19 rom-coms from the 90s that will never get old

Rom-coms from the 90s | Images from YouTube and Apple TV
Rom-coms from the 90s | Images from YouTube and Apple TV

In the 1990s, romantic comedy films presented heart-warming romantic moments featuring swift tours across cities and accidental connections happening within metropolis urban areas. Audiences of all ages continue to be enchanted by the funny dialogue in When Harry Met Sally, the sentimental You've Got Mail, and the amusing Groundhog Day. These 19 romance comedies retain their appeal because they combine endearing people with everlasting humor and touching love stories. Experience a heart-warming journey into the past through this unforgettable journey!

Please note that this entire article is based on the writer's opinion. Reader's discretion is advised.

19. French Kiss (1995)

Meg Ryan in French Kiss | Image via Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers
Meg Ryan in French Kiss | Image via Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers

The film was released in the US on May 5, 1995, and received the American Comedy Awards in 1996. This romantic comedy is full of charm and adventure. Meg Ryan plays a woman determined to win back her cheating fiancé in France. Along the way, she meets Kevin Kline’s mischievous character, who changes her journey in unexpected ways. Their chemistry is electric, and the humor is sharp. With stunning French scenery and a heartfelt story, this film remains a delightful watch.

18. While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Sandra Bullock in While You Were Sleeping | Image via Prime Video
Sandra Bullock in While You Were Sleeping | Image via Prime Video

The film released in the US on April 21, 1995, received the IMP Award for its poster. Sandra Bullock plays a lonely woman mistaken for the fiancée of a man in a coma. She brings warmth and charm to this feel-good romance. As she bonds with his family, an unexpected love story unfolds. The mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and lovable characters makes it a timeless favorite. It is a perfect movie for cozy nights, filled with laughter and romance.

17. Runaway Bride (1999)

Julia Roberts and Richard Gere | Image via Disney+ Hotstar
Julia Roberts and Richard Gere | Image via Disney+ Hotstar

Garry Marshall directed the film released on 30th July 1999. Julia Roberts and Richard Gere reunite in this fun, romantic story. Roberts plays a woman notorious for escaping a wedding at the last moment. Richard is a journalist writing about her but soon finds himself falling for her instead. Their amusing chitchat and undeniable chemistry make this film a joy to watch. It is a charming blend of humor, love, and self-discovery.

16. My Best Friend's Wedding (1997)

Julia Roberts in My Best Friend's Wedding | Image via Prime Video
Julia Roberts in My Best Friend's Wedding | Image via Prime Video

The film, which was a 1998 Oscar Nominee, received Academy Awards for the best original music in the same year. Julia Roberts shines as a woman who realizes she loves her best friend, just as he is about to marry someone else. Determined to win him over, she hatches a plan filled with chaos and comedy. The film’s sharp dialogue, emotional twists, and unforgettable performances keep it fresh. This movie is a romantic comedy with both heart-warming and bittersweet genres.

15. The Wedding Singer (1998)

Adam Sandler in the Wedding Singer | Image via Prime Video
Adam Sandler in the Wedding Singer | Image via Prime Video

This nostalgic rom-com is packed with laughs and 80s charm. Adam Sandler plays a wedding singer recovering from heartbreak. Drew Barrymore is the sweet waitress who helps him believe in love again. Their chemistry is natural and endearing, making every moment feel real. With hilarious side characters and a feel-good story, this film never gets old.

14. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Heath Ledger as Patrick Verona | Image via Disney+ Hotstar
Heath Ledger as Patrick Verona | Image via Disney+ Hotstar

This youthful romantic comedy, which was directed by Gil Junger and starred Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Julia Stiles, and Heath Ledger, has plenty of charm and attitude. Kat, portrayed by Julia Stiles, is a bright, fiercely independent girl who is not interested in relationships. The disobedient man who unexpectedly falls in love with her while being hired to take her out is Heath Ledger's character, Patrick. This contemporary adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew is still a favorite among fans because of its witty comedy, memorable scenes, and amazing soundtrack from the 1990s.

13. You've Got Mail (1998)

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan | Image via Prime Video
Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan | Image via Prime Video

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan play rival bookshop owners who unwittingly fall in love with one another through anonymous correspondence in this charming romance, which was directed by Nora Ephron. This film is captivating because of their clever banter and the warmth of their developing relationship. It brilliantly depicts the enchantment of unanticipated love in the early days of the internet, set against the picturesque background of New York. Its enduring appeal is guaranteed by the blend of humor, nostalgia, and touching moments.

12. Clueless (1995)

Brittany Murphy in Clueless | Image via Prime Video
Brittany Murphy in Clueless | Image via Prime Video

This film, which was directed by Amy Heckerling and starred Brittany Murphy, Paul Rudd, and Alicia Silverstone, epitomizes teen society in the 1990s. Cher, portrayed by Alicia Silverstone, is a chic and self-assured high school queen who enjoys arranging matches but is oblivious to her own emotions. This film feels contemporary despite its classic clothes, humorous dialogue, and novel interpretation of Jane Austen's Emma. The film is a classic appeal to all generations because of its heart and humor.

