Falconer reporters provide the best love movies through recent decades.

1980s 

“Dirty Dancing” (1987)

A 1987 masterpiece, “Dirty Dancing” is a romantic drama dance film starring Jennifer Grey as Frances “Baby” Houseman and Patrick Swayze as Johnny Castle. The film, set in the ethereal getaway of a New York countryside summer resort, reflects themes related to forbidden young love, social classes & gender and  self-expression through dance. The main plot surrounds a coming-of-age wallflower, Houseman, who slowly unravels from her upper-class lifestyle and explores herself and her sexuality with the class-A bad boy dance teacher at the resort, Castle, Houseman dances through the movie, the end revealing an iconic lift as Houseman reflects on her summer and all of the friends she has made along the way, refusing to be put “in a corner” by societal expectations for any longer. However, what makes “Dirty Dancing” different from all of the other typical chick flicks are the not so subtle side-plots attuned to more mature audiences. Aside from what the movie is literally named for — dirty dancing — the film also breaches controversial and political topics, namely in the form of Penny’s (Castle’s dance partner) abortion plot, and the clear divide in socio-economic status that gets highlighted as a result of this. As Penny learns of her pregnancy from one of the privileged members of the resort, she struggles to find a way to terminate it, as she does not make nearly enough money to pay for a proper medical abortion. And while Houseman convinces her wealthy father to lend her the proper expenses to pay for it, the procedure Penny undergoes is dangerous, as the doctor in turn uses a “dirty knife and a folding table.” Despite the situation eventually being resolved as Houseman’s father takes the situation into his own hands as a medical professional, the subplot is absolutely heartbreaking and adds a layer of depth to the otherwise teenage lens. No matter what circumstances you watch this movie in, you will be quite literally guaranteed the time of your life. 

Rating: 5/5

“When Harry Met Sally” (1989)

Perhaps one of the most realistic love stories of the century, the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally” features more than just laughs and a happy ending — it displays the reality of finding lasting love in the vast expanse of our world. From acquaintances, to friends, to best friends and then lovers, Harry Burns’ (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright’s (Meg Ryan) love story took just about 13 years to work out. From their first time spent together during their 18 hour car ride from Chicago to New York, to the unplanned moments of which they met again in person over the years, the couple shows that with the right person, love can truly stand the test of time. Although the film did leave viewers feeling warm from the outcome of Burns’ and Albright’s relationship, what is unmistakably special about this movie is two things: first, the journey that viewers take with both characters on their own adventures, as well as the one that intertwines the two; although the two did get their happy ending, this did not stop them from experiencing other relationships and pathways in their individual lives that they would not have had if they rode off into the sunset immediately. Second, what may catch viewers’ eyes are the snippets between scenes portraying real-life couples sharing their own love stories in an interview-like atmosphere, giving a sense of raw vulnerability that only adds to the realness of the characters’ personal circumstances. True to what anyone watching may experience within their own life, “When Harry Met Sally” is an authentic portrayal of love and growth over time, a classic that is sure to remain on the big screen for years to come. 

Rating: 3/5

1990s 

“Sleepless in Seattle” (1993)

A classic romantic comedy with a premise that raises a few eyebrows, “Sleepless in Seattle” opens with the story of Anne (Meg Ryan), a reporter from Baltimore who is feeling doubts about her fiance. Like many other women around the country, she becomes, to put it lightly, intrigued by widowed architect Sam (Tom Hanks) after hearing him discuss his grief on a radio talk show, which earns him the moniker Sleepless in Seattle. Annie’s infatuation veers into the realm of mildly stalker-ish behavior, an all-too-common trope in romance movies — hiring a personal investigator to look into Sam’s life, flying across the country to try and meet him, and writing a letter asking him meet her at the top of the Empire State Building on Valentine’s day, of all days. If you can suspend these qualms, however, “Sleepless in Seattle” remains a timeless tale of fate and soulmates, with irresistible charm, witty humor, heartwarming performances, and 90s nostalgia. In the end, the film leaves viewers with the feeling that sometimes, destiny wins over logic, and that true love is all about taking a leap of faith. Silly? Perhaps a little. But isn’t that what romance movies are for?

