The Best Romantic Comedies on Netflix Right Now

This list has been updated to reflect Netflix’s current offerings.

Romantic comedies are movies that can make us laugh, make us cry, and even cause us to laugh at our own tears. We have gathered the finest romantic comedies available on Netflix, ranging from their peak times in the late ’80s, mid-’90s, and early 2000s to the recent resurgence of low-budget rom-coms. Some of these films might be familiar to you, as they have appeared on our lists like the top 25 romantic comedies since “When Harry Met Sally,” the 27 best independent rom-coms, and eight mumblecore rom-coms. However, if a film is worth watching, why limit its recommendation to just one occasion?

13 Going on 30

Year: 2004
Runtime: 1 hour 38 minutes
Director: Gary Winick
Stars: Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo

In the story, a middle schooler magically transforms into her fully grown self, portrayed by Jennifer Garner, who finds herself in a tricky situation: she’s attracted to a man while maintaining the mental maturity of an adolescent girl. She performs the “Thriller” dance and even tries to connect with children. Despite the questionable logic, she charms Mark Ruffalo with her cheerful determination. The plot may be unrealistic at times, especially when it comes to the portrayal of a women’s magazine office. However, isn’t there a part in all of us that longs for the carefree, flirty, and thriving lifestyle depicted?

Anyone But You

Year: 2023
Runtime: 1 hour 43 minutes
Director: Will Gluck
Stars: Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell

In the midst of the overcrowding of intellectual property and the downfall of mid-budget movies starring vehicles, it’s intriguing and unusual to find a pleasant, unique romantic comedy that aims right for the middle. Despite its slightly vintage feel, Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell embody modern screen icons effortlessly, balancing their impeccable physical beauty with an unassuming sincerity. Any film intended for a date night carries a hint of arrogance by referencing Titanic, but this one demonstrates smart wit by poking fun at itself instead of trying to replicate the original’s charm – one instance among many clever decisions made in the movie’s creation.

Hit Man

Year: 2023
Runtime: 1 hour 55 minutes
Director: Richard Linklater
Stars: Glen Powell and Adria Arjona

The story of a peaceful philosophy professor, played by Glen Powell, secretly working as a hitman for the police, might seem unusual, but it makes sense when he meets a woman in distress, portrayed by Adria Arjona, trying to escape her abusive husband. The intense connection between them, depicted in a simulated chat on Notes, feels like it could set fire to the screen. This relationship shifts the film’s main focus from its criminal aspects to its exploration of self-discovery through others. Finding the right partner can transform anyone, and our protagonist Gary learns that even without makeup, change is possible.

Maid in Manhattan

Year: 2002
Runtime: 1 hour 45 minutes
Director: Wayne Wang
Stars: Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes

Despite not matching the sharp humor of its predecessors, this millennial video-store favorite offers two compelling aspects. Firstly, it explores the tension between the rich and poor, creating a solid base for portraying realistic challenges to the relationship between two individuals with contrasting backgrounds. Secondly, Jennifer Lopez delivers a strong, endearing performance in a less-than-stellar script as she opens up to her character Ralph Fiennes, who stands in for Mr. Big. (Not forgetting, of course, that New York City is the third key player in their romantic journey!)

No Hard Feelings

Year of Release: The film will be out in the year 2023.
Running Time: The movie spans approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes.
Director: Gene Stupnitsky is responsible for its direction.
Main Cast: Jennifer Lawrence and Andrew Barth Feldman are the leading actors.

The storyline about the 30-something character attempting to woo a shy teenage boy for a car deal with his parents, who worry about his virginity, could have easily veered into disturbing territory resembling an extreme incel fantasy. However, it skillfully avoids this perilous path by emphasizing heartwarming messages of self-discovery and embracing life. This narrative is particularly notable as Jennifer Lawrence’s character doesn’t typically engage in such activities, usually found beating up careless thugs instead. The balance between awkward sexual humor and tender emotional depth may not reach the peak of Apatovian brilliance, but it certainly comes close.

Notting Hill

Year: 1999
Runtime: 2 hours 4 minutes
Director: Roger Michell
Stars: Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant

Screenwriter Richard Curtis transforms the common fantasy “Average guy meets movie star” into a captivating tale using an exceptional performance by Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. These contrasting characters – a bashful, intellectually attractive bookseller versus the radiant Julia Roberts – complement each other remarkably well. Among them, it’s Grant who steals the spotlight, embodying British allure in his disheveled attire, sharp wit, and polished gentlemanly demeanor. The audience finds themselves rooting for their romantic connection, a testament to the film’s success as a romantic comedy.

