The Most Popular Rom-coms, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the rom-coms you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 4, 2024 06:15
Imagine you’re planning a cozy movie night but can't decide which romantic comedy to watch—there are just too many choices! That’s where a carefully curated list of the most loved rom-coms can be a lifesaver. It saves you the hassle of scrolling through endless options and lets you pick from the best, as voted by viewers like you.
Each vote helps ensure that only the most delightful and heartwarming films make it to the top. This dynamic list updates as new votes come in, reflecting the latest trends and popular favorites. So, take a moment to cast your vote and see where your favorite rom-coms stand in the ever-changing world of cinematic romance.
What Are the Most Popular Rom-coms?
-
168votes
The Notebook (2004)
Directed by Nick CassavetesThis film is a classic romantic comedy that has stood the test of time, and is beloved by many. It tells the story of a young couple who fall in love in the 1940s, and their journey through life together.The Notebook (2004) is a romantic comedy-drama film based on the bestselling novel by Nicholas Sparks. It tells the story of a young couple, Noah and Allie, who fall deeply in love in the 1940s. Their love is tested when they are separated by war and social differences. The film alternates between two time periods, showcasing their passionate young romance and their reunion decades later.- Genre: Romantic comedy-drama
- Release year: 2004
- Based on: The novel 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks
- Main cast: Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams
- Setting: North Carolina, United States
The Notebook (2004) in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most emotional movie
-
223votes
Pretty Woman (1990)
Garry MarshallThis movie is a classic example of a romantic comedy, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the genre. It stars Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, and tells the story of a wealthy businessman who falls in love with a prostitute.Pretty Woman is a romantic comedy film released in 1990. It tells the story of Vivian Ward, a witty and beautiful prostitute from Hollywood Boulevard, and Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman. Directed by Garry Marshall, it explores the unexpected romance that develops between Vivian and Edward after he hires her to accompany him to social events. With its charming blend of romance, comedy, and drama, Pretty Woman has become a timeless classic in the rom-com genre.- Release Year: 1990
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Director: Garry Marshall
- Lead Actors: Richard Gere, Julia Roberts
- Running Time: 119 minutes
-
338votes
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Rob ReinerThis film is a classic romantic comedy that follows the lives of two friends who fall in love over the course of several years. It is widely regarded as one of the best romantic comedies of all time.When Harry Met Sally is a romantic comedy film released in 1989. It follows the story of Harry Burns and Sally Albright, who meet during a road trip after graduating from college. Over the next decade, they maintain a close but platonic friendship, despite their differing beliefs about love and relationships. As they navigate their own romantic endeavors, their deepening friendship begins to challenge their beliefs and their undeniable chemistry raises the question of whether men and women can truly be just friends.- Release Year: 1989
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Director: Rob Reiner
- Writer: Nora Ephron
- Lead Actors: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan
-
427votes
Love Actually (2003)
Richard CurtisThis movie is a holiday classic that tells the intertwining stories of several different couples during the Christmas season. It has become a staple of the romantic comedy genre.Love Actually is a romantic comedy film released in 2003. The film tells the intertwining stories of various people during the holiday season in London, England. With a large ensemble cast, Love Actually explores themes of love, relationships, and the power of human connection.- Release Date: 2003
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Director: Richard Curtis
- Runtime: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Box Office Revenue: $246.9 million
-
522votesThis film is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," and tells the story of a high school student who falls in love with a girl who is not interested in dating. It is a beloved teen romantic comedy.10 Things I Hate About You is a romantic comedy film released in 1999. It is a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare's play 'The Taming of the Shrew.' The story revolves around a high school student named Cameron who falls in love with Bianca Stratford. However, Bianca's overprotective father has a rule that she can only date if her older sister, Kat, does too. Cameron, along with his friend Michael, devise a plan to pay Patrick Verona to date Kat. As Patrick gets to know Kat, they unexpectedly develop genuine feelings for each other, leading to a complicated and humorous love triangle.
- Release Date: March 31, 1999
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Runtime: 97 minutes
- Setting: Padua High School, Washington
- Main Characters: Cameron James, Bianca Stratford, Patrick Verona, Kat Stratford
-
611votesThis movie is a modern romantic comedy that tells the story of a middle-aged man who is going through a divorce, and his journey to find love again. It is a heartwarming and funny film.Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) is a romantic comedy film that follows the journey of a middle-aged man named Cal Weaver as his life unravels after his wife asks him for a divorce. In an effort to move on and rediscover his manhood, Cal seeks the help of a young, charismatic guy named Jacob Palmer, who teaches him how to attract women. Along the way, Cal encounters various unexpected and humorous situations that challenge his newfound confidence and ultimately leads him to question what true love really means.
- Release Date: July 29, 2011
- Running Time: 118 minutes
- Genre: Romantic comedy
- Starring: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone
- Box Office: $142.9 million
-
711votesThis movie stars Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds, and tells the story of a high-powered executive who forces her assistant to marry her in order to avoid deportation. It is a hilarious and heartwarming romantic comedy.The Proposal (2009) is a romantic comedy film about a powerful book editor named Margaret Tate who faces deportation to her native Canada. In order to avoid being sent back, she convinces her assistant, Andrew Paxton, to marry her and pretend to be engaged. As they travel to Alaska to meet Andrew's family, Margaret must navigate the challenging dynamics of their fake relationship, all while trying to convince immigration officials that their love is real.
