80 Date Night Movies for the Perfect Evening at Home

What to watch tonight for date night?
on April 12, 2024
Read time: 10 mins

There’s nothing better than getting comfy, snuggling with your partner, and unwinding with a good film. But with all the choices available, finding date night movies that you’re both in the mood for turns into hours of scrolling Netflix, reading reviews, watching trailers, and vetoing each other’s suggestions. By the end of it, you’re too exasperated to watch anything!

You might think that “Netflix and chill” doesn’t constitute a proper date, but watching a movie together can be the perfect way to relax and start a conversation. A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that couples who watch movies together experience a deeper connection, thanks to a shared interest in the characters and plots. 

So, we finally have the answer to “What shall we watch tonight?”. Below are 44 of the best date night movies to suit every mood or preference. We can’t guarantee you’ll like all these suggestions, but there should be something for everyone. And before you ask, The Notebook is non-negotiable — we’re sure you agree. 

What are the best date night movies? 

While Netflix and Chill often mean couples aren’t overly interested in the storyline, choosing the best TV shows or movies for date night should still be taken seriously!

Whether you’re into anime or sci-fi, a cheesy rom-com, or a classic Christmas film, there are so many films to choose from that are perfect for your next cuddle session. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite date night films, so hopefully we can reduce your scrolling time! 

Funny date night movies 

  1. Groundhog Day (1993). Imagine living the same day over and over again. That’s the reality for weatherman Phil, played by Bill Murray, in this hilarious yet heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and self-discovery in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Watch as Phil tries to break the cycle and win the heart of his producer, Rita. It’s a laugh-out-loud journey that teaches us about making the most of every day.

  2. Knocked Up (2007). This comedy brings laughs and unexpected warmth to the screen as Ben, a fun-loving slacker, and Alison, a rising journalist, navigate the consequences of a one-night stand that leads to an unplanned pregnancy. Their journey toward parenthood is filled with missteps, humor, and a surprising amount of heart, making it perfect for a date night filled with laughter and love.

  3. Hitch (2005). Will Smith shines as Alex "Hitch" Hitchens, a smooth-talking date doctor who meets his match in Sara Melas, played by Eva Mendes. As Hitch helps his clients woo their dream women, he finds himself stumbling through the game of love. It’s a charming reminder that when it comes to love, there’s no such thing as a foolproof plan. 

  4. Silver Linings Playbook (2012). This film blends humor, romance, and personal growth as Pat, played by Bradley Cooper, tries to rebuild his life with the help of Tiffany, a young widow portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence. Their unique bond leads them through dance competitions and the complexities of their mental health struggles, proving that sometimes, love is the best kind of therapy.

  5. The Proposal (2009). Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds have undeniable chemistry in this comedy about a high-powered book editor who convinces her assistant to marry her to avoid deportation to Canada. From awkward family gatherings to unexpected feelings, this film is a hilarious take on the lengths we’ll go to for love (and citizenship).

  6. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)This dazzling rom-com takes you into the extravagant world of Singapore’s elite as Rachel Chu accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend’s wedding, only to find out that Nick’s family is incredibly wealthy. Crazy Rich Asians is a whirlwind of opulence, comedy, and romance, showcasing the power of love over tradition and wealth.

  7. Zombieland (2009). Combining romance, action, and a zombie apocalypse might seem like a tall order, but Zombieland delivers it with a bang. Follow the comedic journey of survivors trying to find sanctuary from the undead, proving that even in a post-apocalyptic world, there’s room for love and laughter.

  8. Easy A (2010). Emma Stone gives a breakout performance as Olive Penderghast, a clever but invisible high schooler who decides to use the rumor mill to her advantage, with unexpected consequences. It’s a smart, sassy take on the classic high school drama, complete with a heartfelt look at friendship, love, and the power of honesty.

