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.
21. Brokeback Mountain
Romeo and Juliet is a lovely story, but most of us have heard the story way too many times already. For a lovely twist on fated lovers facing serious adversity, try Brokeback Mountain. And for more gay films that focus on a love story between two men, try About.com's Guide to Gay Life's list of Top Gay Comedy Movies.
22. Better Than Chocolate
I first saw this film at a LGBT Film Festival years ago, and have since shared it with countless open minded friends. Although not a film for the conservative or those who don't appreciate a range of gender love, one of my all time favorite scenes is housed within this gem of a love story (think naked bodies and a paint canvas). And for those who appreciate these kinds of films, there are many other great date movies that focus exclusively on lesbian relationships. For a list, try Lesbian Life's list of Top Lesbian Movies.23. Pump Up The Volume
Ok, I'll admit it: I used to have a thing for Christian Slater when I was younger. So its no surprise that this angsty film about a shy teenager who turns into Howard Stern over the local ham radio airwaves makes my top date movie list, but it isn't just because I'm biased. There was a plot beyond the political statements it was trying to make at the time: that an aggressive, attractive gal could bring a shy guy out of his shell and into her arms, which is (now that I think of it) the theme in many a Judd Apatow movie in recent years, i.e. Superbad. But for those who like their romance significantly darker, I'd suggest another 80s era Slater film, Heathers, instead.24. Casino Royale
If a list of the top date movies didn't include at least one in the 007 saga would be seriously lacking. My pick of the lot is the recent Casino Royale with blondie Daniel Craig at the helm. There's lots of sensuality in this film along with tons of action and techie bits for the geeks in all of us - a perfect mix for those wanting to enjoy something purely entertaining with a loved one. Another recent choice would be superhero movie Ironman, which is sleek, sexy and very sophisticated.25. 16 Candles
I realize I've got a fair number of 80s movies in this list, which is more telling of my age than my tastes in film. But for those who haven't enjoyed seeing Molly Ringwald's panties displayed in the bathroom by the King of the Nerds, 16 Candles is a must-see for those who never thought they'd find The One, but against all odds, did.26. Almost Famous
A coming of age, somewhat autobiographical movie about a young gent who wins a Rolling Stone contest in the 60s, whose grand prize is to tour with an up and coming rock band and write about his experiences. Viewers can only imagine the life lessons he learns in this sweet and poignant tale - including those about love, sex and romance.27. Before Sunrise
Wouldn't it be amazing if you could meet someone, and not because you used an online dating site or went on a blind date? Does being at the right place and at the right time matter anymore when it comes to love? Actors Ethan Hawke and Julie Deply's characters in Before Sunrise seem to luck out in this 90 minute long Viennese date captured on film, and only the most hard-hearted among us wouldn't be able to smile at their surprise.28. There's Something About Mary
A date movie list wouldn't be complete without the king of all date movies: There's Something About Mary. If you haven't laughed your way through it already, this film is a hilarious story about a thirty-something gent (Ben Stiller) who stumbles upon the opportunity to woo his high school crush (Cameron Diaz). Between seeing Stiller in braces and Diaz with, er, some funky hair gel, this is the kind of film to watch when the two of you need a shared giggle.29. While You Were Sleeping
Sandra Bullock plays a shy, lonely Chicago "L" seller that is madly in love with one of her daily customers who hasn't the foggiest idea she even exists. So when one day the object of her affections is pushed in front of the train, she doesn't hesitate to jump in and help. The story unfolds quickly when a "who's on first"-type mistake comes about, where one of the nurses assumes Bullock's character is actually the injured man's fiance. One of the better romantic comedies to come out of the 90s, this is one film I can watch over and over again.30. Moonstruck
Hate date movies, or romantic comedies? Then this is the choice for you. Moonstruck stars a large cast, most notably Cher and Nicholas Cage, and depicts a family's unlucky take on love and romance, and how sometimes The One can smack you in the face at the most inopportune times (such as when you're about to be married to someone else).