- Release Date: June 19, 2009
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Running Time: 108 minutes
- Lead Actors: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds
- Supporting Actors: Mary Steenburgen, Craig T. Nelson, Betty White
-
86votes
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
Nora EphronThis film is a classic romantic comedy that tells the story of a man who is grieving the loss of his wife, and his young son's attempts to find him a new partner. It stars Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, and is widely regarded as one of the best romantic comedies of all time.Sleepless in Seattle is a romantic comedy film released in 1993. It follows the story of Sam Baldwin, a widower from Seattle, and Annie Reed, a journalist from Baltimore. Sam's son calls into a radio talk show to find a new partner for his father, and Annie becomes intrigued by Sam's story. As fate would have it, they connect and develop a long-distance romance filled with anticipation and obstacles.- Release year: 1993
- Genre: Romantic comedy
- Director: Nora Ephron
- Screenplay: Nora Ephron and David S. Ward
- Starring: Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Ross Malinger
Sleepless in Seattle (1993) in other rankings- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular Tom Hanks movie
-
97votes
The Wedding Singer (1998)
Frank CoraciThis movie is a hilarious romantic comedy that tells the story of a wedding singer who falls in love with a waitress at a wedding. It stars Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, and is a beloved classic of the genre.The Wedding Singer (1998) is a romantic comedy film set in the 1980s, directed by Frank Coraci. It tells the story of Robbie Hart, a wedding singer in a small town, who becomes determined to win over the woman he loves, Julia Sullivan. Over the course of the film, Robbie and Julia develop a deep connection, despite various obstacles and unexpected twists.- Release Year: 1998
- Genre: Romantic comedy
- Director: Frank Coraci
- Screenplay: Tim Herlihy
- Main Cast: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore
The Wedding Singer (1998) in other rankings- Position 6 of 10 in Most successful Adam Sandler movie
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular Adam Sandler movie
-
108votes
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
Directed by Donald PetrieThis movie is a romantic comedy that tells the story of a journalist who is trying to write an article on how to lose a guy in 10 days, and the man she chooses as her subject. It stars Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey, and is a fun and entertaining film.How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) is a romantic comedy film about a journalist who tries to get a guy to break up with her within 10 days, while he simultaneously tries to make her fall in love with him.- Genre: Romantic comedy
- Release Date: 2003
- Running Time: 116 minutes
- Starring: Kate Hudson, Matthew McConaughey
- Production Company: Paramount Pictures, Lynda Obst Productions
Missing your favorite rom-coms?
Graphs
Discussion
Ranking factors for popular rom-coms
-
Box Office SuccessA rom-com's financial success can be a strong indicator of its popularity. The higher the ticket sales and revenue generated, the more likely it is that the film has resonated with audiences.
-
Critical AcclaimReviews from film critics and ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb can help measure a rom-com's overall reception and quality. High scores and positive reviews often translate to a popular and widely-praised film.
-
Audience EngagementSocial media buzz, engagement, and overall online conversation about a rom-com can be indicative of its popularity. A high level of interest and/or passionate fan base can suggest a movie's widespread appeal.
-
Awards and NominationsAccolades, such as Oscars, Golden Globes, and other film awards, can showcase a rom-com's quality and impact on the industry. The more accolades a film earns or is nominated for, the more likely it is to be considered popular and well-regarded.
-
Impact on Pop CultureRom-coms that leave a lasting impact on popular culture — through memorable quotes, iconic scenes, or fashion and trends that the film sets — are often considered popular and successful.
-
Star PowerA film's cast can significantly impact its popularity. Fans of popular actors and actresses are more likely to watch a rom-com featuring their favorite stars, which in turn can boost the film's reputation and rankings.
-
RewatchabilityA true test of a rom-com's popularity is how often people want to watch it again. Movies that can be enjoyed multiple times often rank higher on lists of popular rom-coms.
-
LegacyThe long-lasting impact and reputation of a rom-com can also play a role in its ranking. Films that continue to be celebrated years after their release are often considered classics and important within the genre.
-
Romantic AppealThe strength of the romantic storyline, chemistry between the lead actors, and overall "swoon factor" can play a large role in a rom-com's ranking. The more engaging and heartfelt the romance, the more likely a film is to be considered popular and successful.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular rom-coms. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Rom-com is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2274 views
- 219 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Rom-com once every 24 hours. The rank of each Rom-com is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
Trendings topics
Don't miss out on the currently trending topics of StrawPoll Rankings!
More information on most popular rom-coms
Romantic comedies, or "rom-coms" for short, have been a beloved genre in film for decades. These lighthearted movies typically focus on the ups and downs of romantic relationships, often featuring quirky and relatable characters that audiences can't help but root for. From the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s to modern-day hits like "Crazy Rich Asians," rom-coms have endured as a staple of the movie industry. With so many great options to choose from, it's no wonder that fans of the genre love to debate which films are the most popular and which ones are the all-time favorites. At StrawPoll, we've gathered data from thousands of users to determine which rom-coms have stood the test of time and continue to capture hearts and minds.
Explore other rankings
Check out some of the other recommended rankings on StrawPoll and make your voice heard.
