If you’re a fan of romantic comedies like HappenedOneNight’>It Happened One Night, you’re in for a treat! This genre is filled with timeless classics and hidden gems that offer the same charm and wit. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 13 movies that capture the essence of this beloved genre.
1. The Philadelphia Story
Starring Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and James Stewart, The Philadelphia Story is a delightful romantic comedy about a socialite whose wedding plans are complicated by the simultaneous arrival of her ex-husband and a tabloid magazine journalist. The film is a perfect blend of sharp dialogue and captivating performances.
2. Bringing Up Baby
Bringing Up Baby stars Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant in a screwball comedy about a paleontologist and a scatterbrained heiress who find themselves in a series of misadventures involving a leopard named Baby. This film is a quintessential example of comedic timing and chemistry.
3. Roman Holiday
Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck star in Roman Holiday, a charming tale of a princess who escapes her royal duties for a day to explore Rome incognito, only to fall in love with an American journalist. The film is noted for its enchanting storyline and picturesque setting.
4. His Girl Friday
Starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell, His Girl Friday is a fast-paced comedy about a newspaper editor who tries to win back his ex-wife and star reporter by involving her in a big scoop. The film is renowned for its rapid-fire dialogue and witty banter.
5. Sullivan’s Travels
In Sullivan’s Travels, Joel McCrea and Veronica Lake star in a story about a Hollywood director who sets out to experience life as a hobo to understand the human condition better. The movie is a clever blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary.
6. The Lady Eve
The Lady Eve features Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda in a comedic tale of a con woman who falls for the wealthy heir she initially targets for a scam. The film is a delightful mix of romance and humor, showcasing the leads’ exceptional chemistry.
7. Ninotchka
Starring Greta Garbo and Melvyn Douglas, Ninotchka is a romantic comedy about a stern Russian envoy who falls for a charming Parisian playboy. The film is celebrated for Garbo’s comedic performance and its witty script.
8. To Catch a Thief
Cary Grant and Grace Kelly star in To Catch a Thief, a romantic thriller about a retired cat burglar who must prove his innocence by catching an imposter preying on the French Riviera. The film is a stylish blend of romance, suspense, and stunning visuals.
9. The Awful Truth
In The Awful Truth, Cary Grant and Irene Dunne play a couple who go through a tumultuous divorce, only to realize they might still be in love. The movie is a masterclass in comedic timing and romantic tension.
10. The Shop Around the Corner
Starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, The Shop Around the Corner is a heartwarming romantic comedy about two feuding coworkers who are unaware that they are secret pen pals. The film is beloved for its charming plot and endearing characters.
11. Holiday
Holiday features Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant in a story about a free-spirited man who falls in love with a wealthy woman’s unconventional sister. The film is a delightful exploration of love, class, and individuality.
12. Top Hat
Starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat is a musical comedy about a dancer who tries to win the heart of a model while being mistaken for someone else. The film is celebrated for its dazzling dance sequences and charming romance.
13. My Man Godfrey
My Man Godfrey stars William Powell and Carole Lombard in a screwball comedy about a wealthy socialite who hires a vagrant as her family’s butler, only to discover he has a mysterious past. The film is a witty and endearing exploration of class and identity.