  9. Bridesmaids (2011). This isn’t just a movie; it’s a riotous celebration of friendship, love, and the road to the altar. Follow the misadventures of Annie and her group of unique bridesmaids as they navigate the waters of wedding planning, proving that what can go wrong, will go wrong, but friendship can see you through it all.

  10. Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008). After being dumped by his celebrity girlfriend, Peter heads to Hawaii to get over his heartbreak, only to find his ex staying at the same resort with her new boyfriend. It’s a hilariously awkward, yet touching story about moving on and finding love in the least expected places.

  11. 50 First Dates (2004). Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore star in this romantic comedy about a man who falls for a woman with short-term memory loss. Every day, he must win her heart all over again, making for a funny yet sweet tale of undying love and dedication.

  12. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014). While not a traditional rom-com, this Wes Anderson masterpiece offers a visually stunning, whimsically humorous tale filled with eccentric characters, including the legendary concierge Gustave H. It’s a story about friendship, adventure, and a bit of romance, all wrapped in Anderson’s signature style.

  13. The Princess Bride (1987). This classic fairy tale adventure is a blend of comedy, romance, and fantasy that has captivated audiences for generations. Follow the journey of Westley and his quest to rescue his true love, Princess Buttercup, from an unwanted marriage. It’s a timeless reminder that true love conquers all.

  14. Legally Blonde (2001). Reese Witherspoon stars as Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy sorority girl who enrolls in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend but discovers her potential for greatness along the way. With its pink wardrobe, witty retorts, and an adorable Chihuahua named Bruiser, Legally Blonde is a hilarious journey of self-empowerment, love, and the unexpected places we find both.

  15. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010). This visually stunning, action-packed comedy dives into the life of Scott Pilgrim, a bass guitarist for a garage band, who meets the girl of his dreams, Ramona Flowers. There’s just one catch: to win her over, he must battle her seven evil exes in video game-style duels. Mixing romance, humor, and a dash of surrealism, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World showcases that love is worth fighting for, literally.

Fun date night movies to watch together 

  1. Clueless (1995). Dive into the quintessentially '90s world of Cher Horowitz, a wealthy and superficial high school student who decides to play matchmaker for her teachers and friends, with unexpected results. Clueless is a delightful satire of teen life, love, and the importance of finding oneself amidst the chaos of high school. It’s a charming reminder that everyone has something to learn about life and love.

  2. Pitch Perfect (2012). Follow the journey of the Barden Bellas, an all-girls a cappella group, as they strive to win the national championship. Starring Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson, this film is packed with catchy music, sharp humor, and a heartwarming story about friendship, rivalry, and romance. It’s the perfect blend of laughs and tunes for a harmonious date night.

  3. The Edge of Seventeen (2016). This coming-of-age comedy-drama stars Hailee Steinfeld as Nadine, a high school junior who feels more awkward and alone than ever when her best friend starts dating her older brother. It’s a brutally honest, funny, and touching look at adolescence, showcasing the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of growing up.

  4. Spy (2015). Melissa McCarthy shines in this action-comedy as Susan Cooper, an unassuming CIA analyst turned field agent. Tasked with taking down a deadly arms dealer to prevent a global disaster, Susan proves that heroes come in unexpected packages. Spy is a hilarious, high-octane adventure that’s perfect for couples looking for laughs and thrills.

  5. The Heat (2013). Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy team up in this buddy cop comedy as an uptight FBI agent and a foul-mouthed Boston cop. Forced to work together to take down a ruthless drug lord, they form an unlikely bond. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and action-packed scenes, The Heat is a testament to the power of friendship and teamwork.

  6. Juno (2007). Ellen Page delivers a standout performance as Juno MacGuff, a witty and precocious teenager facing an unplanned pregnancy. With the support of her friend and the baby's father, Juno embarks on a quirky and heartfelt journey to find the perfect adoptive parents. Juno is a unique blend of humor, warmth, and unconventional love.

