If you are anything like me, dinner and a movie dates are the catchalls for when you don't have time for anything else, or haven't the inclination to come up with a creative date idea. Which for most people isn't a problem -- until you have to come up with a date movie that both of you will enjoy.
So stop stressing and pick a flick from this comprehensive list of great date movies, or feel free to email me your suggestions if you think I've missed something crucial.
11. City Lights
Few people have watched this movie, or even heard of it. But say the lead actors name and most will smile with recognition. Charlie Chaplin wrote, directed and starred in this silent film about a homeless man that falls in love with a flower girl who has lost the ability to see. It sounds like a simple story, and it some ways it is -- but don't dismiss this film because of it. Instead, think of how much can be said without saying a word and enjoy using Chaplin's skills to benefit your dating relationship.
12. 40 Year Old Virgin
Another movie I watched while on a date, I deafened the other (none too happy) movie goers with my loud, constant laughter at this film. Now that I've watched it a handful of times I don't laugh as loud, but I still get a kick out of the general style of the film. As long as neither of you are easily offended, the 40 Year Old Virgin is probably a safe bet for couples in need of a shared, long laugh together.13. Reality Bites
You find yourself out of college with a piece of paper, but unable to make a living and/or make your parents happy. That's the nucleus of Reality Bites, a slacker-type comedy for late 20-somethings. In between the scathing remarks about society as we know it, there are several tender stories about love, romance, and finding oneself through relationships. Although somewhat humbling and a tad depressing at times, the on-screen chemistry between all of the characters and great dialogue make this the perfect kind of show to watch with a loved one.14. Grosse Pointe Blank/High Fidelity
I couldn't choose between these two films, and since they are both in the John Cusak spirit, they've taken up the same spot in these top date movie rankings. Both are more geared towards the gents than the gals, but few gals I know would scoff at either flick. The newer of the two, Grosse Pointe Blank, follows Cusak as a hitman-for-hire on his way to meet up with his highschool sweetheart at their reunion, and actually offers a little bit of action along with its comedic moments. High Fidelity on the other hand provides a break up how to in the form of a "Top Five Breakups," ala 80s mix tape -- and Cusak's character has to vet all of these past relationships so he can figure out why he's so unlucky with love.15. Raiders of the Lost Ark
Fair enough, most people have already watched this film, so explaining the plot isn't going to do much selling for why its a great date movie. But why not see it again (since you probably haven't sat through it since it originally came out in 1981), and debate with your partner what scene is their favorite? If nothing else, its an entertaining adventure/love story, well worth a couple of hours of your time.16. Last Night
A harder to find Canadian film starring (among others) now-famous Sandra Oh, Last Night shows us exactly what the title states: the last night before the world ends. Although the film doesn't quite explain why this is happening, viewers aren't sitting wondering why. Instead, they're captivated by the characters who are struggling to make the last moments of their lives mean something - which includes a lot of sex, longing and love. A great movie to share with someone you appreciate, because Last Night will only make you appreciate them more.17. Lars and the Real Girl
Ryan Gosling plays sweet, sensitive and exceptionally shy Lars, a man who never learned how to interact with the opposite sex, in part because of his mother's passing during birth. Through a series of events Lars decides that he will woo his online girlfriend - who just happens to be an adult sex doll. Unpredictable, strange, lovable yet naive and innocently portrayed, Lars and The Real Girl is a must-see date movie.18. Amelie
When in need of some light, mischievous yet flirty altruism in your life, Amelie is a movie that's hard to beat. It stars French actress Audrey Tatou as a waitress come do gooder, who is not only searching for the meaning of life, but love as well. This movie is quirky, romantic, and effervescent, and is highly recommended for those who'd like to smile without feeling the need for belly laughs an openly comedic movie might afford.19. The Killer
I'm taking a bit of a stance here with John Woo's The Killer; few people would consider this a date movie, and even fewer will understand what on earth this movie has to do with love, romance or relationships. But I haven't chosen The Killer to add to this list for its tender moments or stunning prose. No, its the wordless action sequences that, literally, take the breath away that make me want to tell the world about this oft-forgotten yet excellent film. Folks sensitive to violence will want to take a pass, but if you're looking for a movie to wow your picky, macho partner with, this is the date movie to choose.20. Annie Hall
I'll admit that I haven't watched Annie Hall - yet. Its on my list of date movies to view. But I had so many readers write in and tell me that I was remiss if I didn't include Woody Allen's real world and screen love story that I had to add it here. I'm told its the perfect deconstruction of a romance, which might just help those of us in partnerships that need a bit more honesty.