If you’re a sucker for romance like me, you already know the ’90s was the decade for iconic love stories. Seriously, they just don’t make them like this anymore. Whether it’s the swoon-worthy dialogue, the epic soundtracks, or just the cozy nostalgia of the whole vibe, ’90s romantic movies have a special place in my heart. So grab some popcorn, a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into the ultimate list of ’90s romantic movies you need to watch (or rewatch).
The Best Romantic Movies from the 90s
1. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
This is peak ’90s teenage romance. Heath Ledger serenading Julia Stiles with “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in front of the whole school? Iconic. Julia’s bad-girl attitude, the hilarious side characters, and all the high school drama just make it so fun to watch. Plus, it’s based on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, which makes it feel a tiny bit fancy.
2. Notting Hill (1999)
You can’t go wrong with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. A bookstore owner falling in love with a Hollywood superstar? Classic. The “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy…” line still gets me every time. And the London setting? Absolute perfection.
The Best Romantic Movies from the ’90s (That Still Hit Hard Today)
If you’re a sucker for romance like me, you already know the ’90s was the decade for iconic love stories. Seriously, they just don’t make them like this anymore. Whether it’s the swoon-worthy dialogue, the epic soundtracks, or just the cozy nostalgia of the whole vibe, ’90s romantic movies have a special place in my heart. So grab some popcorn, a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into the ultimate list of ’90s romantic movies you need to watch (or rewatch).
1. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
This is peak ’90s teenage romance. Heath Ledger serenading Julia Stiles with “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in front of the whole school? Iconic. Julia’s bad-girl attitude, the hilarious side characters, and all the high school drama just make it so fun to watch. Plus, it’s based on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, which makes it feel a tiny bit fancy.
2. Notting Hill (1999)
You can’t go wrong with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. A bookstore owner falling in love with a Hollywood superstar? Classic. The “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy…” line still gets me every time. And the London setting? Absolute perfection.
3. Titanic (1997)
Okay, I know this one’s kind of a cheat because it’s part romance, part epic tragedy, but Titanic is the love story of the ’90s. Jack and Rose’s whirlwind romance aboard the doomed ship had everyone sobbing in theaters (and questioning why there wasn’t room for both of them on that door). Oh, and My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion? A whole vibe.
4. Pretty Woman (1990)
Julia Roberts and Richard Gere—need I say more? This movie basically defined the “opposites attract” trope. A down-on-her-luck girl with a big heart and a rich, emotionally unavailable guy falling in love while navigating their differences? Add a killer shopping montage, and you’ve got a timeless classic.
5. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks were the romantic duo of the ’90s. This movie is such a cozy, feel-good love story, even though the main characters barely meet until the end. It’s all about fate and believing in love, and it just makes you want to sit on your couch with a big cup of tea.
6. Clueless (1995)
Technically, it’s more of a romantic comedy, but the romance between Cher and Josh? Adorable. Plus, this movie is a masterpiece of ’90s fashion, slang, and high school drama. “As if!” is still the ultimate comeback, and Paul Rudd hasn’t aged a day since.
7. The Wedding Singer (1998)
Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore bring the sweetest, funniest love story to life in this gem. The ’80s setting (yes, it’s a ’90s movie about the ’80s) just makes it even more fun. And that ending? When Adam Sandler sings “Grow Old With You” on the plane? Chef’s kiss.
8. Before Sunrise (1995)
This one is a bit different—it’s slower, more introspective, but oh-so-romantic. It’s just two strangers meeting on a train and spending one magical day together in Vienna, talking about life, love, and everything in between. If you’re into deep, dreamy conversations, this one will hit you right in the feels.
9. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
Another Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks classic! This one is all about anonymous online pen pals who don’t realize they’re also professional rivals IRL. It’s like a time capsule of the early internet era, and the romance is just so sweet. Plus, who doesn’t love bookstores and New York City in the fall?
10. Runaway Bride (1999)
Julia Roberts strikes again! This time, she’s playing a woman who keeps leaving men at the altar until Richard Gere shows up to write a story about her. It’s funny, heartfelt, and proof that sometimes you just need to find the right person to walk down the aisle with.
So there you have it—my ultimate list of ’90s romantic movies that are worth watching again (and again). These movies aren’t just love stories—they’re little time capsules of a magical era in film. Which ones are your favorites? Or did I miss an absolute classic? Let me know—I’m always down for a movie marathon! 💕