on a train bound for Paris but feel an instant, intense connection and decide to wander around the city together for just one night. The movie follows Jesse and Celine as they aimlessly walk around and have conversations, some deep and insightful, others silly and comedic. It's a realistic and beautiful portrayal of what it's like to fall in love. The film sparked a trilogy that revisits the lovers every nine years, with all three worth watching if a long date night is what viewers are after.

NEXT:The Best Romantic Comedies of All Time, Ranked

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