Happy Valentine’s Day, UDers! I heard you were curious about my opinions on chick flicks and, with it being such a special day, I thought I’d rank some of the best and worst chick flicks that I’ve seen. Those with five stars are all groundhog-approved and not-so-awkward to view with that special someone, if you know what I mean. Let me know if you agree or disagree!
1. “Love Actually” (2003) – 1/5 Stars
Can we please admit that “Love Actually” is actually a horrible movie? There are far too many plotlines to keep track of, and they’re not even done well! It kind of feels like an all-stars episode for romcom enjoyers, but there was nothing special about any part of it. It’s not a good holiday movie, and it’s neither romantic nor comedic. And don’t even get me started on the raunchy scenes – I’m fully convinced that British people ruin everything.
2. “Notting Hill” (1999) – 3/5 Stars
I loved Julia Roberts, but not so much Hugh Grant. His character is kind of bland, and it’s clear that the only interesting thing about him is that he works at a bookstore. The plotline of “superstar meets lowly, charming book boy” could have been great, but here it doesn’t seem that appealing and relies too much on tropes and clichés like the clueless wingman, small-town boy and city girl.
3. “13 Going on 30” (2004) – 5/5 Stars
“13 Going on 30” is probably one of my favorite movies of all time, so it gets five stars from me! The combination of 80s and early 2000s aesthetics makes the nostalgia meter go up 100 times. Besides the “Ice Ice Baby” scene, the movie is all-around very wholesome and fun. Mark Ruffalo is an underrated rom-com actor, and Jennifer Garner flawlessly executes Jenna’s awkwardly cute girl-next-door character. It’s a perfect blend of clichés, dance numbers, cute outfits and romance.
4. “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” (2003) – 5/5 Stars
This beloved classic never gets old for me! You might notice a bit of a pattern with movies I enjoy about women in journalism… Anyway, this movie has everything one would want and need from a chick flick. Andie (Kate Hudson) shines as the female lead who is smart, funny and clever – and Benjamin (Matthew McConaughey) matches her energy by biting back at her quips. The plot is pieced together seamlessly and the chemistry between Hudson and McConaughey is undeniable – making this movie a staple in my burrow.
5. “Groundhog Day” (1993) – 6/5 Stars
Do I really need to explain myself? Fine – Bill Murray shows off his excellent comedic timing in this film, and Andie MacDowell gives a lovely performance and representation of the curly-haired community. I suppose I am biased considering that it’s set in my hometown of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania – and that my uncle, Phil O. Sopher, played the role of the groundhog. But even so, this heartwarming film is an underrated holiday classic. I mean, we consider Groundhog Day a school-wide holiday, right?