Romantic comedies have a way of sticking with people; whether it’s because of an iconic love confession, a perfectly timed joke, or a character who “yearns to the max.” Students across campus shared the films they love and why. 

For many, “10 Things I Hate About You” seems to stand out. Lyla Sato, a sophomore in Communication Studies, said she appreciates the film’s depth and realism. “The cinematography is amazing, the acting is very intimate and it brings a realistic perspective to romance,” she said. “I feel like it’s given me higher standards of what to find in a partner… It’s not unrealistic.” 

Olivia Garza Hermosillo, a sophomore Behavioral Science major, echoed that sentiment. She said the film conveys “the romance that a lot of people aspire for,” while still acknowledging that “a lot of people are flawed” and make mistakes. At the same time, she appreciates the exaggerated elements, like paying someone to date a sibling, because they allow the audience to “imagine something a little extra while still being realistic.” 

Other students gravitate towards stories built on unlikely pairings. “The Proposal” was a favorite for junior Psychology major Aubrie Austin-Elliot because it has “a really cute storyline and a good ending,” adding that she liked how it “didn’t make me sob at the end.” 

Bethany Wagner, a junior in Business Management, said the movie’s fake-dating premise is part of its charm. “Even though she felt like she didn’t know him, he knew her really well and saw her more than other people,” Wagner said. “I think to be loved is to be seen… and he really saw her.” 

For some, rom-coms are their best when they blend humor with heart. Jayden Kelsch, junior in Communication Studies, pointed to “She’s Out of My League.” “The comedy was really funny. His friends are very funny. It kept me laughing the whole time,” he said. “The overall true love is pretty cool.” 

Even students who claim romantic comedies “aren’t really my thing” admitted to being won over on occasion. Chad Hayes, a junior in Communication Studies, said “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” surprised him. “I didn’t think I was going to like it… Matthew McConaughey is in it, and I like that he played his role well,” Hayes said. “He yearned to the max.” Freshman Psychology major Addison Barker also chose this film, saying it taught her that “communication beats mind games,” and that “honesty is what matters the most in relationships.” 

Hayes also stated that “The Notebook” was his favorite, calling it “undisputed.” Jokingly describing it as a “top yearning movie,” he admires the main character's dedication. “He literally waits like 20 years for her,” Hayes said. “He never gave up.” 

For Jasmyn Rios, junior in Communication Studies, “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” stands out because of its emotional lessons. The film shows that “sometimes you need to ask for forgiveness and that you have to work for a relationship,” she said. “Sometimes we feel that our feelings are small and people are too hard on themselves, but we’ll get what we need… what we long for.” 

Sophomore Jai Viela, studying Communication Studies, takes a slightly different approach to the rom-com genre, naming “Operation Christmas Drop” as a favorite. “I like ‘Operation Christmas Drop,’” Viela said. “Because it’s funny, the storyline was really good and the ending left me with a sense of joy.” He further explained, “It emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community.” For Viela, romance isn’t just about the relationship, but the generosity and connection beyond the couple at the center of the story. 

For many students, rom-coms are more than just comfort movies. They are quite affirmations. They shape expectations, spark conversations and reflect the kind of love people want to give and receive. Whether it’s a “top yearner” who never gives up or a fake relationship that turns real, these stories persevere because they show something deeply human.

Tags:

---

About Tyna Romoff

More articles by Tyna Romoff