11. She's All That (1999)

Clippings from She's All That | Image via Netflix
Clippings from She's All That | Image via Netflix

Robert Iscove has directed this film and starring Freddie Prinze Jr., Rachael Leigh Cook, and Paul Walker, this high school rom-com is a classic transformation story. When a popular guy bets that he can turn a shy, artistic girl into the prom queen, neither of them expects to fall in love. Rachael Leigh Cook shines as the quirky and lovable outsider, while Freddie Prinze Jr. brings charm to his role. With a great soundtrack, teen drama, and sweet romance, it remains a nostalgic favorite.

10. Notting Hill (1999)

Hugh Grant in Notting Hill | Image via Universal Pictures
Hugh Grant in Notting Hill | Image via Universal Pictures

This endearing romance, which was directed by Roger Michell and starred Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, is about a regular bookstore owner who develops feelings for a well-known actor. There are many funny moments, embarrassing situations, and intense feelings throughout their love story. Julia Roberts's glitzy yet frail film star is a wonderful fit for Hugh Grant's bashful, awkward role. This film never loses its charm because of its memorable love story and clever British humor.

9. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Scene of finding love across miles | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment India
Scene of finding love across miles | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment India

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan appear in this Nora Ephron-directed movie, which demonstrates how unexpected love may occur. The character played by Tom Hanks is a widower whose young son contacts a radio show to ask for a new wife. Even though Meg Ryan is listening from a great distance, she immediately connects. This movie is a timeless romantic classic because of its poignant plot, outstanding acting, and memorable finale at the Empire State Building.

8. Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)

Rowan Atkinson as the priest | Image via Amazon MGM Studios
Rowan Atkinson as the priest | Image via Amazon MGM Studios

Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell feature in this Mike Newell-directed movie, which offers the ideal balance of romance and fun. Hugh Grant portrays a charming but awkward British character who attends several weddings and one funeral while navigating friendships, love, and heartbreak. Rowan Atkinson appears in the second wedding scene, where he delivers a rather humorous and bumbling performance as the officiant. His character is a trainee priest, and his nervous and clueless demeanor adds a lot of charm and comedy to the film.

7. As Good as It Gets (1997)

Jack Nicholson in As Good as It Gets | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment
Jack Nicholson in As Good as It Gets | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment

In this touching drama, which was directed by James L. Brooks, Jack Nicholson plays a sour, compulsive writer whose life is turned upside down when he meets Helen Hunt's character, a generous waitress. He is forced to open up by their improbable bond, which results in heartfelt, humorous, and affectionate moments. The film is a heartwarming and fascinating tale of love, transformation, and human connection because of its strong performances and incisive dialogue.

6. The Truth About Cats & Dogs (1996)

Scene from the Truth About Cats & Dogs | Image via 20th Century Studios
Scene from the Truth About Cats & Dogs | Image via 20th Century Studios

Michael Lehmann directed the film featuring Janeane Garofalo and Uma Thurman, this film puts a clever spin on the classic romantic comedy. Janeane Garofalo plays a witty but insecure radio host who asks her stunning friend, played by Uma Thurman, to pretend to be her. As love and identity mix, the film explores beauty, self-worth, and honesty in relationships. With relatable humor and a heartfelt message, it remains an endearing favorite.

5. Pretty Woman (1990)

Pretty Woman | Image via Prime Video
Pretty Woman | Image via Prime Video

Julia Roberts plays a free-spirited woman who suddenly falls in love with a wealthy businessperson (Richard Gere) in this classic love story, which was directed by Garry Marshall. Their unquestionable chemistry, humor, and touching moments combine to make for a timeless modern Cinderella tale. Pretty Woman never fails to enchant audiences around the globe with its catchy lines and inspirational message of love and change.

4. Before Sunrise (1995)

Clipping from Before Sunrise | Image via Prime Video
Clipping from Before Sunrise | Image via Prime Video

Richard Linklater directed the film starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, this film is a beautiful story of love and connection. Two strangers meet on a train and spend one magical night walking through Vienna, talking about life, love, and dreams. Their deep conversations and natural chemistry make it feel real. With its simple yet powerful storytelling, this film captures the magic of fleeting romance, making it unforgettable.

3. Jerry Maguire (1996)

Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment
Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment

Cuba Gooding Jr., Renée Zellweger, and Tom Cruise appear in this sports romance, which was directed by Cameron Crowe. It tells the tale of a former sports agent who seeks true love and rebuilds his profession. This movie offers poignant moments, motivation, and laughter with catchphrases like "You had me at hello" and "Show me the money." It is ageless and new because of its blend of romance, sports, and personal development.

2. Groundhog Day (1993)

Clipping from Groundhog Day | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment
Clipping from Groundhog Day | Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment

Harold Ramis starred Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell directed this motion picture. The movie is about a witty look at love and self-discovery. When a cynical weatherman finds himself again reliving the same day, he is compelled to alter his behavior. He gains an appreciation for life, generosity, and love through comedy and heart. This film never grows old because of its clever storyline, outstanding acting, and eternal message.

1. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

When Harry Met Sally | Image via Apple TV
When Harry Met Sally | Image via Apple TV

Rob Reiner directed this film and starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, this rom-com asks a big question: Can men and women just be friends? Following Harry and Sally over the years, the film explores love, friendship, and fate with humor and charm. With unforgettable moments like the famous diner scene and witty dialogue, it remains one of the most beloved romantic comedies ever made. Even though it was released in 1989, it gained popularity in the 1990s; earning a spot on this list.

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Edited by Priscillah Mueni