The Ultimate Guide to TV Period Rom-Coms

Romantic comedies have captured the hearts of audiences for centuries, and what better way to spice things up than by adding a dash of historical flair? In this article, we’ll be exploring the best period rom-coms that will transport you back in time and leave you swooning. From witty banter to swoonworthy moments, these films will have you hooked from start to finish.

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15. The Great Beauty (2013)

Directed by Paolo Sorrentino, this Italian film is set in the 1950s and follows the life of Jep Gambardella (Toni Servillo), a wealthy and charming man who is struggling to find meaning in his life. The film is a slow-burning romance that explores themes of love, beauty, and mortality.

14. The Holiday (2006)

Nancy Meyers’ film tells the story of two women who swap homes for the holidays and find love in the process. Cameron Diaz’s character, Amanda, falls for Jude Law’s character, Graham, a British writer, while Kate Winslet’s character, Iris, falls for Jack Black’s character, Miles, an American music producer.

13. Enchanted April (1992)

Mike Newell’s film is based on the novel by Elizabeth von Arnim and stars Josie Lawrence, Miranda Richardson, and Joan Plowright as four women who rent a villa in Italy for the month of April. The film is a heartwarming exploration of female friendship and romance.

12. A Room with a View (1985)

James Ivory’s adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel stars Helena Bonham Carter as Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman who falls for George Emerson (Julian Sands) while on holiday in Florence. The film is a poignant exploration of social class and personal freedom.

11. The Remains of the Day (1993)

Starring Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson, James Ivory’s film is based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel and follows the story of Stevens, a butler who reflects on his decades-long career and his lost chance at love with a housekeeper named Miss Kenton. The film is a poignant exploration of regret and missed opportunities.

10. Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

Directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, this adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic comedy stars Kate Beckinsale and Robert Sean Leonard as the star-crossed lovers, Hero and Claudio. But don’t let the Shakespearean setting fool you – this film is a masterclass in comedic timing, with Benedict Cumberbatch and Emma Thompson stealing the show as the bickering couple, Benedick and Beatrice. Their enemies-to-lovers romance is a highlight of the film, with their witty repartee leaving audiences in stitches.

9. Hysteria (2011)

Set in the late 19th century, Hysteria tells the story of a young doctor, Dr. Mortimer Granville (Hugh Dancy), who invents the first vibrator as a treatment for women with hysteria. Starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and Jonathan Pryce, this film is a delightful romp through Victorian society, with a healthy dose of humor and a dash of romance. The blossoming relationship between Granville and Charlotte is a joy to watch, as they navigate the complexities of medicine and social justice.

8. Emma (2020)

Autumn de Wilde’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel stars Anya Taylor-Joy as the titular character, a wealthy and meddling young woman who sets out to play matchmaker for her friends. With its vibrant colors and whimsical tone, this film is a fresh take on the classic novel, with a standout performance from Taylor-Joy. The romance between Emma and Mr. Knightley is tender and awkward, making it all the more believable.

7. The Importance of Being Earnest (1952)

Anthony Asquith’s adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s play stars Michael Redgrave and Michael Denison as two friends who assume fake identities to woo their respective loves. This charming film is full of wit and theatricality, with its characters’ antics leaving audiences in stitches. Despite its outdated setting, this film remains a delightful watch, with its cast delivering performances that are both over-the-top and endearing.

6. The Wedding Singer (1998)

Set in 1985, this Adam Sandler-starring rom-com tells the story of a wedding singer who gets left at the altar by his fiancée. With Drew Barrymore as his love interest, Robbie Hart’s (Sandler) journey is a heartwarming tale of love and self-discovery. This film’s blend of humor and heart makes it a timeless classic, with its ’80s nostalgia adding to its charm.

5. My Fair Lady (1964)

George Cukor’s adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion stars Audrey Hepburn as Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who receives elocution lessons from Professor Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison). This iconic musical features some of the most memorable songs in movie history, with its characters’ banter providing plenty of comedic moments.

4. Some Like It Hot (1959)

Billy Wilder’s comedy stars Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon as two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape gangsters. With Marilyn Monroe as their love interest, Sugar, this film is a masterclass in comedic timing and chemistry. The tension between Curtis and Monroe is palpable from start to finish, making their romance all the more believable.

3. Shakespeare in Love (1998)

John Madden’s film tells the story of William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) as he struggles with writer’s block. Desperate for inspiration, he finds it in Viola de Lesseps (Gwyneth Paltrow), a noblewoman with a dream of becoming an actor. This charming film is full of wit and humor, with its leads delivering performances that are both compelling and romantic.

2. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

Joe Wright’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel stars Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet, a strong-willed young woman who falls for Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) despite their initial dislike for each other. This film is a masterclass in slow-burning romance, with its witty banter and comedic moments making it a standout adaptation.

1. Rosaline (2022)

Karen Maine’s retelling of Romeo and Juliet from Rosaline’s perspective stars Kaitlyn Dever as the titular character, who navigates life as Romeo’s jilted ex. This anachronistic retelling is full of humor and heart, with Dever delivering a standout performance as Rosaline undergoes her journey of realisation.

There you have it – our top 10 period rom-coms that will transport you back in time and leave you swooning. From witty banter to swoonworthy moments, these films are sure to delight audiences everywhere. So grab some popcorn, get cozy, and enjoy the ride!