If you’re after a romantic film with heart, humour, and a fresh perspective, Netflix’s Always Be My Maybe (2019) is a must-watch this Valentine’s Day.
This modern take on the second-chance romance trope stars Ali Wong and Randall Park as childhood friends whose paths cross once again after a 15-year estrangement.
Set in San Francisco, the film introduces Sasha (Ali Wong), a successful celebrity chef, and Marcus (Randall Park), a laid-back musician content with his simple life. When fate brings them back together, old sparks reignite, but their drastically different lifestyles threaten to keep them apart once more. The film beautifully explores how love can evolve over time and how people grow at different paces.
One of Always Be My Maybe’s standout features is its authentic portrayal of Asian-American culture, with humour and emotional depth woven into the story. And let’s not forget the scene-stealing cameo by Keanu Reeves, who plays an exaggerated version of himself, for just that extra bit of comedic value.
If Always Be My Maybe doesn’t quite fit the mood, don’t worry. Netflix has plenty more romantic offerings to suit every taste. Here are some other films to add to your Valentine’s Day Netflix list:
Your Place or Mine (2023)
Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher team up for this charming romantic comedy about two lifelong best friends who couldn’t be more different. Debbie is a routine-loving single mum in Los Angeles, while Peter thrives on the fast-paced lifestyle of New York City. When they decide to swap homes for a week, they discover that what they’ve been searching for may have been right in front of them all along. It’s a heartwarming exploration of friendship, love, and self-discovery.
The Vow (2012)
For those who love an emotional, tear-jerking romance, The Vow is a must-watch. Starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, this drama tells the story of a newlywed couple whose lives are turned upside down after a car accident leaves the wife with no memory of her husband. What follows is a heart-wrenching journey as he tries to help her fall in love with him all over again.
Someone Great (2019)
Not every love story needs a traditional happy ending. Someone Great is a celebration of friendship, independence, and new beginnings. Gina Rodriguez plays Jenny, a music journalist who embarks on a wild night out with her best friends after a painful breakup. It’s a heartfelt and funny look at moving on, with an emphasis on the romance found in female friendship.
Notting Hill (1999)
A classic for a reason, Notting Hill is Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant at their best. This timeless tale of an ordinary bookshop owner who falls for a world-famous movie star never fails to charm. Packed with unforgettable moments and iconic lines, it’s a perfect watch for anyone who believes in love against all odds.
The Valley of a Thousand Hills (2022)
For those seeking a more serious and emotional film, The Valley of a Thousand Hills offers a powerful South African LGBTQ love story. The film follows a young woman from a conservative village who must choose between a husband chosen by her father or her secret, forbidden love: a woman. It’s a poignant story of freedom, identity, and the sacrifices we make for love.
Isn’t It Romantic (2019)
If you want a laugh-out-loud movie with a twist, Isn’t It Romantic is a perfect pick. Rebel Wilson stars as Natalie, an architect who wakes up in an alternate reality that’s essentially a romantic comedy come to life. With a dreamy love interest played by Liam Hemsworth and plenty of genre-bending humour, it’s a clever parody of rom-com tropes that will leave you smiling.