Like millions of others around the world (slight exaggeration, I know) who have been diagnosed with Hopeless Romantic Disorder, I’m with you. In a time where being “realistic” is more valuable than having big dreams, you can feel down at times if you’re one of us. Naturally, I find my escape in books, movies, TV shows, anything about romance which can hold those dreams together. Anything which will prove that love doesn’t mean sex and attraction doesn’t mean a ‘swipe right’ and a ‘ur hot’ message from Tinder.
So, when you need a reminder that those hopelessly romantic dreams are still possible because they really are, here are my favorite go-to’s:
1. "Pride and Prejudice"
No, not the flimsy two hour film. No offense to Keira Knightley, as she is one of my favorite actresses in other respects. But the six hour P&P with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, the one which is both accurate to the book and good for the soul is always a series you can rely on for romantic… nourishment? That’s the best way I can put it. My best friend and I have had so many hour-long conversations about this masterpiece, one which reminds you how exciting, challenging, but ultimately beautiful true love can be.
2. "Dr. Zhivago"
You’ve either heard of it or you’re totally confused right now. I watched "Dr. Zhivago" when I was very young, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so shaped by a haunting romance film since. Set during the tumultuous times of the Russian Revolution before World War II, "Dr. Zhivago" revolves around the story of Yury Zhivago, a doctor who caught between his love for and his relationships with two women during a very uncertain political time. A simple plot, a complex setting, even more complicated relationships, and there you have a classic romance and a truly incredible film.
3. "The Remains of the Day"
If you love Anthony Hopkins, this is the film for you. Set in the politically tense and uncertain time (sensing a theme here?) between World War I and II in Britain, you’ll love and hate the relationship between… a butler and a housekeeper? You might not expect it, but the complexities of love become painfully clear in the unspoken romance between these two proud characters. Again, be ready for tears, but also to accept that the message of “too good to be true” is a reality.
4. "The Bridges of Madison County"
Meryl Streep. Clint Eastwood. Yes and YES. Set in the Midwest of all places, this is one of those forbidden love movies, another YESSSSS. Meryl Streep portrays an Italian housewife named Francesca who, during her husband’s four day absence, falls in love with a free-spirited, untamable photographer. The story is depicted in parallel to Francesca’s children reading her diaries after her death who learn of her untold story and infinite love for a man she knew only for four precious days. Expect more tears, sorry.
5. "Jane Eyre"
A universal classic as many critics will agree. However, I fell in love with "Jane Eyre" not because of public opinion, but through my grandmother, an English teacher who saw something more in this story of a plain orphan who falls in love with Mr. Rochester, a dark man with an even darker history. I think what captivates me so much about this story is Jane’s plainness and sorrowful past. I know that my grandmother found some relation to the character, and I can’t help but feel a tug at my heartstrings when I see her fall so desperately in love with Mr. Rochester. Whether you relate more to the book or the movies, the essence of this story is perfect for any hopeless romantic.
