It seems that in today’s world, romance is often depicted as grand gestures and lavish displays of affection. While there is certainly nothing wrong with a little bit of extravagance every now and then, there is something to be said for the classic romance depicted in films of the past. These movies may not have the flashy displays of affection that we see in modern films, but they make up for it in their raw, unapologetic depiction of love.
These classic films showcase the ups and downs of relationships, the work that it takes to maintain a connection, and the beauty in the simple moments shared between two people. They remind us that love is not always easy, but it is always worth it. In a world where it seems that everything is constantly changing and shifting, it can be comforting to return to the familiar andtimelessdepictions of romance found in these classic films. They serve as a reminder that some things, like love, remain constant and eternal.
If you’re a hopeless romantic looking for a movie to curl up with on a rainy day, look no further than the classics.
10West Side Story (1961)
West Side Storyis a classic musical that tells the timeless tale of forbidden love between Tony, a member of the Jets gang, and Maria, the sister of Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. Set against the backdrop of New York City’s West Side, this movie is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The romance between Tony and Maria is intense and passionate, but ultimately doomed due to their rival gang affiliations. The musical numbers and dance scenes in this film are iconic, and the storyline is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
Related:Here Are 7 of the Most Romantic Movies From the ’60s
9Desk Set (1957)
A charming romantic comedy,Desk Set, stars Spencer Tracy andKatharine Hepburnas two coworkers who are initially at odds with each other. Tracy plays a computer expert who is brought in to modernize the television network where Hepburn’s character works. Despite their initial animosity, the two eventually fall in love. The romance in this film is sweet and understated, with Hepburn and Tracy’s natural chemistry carrying the movie.
8Roman Holiday (1953)
Roman Holidayis a highly regarded classic film that follows the romance between a princess on a diplomatic tour and a journalist who is assigned to cover her visit. The two meet by chance and decide to spend a day exploring Rome together, leading to a romance that is both playful and poignant. The beautiful city of Rome serves as the perfect backdrop for this charming love story, and the performances by Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck are unforgettable.
7Singin’ In The Rain (1952)
Another classic musical,Singin’ in the Rain,is a love letter to thegolden age of Hollywood. The movie follows the romance between a silent film star, played by Gene Kelly, and a young aspiring actress, played byDebbie Reynolds. The movie is filled with memorable musical numbers and showcases the transformative power of love. The romance between Kelly and Reynolds is sweet and uplifting, and their dance scenes are iconic.
6A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)
A Streetcar Named Desireis based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Tennessee Williams. The movie follows the tumultuous relationship between Stanley Kowalski, a working-class man, and Blanche DuBois, a fading Southern belle. The romance between Stanley and Blanche is complicated and fraught with tension, but ultimately it is a story about the enduring power of love and desire. The performances by Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh are unforgettable, and the movie remains a classic of American cinema.
5Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
Meet Me In St. Louisis a classic musical that follows the lives of the Smith family as they prepare to leave St. Louis and move to New York City. While the film is full of catchy tunes and lavish dance numbers, it is also a heartwarming story about the power of family and the bittersweet process of growing up. The romance in the film is understated, but no less poignant, as it shows the enduring love between two characters who areseparated by distancebut ultimately brought back together.
4Casablanca (1942)
Casablancais truly an iconic film set in the midst ofWorld War IIand follows the tumultuous relationship between Rick Blaine, a cynical American expatriate, and Ilsa Lund, a former flame who walks back into his life just as he is trying to flee the country. The romance in this film is intense and tragic, as Rick and Ilsa are torn between their love for each other and the duty they feel to their respective causes.
Related:Casablanca First Premiered 80 Years Ago Today
3The Philadelphia Story (1940)
The Philadelphia Story, aclassic comedy, follows the life of Tracy Lord, a high society heiress who is about to get married for the second time. When a group of reporters arrive to cover her wedding, Tracy is forced to confront her own feelings and the choices she has made in life. The romance in this film is delightful and lighthearted, as Tracy navigates the attentions of three very different suitors and learns to let go of her preconceived notions about love.
2The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
A charming romantic comedy,The Shop Around The Corner, follows the lives of two coworkers who can’t stand each other in real life, but are unknowingly carrying on a romantic pen-pal relationship. As they begin to fall in love through their letters, they are blissfully unaware of each other’s true identity. The romance in this film is sweet and innocent, as the two characters discover the power of communication and the magic of falling in love.
1It Happened One Night (1934)
Taking us further back in time,It Happened One Nightis a classic romantic comedy that follows the tumultuous relationship between a wealthy socialite and a roguish journalist as they travel across the country together. As they bicker and banter their way through their journey, they begin to realize that they might just be perfect for each other. The romance in this film is playful and sparkling, as the two main characters learn to let their guard down and embrace the possibility of love.