  7. Tropic Thunder (2008). A riotous satire of Hollywood and war movies, this film follows a group of actors shooting a big-budget war movie who find themselves in the middle of a real conflict. Starring Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., and Jack Black, Tropic Thunder delivers non-stop laughs, memorable characters, and a satirical look at the movie-making business.

  8. Superbad (2007). This raucous coming-of-age story follows high school seniors Seth and Evan as they navigate the challenges of friendship, love, and the quest to lose their virginity before college. With its sharp wit, authentic dialogue, and unforgettable characters, Superbad is a hilarious, albeit crude, exploration of the bonds that define us.

  9. Game Night (2018). Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams star as a competitive couple whose weekly game night takes a wild turn when they become embroiled in a real-life mystery. Mixing suspense, humor, and a touch of romance, Game Night is an exhilarating and comedic adventure that proves life can be more unpredictable than any board game.

  10. Couples Retreat (2009). Four couples set off to a tropical island resort for a vacation that turns into a therapy session for their marriages. With a cast including Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau, this comedy explores the quirks of relationships and the lengths we go to for love and happiness. It’s a light-hearted take on the challenges of staying together.

  11. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (2008). Michael Cera and Kat Dennings star in this romantic comedy about two teenagers bonding over their shared love of music during an all-night adventure in New York City. It’s a sweet, music-filled journey that captures the excitement of new connections and the magic of a city at night.

  12. The Intern (2015). Robert De Niro stars as a 70-year-old widower who becomes an intern at an online fashion site, run by Anne Hathaway. This heartwarming comedy-drama explores themes of friendship, generational differences, and finding purpose at any age. It’s a charming and uplifting film that shows it’s never too late to start anew.

  13. The Princess Diaries (2001). This enchanting comedy follows Mia Thermopolis, a shy, awkward teenager who discovers she’s the heir to the throne of a European principality called Genovia. Anne Hathaway shines in her breakout role, transforming an unnoticed schoolgirl into a glamorous princess. It's a feel-good story about embracing one's destiny and finding confidence in the most unexpected ways, complete with laughs, romance, and royal mishaps.

  14. What We Do in the Shadows (2014). Venture into the hilarious world of vampire flatmates trying to cope with the complexities of modern life in Wellington, New Zealand. This mockumentary-style film directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement provides a unique blend of humor, horror, and heart. It's perfect for couples looking for laughs that are a bit out of the ordinary, showcasing the everyday challenges of immortal beings navigating friendship, chores, and nightlife.

  15. Sing Street (2016). Set in 1980s Dublin, this musical coming-of-age tale follows Conor, a teenager who starts a band to impress a girl he likes. Sing Street offers a captivating mix of romance, nostalgia, and the power of music, delivering catchy original songs and heartfelt performances. It's a story about dreams, love, and the journey to find one's voice, making it a fantastic pick for a fun and inspiring date night.

Romantic movies to watch as a couple

  1. Lars and the Real Girl (2007). Speaking of Ryan Gosling — this is a truly endearing story of Lars, a shy, somewhat socially inept young man from a small town in Wisconsin who starts a romantic relationship with a sex doll. Despite thinking he’s a bit delusional, all the townspeople get behind him and treat Bianca, his girlfriend, as if she were a real person. 

  2. Speed (1994). Starring America’s (and Canada’s) sweethearts Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, ​​this is an action thriller about a cop who tries to rescue civilians on a moving city bus rigged to explode. Fun fact: Bullock and Reeves admitted to developing a real-life crush while shooting this movie. 

  3. Moonrise Kingdom (2012). If you’re in the mood for something fun and quirky, you can’t go wrong with a Wes Anderson film. Set in 1965 on a whimsical (fictional) New England island, it follows two twelve-year-old pen pals who fall in love and decide to run away together. All the islanders band together to try and find them before a big storm hits.

  4. The Big Short (2015). Ok, so a comedy about the 2008 financial crisis might not be the most romantic, but it will still make for an entertaining evening. Featuring a star-studded cast (Steve Carrell, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale), this movie explains how the housing bubble burst, with witty humor and scathingly funny dialogue. 