Om Shanti Om

Year: 2007
Runtime: 2 hours 42 minutes
Director: Farah Khan
Stars: Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone

Farah Khan’s tribute to Bollywood classics from the 1970s opens with an unforgettable background character (portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan) who loses both his love (Deepika Padukone) in a fire and later, his life in a car crash. Thirty years later, his reborn spirit joins his former lover’s doppelganger (again featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in dual roles) to uncover her murderer. This nearly three-hour film also offers a lively satire of the Hindi film industry, an exploration of the enduring power of cinema, and a heartfelt tale spanning multiple decades and lives.

Set It Up

Year of Release: 2018

Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

Directed by: Claire Scanlon

Main Cast: Zoey Deutch, Glen Powell, Taye Diggs, and Lucy Liu

Netflix is making efforts to revive romantic comedies, and “Here and Now” is one of their originals that almost matches the charm of ’90s rom-coms. The lead pair, Zoey Deutsch and Glen Powell, are a great match, with an intriguing plot where they try to deceive their bosses (played by Lucy Liu and Taye Diggs, both impressive) into a romantic relationship. Add to that some delightful New York City scenes, well-crafted humor, and it’s clear that the genre is still alive and kicking. The story flows smoothly without compromising quality.

She’s Gotta Have It

Movie Details:

– Release Year: 1986
– Duration: 1 hour and 28 minutes
– Director: Spike Lee
– Main Cast: Tracy Camilla Johns, Tommy Redmond Hicks, John Canada Terrell, and Spike Lee himself.

Equipped with a tiny budget, extensive knowledge on political and cinema history, and an exceptional soundtrack that blends melancholic jazz with early hip-hop, Spike Lee made his entrance with this bold ode to female sexual liberation. The character Nola Darling (portrayed by Tracy Camilla Johns) enjoys managing her three boyfriends (Tommy Redmond Hicks, John Canada Terrell, and Lee himself as chatty Mars Blackmon), so she has to be resourceful as they all try to tie her down in a monogamous relationship. This film serves as an affectionate tribute for single women who prefer their freedom over being confined.

Spanglish

Year of Release: The film was released in the year 2004.
Duration: The movie runs for approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes.
Directed by: James L. Brooks took charge as the director.
Main Cast: Adam Sandler, Téa Leoni, and Paz Vega are the leading stars in this movie.

James L. Brooks’ sharp comedy about family, class, and relationships delivers a bitter-turned-sweet punch, similar to enjoying dark chocolate in reverse. In this film, Adam Sandler gives a subdued performance as a chef who finds himself drawn to his kind housekeeper (Paz Vega), despite being married to a cruel partner (Téa Leoni). This movie doesn’t offer melodramatic music or romantic kisses; instead, it presents the challenging yet fulfilling journey of connecting with another person amidst societal and circumstantial barriers. For those who appreciate complex and yearning romantic tales, this is the film for you.

This Is 40

Year: 2012
Runtime: 2 hours 14 minutes
Director: Judd Apatow
Stars: Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd

In simpler terms, the movie that’s somewhat like a sequel to Judd Apatow’s “Knocked Up,” titled something else, brings back beloved characters Pete (played by Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann). They find themselves nearing middle age, struggling to reignite their long-term marriage, which was fraught with animosity when we first met them. The movie explores their disagreements, close calls, more arguments (and a standout performance from Megan Fox), reminding us that what truly matters in relationships is having someone who stands by you during tough times and the ordinary, unglamorous moments of daily life.

Top Five

Year: 2014
Runtime: 1 hour 42 minutes
Director: Chris Rock
Stars: Chris Rock and Rosario Dawson

As a film critic, I must say that among the numerous attempts to recreate the enchantment of “Before Sunrise”, Chris Rock’s movie stands out by delving into the unique perspective of Hollywood’s limelight. The narrative unfolds as a hungover, self-deprecating actor (played by Chris Rock) spends a day undergoing interviews by the chatty journalist Rosario Dawson. The script cleverly explores the various hardships that come with fame, such as intrusive fans, degrading press conferences, and the nagging conscience of selling one’s talent for profit. However, the real delight lies in the meandering walk through Manhattan, where we eavesdrop on their flirting, storytelling, and confessions.

2025-02-10 20:54