The Idea of You, a romantic comedy based on the book by Robinne Lee was released this year and has become a huge success! It stars Anne Hathaway as a 40-year-old divorcee who begins a whirlwind romance with a 24-year-old boyband pop star — played by Nicholas Galitzine. It’s said to be inspired by Harry Styles, formerly of the boyband One Direction.
What drew many of us to the film was the premise and the cast, but so many of us were surprised at how much we really enjoyed it. It was sweet, sexy, and had me kicking my feet with excitement after just 20 minutes. With the recent success of other romcoms like Anyone But You and No Hard Feelings, along with the recent trend of booktok romance books, it’s obvious that people are really craving these types of stories. And I’m so excited for more.
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The Idea of You
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Red, White & Royal Blue
So if you’re like me and you’re now in the mood for more movies like it, I’ve got a list of some notable recommendations below. They range from comedies about an older woman dating a younger man, to complex stories about love and fame. There should be plenty of options here to choose from!
More stuff to watch
- Looking for more romantic comedy movies? Check out my list of the Best RomComs of All Time!
1. Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)
If you like Nicholas Galitzine in The Idea of You, I highly recommend checking out some of his previous work! The most similar one is Red, White & Royal Blue, in which he stars alongside Taylor Zakhar Perez and Uma Thurman. It’s based on the book of the same name and follows the son of the American President (Zakhar Perez) and Britain’s prince (Galitzine) as they are forced to stage a truce to their feud in order to ease political tension between their respective countries. It’s funny and heartfelt, and it deals with the similar theme of finding love where you least expect it, while dealing with public scrutiny.
2. Notting Hill (1999)
If you’re into sweet romantic comedies, Notting Hill is perfect! Directed by Roger Michell, this film shows what happens when a simple bookshop owner, played by Hugh Grant, meets a famous actress, played by Julia Roberts. Their worlds collide in the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill, London. It’s full of funny moments and heartfelt romance, making it a great pick for a cozy movie night.
3. Win a Date with Tad Hamilton! (2004)
Directed by Robert Luketic, Win a Date with Tad Hamilton! is a fun and adorable movie where a small-town girl, played by Kate Bosworth, wins a date with a famous actor, played by Josh Duhamel. The date sets off a series of romantic misunderstandings and a love triangle involving her best friend. It’s recommended for its sweet storyline and humorous situations.
4. How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
If you’re looking for a movie about finding love and rediscovering yourself, How Stella Got Her Groove Back is perfect. Directed by Kevin Rodney Sullivan, it features Angela Bassett as Stella, a successful stockbroker who falls for a much younger man while on vacation in Jamaica, played by Taye Diggs. This film beautifully mixes romance with life’s challenges and the quest for personal happiness. It’s recommended for its uplifting story and strong performances, making it a heartwarming watch for those who believe in the power of love at any age.
5. The Bodyguard (1992)
In The Bodyguard, directed by Mick Jackson, a famous singer, played by Whitney Houston, hires a bodyguard, played by Kevin Costner, to protect her from a stalker. As they spend time together, they start falling in love. This film is known for its thrilling moments and the iconic Whitney song “I Will Always Love You.” It’s a classic romance with a twist of suspense!
6. America’s Sweethearts (2001)
America’s Sweethearts, directed by Joe Roth, dives into the messy and hilarious world of Hollywood relationships. When a famous couple, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones and John Cusack, breaks up, their publicist, played by Julia Roberts, has to help them promote their last film together. It’s a comedy about love behind the scenes, making it great for laughs and romance.
7. Beyond the Lights (2014)
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, Beyond the Lights is about a rising pop star, played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, who struggles with the pressures of fame. She finds solace and genuine affection with a young police officer, played by Nate Parker, who helps her find her true voice. This film is inspiring and romantic, ideal for those who enjoy stories of personal growth and heartfelt connections.
8. The Proposal (2009)
The Proposal is a hilarious romantic comedy that will keep you laughing! Directed by Anne Fletcher, it stars Sandra Bullock as a tough book editor who pretends to be engaged to her younger assistant, played by Ryan Reynolds, to avoid deportation to Canada. Their pretend relationship leads to real feelings. Set in Alaska, the movie’s beautiful scenery is as enchanting as the growing romance. This movie is a great choice if you enjoy fun, feel-good films with plenty of comedic moments.
9. The Perfect Find (2023)
One of the producers behind The Idea of You is the actress Gabrielle Union, who also produced the 2023 film The Perfect Find, based on the book by Tia Williams. Directed by Numa Perrier, Gabrielle stars as Jenna, a 40-year-old woman who makes a career change and lands a job at a trendy fashion magazine. Things get complicated when she falls for the son of her new boss, played by Keith Powers, who is 15 years younger than her. This movie is a fun mix of humor, romance, and unexpected love — just like The Idea of You.
10. A Star is Born (2018)
Directed by Bradley Cooper, A Star is Born is a powerful story of love and fame. Bradley Cooper plays a seasoned musician who discovers and falls in love with a young singer, played by Lady Gaga. As her career takes off, their relationship faces challenges. This movie is NOT light and funny like some of the others on the list, but it’s a heartfelt drama about how fame can tear people and relationships apart, which is so relevant to The Idea of You. This movie is packed with amazing music and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for fans of intense romances.
11. Music and Lyrics (2007)
Music and Lyrics, directed by Marc Lawrence, pairs a washed-up pop star, played by Hugh Grant, with an aspiring lyricist, played by Drew Barrymore. They team up to write a song for a current pop sensation, but their collaboration turns into something more. This movie is light-hearted, charming, and features an amazing soundtrack, perfect for those who love a feel-good romance.
12. La La Land (2016)
La La Land is a vibrant and colorful musical that captures the hearts of those who dream big. Directed by Damien Chazelle, it stars Ryan Gosling as a jazz musician and Emma Stone as an aspiring actress. Both are chasing their dreams in Los Angeles, and they find each other along the way. Their romance blossoms through beautifully choreographed dance numbers and memorable songs. This film is a celebration of love, dreams, and the sometimes difficult choices we face. It’s recommended for its stunning visuals, captivating music, and the compelling chemistry between Gosling and Stone. Perfect for fans of musicals and heartwarming romances!