Rating: 4.25/5

“10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)

Does the perfect romcom exist? “10 Things I Hate About You” comes pretty close. As a clever modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” it breathes a new life into the 14th-century classic. Set in Padua High School, the film features sisters Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) and Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles), who are polar opposites in almost every way. Bianca, the younger, bubbly and more popular sister wants to date, but their overprotective single father won’t allow it unless her older sister Kat — cynical and uninterested in romance — does first. New student Cameron James (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) falls in love with Bianca at first sight and is desperate to get around the rule. He hires Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger) to get Kat to fall in love. What starts off as a mere scheme turns into not one, but two funny and genuine love stories. For all of its teen culture and high school shenanigans, the movie stays faithful to Shakespeare’s original work. From characterization to references and themes, it preserves the essence of the source material while adding its own depth and modern twists. But beyond its literary roots, “10 Things I Hate About You” is just ridiculously fun. With witty humor and plenty of banter, every character brings something special to the screen, whether it be Cameron’s sincerity, Bianca’s growth or the school’s questionable guidance counselor. And of course, there’s Patrick’s ridiculously grand “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” serenade which will be iconic forever. From self-love to family relationships to romance, “10 Things I Hate About You” is all about love in its messiest yet most heartfelt forms. 

Rating: 4.75/5

Early 2000s 

“The Notebook” (2004) (Lana) 

It’s a storyline echoed in numerous books and movies, coming back to one’s first love but being too late.“The Notebook” follows the teenage romance of lumberyard worker Noah Calhouna and Ivy League prodigy Allie Hamilton, a boy and a girl madly in love. Even the actors themselves seem to be enamored with each other, making the chemistry on the screen all the more believable. In a turn of events, the two later get separated, and Allie moves on while Noah returns from war and looks for her. They eventually find each other, unable to ignore the burning affection that still remains between them. Allie must make a decision, to follow the man she loves now, or return to the embrace of her first love. The film explores the timelessness of young love, and the beautiful cinematography only solidifies the duo’s romantic journey in the eyes of the audience. 

Rating: 3.5/5

“27 Dresses” (2008) 

Jane has been a bridesmaid 27 times, always finding herself creating other people’s perfect weddings instead of falling in love. One night, she meets Kevin Doyle while attempting to go to two weddings at once, finding herself disgusted by his negative view of marriage. She later forgets about him, transfixed by her sister’s boss, on whom she has an unrequited crush. She later learns that he plans to marry her sister, Tess, and is asked to organize the wedding. Kevin is tasked with writing a story on the wedding and later meets Jane again while interviewing Tess and her fiance. During an interview with just Jane and Kevin, Jane tells him about her 27 bridesmaid dresses, and they return to her place to take an elaborate and comical photoshoot. In time, Kevin and Jane grow closer, and Jane starts to believe she might get her happy ending. A movie filled with hilarious twists and turns, 27 dresses delivers the nostalgia of the 80’s through fashion and much more, while still highlighting the turbulence of love. Ingrained in the fabric of the film is the idea that anyone can find love, it just takes a willingness to be authentic. Iconic scenes such as Jane and Kevin’s bar top performance of “Bennie and the Jets” gives “27 Dresses” a comedic edge, but make it charming enough to be a classic Valentine’s Day movie. 

Rating: 4/5

2010s 

“The Fault in Our Stars” (2014)

The movie “The Fault in Our Stars” based on the critically acclaimed novel by John Green, is filled with heart-wrenching tragedy, passionate teenage love, and the fragility of human mortality. The film is the story of Hazel Grace, a teenager living with thyroid cancer, and Augustus Waters, who has beaten his osteosarcoma and falls in love. In a race against time, they learn to accept the what-ifs, and use love as a tether in the face of neverending uncertainty. “The Fault in Our Stars” explores the sorrow and joy that come from accepting terminal illness, and using it to make the most of what humans are given. The chemistry between Hazel and Agustas is explosive, and their relationship is a heartwarming reminder of the need to continue to search for joy, even when it seems futile. The story leaves viewers rooting for both Agustas and Hazel not only in their exasperating fight against terminal illness but their endearing romance.

