Having looked at box office numbers, millions made and numerous reviews, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the most popular romantic movies ever watched. This list could potentially be endless, there are more than a few favourites out there but we have narrowed it down to 10 of the best to inspire you over the coming Valentines weekend. Enjoy!
1. Gone With The Wind (1939)
This historical romance set in the 19th century American South was hugely popular at the time of release, raking in $380m at the box office, the highest earning film made up to that point.
2. Casablanca (1942)
This timeless classic set during World War 2 is credited as being one of the most successful romantic dramas of its era. It won 3 academy awards including Best Picture and is still a favourite of many to this day.
3. A Room with a View (1985)
Based on the 1908 novel ,this inspirationallove story featuring Helena Boham Carter and Daniel Day Lewis is set in Italy and focuses on love in a repressed Edwardian society. This was nominated for a number of academy awards.
4. Dirty Dancing (1987)
This classic good girl/bad boy tale featuring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey was a low budget film that ended up being hugely successful in the box office. The soundtrack, featuring widely popular songs such as ‘(I’ve had) The Time of my Life’ generated two multi-platinum albums.
5. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
This witty 80’s romance tells the story of two lifelong friends searching for love. A clever script and superb performances by Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal put this film on numerous ‘funniest films’ lists.
6. Pretty Woman (1990)
Initially intended to be a dark and cautionary tale about the sordid world of class and prostitution in New York, this transpired to become one of the most popular romantic comedies of all time. A stunning performance from Julia Roberts earned her a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination.
7. Ghost (1990) With Patrick Swayze taking the male lead in yet another romantic classic, this poignant story of love exceeding death was the highest grossing film of 1990.
8. Titanic (1997)
This all-time favourite tragic love story won eleven academy awards and was the first film to reach the billion dollar mark at the box office. A definite tear jerker!
9. Love Actually (2003)
This funny, entertaining romantic comedy follows the lives of a number of different couples as they face the trials and tribulations of life in the run up to Christmas. An impressive cast and the different aspects of love portrayed in the story led to a widely positive reception from both critics and audience worldwide.
10. The Notebook (2004)
Grab the Kleenex for this one, you will most definitely need them! This inspiring tale of star crossed lovers played by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams proves that love really does conquer all. It performed extremely well in the box office and received a number of award nominations.