Rom-Coms Then and Now: Navigating the Evolution of Love and Relationships in the Movies
The Aging Spectrum of Classic Romantic Movies: A Retrospective Analysis of Their Enduring Appeal - timeless romantic classics revisited: examining their enduring appeal through contemporary lenses
In the realm of having a swell evening in, there's nothing quite like picking a romantic comedy, grabbing some guilty pleasure snacks, and diving into a heartwarming tale. However, not all oldies-but-goodies hold up under the scrutiny of time, and none more so than our understanding of love and the role of women.
Let's glace back at a few beloved classics, like "Pretty Woman," to see how they fare after more than 3 decades. This tale of a businessman hiring a prostitute for companionship toured German cinemas in July 1990, catapulting Julia Roberts to superstardom alongside Richard Gere. But has it kept its spark after 35 years?
After all, the romance between Gere and Roberts is hard to swallow today, with the flick painting women as naive creatures that need a wise tutor in the ways of the world. The narrative pits Edward's career advancement against Vivian finding fulfillment, leaving a bitter taste in modern audiences' mouths.
"Pretty Woman" deserves kudos for strong performances, but it sadly falls behind in the race of time (catch it on Disney+).
Another iconic flick is "Harry and Sally," from 1989. The chemistry between Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan is undeniable, and the banter between the duo is sharp and entertaining as they explore whether men and women can truly be friends without diving into romance. This film is a funny, engaging watch that's perfect for a romantic evening (with a Prime Video premium subscription, on YouTube, Google Play, or Apple TV+).
"10 Things I Hate About You" is a mixture of coming-of-age comedy, high school drama, and romance, based on Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew." Despite some flaws, like the outsider Patrick repeatedly pushing Kat, the heroine's disinterest notwithstanding, the film remains amusing, mostly due to the stunning performances from Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and a young Heath Ledger (find it on Disney+).
"Sleepless in Seattle" is a heartwarming comedy from 1993 that playfully takes aim at age-old romantic clichés, featuring an unforgettable performance by Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, who are just adorable in their love story. While it's a feel-good tale, keep a box of tissues handy! (stream on Magenta TV).
"How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," from 2003, is a tragic example of how some filmmakers reduce women to one-dimensional beings with the only goal of snagging a man. The story follows a woman trying to drive a man away within 10 days, perpetuating the idea that women are at fault when things go south in relationships. A more balanced relationship requires cooperation from both parties, and this flick doesn't quite capture that (give it a go on Disney+).
"Notting Hill" stars Hugh Grant, aka the dreamy Oompa-Loompa from "Wonka," as a London bookshop owner who falls for Hollywood superstar Anna Scott, played by none other than the fabulous Julia Roberts. The film is filled with witty dialogues, memorable characters, and endearing charm. Don't miss that classic line from Anna: "I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her." (catch it on Prime Video)
Lastly, "Four Weddings and a Funeral" is a classic rom-com that's still a crowd-pleaser today, with its blend of wit, situational comedy, love, and a touch of melancholy. The cast, including Kristin Scott Thomas, John Hannah, and the ever-lovable Rowan Atkinson, delivers memorable performances that make this film worth every minute (stream it on various platforms).
- In the realms of entertainment and love, a revisit of 90s classics like 'Pretty Woman' and 'Harry and Sally' offers a glimpse into the evolution of societal perceptions about love and relationships.
- 'Pretty Woman', released in 1990, showcases a romance that may have been acceptable in its time, but today seems outdated, with its portrayal of women as naive and in need of guidance from men.
- On the other hand, the chemistry between Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan in 'Harry and Sally' from 1989 remains captivating, exploring the complexities of friendships between men and women.
- The fashion, food, and pop-culture of the times are on full display in these movies, offering a nostalgic glance at the lifestyle and trends of the past.
- Despite the evolving perspectives on love and relationships over the years, timeless romantic comedies like 'Sleepless in Seattle' and 'Four Weddings and a Funeral' continue to charm audiences with their witty dialogues, memorable characters, and heartwarming plots.
