10 Best Movies Like No Hard Feelings

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There are numerous movies similar to “No Hard Feelings,” especially for fans of Jennifer Lawrence’s comedies. The film centers on Maddie Barker, a woman dealing with the potential loss of her mother’s home. She takes up a job offered by Percy Becker’s overly protective parents, who are willing to give away a Buick Regal, asking her to date their shy 19-year-old son, Percy. As the story unfolds, the Beckers hope that Maddie can help Percy come out of his shell before he leaves for college.

Featuring Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence playing Maddie and stage sensation Andrew Barth Feldman portraying Percy, the cast of No Hard Feelings breathes a delightful retro charm into the nearly extinct genre of racy romantic comedies. The film honors the romantic comedies of the ’90s and 2000s by incorporating them with a profound emotional bond between Maddie and Percy’s developing romance. As the end credits appear, viewers find themselves longing for more movies that can replicate the same humor and heartfelt feelings evoked by No Hard Feelings.

10. American Pie (1999)

Directed By Paul Weitz

If you’re a fan of the raucous humor in “No Hard Feelings,” then it’s likely that the next film you’d enjoy is “American Pie.” Released in 1999, “American Pie” is a teenage coming-of-age sex comedy. It tells the story of five friends at East Great Falls High School who make a bet to lose their virginity before graduation. Though it can be quite outrageous at times, the film resonates with many viewers due to its portrayal of adolescent struggles such as navigating different social circles, dealing with embarrassing parents, and the stress associated with sex.

American Pie served as a trailblazer for R-rated comedies such as No Hard Feelings, by openly embracing crude humor and outrageous stunts. While No Hard Feelings offers a more intricate character development and presents a female viewpoint that is largely absent in American Pie, both films are equally funny and shocking. Additionally, the American Pie series consists of eight movies, including three from the original series, offering ample viewing for fans of No Hard Feelings.

9. I Love You, Beth Cooper (2009)

Directed By Chris Columbus

In my opinion as a movie enthusiast, the 2009 teen romantic comedy “I Love You, Beth Cooper” beautifully portrays the character Denis Cooverman, a somewhat nerdy individual, who unexpectedly confesses his long-time crush for cheerleader Beth Cooper during his valedictorian speech. As they grow closer, both characters learn and develop, forming a genuine bond that resonates with me, much like Maddie and Percy’s relationship does in the movie. If you enjoy romantic comedies with heartwarming endings, I highly recommend “I Love You, Beth Cooper” for fans of the delightful “No Hard Feelings.

Hayden Panettiere’s character contrasts Jennifer Lawrence’s Maddie, as she is portrayed as a compassionate and considerate individual who befriends Denis not due to personal attraction but because she recognizes his inherent goodness. On the other hand, Denis shares a captivating allure reminiscent of Percy from “No Hard Feelings,” making him an underdog that viewers find themselves supporting.

8. Big Daddy (1999)

Directed By Dennis Dugan

1999 comedy “Big Daddy” features Adam Sandler as lazy law school graduate Sonny Koufax. His girlfriend, Vanessa, threatens to leave unless he grows up a bit. An unexpected event occurs when five-year-old Julian McGrath (played by twins Dylan and Cole Sprouse) shows up at Sonny’s doorstep, leading him to take on the role of guardian in an attempt to win back his girlfriend.

In this movie, similar themes of pretending to be in a romantic relationship are present, but instead, the characters aid each other in personal growth, which is central to the storyline of “No Hard Feelings.” Characters Sonny and Maddie are content with drifting through life, focused solely on their own interests without any desire for change. Yet, their self-serving decisions eventually prompt them to reevaluate their lives and extend a helping hand to others.

7. Just Go With It (2011)

Directed By Dennis Dugan

In the 2011 comedy “Just Go With It,” the story revolves around Danny Maccabee, a successful plastic surgeon, who pretends to have a family consisting of an “ex-wife,” Katherine Murphy, and kids, Maggie and Michael Murphy, to win over the attractive Palmer Dodge. As the story unfolds, Danny discovers the true value of life and honesty, leading him towards a joyful conclusion.

In much the same way that Maddie discovers life improves when she becomes more open and truthful, “No Hard Feelings” sets up well as a precursor to “Just Go With It.” Both stories revolve around individuals in a sham relationship, driven by self-interest. Unlike “No Hard Feelings,” however, where Maddie and Percy’s bond develops into friendship, “Just Go With It” delves deeper into the romantic connection between Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston.

6. She’s All That (1999)

Directed By Robert Iscove

The 1999 teen romantic comedy She’s All That tells the story of Zack Siler, who finds out his girlfriend is being unfaithful during spring break. To ease his pain, Zack wagers with a friend that he can transform any schoolgirl into the next prom queen. Over six weeks, Zack sets out to change the fortunes of the socially awkward and unpopular Laney Boggs, turning her into the most sought-after girl at their high school.

