Skip to content
Entertainment — Movies-and-tv — Radio

Timeless Romance Cinema: An Examination of Their Enduring Relevance Over the Years

Rewind to the past with classic romantic comedies, but beware: They may not hold up over time.Dive into 'Pretty Woman' and six other rom-coms and find out if they still sparkle or faded over the years.

,   and  ASMedia
3 min read
Diving into old-school romantic comedies may not always be a smooth ride, as some of them may not...
Diving into old-school romantic comedies may not always be a smooth ride, as some of them may not stand the test of time. Here are seven rom-coms, including 'Pretty Woman', that might raise eyebrows or simply feel outdated today.

Timeless Romance Cinema: An Examination of Their Enduring Relevance Over the Years

Freshened Up: A New Spin on Classic Rom-Coms

Jump aboard the couch, grab some chocolates, and get ready for an evening of romantic comedies - but watch out for the surprises! Some timeless classics have been badly outdated by the times, especially when it comes to love and gender roles. Let's take a look at how some iconic rom-coms have aged, and if they still make the cut 35 years later.

"Pretty Woman" and the Outdated Image

Remember the lovely romance between Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman"? Back in 1990, audiences were captivated, making Julia Roberts a global star. However, the film's traditional narrative leaves a bitter taste today. The film portrays women as naive creatures who must be educated and tamed by the wise, fatherly man. Unfortunately, this poorly ages - now recognized as outdated and sexist. If you're still curious, you can catch it on Disney+.

"When Harry Met Sally" - Still a Classic

How about that memorable scene from "When Harry Met Sally," where Harvard graduates Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) share a cheesecake and, well, a little more? The iconic film, released in 1989, still stands the test of time, addressing the tricky question of whether men and women can truly be friends - without sex. Its sharp dialogues, entertaining chemistry, and witty humor make it perfect for a romantic and entertaining evening. Grab your streaming device and go premium on Amazon Prime Video, or rent it on YouTube, Google Play, or Apple TV+.

"10 Things I Hate About You" - An Entertaining Mix

"10 Things I Hate About You," released in 1999, is based on William Shakespeare's play "The Taming of the Shrew." The film features Julia Stiles ("Hustlers") and Joseph Gordon-Levitt ("Glass Onion"), with Heath Ledger making his mark in his first major role. The romantic comedy-drama is amusing, but the flaws lie in the unrealistic portrayal of Kat, who is against societal expectations yet still gets romanced by Patrick Verona. Nevertheless, it's worth watching if you're looking for intelligent and well-acted entertainment. Find it streaming on Disney+.

"Sleepless in Seattle" - Heartwarming Comedy

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan make the perfect couple in "Sleepless in Seattle." Released in 1993, the film is heartwarming and still a joy to watch today. It cleverly takes aim at clichés and offers a beautiful story with plenty of laughs and a breathtaking view of the Empire State Building in New York. Keep some tissues handy, as it's a tear-jerker! You can catch it on Magenta TV.

"How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" and Outdated Stereotypes

"How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," released in 2003, reflects a dated image of women as one-dimensional beings whose goal is to find a man for life. While it can be entertaining, some aspects are downright annoying, representing women as being to blame for relationship issues when they are too emotional, clingy, or available. A partnership on equal terms is a different story altogether. You can find it streaming on Disney+.

"Notting Hill" - Love Scenes in a Colorful Neighborhood

Remember Hugh Grant as the adorable bookstore owner in "Notting Hill"? The film, released in 1999, features witty dialogues, a fast-paced story, and lovable eccentric characters. It also features the famous film quote when Anna confesses her feelings to William: "Don't forget, I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her." Perfect for indulging in romantic feelings and taking a tour of the vibrant neighborhood of Notting Hill, you can watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

"Four Weddings and a Funeral" - A Romantic Tribute

"Four Weddings and a Funeral" is the ultimate rom-com. Released in 1994, the film is a heartwarming tribute to love in all its forms, filled with wit, situational comedy, romance, and a touch of melancholy. With a stellar cast, including Kristin Scott Thomas, John Hannah, and, of course, Rowan Atkinson, it's still a must-watch after all these years. Enjoy it on Amazon Prime Video.

Tune into a nostalgic blend of rom-coms on your radio as they discuss the classics. The entertaining debate covers movies like "Pretty Woman" on Disney+, which, despite its romantic charm, is recognized for its outdated image and sexist portrayals. On the other hand, "When Harry Met Sally" on Amazon Prime Video continues to be a romantic and witty classic, addressing the age-old question of friendship and love between men and women.

Read also:

Related

Latest