Cozy Up for Date Night: Three Rom-Coms to Stream on Amazon Prime Video
Table of Contents
Looking for the perfect at-home date night? Look no further than Amazon Prime Video, which boasts a selection of heartwarming romantic comedies guaranteed to deliver laughs and maybe even a few tears. Whether you prefer witty banter, poignant drama, or a true story, these three acclaimed films offer something for every couple.
“Late Night” – A Hilarious Take on Workplace Dynamics
Originating from the creative mind of Mindy Kaling and earning an 80% Rotten Tomatoes score, “Late Night” is a fabulous comedy and Oscar nominee that centers around a legendary late-night talk show host. The film provides a solid choice for a relaxing and enjoyable evening with your date.
The story follows Katherine Newbury (Emma Thompson), a groundbreaking talk show host facing declining ratings after nearly three decades on the air. In a bid to revamp her show and avoid cancellation, she makes a game-changing decision: hiring her first and only female writer, Molly Patel (played by Kaling). What begins as a diversity-driven move unexpectedly sparks hilarious consequences as Katherine and Molly, from vastly different cultures and generations, bond over their shared love for a sharp punchline.
This feel-good dramedy masterfully balances humor with crucial social commentary, showcasing Kaling’s signature witty writing. Thompson and Kaling deliver brilliant performances in this timely exploration of workplace diversity, sexism, and the importance of finding your voice. It’s a funny, heartwarming, thoughtful, and uplifting film, making it an ideal choice for a date night.
“Tumbledown” – Finding Love After Loss in the Maine Countryside
“Tumbledown” is a sweet and charming rom-com set in the picturesque landscape of Maine, telling the story of a widow who unexpectedly falls for her late husband’s biographer. The film features a stellar cast including Jason Sudeikis, Rebecca Hall, Dianna Agron, Joe Manganiello, and Blythe Danner.
Hannah (Hall) is a grief-stricken widow grappling with the sudden loss of her acclaimed folk singer husband, Hunter Miles, who tragically fell into a ravine. Inspired by musical legends like Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, and Jeff Buckley, Hunter’s music continues to resonate with listeners, drawing them to his final resting place. When pop culture studies professor and music scholar Andrew McDonnell (Sudeikis) arrives to write a biography about Hunter, it ignites a turbulent yet ultimately steadying relationship with Hannah, fueled by his sensitive and insightful prose.
Viewers will appreciate the strong lead performances in this romantic story that delves deeper than typical fluff. It skillfully blends witty humor with poignant explorations of grief, healing, and the unexpected nature of love, avoiding prolonged dwelling on painful moments. “Tumbledown” offers a beautiful look at the process of moving forward while acknowledging the beauty of new beginnings and their potential for healing.
“The Big Sick” – A True Story of Love and Resilience
Based on the real-life love story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani and writer Emily V. Gordon, “The Big Sick” recounts how a medically induced coma ultimately led to an epic romance. Their cross-cultural relationship faced an unimaginable test when a medical crisis struck just as their connection began to blossom.
The film depicts Kumail, a Pakistani comic, falling for Emily, an American graduate student, after meeting her at one of his stand-up shows. As their relationship deepens, he worries about his Muslim parents’ reaction, but those concerns are overshadowed when Emily suddenly falls ill and is placed in a coma. While vigilantly waiting at her bedside, Kumail forms a close bond with Emily’s parents, played by Holly Hunter and Ray Romano. After Emily is diagnosed with a rare systemic autoinflammatory disorder, she awakens eight months later, and Kumail is ready to commit to a lifetime together – a commitment he fulfilled in 2007.
According to one source, “The Big Sick” is a refreshingly authentic and deeply heartfelt take on the rom-com genre, successfully blending humor with serious themes. The Judd Apatow-produced film garnered numerous award nominations, including an Oscar nod for Best Original Screenplay, and won 7 awards, including the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Comedy in 2018.
If date nights centered around rom-coms are your preference, these recommendations are well worth your time and any happy tears they may evoke. Remember, as Jeffrey Lebowski famously said, “Strong men also cry,” so don’t hesitate to embrace those emotions – that’s what Date Night is all about! Watch one, two, or all three, and be sure to explore overlooked Prime Video features to enhance your viewing experience.