  5. Chef (2014). Jean Favreau plays Carl, an L.A. chef who quits his high-prestige job in a swanky restaurant. Feeling like he’s lost his culinary flair, he moves back to Miami with his estranged family to start a food truck. Caution: don’t watch this movie on an empty stomach because it will make you crave a Cuban sandwich. 

  6. Amélie (2001). A story about a young Parisian waitress (Audrey Tatou) who lives in a fanciful world of her own making. Amélie decides to help the people around her by changing their lives for the better while dealing with her own isolation. 

  7. The Notebook (2004). You can't go wrong with a story about star-crossed lovers. Noah, a young man from humble origins, falls in love with Allie, a wealthy girl who’s in town for the summer. What started as summer puppy love turned into a lifelong romance.

  8. Forrest Gump (1994). No matter how many times you’ve watched this feel-good classic, it always makes for great viewing. And deep down, Forrest Gump is just the story of a young man trying to reunite with his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. Watch with a box of chocolates. 

  9. Life is Beautiful (1997). In 1930s Italy, Guido, a carefree Jewish waiter, falls in love with Dora, winning her over with his charm and humor. Their happiness is derailed when Guido and their son Giosue are taken to a concentration camp, and to shield Giosue from the horrors of the camp, Guido convinces him they’re merely playing a game. Get ready to laugh, cry, and say “Buongiorno, Principessa!” for a week straight.

  10. Pride & Prejudice (2005). The movie adaptation of this Jane Austen classic is a must-watch for everyone. Witness the feisty and independent Elizabeth Bennet and brooding, proud Mr. Darcy reluctantly fall in love. If for nothing else, watch this movie to see Tom from Succession utter the words “You have bewitched me, body and soul. I love you, I love you, I love you.”

  11. Good Will Hunting (1997). A touching tale of an M.I.T. professor (Robin Williams) who helps a wayward janitor and secret genius (Matt Damon) discover his potential and find his way in life.

  12. About Time (2013). When he turns 21, Tim discovers he can travel back in time and change the events of his own life. He uses this gift to go back in time and find a girlfriend, but things don’t go exactly as planned. From the same writer and director who brought us Love Actually, expect plenty of meet-cutes and witty British humor. 

  13. Southside With You (2016). Based on the true story of how Barack Obama met his future wife, Michelle, the movie follows two young lawyers in 1980s Chicago who decide to go on a first date. And, well, the rest is history!

  14. Bend it Like Beckham (2002). This cult classic is the story of two teenage girls from different backgrounds who, despite their parent’s wishes, have a dream of becoming professional soccer players. This film is a great compromise if one of you loves sports movies and the other loves comedies.

  15. The Lovebirds (2020). Issa Rae’s humor, Kumail Nanjiani’s charm, and an unintentional murder mystery. What more could you want? 

  16. Two Weeks Notice (2002). Lucy (Sandra Bullock) is a hard-working environmental lawyer who lands a job as chief counsel for a millionaire real estate developer and lothario, George (Hugh Grant). Tired of being treated like his babysitter, she hands in her resignation only to later find out that — you guessed it — they were madly in love with each other. 

  17. The Gentlemen (2019). Guy Ritchie made sure this movie had something for everyone: a marijuana empire, bribery, blackmail, and Charlie Hunnam in a shawl collar cardigan.  

  18. The Imitation Game (2014). Based on the real story of British cryptanalyst Alan Turing, the film chronicles how he and a team of mathematicians try to decode Nazi codes and end the war. The movie is also a stark reminder of the persecution of the gay community at the time.

  19. The Favourite (2018). This is the movie that won Olivia Colman her first Oscar, and for good reason. A new servant (Emma Stone) wins over Queen Anne’s affection and upsets the status quo. It’s a raunchy and hilarious look at the debauchery of the 18th-century monarch’s court.

