There is no consensus among movie lovers about which romantic comedy was the first in history. But most agree that City lights, Charles Chaplin’s, released in 1931, was one of the most notable. In fact, the silent film used all the symbolism of romance to create a story that makes you laugh and cry at the same time. So it became not only the plot on which most of the genre was based from now on. And also an example of how love can be translated into beautiful cinematic images.
It was much more difficult and painful Apartment Billy Wilder, which was released on the big screen in 1960 and marked a milestone in the development of the seventh art. Because although it was a romantic story, it also had its fair share of drama and even tragedy. Deep love for CC Baxter (Jack Lemmon), about an impossible woman caught in a difficult situation, added nuance to an already established romantic comedy. It also demonstrated that great love stories can be much more than just a collection of clichés and hilarious situations. All to culminate in a charming happy ending.
The combination of both perspectives allowed the genre to evolve into what it is today. A brilliant mixture of humor, nostalgia, great spiritual ideals and, of course, the possibility of meeting two kindred spirits. We leave you with five recommendations if you prefer great cinematic novels. From a couple whose love could threaten the stability of two countries, to two lovers under bullets and blows. The selection captures the best of a curious year that has undoubtedly produced some of the cutest love stories.
Red, white and blue blood
Matthew Lopez’s adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s book retains all the charm of the original on paper. Particularly true to the story of an unlikely romance between two men who weren’t meant to be together. Prince Henry of England (Nikolai Golitsyn) is not the heir to the British throne, but he is the youngest and most famous person in his family. This causes him to become the center of public attention. And this despite his shyness and elusive nature.
On the other side, Alex Clairmont-Diaz (Taylor Zakhar Perez) is America’s first son and the most popular man in his country. Full of energy and an infectious vitality, he is also an important part of his mother’s election campaign. Ellen (Uma Thurman). Because of this, his carefree life suddenly becomes more difficult.
And much more will happen when she falls in love with Henry, and the love between them causes diplomatic conflict and even concern for the king (Stephen Fry). The film has a tongue-in-cheek sense of influence and privilege, but also a tender look at young love. This makes this comedy a great romantic comedy for those who love the genre.
Haunted
We know: Dexter Fletcher’s film didn’t go down well with critics, who called it chaotic and shallow entertainment. But really, while it does have some action sequences, the plot falls entirely on the shoulders of the main character pair. Sadie (Ana de Armas) is an effective but lonely CIA agent. Cole (Chris Evans), a good boy trying to find his place in the world.
As expected, at the most inopportune moment, both fall madly in love with each other. She must carry out an almost suicide mission to prevent biological weapons from falling into the hands of the enemy. He will follow her wherever she goes, even causing the craziest problems.
The plot may seem formulaic – in fact, it is – but the director manages to make his main couple charming in the midst of chaos. Despite the predictable script and its awkward twists and turns, what ultimately stands out about the film is the chemistry between its leads. This is a point in its favor that prevents it from becoming a complete disaster.
elementary
Pixar’s phenomenal 2023 film is also the studio’s first major romantic comedy. And, without a doubt, the cutest one imaginable. Wade (Mamoudou Ati) is a water elemental with self-esteem issues who is trying to find his identity. In its turn, Amber (Leah Lewis), a woman of fire, in the middle of a city where her fiery nature causes mistrust.
Together, they must unravel the mystery while learning to live with their differences when the unthinkable happens. Despite the danger this poses, they both fall in love with each other from the first meeting.
Like many other Pixar films, elementary This is a fable about kindness, empathy and a sense of community. But this time, the plot is also an allegory of how love can build bridges even across insurmountable differences. The studio’s great feature film of the year is an ode to romance with its extraordinary visuals and an ending that will make you cry. Of course, fantasy is his specialty.
Past Lives
Playwright Celine Song has turned the story of two lifelong friends into perhaps one of the greatest love films of the year. Especially when he was able to combine memories, nostalgia, intimacy and the search for purpose in a seemingly simple story. Nora (Greta Lee) dating Hae Sung (Yoo Tae-oh) since childhood. And she knows that sooner or later he will become her husband. At least an important figure in his life.
What you may not suspect is that this opportunity for love will become the center of all your life decisions. As she grows into a teenager and an adult, she will realize that romance is more than the first spark of passion. In fact, this is the thread that will connect all your experience with experience Hae Sung in a slow transition of increasingly sweet and sometimes sour anecdotes.
Shot in 35mm and with a visual focus on creating a contemplative ode to romance, the film was a real surprise. Especially when in the end the great revelation of the mystery of love is as surprising as it is exciting. Best quality this unassuming gem that will likely be the star of next awards season.
old friend
Director Dave Franco transforms a coming-of-age story into one of the year’s greatest romantic comedies. Ally (Alison Brie) has fought hard to become the successful professional she is. At the same time leaving behind the girl full of joy that she once was. Cause? Believing that the innocence of those years is just an obstacle to the life you want and the future you are building.
But he will begin to question all his efforts when memories of his first love make him remember a time when he was undoubtedly much happier. Without pretension, this story gently examines what first love is like. But even more so, the way of desires and aspirations can be as naive as the great first passion. Something that Ellie will remember and try to make right the situation as best she can.
Source: Hiper Textual
