Back in the 2000s, many big name actors got their starts, their fame, and their pizazz by starring in movies that now have something of a cult following: 2000s rom-coms. Are these movies predictable? Slightly. Are they funny? Yes. Are they particularly complex? Depends on how you look at them. But many romantic comedies of the early 2000s follow a movie formula that always works. Good actors, good writing, funny jokes, and great chemistry. 2000s rom-coms have it all. A few of the most iconic rom coms from that era include How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, A Cinderella Story, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and She’s the Man.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is 2003 romantic comedy starring Kate Hudson as Andie Anderson, and Matthew McConaughey as Benjamin Barry. It’s miscommunication, humor, and multiple beloved tropes all wrapped up in one. It’s comedic and romantic and features the most iconic yellow dress.
A Cinderella Story is exactly what it sounds like, a Cinderella remake, made in 2004. The movie stars Hilary Duff as Sam, the “Cinderella” character, Chad Michael Murray as Austin Ames, the “Prince” character, and Jennifer Coolidge as Fiona, the “stepmother” character. It’s funny, cute, and a wonderful example of what a 2000s rom-com looks like.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith, released in 2005, combines the classic rom-com formula with action and adventure. It stars Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as John and Jane Smith, in a story featuring assassins, plot twists, rivals, and the beloved “enemies to lovers” trope. It’s hilarious, iconic, and full of surprises.
Lastly, the 2006 movie She’s the Man, based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, stars Amanda Byrnes, Channing Ta-
tum, and Laura Ramsey, among others, in a whirlwind of emotions and misunderstandings. Possibly the best movie on this list, it is filled with good jokes, funny acting, and tons of soccer, and is a must watch for most people.
There are obviously plenty more rom-coms than the four above, with varying plots, tropes, actors, directors, and writing, but one thing remains consistent: they stand the test of time as some of the best movies produced, coming from one of the best eras of Hollywood.
