The Classics
It’s hard to imagine Christmas without watching these iconic holiday romantic comedies that have become synonymous with the season. From When Harry Met Sally (1989) to Love Actually (2003), these films have stood the test of time, delighting audiences year after year.
When Harry Met Sally, directed by Rob Reiner, is a timeless tale of friendship turned romance, starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan as two friends who try to keep their relationship platonic, only to find themselves falling in love. The film’s witty dialogue and relatable characters make it a holiday classic that continues to charm viewers.
Love Actually, directed by Richard Curtis, is another beloved holiday rom-com that brings together multiple storylines and characters, all connected by the theme of love. With an all-star cast, including Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, and Colin Firth, this film’s blend of humor, romance, and heartwarming moments has made it a staple of the genre.
These films not only showcase the best of holiday romantic comedies but also demonstrate the power of storytelling to bring people together during the most magical time of the year.
Modern Twists
From diverse casts to innovative storytelling, recent holiday romantic comedies have showcased the genre’s ability to evolve and adapt. One such example is “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” (2018), a Netflix original that brings a fresh perspective to traditional holiday rom-coms.
The film tells the story of Lara Jean Covey, a high school girl whose secret love letters are accidentally sent to her crushes. As she navigates the fallout, she finds herself caught in a romantic comedy plot straight out of a movie. The film’s diverse cast and Asian-American lead add a welcome layer of representation to the genre.
Another standout is “Holidate” (2020), which flips the script on traditional holiday rom-coms by featuring two people who agree to be each other’s platonic dates for the holidays, only to find themselves falling in love. The film’s witty dialogue and charming performances make it a must-watch for anyone looking for a modern take on the genre.
These films demonstrate that even as the holiday romantic comedy genre continues to evolve, it remains just as delightful and endearing as ever.
Retro Revivals
When it comes to holiday romantic comedies, sometimes it’s best to revisit classic tales and give them a modern spin. Re-releases and remakes can offer a fresh take on beloved stories, introducing them to new audiences while still honoring their original charm. One such example is 1998’s You’ve Got Mail, starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks as rival bookstore owners who unknowingly fall in love online.
This romantic comedy has been re-released on various streaming platforms, allowing a new generation to discover its witty banter and charming chemistry between the leads. The film’s commentary on the rise of online shopping and dating apps also adds a layer of relevance to contemporary audiences.
Another classic that has seen a revival is While You Were Sleeping (1995), starring Sandra Bullock as a woman who falls in love with a man in a coma, only to discover she’s been mistaken for his fiancée. This romantic comedy has been remade with a diverse cast and updated settings, making it more relatable to modern viewers.
These retro revivals offer a chance to revisit beloved holiday rom-coms with new eyes, appreciating the original charm while also benefiting from modern updates. They’re a perfect way to get into the festive spirit without sacrificing humor or romance.
Holiday Cheer with a Twist
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Not every holiday romantic comedy follows the traditional formula, and that’s what makes these films stand out from the crowd. Sci-fi and fantasy elements can add an extra layer of excitement to the usual rom-com mix. Take **The Holiday** (2006) for example, which combines the typical “opposites attract” trope with a fantastical twist: two women swap homes for Christmas and find love in the process.
Another standout is Love Actually (2003), often cited as one of the greatest holiday films ever made. This British classic weaves together multiple storylines and features a star-studded cast, including Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, and Colin Firth. With its blend of romance, comedy, and drama, it’s no wonder this film has become a modern classic.
For those who prefer something darker, A Christmas Horror Story (2015) offers a unique take on the holiday season. This anthology horror film tells four terrifying tales that explore the supernatural and eerie side of Christmas. While not your typical rom-com fare, its blend of horror and comedy will leave you feeling festive…and terrified!
The Best of the Rest
These hidden gems may not have received as much attention, but they’re still worth watching for their unique take on the holiday rom-com formula.
Indie Darlings
The Lovebirds, released in 2020, is a charming indie film that tells the story of two strangers who are forced to work together to clear their names after being accused of murder. As they navigate the challenges of being fugitives during the holidays, they develop feelings for each other. This offbeat rom-com features witty banter and a quirky cast of characters. *The Last Five Years*, also released in 2020, is a musical romance that follows the story of two people who fall in love, but struggle to maintain their relationship due to their different career goals. The film’s non-linear narrative adds a layer of complexity to the traditional holiday rom-com formula.
Lesser-Known Foreign Films
The Holiday Calendar, a 2018 Canadian romantic comedy, tells the story of a photographer who inherits an antique advent calendar that seems to be predicting her future. As she navigates the ups and downs of her love life, she must also unravel the mystery behind the magical calendar. Last Christmas, a 2019 British romantic comedy, is set in London during the holiday season. The film follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a stranger who helps her discover the true meaning of Christmas.
As the holiday season comes to a close, we hope you’ve found some new favorite romantic comedies to watch and enjoy. From classic holiday romances to modern twists on the genre, there’s something for everyone in this list of top-rated festive rom-coms. So grab some hot cocoa, get cozy, and let the romance of Christmas wash over you.