  20. Eighth Grade (2018). Written and directed by Bo Burnham, who supplied the internet with endless viral TikTok songs from his Netflix special Inside, this is quite possibly one of the most heart-wrenching coming-of-age stories of all time.  

  21. Scream (1996). Do you like scary movies? If you read that question in the right creepy voice, you’ve probably already watched Scream, but it doesn’t mean you can’t snuggle up for a rewatch with your partner. Just don’t forget to unplug that phone!

  22. Whip It (2009). Elliot Page and Drew Barrymore head up the cast of this action-packed romp about escaping from a mundane, miserable life by joining a roller derby team and running —no, rolling — rings around the competition.

  23. Death at a Funeral (2007). This comedy completely makes you forget about mourning with its hilarious twists and turns. If you enjoy this British gem, seek out the American remake starring Chris Rock, Regina Hall, and Luke Wilson.

  24. The Theory of Everything (2014). This is a real-life love story about how world-renowned physicist Stephen Hawking met his enchanting wife and lifelong friend, Jane Hawking. Get the tissues ready. 

  25. Lady Bird (2017). This movie tells the story of a strong-willed, deeply opinionated high school senior and her strained relationship with her mom, who’s just trying to keep her family afloat after her husband loses his job. 

  26. Boomerang (1992). Not only does this slick ‘90s rom-com feature a stellar cast including Eddie Murphy, Halle Berry, Eartha Kitt, and Grace Jones — but it also spawned the record-breaking R&B smash “End of the Road” by boy band forefathers Boyz II Men. 

  27. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011).  A group of British pensioners decides to spend their retirement at what they thought was a luxurious Indian resort, only to find that the Marigold has become a shell of its former self. Nevertheless, they find new life (and love) with the help of the hotel’s host, Sonny. You’ll end the movie with a new life motto: everything will be alright in the end, so if it’s not alright, it’s not the end.

  28. Moonlight (2016). This Oscar-winning coming-of-age movie will tug at your heartstrings like no other with its themes of self-discovery and painful relationships, but we guarantee you’ll love it to the moon and back.

  29. Set It Off (1996)Who doesn’t love a heist movie? This 1996 box office smash stole the show as well as the money with its all-female lead cast consisting of Jada Pinkett-Smith, Queen Latifah, Halle Berry, and Kimberly Elise. This is a date night winner — you can bank on it.

  30. Calendar Girls (2003). A group of small-town, middle-aged women decides to pose for a nude calendar to raise funds for cancer research after their friend’s husband passes away from leukemia. Despite the townspeople's shock and disapproval, they soon become an international sensation. 

  31. Obvious Child (2014). Jenny Slate plays Donna, a newly unemployed stand-up comedian whose drunken one-night stand results in an unplanned pregnancy and consequent abortion. It’s a charming story about navigating the murky waters of adulthood, breakups, and love. 

  32. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011). After Cal’s wife Emily asks for a divorce, he tries to pick up the pieces of his life with the help of his new friend Jacob, a suave playboy with a secret heart of gold (and abs that look photoshopped).  

  33. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004). After a painful breakup, Clementine (Kate Winslet) and Joel (Jim Carrey) undergo a procedure to erase all memories of each other, and their relationship, from their minds. It’s a story about love, loss, and the intricacies of romantic relationships.

  34. Good Time (2017). Robert Pattinson plays a bank robber who will stop at nothing to free his younger brother from prison. After a failed bank robbery, he embarks on a twisted, nightlong odyssey through New York’s seedy criminal underbelly. 

  35. Parasite (2019). This box office hit is part social commentary, part thriller. It’s the story of greed, class discrimination, and the relationship between the working-class Kim clan and the wealthy Park family  

  36. Candyman (1992). While writing a thesis on urban folklore and superstitions in the Chicago projects, a graduate student named Helen comes to learn the urban legend of the knife-wielding Candyman is all too real. 

