40 Greatest Written Movies to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the allure of timeless love stories beckons us to a cinematic celebration of romance and emotion. In this curated list, we present the crème de la crème of films that have etched their place in the annals of love, capturing the essence of heartfelt connections, passion, and enduring commitment. From classic tales that have stood the test of time to contemporary gems that redefine the language of love, our compilation spans genres and eras, offering a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate with the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Join us on a journey through 40 cinematic masterpieces that, through their storytelling prowess, evoke the myriad emotions that make this day of love truly special. Whether you’re a fervent admirer of classic romance or seeking something fresh and modern, our selection promises to make this Valentine’s Day an unforgettable celebration of the magic that unfolds on the silver screen.
1. Casablanca
First on the list of 40 greatest written movies to celebrate Valentine’s Day is Casablanca. A classic romance set against the backdrop of World War II, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, exploring love, sacrifice, and duty.
2. The Notebook
Next on the list of 40 greatest written movies to celebrate Valentine’s Day is The Notebook. Based on Nicholas Sparks’ novel, this film tells the heartwarming and heartbreaking story of a young couple, played by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, navigating the challenges of love.
3. When Harry Met Sally
A romantic comedy that follows the complex relationship between Harry and Sally over several years, examining the age-old question of whether men and women can be just friends.
4. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
A unique love story starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, where a couple undergoes a procedure to erase memories of each other after a painful breakup.
5. Pride and Prejudice
A beautiful adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, exploring the evolving romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in 19th-century England.
6. Before Sunrise
The first film in Richard Linklater’s trilogy, it follows two strangers, played by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, who meet on a train and spend a magical night together in Vienna.
7. La La Land
A musical romance about an aspiring actress (Emma Stone) and a jazz musician (Ryan Gosling) who fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles.
8. Titanic
James Cameron’s epic film tells the tragic love story between Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet) aboard the ill-fated Titanic.
9. Romeo + Juliet
Baz Luhrmann’s modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes in the titular roles.
10. The Princess Bride
A fairy tale adventure with romance, humor, and swashbuckling action, telling the story of true love and daring escapades.
11. Amélie
A whimsical French film about Amélie, a shy waitress who finds joy in making others happy and discovers love in unexpected places.
12. Annie Hall
Directed by Woody Allen, this film explores the relationship between Alvy Singer (Allen) and Annie Hall (Diane Keaton) through a series of comedic and poignant moments.
13. 500 Days of Summer
A non-linear romantic drama that examines the ups and downs of a relationship between Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer (Zooey Deschanel).
14. Notting Hill
A romantic comedy featuring Julia Roberts as a famous actress who falls in love with a humble bookstore owner, played by Hugh Grant.
15. A Star is Born
A musical drama that portrays the intense relationship between a seasoned musician (Bradley Cooper) and a rising star (Lady Gaga).
16. Crazy, Stupid, Love
A romantic comedy that follows the romantic entanglements of a man (Steve Carell) seeking advice from a smooth-talking bachelor (Ryan Gosling).
17. Gone with the Wind
An epic historical romance set during the American Civil War, featuring the iconic romance between Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler.
18. The Fault in Our Stars
Based on John Green’s novel, this film tells the poignant love story between two teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, both dealing with cancer.
19. The Shape of Water
A fantastical romance directed by Guillermo del Toro, where a mute woman forms a unique connection with an amphibious creature in a government facility.
20. Brokeback Mountain
Half way through the list of 40 greatest written movies to celebrate Valentine’s Day is Brokeback Mountain. A groundbreaking film that depicts the complex and forbidden love between two cowboys, played by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal.
21. Silver Linings Playbook
A romantic comedy-drama about two individuals dealing with mental health challenges who find solace and love in each other’s company.
22. Ghost
A romantic fantasy thriller that explores love transcending death, starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.
23. Jerry Maguire
A sports romantic comedy-drama that follows the journey of a sports agent, played by Tom Cruise, as he navigates his career and love life.
24. Sense and Sensibility
An adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, focusing on the romantic trials of the Dashwood sisters in 19th-century England.
25. About Time
A heartwarming romantic comedy-drama about a man with the ability to time travel and the importance of cherishing every moment.
26. The Apartment
A classic romantic comedy directed by Billy Wilder, exploring the relationship between an insurance clerk and his office crush.
27. Her
A sci-fi romance that delves into the emotional connection between a man (Joaquin Phoenix) and an artificial intelligence operating system, voiced by Scarlett Johansson.
28. Atonement
A sweeping romantic drama that spans decades, revolving around the consequences of a young girl’s false accusation and its impact on love.
29. Moonlight
An Academy Award-winning film that chronicles the life and love of a young African American man through three defining chapters.
30. In the Mood for Love
A visually stunning Hong Kong film that explores the unspoken connection between two neighbors, both suspecting their spouses of infidelity.
31. Before Sunset
The second installment in Richard Linklater’s trilogy, this film reunites the characters from “Before Sunrise” for another poignant encounter in Paris.
32. Bridges of Madison County
Based on the novel, this romantic drama follows the intense love affair between a National Geographic photographer and an Iowa housewife.
33. Carol
Set in the 1950s, this film tells the story of a forbidden romance between a young photographer and an older woman going through a divorce.
34. Before We Go
Directed by and starring Chris Evans, this romantic drama unfolds in the heart of New York City as two strangers, played by Evans and Alice Eve, cross paths late one night. As the evening unfolds, they embark on an unexpected adventure that explores the complexities of love, second chances, and the serendipitous nature of connections that can change the course of a lifetime. “Before We Go” is a tale of rediscovery and the transformative power of one night in the city that never sleeps.
35. Blue Valentine
This emotionally raw film chronicles the tumultuous relationship between Dean and Cindy. Through a non-linear narrative, the movie alternates between the passionate early days of their romance and the later years marked by struggles and disillusionment. “Blue Valentine” offers an unflinching look at the complexities of love and the impact of time on relationships.
36. Brief Encounter
This classic British film portrays the poignant romance between Laura and Alec, two married individuals who meet by chance at a railway station. Their fleeting yet profound connection is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, exploring the constraints of societal expectations on love.
37. Lost in Translation
Set in the bustling city of Tokyo, “Lost in Translation” follows the unlikely connection between Bob Harris, an aging actor, and Charlotte, a young woman questioning her place in the world. Amidst the cultural differences and the anonymity of a foreign city, they form a unique bond that transcends words, exploring themes of loneliness, connection, and the transient nature of relationships.
38. The Age of Adaline
Adaline Bowman, after a near-miraculous accident, stops aging and lives through the 20th century in solitude to keep her extraordinary secret. When she meets Ellis Jones, a charming philanthropist, her carefully crafted world begins to unravel. “The Age of Adaline” is a timeless romance that delves into the complexities of love, mortality, and the choices that define a lifetime.
39. Before Midnight
Reuniting with Jesse and Céline, viewers witness the evolution of their relationship in this third installment. Now in their forties, the couple navigates the complexities of long-term commitment, addressing the challenges, compromises, and enduring love that come with the passage of time.
40. The Princess Diaries
Last on the list of 40 greatest written movies to celebrate Valentine’s Day is The Princess Diaries. In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Mia Thermopolis, played by Anne Hathaway, discovers she’s the heir to the throne of a small European principality. Balancing the challenges of newfound royalty and the pursuit of true love, Mia’s journey is a delightful blend of humor, self-discovery, and the enduring power of embracing one’s authentic self—a perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day watchlist.