Valentine’s Day in 2026 isn’t just about roses and last-minute cards anymore. It’s about celebrating love in whatever form makes your heart skip a beat – whether you’re coupled up, enjoying a Galentine’s celebration, or simply indulging in some self-care. And in the spirit of connection, a curated collection of films offers something for every mood.
Dubbed ‘Film-tines,’ this A-Z lineup provides a diverse range of cinematic experiences, from classic romances to offbeat comedies and unexpected love stories. Whether you’re planning a cosy night in or a solo cinema date, these picks aim to provide the perfect accompaniment to the most love-ly day of the year.
A is for About Time
Richard Curtis’s 2013 romantic comedy-drama, About Time, offers a charming and heartfelt story with a poignant message about cherishing time and loved ones. Domhnall Gleeson stars as Tim Lake, a young man who discovers his family possesses the ability to travel through time. He uses this power to navigate life and, crucially, to pursue a relationship with Mary (Rachel McAdams). The film is filled with tender moments, reminding viewers to appreciate every moment with those they hold dear.
B is for Bridget Jones’s Diary
Sharon Maguire’s 2001 adaptation of Helen Fielding’s novel, Bridget Jones’s Diary, remains a classic, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with a compelling love triangle. Renée Zellweger stars as Bridget Jones, caught between her smooth-talking boss, Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant), and the more reserved Mark Darcy (Colin Firth). The film is packed with iconic scenes and, at its core, a journey of self-acceptance.
C is for Clueless
Amy Heckerling’s 1995 film, Clueless, is a sparkling modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma that has achieved cult status. The film follows Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone), a popular Beverly Hills high school student with a knack for matchmaking. Beyond the 90s fashion and witty dialogue, Clueless highlights the importance of friendship, making it a perfect choice for a Galentine’s Day viewing.
D is for Definitely, Maybe
The 2008 offering, Definitely, Maybe, starring Ryan Reynolds, presents an unconventional rom-com that explores how past loves shape who we become. Reynolds plays Will Hayes, a father recounting his romantic history to his daughter, who attempts to identify her mother from the stories. The film’s charismatic plot and the innocence of the young daughter add to its appeal.
E is for Easy A
Will Gluck’s 2010 film, Easy A, showcases a standout performance by Emma Stone. The film playfully reimagines The Scarlet Letter with a contemporary twist, following Olive Penderghast (Stone) as she navigates high school rumors and self-discovery.
F is for Friends with Benefits
The 2011 film, Friends with Benefits, starring Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis, offers a crowd-pleasing take on commitment-free relationships. Dylan and Jamie agree to a ‘friends with benefits’ arrangement, but their connection deepens, leading to complications and plenty of witty banter.
G is for Grease
Randal Kleiser’s 1978 classic, Grease, combines the carefree spirit of the 50s with a timeless soundtrack. The story follows Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) and Danny Zuko (John Travolta) as they navigate love and social circles in high school. The film’s energetic musical numbers, including “Summer Nights” and “You’re the One That I Want,” continue to resonate with audiences.
H is for How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
The 2003 film, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, starring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey, plays with the idea that we can sometimes be our own worst enemies in relationships. Andie (Hudson) attempts to drive a guy away for an article, while Ben (McConaughey) tries to make a woman fall in love with him – both within a ten-day timeframe.
I is for It’s Complicated
Nancy Meyers’s 2009 film, It’s Complicated, starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin, offers a different perspective on relationship woes. The film follows Jane Adler (Streep) as she navigates a complicated romantic life, including an affair with her ex-husband and a budding connection with an architect.
J is for Jerry Maguire
The 1996 film, Jerry Maguire, starring Tom Cruise and Renée Zellweger, is a 90s rom-com elevated by memorable quotes and powerful life lessons. The story follows Jerry Maguire (Cruise) as he experiences a personal and professional crisis and forms a connection with Dorothy Boyd (Zellweger).
K is for Knocked Up
Judd Apatow’s 2007 film, Knocked Up, examines what happens when two people from different worlds cross paths. The story follows Ben Stone (Seth Rogen) and Alison Scott (Katherine Heigl) after a one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy.
L is for Love Actually
Richard Curtis’s 2003 film, Love Actually, has become a beloved holiday classic, blending romance and bittersweet moments. The film weaves together multiple storylines, exploring the impact of love on various individuals during the Christmas season.
M is for My Best Friend’s Wedding
The 1997 film, My Best Friend’s Wedding, starring Julia Roberts, cemented Roberts’s status as a rom-com queen. The story follows Julianne Potter (Roberts) as she attempts to sabotage the wedding of her best friend, realizing her true feelings for him.
N is for Notting Hill
Another Julia Roberts-starring film, Notting Hill, sees Roberts playing a famous movie star who falls for a humble bookshop owner, William (Hugh Grant). The film explores the challenges of a relationship between two people from different worlds.
O is for Only You
Harry Wootliff’s 2018 film, Only You, offers a realistic portrayal of a modern-day romance. The story follows two strangers who meet on New Year’s Eve and are drawn to each other, despite the complexities of their lives.
P is for Pretty Woman
The 1990 film, Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, is a rags-to-riches love story that has become a cultural phenomenon. The film follows Vivian Ward (Roberts) and Edward Lewis (Gere) as they form an unlikely connection.
Q is for The Quiet Man
John Ford’s 1952 film, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, blends romance, comedy, and cultural tensions. The story follows Sean Thornton (Wayne) as he returns to his ancestral home in Ireland and falls in love with Mary Kate Danaher (O’Hara).
R is for Return to Me
Martha Coolidge’s 2000 film, Return to Me, explores themes of grief and second chances. The story follows Grace Briggs (Minnie Driver) after receiving a heart transplant from the late Elizabeth Rueland, leading to a connection with her widower, Bob Rueland (David Duchovny).
S is for Sleepless in Seattle
The 1993 film, Sleepless in Seattle, starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, was heavily influenced by the classic romance film An Affair to Remember. The story follows Sam Baldwin (Hanks) as he connects with Annie Reed (Ryan) after she hears his emotional story on a radio talk show.
T is for The 40-Year-Old Virgin
Judd Apatow’s 2005 directorial debut, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, starring Steve Carell, follows a 40-year-old man who has never had sex. His co-workers attempt to help him lose his virginity, leading to hilarious and awkward situations.
U is for Up
Pixar’s 2009 animated film, Up, isn’t a traditional rom-com, but the deep love and connection between the characters leaves a lasting impact. The story follows Carl Fredricksen as he embarks on an adventure with a young boy, Russell.
V is for Valentine’s Day
Garry Marshall’s 2010 film, Valentine’s Day, features an ensemble cast and weaves together multiple storylines, exploring the impact of the holiday on various individuals.
W is for When Harry Met Sally
Rob Reiner’s 1989 film, When Harry Met Sally, starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, is a classic rom-com known for its witty dialogue and exploration of whether men and women can truly be friends.
X:
No one needs to be reminded of their X’s on Valentine’s Day!
Y is for You’ve Got Mail
The 1998 film, You’ve Got Mail, reunites Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks in a story about two people who fall in love online without knowing each other’s true identities.
Z is for Zack and Miri Make a Porno
The 2008 film, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, starring Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks, is a bold and outrageous comedy about two friends who decide to make an adult film to solve their financial problems.
