The Summer of Love - The best romcoms for you to watch this Summer!

Roses, chocolates, romance. No one can deny a good romcom, but what are some of the best ones to indulge yourselves in this summer?

Romantic comedies have long been a beloved genre, with the early 2000s often seen as the golden age of iconic love stories. As summer unfolds, many of us find ourselves yearning for that perfect “Summer Romance” — the kind that feels like it was lifted straight from a movie. But which films truly capture the essence of summer love while keeping viewers captivated from start to finish? Look no further than my ultimate list of romcoms, perfect for those warm summer nights... and yes, the Grease reference was absolutely intended.

1. How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days - Directed by Donald Petrie.

Naturally, I have to kick off this list with one of my all-time favorite romcoms: How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Believe it or not, I only watched this gem for the first time this year, and I was instantly head over heels for it. For those who haven't seen it, the story follows Andie, a magazine writer, and Benjamin, a marketing executive. Andie sets out to write a special column, while Benjamin makes a bet—all without either knowing the other's true motives. Despite their hidden agendas, they unexpectedly fall in love.

For me, this film is the epitome of what a romcom should be. From the moment we meet Andie Anderson, played by the iconic Kate Hudson, we know she’s a character we’re going to love. Andie is someone many women can relate to—she’s fun, flirty, and fiercely determined to succeed. Her chemistry with Benjamin Barry, portrayed by the ever-charming Matthew McConaughey, is simply through the roof.

Benjamin is the quintessential romcom heartthrob, winning over the ladies—and myself—with his charm and soft side, especially as he begins to fall for Andie. Their relationship, though filled with its share of flaws and challenges, has become one of the most iconic pairings in romantic comedy history. Fans can’t help but admire their journey as they navigate the ups and downs of love.

2. 10 Things I Hate about You - Directed by Gil Junger.

Romcom enthusiasts and film lovers alike often agree that this is one of the most universally adored romantic comedies of all time. Adapting a classic Shakespearean tale for a modern audience is no small challenge, but creating a film that is packed with iconic dialogue and unforgettable scenes is an even greater challenge—one 10 Things I Hate about You brilliantly accomplishes. The story follows Cameron, a new student at Padua High School, as he falls for Bianca. However, there's a catch: before Cameron can date Bianca, he must first find someone willing to date her older sister, Kat, a tough-as-nails feminist who is highly against the idea of dating.

I first watched this film in high school, just a few weeks before leaving due to COVID-19, and the memories of that first viewing are one for my long term memory. My friends and I were in stitches, laughing in our classroom, and completely in adoration by the classic enemies-to-lovers trope. Kat, portrayed by Julia Stiles, is an outstanding romcom heroine—strong, independent, and not one to rely on a man. But when she meets Patrick Verona, played by the iconic Heath Ledger, she can’t help but be drawn to his charm, discovering they have more in common than she ever imagined. From their first encounter on the football pitch, it’s clear that this is a romance worth rooting for, one that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

While we’re eagerly rooting for Kat and Patrick to find their way to each other, we’re also swept up in the story of Cameron and Bianca. It’s impossible not to cheer for Cameron throughout the movie, hoping Bianca will realise that he’s the one she truly belongs with. Cameron goes to great lengths to prove his love, even learning a new language just to impress her. The strangers-to-lovers trope is beautifully woven into the dual narrative with Kat and Patrick, making this film an absolute delight to watch. It's a romcom that I would recommend to anyone looking for a feel-good love story.

3. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before - Directed by Susan Johnson

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before took the world by storm in 2018, quickly becoming one of Netflix’s most-watched films. This romcom perfectly captures the essence of teenage love, friendship, challenges, and the journey of growing up. Lara Jean Covey is just an ordinary high school girl until her life is turned upside down by the unexpected release of her private love letters—intended for her eyes only—to all her former crushes. Her mischievous sister Kitty sends them out, hoping to spice up Lara Jean’s life. Suddenly, Lara Jean is faced with the chaos of these boys confronting her about the letters, including Josh, her next-door neighbour and her older sister’s boyfriend, and Peter Kavinsky, the school’s most popular football player, who is dating her ex-best friend.

Lara Jean is a girl who loves scrapbooking, fashion, vintage clothing, and baking—so when she enters a fake relationship with Peter Kavinsky, played by Noah Centineo, who is her complete opposite, it’s the perfect example of the “opposites attract” trope. As the film progresses, the chemistry between these two characters deepens, turning their pretend relationship into something real. The audience can’t help but root for them to become a genuine couple, even though it feels like a long shot at first. The natural connection between the actors is undeniable, with many of their scenes and dialogue being improvised, which only adds to the film's authentic feel.

The film’s success on Netflix led to two more installments, each building on the story of these beloved characters. The sequels explore themes of growing up, navigating long-distance relationships, reconciliation, and the emotional rollercoaster of teenage romance. While these are familiar themes, the execution is exceptional, making the series a delightful and heartfelt watch.

4. Crazy Rich Asians - Directed by Jon M. Chu

Some might debate whether this movie belongs on the list, but there's no denying that Crazy Rich Asians is a remarkable film worthy of praise. I watched it for the first time last year, and I enjoyed it so much that I went back a few days later to watch it again with friends—and we all loved it. Crazy Rich Asians follows Rachel, a professor, who is excited to meet her boyfriend Nick’s family. However, she’s stunned to discover that Nick belongs to one of the wealthiest families in the country, and his mother is far from approving of their relationship.

Rachel, portrayed by Constance Wu, embodies the ideal romcom heroine—innocent, friendly, and irresistibly kind. She falls for the charming Nick Young, played by Henry Golding, who brings so much charisma and genuine affection to his role that you can’t help but root for their relationship. The chemistry between Rachel and Nick is palpable, with their bond built on trust, honesty, and undeniable love. Every scene they share leaves you wanting more, as their connection is magnetic.

Their relationship is further enriched by the dynamics with the other characters. Rachel’s supportive roommate cheers them on, while Nick’s formidable mother, played by Michelle Yeoh, strongly disapproves and pushes Nick to end things. The film does an excellent job of presenting multiple perspectives, allowing the audience to see the story from different angles and form their own opinions about the characters. This layered storytelling makes for a more immersive and enjoyable experience, as you find yourself deeply invested in every twist and turn of their love story.

The movie blends romance, humor, and cultural tension in a way that feels fresh and engaging, making it a standout in the romcom genre. It’s a film that not only entertains but also offers a rich exploration of love, family, and identity, and for that reason, it absolutely deserves a spot on this list.

And there you have it—a curated list of romcoms designed to give you the ultimate summer of love through movie marathons. Enjoy these picks and let them set the perfect mood for your warm summer nights! Feel free to leave your recommendations for romance movies in the comments or comment what you want me to write about next!