  37. A Tea With a Mussolini (1999). After the death of his mother, Luca is sent to live with an elderly, sheltered British ex-pat and her group of eccentric friends. The women (Maggie Smith, Joan Plowright, Lily Tomlin, Judi Dench, and Cher) become his surrogate mothers, raising Luca in 1930s fascist Italy. 

  38. When Harry Met Sally… (1989). It’s a classic story of (reluctant) friends-turned-lovers, a tale as old as time. Enjoy Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in their prime, featuring *that* scene in Katz’s Deli. We’ll have what she’s having. 

  39. The Lost City (2022). Loretta is a reclusive romance author who gets kidnapped by an obsessed and peculiar billionaire while promoting her latest novel. Her strapping, albeit slightly dumb, cover model Alan is determined to prove he can be a real-life hero and sets off to save her life. 

  40. Romancing the Stone (1984). If you liked The Lost City and want to see the original movie it was inspired by, this is it. A mousy romance author flies to Colombia to save her kidnapped sister, finding herself amid a dangerous adventure. 

  41. Drive (2011). Yes, another Ryan Gosling movie. Although Drive is about a stuntman who moonlights as a getaway car driver for criminals, we like to think of it more as the tale of a man who will do anything to protect the girl he loves and her son. 

  42. Get Out (2017). Meeting the parents is a relationship milestone for everyone, but for Chris, it turned out to be a lot more sinister than having overbearing in-laws. This is definitely one for horror fans. Plus, all the jump scares in the film are an excuse to hold each other tight. 

  43. Oldboy (2003). If you thought we weren’t going to include some South Korean neo-noir action thriller, think again. This is a loose adaptation of the Japanese manga of the same name and follows the story of a man who, after being imprisoned for 15 years, still finds himself trapped in a web of conspiracy and violence. 

  44. Titanic (1997). This movie needs no introduction, and no date night movie list would be complete without the romance movie to end all romance movies.

  45. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999). This witty, modern take on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew is the epitome of teenage romance and angst. Watch as the rebellious Kat and the charmingly roguish Patrick (famously played by Heath Ledger) navigate the rocky path of high school love, complete with poetic declarations and paintball fights!

  46. Always Be My Maybe (2019). Always Be My Maybe is a delicious mix of laughs, love, and the one that got away. Childhood sweethearts Sasha and Marcus find themselves reunited after 15 years apart, and though their lives have diverged wildly, the sparks fly uncontrollably! 

  47. Your Place or Mine (2023). When two best friends swap homes for a week, they get more than they bargained for in Your Place or Mine. This film unfolds the unexpected and sometimes hilarious outcomes of seeing life through each other’s eyes, proving that sometimes, to find love, you need to step into someone else’s shoes. 

  48. My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997). Julia Roberts shines in this quintessential romantic comedy about realizing you're in love with your best friend—just as he's about to marry someone else. Filled with zany schemes, heartfelt confessions, and a sing-along that will have you joining in, My Best Friend's Wedding teaches us that the path to true love doesn’t always go as planned, but it’s definitely worth the ride!

  49. When We First Met (2018). When We First Met combines time travel with the quest for love in a charming story about getting a second chance to make a first impression. After Noah spends the perfect first night with the girl of his dreams, Avery, he’s relegated to the friend zone. But when he discovers a way to travel back in time, he gets multiple chances to win her heart, leading to a journey of self-discovery and the realization that perfect is sometimes right in front of us!

  50. The Perfect Date (2019). This movie is for anyone who’s ever dreamed up the ideal partner, only to find that real love means embracing imperfections. Brooks creates an app to offer his services as a stand-in boyfriend, but in the process of pretending, he starts to understand what he wants in love and life! 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the top romantic movies for a date night at home?

    For a cozy date night at home, there are often so many romantic movies to choose from — that you end up watching something you’ve seen before! We suggest scrolling through Netflix (or your favorite streaming service) to see the top movies on offer, as hopefully, that will provide you and your partner with a bit of inspiration!
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