The movie shares some characteristics with “No Hard Feelings,” as it amplifies the fashion and personality of the awkward character, and conversely, the popular character learns to open up emotionally. Interestingly, although it is a modern take on “My Fair Lady,” its plotline bears a strong resemblance to “No Hard Feelings.” However, unlike “No Hard Feelings,” “She’s All That” is reminiscent of ’90s romantic comedies and has significantly less explicit content. Instead, it focuses more on the developing romance.

5. The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005)

Directed By Judd Apatow

In 2005, Steve Carell starred in the comedy movie titled “The 40-Year-Old Virgin“. His character was Andy Stitzer, a man of forty who hasn’t had sexual intercourse yet. Other notable cast members included Paul Rudd as David, Romany Malco as Jay, and Seth Rogen as Cal. This film was known for its explicit humor, similar to “No Hard Feelings“, as Andy’s colleagues attempted to assist him in losing his virginity. Characters Andy and Percy share some similarities, but there is an age gap between them; they are both gentle souls who struggle to form relationships due to their sensitivity.

Just like American Pie paved the way, The 40-Year-Old Virgin played a significant role in bringing forth No Hard Feelings. Judd Apatow’s initial directorial venture marked the beginning of an era where R-rated humor thrived alongside a surprising level of emotional depth. Watching this comedy after No Hard Feelings is enjoyable because the two main characters experience growth in similar manners.

4. The Girl Next Door (2004)

Directed By Luke Greenfield

In the 2004 romantic comedy titled “The Girl Next Door”, the life of 18-year-old Matthew Kidman takes an unexpected turn when Danielle, a former adult film star, moves into the house next door. This movie carries the same lewd humor as “No Hard Feelings”, with numerous scenes revolving around the world of the adult entertainment industry. Similar to Maddie, Danielle is often misunderstood, impulsive, and unreserved in her actions. Matthew, like Percy, exhibits an ambitious personality that led him to live a more secluded life.

If you’re a fan of the characters from “No Hard Feelings“, then you might find “The Girl Next Door” appealing. However, it’s important to note that the main characters have distinct personalities. Unlike Maddie, Danielle isn’t self-absorbed or immature. Instead, she finds solace in Matthew, who provides a respite from her current life. Interestingly, it is Matthew who starts off being dishonest about their relationship, keeping secret that he’s aware of Danielle’s profession in the adult film industry.

3. Superbad (2007)

Directed By Greg Mottola

2007’s film “Superbad” is a humorous buddy story centered around Seth (Jonah Hill) and Evan (Michael Cera). Facing their upcoming separation as they head off to different colleges, they embark on a wild adventure to forget their worries at a colossal high school party. The narrative revolves around their efforts to shed their inexperience and step out of their comfort zones before college life begins.

Superbad is often seen as one of the most relatable movies among millennials, and it shares a lot in common with No Hard Feelings. The friendship between Seth and Evan in Superbad feels very similar to the bond between Maddie and Percy in No Hard Feelings. These characters are social outcasts yet they also display immaturity and a dirty sense of humor typical of teenagers.

2. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)

Directed By Steve Rash

The movie titled “Can’t Buy Me Love” released in 1987 is a romantic comedy. The story revolves around Ronald Miller, a socially awkward individual, and Cindy Mancini, a popular cheerleader. Ronald, wanting to enhance his social status, hires Cindy for a month to pretend being his girlfriend. This plotline mirrors that of Maddie feigning a relationship with Percy, aiming to boost his self-esteem. In both tales, the main characters unexpectedly develop feelings for each other despite their apparent differences.

Watching the endearing relationship between the outgoing girl and the shy, intelligent guy in “Can’t Buy Me Love” makes it an enjoyable movie to watch after “No Hard Feelings.” The film has a more subdued ’80s atmosphere compared to the wildness of “No Hard Feelings.” Interestingly, “No Hard Feelings” seems to draw inspiration from movies like “Can’t Buy Me Love,” incorporating them with plenty of adult-oriented humor.

1. Failure To Launch (2006)

Directed By Tom Dey

In simpler terms, the 2006 movie “Failure To Launch” can be described as the “older sibling” of “No Hard Feelings”. The main character, Tripp (played by Matthew McConaughey), is a 35-year-old who resides with his parents. To help him grow up and overcome his Peter Pan syndrome, his parents hire a “professional interventionist”, named Paula (portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker). The plot shares similar themes with “No Hard Feelings”, as Paula encourages Tripp to step out of his parental nest, while at the same time, he develops feelings for her.

If you’re fond of the movie “No Hard Feelings” and seek another film with a comparable narrative, I recommend “Failure To Launch.” Both stories share a common premise: parents devising secret plans to encourage their adult child towards maturity, a concept that resonates strongly with “No Hard Feelings.” While Percy’s parents’ methods may seem unsettling at first glance, it is understandable why Tripp’s parents feel compelled to employ such tactics.

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2025-04-29 14:11