Eight Classic Films to rediscover this Valentine's Day

You either love it or loathe it, but whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a hardened cynic, there’s no escaping Valentine’s Day. Admittedly, it might be slightly easier to avoid it this year, with “staying in” very much the default position at the moment; nevertheless, you can still celebrate it (or steadfastly refuse to observe it!) from the comfort of your home with a “movie night in”.

We’ve picked out eight classic films that are sure to suit whatever mood you’re in this Valentine’s Day - whether you’re in need of a good laugh, cry, or sing.

All the films below are currently available to purchase either as part of a Film Night Companion or Vintage Screening Set - a perfect accompaniment to any movie night!

Bridesmaids (2011)

This hilarious hit comedy, which earned Melissa McCarthy her first Oscar nomination, turns 10 this year. Kirsten Wiig shines in an ensemble cast as Annie, the beleaguered maid of honour for her best friend Lillian. Determined to outshine Lillian’s glamorous new friend, Helen, Annie attempts to create a magical bachelorette experience - with disastrous results…

Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Baz Luhrmann’s high-octane contemporary retelling of literature’s most famous star-crossed lovers turns 25 this year. It’s visually striking and action-packed, but Luhrmann ensures that the core romance – with star turns from Leo and Claire Danes – is not lost amidst the crime and the chaos. Also, look out for a supporting turn from a seemingly ageless Paul Rudd…

Notting Hill (1999)

Richard Curtis is on top form with this rom-com that was once the highest-grossing British film of all time. Independent bookseller William falls in love at first sight when Hollywood A-lister Anna Scott surreptitiously visits his shop – predictably, the course of true love does not run smooth for him.

Amélie (2001)

This Oscar-nominated international hit is 20 years old, and has lost none of its charm, originality and joie de vivre. Paler imitations have tried to copy its giddy narrative style and cinematography, but only Amélie quite pulls off the balance of whimsy, dark humour and pathos quite so effortlessly.

Groundhog Day (1993)

Groundhog Day takes place on 2nd February annually – or, if your name is Phil Connors, every day… Bill Murray is at his best here, playing the role of the cynical weatherman stuck out of time with understated existentialist angst. Plenty of heart, a surprisingly affecting romance, and you’re guaranteed to be humming ‘I Got You Babe’ for days…

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

A second entry directed by Baz Luhrmann, also celebrating a milestone birthday (20). Come for the sheer spectacle and the jukebox musical numbers, stay for the “greatest love story ever told” – oh, and one of the all-time great “musician in a film” cameos courtesy of Kylie Minogue…

Pride & Prejudice (2005)

This Oscar-nominated adaptation of the beloved Jane Austen novel blends period drama with a refreshingly modern take on the source material – perhaps unsurprising, given that it was made by the producers of Bridget Jones’s Diary. It tinkers slightly with the Bennet family dynamics, but loses none of the comedy and warmth.

Casablanca (1943)

It follows that one of the greatest films of all time has one of the greatest screen romances, too. Reluctant hero Rick tempers any risk of schmaltz with his world-weariness, and the spectre of the Second World War looming over his doomed affair with Ilsa adds an almost unrivalled gravitas to proceedings.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Believe it or not, but this infamous psychological chiller was actually released on Valentine’s Day 1991…! For those of you who prefer an antidote to the usual Valentine’s Day fare, this is a perfect match; although it’s light on romance, the uneasy partnership between Clarice Starling and Dr. Lecter is one of the most compelling in modern cinema.