We have decided to take a look at some of our favourite romantic comedy films from classic Hollywood.
Some Like it Hot:
As the first black and white film that I had ever watched, Some Like it Hot has a special place in my heart. The comical timing of Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe is exquisite as is the brilliant script. Filled with action, romance and laughter it takes a rare film with a rare quality to still stand out to this day – Some Like it Hot ticks all the right boxes in all the right ways!
Bell, Book & Candle:
While it has been a while since I have seen this film, it is really bewitching thanks to the chemistry between Kim Novak and James Stewart, alongside the genious comedy skills of Jack Lemmon again. With magic involved in more than one way it is a delight from start to finish – it is a real shame it isn’t shown more often.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s :
This classic Audrey Hepburn film is wonderfully quirky in its sense of humour but highlights perfectly just how vulnerable love can make us. Audrey Hepburn wonderfully leans into Holly’s quirkiness, the perfect foil to George Peppard’s Paul – their final scene together is beautifully played out and highlights how far the characters have come together and individually.
Charade:
A comedy thriller directed by Stanley Donen, the romantic chemistry between Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant is irresitable from their first quips to the final scenes. It is a film that blends the romance in with the thriller aspects of the plot effortlessly. Charming and graceful, it is a delight to watch no matter how many times that I watch it.
Singin’ in the Rain:
This classic musical sees a suave and charismatic Gene Kelly as Hollywood star Don Lockwood falling for the aspiring actress Kathy Seldon. The sheer exuberance and joy this musical romantic comedy has from start to finish is difficult to be matched by any other film musical of its kind.
How to Marry A Millionaire:
This romantic comedy really highlights the different ways in which we all fall in love – no matter what we think that we are looking for. It really is impossible to resist all three female characters played by Lauren Becall , Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable. It feels refreshing because it sees three very different but equally strong female characters trying to take control of the life they want to live.
Thoroughly Modern Millie:
Joyful, playful and quirky, Thoroughly Modern Millie really captures what it means to fall in love unexpectedly when you have a very different idea of what you want from love and life. Julie Andrews is wonderful as Millie, James Fox as Jimmy is delightfully charming. Together they have a believable chemistry that really helps to ground the story and builds to a lovely ending.