While there are many great romantic comedies, it can be tough to find movies that don't feel like they have been done a million times before. Meet cutes, endings, and obstacles can all feel tired as too many rom coms feature the same types of characters in the same kinds of situations.
Thankfully, there are many unique romantic comedies that tell a new kind of love story or don't have the same formulaic plotlines that mainstream films do. Reddit users have shared their favorite romantic comedies that are sweet, funny, and much more interesting than others in the genre.
Before Sunset/Sunrise/Midnight (1995, 2004, 2013)
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Richard Linklater's movies Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, and Before Midnight are beautifully made and follow Céline and Jesse as they meet in Europe and share a special night together.
Reddit user drzkid64 thinks that these movies are great romantic comedies and wrote, "While maybe not always comedy, there are definitely some funny moments." The '90s movie Before Sunset is a highly rated Ethan Hawke movie as it's sweet seeing these characters get together again and realize that they can't be apart.
High Fidelity (2000)
Reddit user scottzr loves High Fidelity and described it as the main character "discussing his top five breakups with the audience while trying to salvage his recent relationship."
Adapted from the Nick Hornby novel, the movie is an interesting take on the romantic comedy. The premise of Rob talking about his dating life while sharing how much he loves music is unique and even though the movie is from 2000, it feels fresh.
Away We Go (2009)
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In a Reddit thread about "well made and well liked" rom coms, one Redditor mentioned Away We Go and explained that it has "amazing on screen chemistry" and "the script was genuinely hilarious."
Away We Go follows Burt and Verona as they get ready to have their first baby and think about where they want to live. It's a beautiful movie about friends, family, and figuring out what feels like home, and it definitely stands out from other romantic comedies as it feels genuine and real.
When Harry Met Sally... (1998)
Stream on HBO Max
When Harry Met Sally has likable characters, a smart script, and the fascinating question about whether it's possible to maintain a platonic relationship.
Reddit user NewLeaf37 loves When Harry Met Sally and called it "prolonged slice-of-life bit about two people." The fan wrote that the main characters "bring out the best in each other." The movie is so popular thanks to the memorable performances and scenes, like when Sally orders very specifically in a restaurant and then famously moans.
Obvious Child (2014)
In a Reddit thread about hilarious romantic comedies, Reddit user Gattsu2000 recommended Obvious Child and called it a "pretty funny and genuine film."
Stand-up comedian Donna learns that she is pregnant after sleeping with Max, and the movie goes in an interesting direction as the characters get to know each other. Max supports Donna during this time and it's sweet watching them connect and realize that they like each other. It's an unconventional love story that works well.
Drinking Buddies (2013)
Stream on HBO Max
Reddit user IQPrerequisite_ loves "Drinking Buddies" and it's definitely a romantic comedy that stands out from the rest.
When looking at Anna Kendrick's best movie roles, Drinking Buddies sticks out as her character, Jill, is struggling with her boyfriend Luke not wanting to commit. Things are complicated by Jill's feelings for Chris and Luke's flirty friendship with his coworker Kate. The movie is all about how long-term relationships change and grow.
The Big Sick (2017)
Stream on Amazon Prime Video
Reddit user DCBronzeAge loves The Big Sick and wrote that the movie feels like a "drama in some places, but the best RomComs do."
The real life story of Kumail and Emily's relationship while she falls into a coma is beautiful, hilarious, and moving. There are many moments in the movie that feel realistic and relatable as the young couple is getting to know each other and feeling awkward at the beginning. It's also fun watching Kumail's stand-up comedy career.
Beginners (2011)
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The late Christopher Plummer starred in Beginners, a romantic comedy about Oliver grieving the loss of his dad Hal. Oliver is trying to find love while thinking about Hal coming out.
Reddit user Trionout loves this movie and called it "a light, evolving story, really well written and directed." The movie feels genuine and it's emotional seeing how Hal motivates Oliver to begin dating Anna, a woman who he becomes interested in.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)
Rent on AppleTV
Reddit user soundproof2010 loves Forgetting Sarah Marshall and wrote, "Not just rom-coms but one of my all time favorites!"
Forgetting Sarah Marshall's funny quotes are just one reason why this is one of the most popular romantic comedies. It's sweet watching Peter go on vacation to try to get over his ex-girlfriend, and anyone who has struggled to fall out of love with someone can see themselves in this quirky story.
Some Kind Of Wonderful (1987)
Stream on Hulu
For Reddit user T_Snake451, Some Kind Of Wonderful is "one of John Hughes' better movies(that he wrote, not directed)."
Sometimes a love story about best friends who fall for each other is just what a rom com fan wants to see, and in this movie, Watts has a big crush on her pal Keith. She helps him attract the attention of Amanda while knowing that she's his real soulmate, and the movie is relatable for anyone who has been in a similar situation.