Rating: 5/5

“La La Land” (2016) 

A modern musical enveloped in Old Hollywood nostalgia, “La La Land” is a symphony of dreams, dances and starry night skies. Set in the sun-drenched, moon-bathed streets of Los Angeles, the film captures the essence of a city that dares to dream. It follows the lives of Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress waiting for her big break, and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz pianist who wants to open his own club. In a series of serendipitous encounters, their worlds collide and they begin a dance of love. But this dance does not go on forever. “La La Land” is filled with a bittersweet realism that is often missing from romance movies. In contrast with the stunning cinematography and smooth soundtrack, the film is filled with all kinds of clashes. Sebastian struggles with the music industry’s view of jazz music, Mia faces the frustration of constant rejection and both make sacrifices to maintain the balance between their relationship and their careers. This movie is many things, but perhaps at its most basic level, it is a reminder that not all people are constants in life; some pass through for only a while, yet they can leave marks that last a lifetime. In vivid colors and lingering notes, “La La Land” is sure to stay with viewers long after the credits roll. While our loved ones may fade, the dreams and experiences they give us along the way will never be forgotten.

Rating: 4.5/5

2020s 

“Red White & Royal Blue” (2023)

American and British flags aren’t the only ones flying in this film — pride flags are too! In this witty 2023 romantic dramedy featuring Taylor Zakhar Perez as humble U.S. president’s son, Alex Claremont-Diaz, and his royal British counterpart Prince Henry, played by Nicholas Galitzine, “Red White and Royal Blue” perfectly captures the attention of audiences regardless of which part of the world they reside. Tackling tropes such as forbidden, secret love, fighting societal expectations and the realization of #loveislove, the film perfectly depicts the realities and struggles of what it means to be a queer person in search of love, with perfectly timed comedic relief to cut the tension. What truly shines in this movie — making it different from nearly every other romance movie released — is the innate chemistry between the leading co-stars. Different looks, accents and origins do not deter these two actors from connecting with hilarious banter and charged glances. From their flirty pranks and joking to the deeper conversations they have about love and belonging, it is nearly impossible to not fall in love with each man by the time the credits are rolling. Furthermore, what is unique about the film is the stylistic choice to disregard certain elements of a person’s “coming out” as negative, which has been largely done in past films as characters believe it is something to be ashamed of. While guilt does follow Prince Henry throughout his life regarding his love for men since he is not legally allowed to wed a man as part of the royal family, the case of Claremont-Diaz is entirely different; the moments of which he speaks of his sexuality is with pride and transparency. Quite a large step for him is when he comes out to his mother, the president, and she accepts him with open arms. With this new perspective joining the big screen, more acceptance and empathy is sure to blossom into society, a major theme that was laid out within the movie. 

Rating: 4.5/5

“Love & Monsters” (2020)

Comedically apocalyptic and suffocatingly romantic, the 2020 film “Love and Monsters” starring Dylan O’Brien as klutzy protagonist Joel, is a fun, fast-paced watch for the entire family. Driven by the love for his girlfriend as well as his own loneliness following the catastrophic attack of mutant animals on the world, drawing every living person into bunkers below ground, Joel traverses the outside world in search of her, hoping their reunion will secure their relationship and grant him a sense of kinship. Along the way, Joel encounters new friends, constant foes and even befriends a robot who serenades him in the rain. Action-packed and funny, this film is sure to keep you on your toes and rooting for the hero to reach his goal. Despite the movie not including much romance itself, the entirety of the plot revolves around the idea of literally fighting for love, whether that be love with a romantic partner, a friend or just yourself. This film in particular is a learning experience, as people watching are all gaining the same knowledge at the same time along with the protagonist, who has a historic track record of freezing up in battle. Unassuming yet courageous, viewers won’t help but feel like cheerleaders in Joel’s corner, attention enraptured until he reaches his goals.

Rating: 2.75/5