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.
31. Titanic/Gone With the Wind
Yes, I've combined two birds with one stone, and yes, I realize it is hard to compare these two flicks. Still, they are both epic, historical love stories - what romance novels are made of. And just seeing your partners reaction to either film should give you lots of information about who they are, what moves them, and what they consider to be romantic.32. Sideways
I first watched Sideways just after it was released to DVD with both the man I was currently dating and an ex. It was an interesting couple of hours to say the least, because I felt like I was watching both of the gents on screen -- a definite first for me. Sideways captured not only two very distinct male personalities in the film, but it also detailed how these men interacted with women, something any couple should be able to relate to and discuss after the film finishes. Just make sure to have a bottle of Shiraz on hand while watching, as by the time you've finished you'll want to have (at least) a taste of what the characters speak so fondly of.
33. Big Trouble in Little China
Before she became famous playing Samantha in Sex in the City, Kim Cattral lit up the big screen alongside Kurt Russell in this highly packed action film about, well, a couple trying to get out of trouble, fast. Just the kind of movie to bring two people together.34. Rear Window
Hitchcock wasn't much of a romantic, but he deftly interwove one of the most thrilling stories if its time into a bit of a love story, too. A definite must see for those who love suspenseful, well thought out and plot-heavy films, along with legendary stars Grace Kelly and James Stewart.35. What's Eating Gilbert Grape
There's an interesting story behind this gem of a flick: a morbidly obese mom, a special needs child (played by Leonardo DiCarprio), and a love story between two teenagers (Juliette Lewis and Johnny Depp). On paper it seems a tad odd, but on screen it just works. The raw tenderness between the two main characters/lovebirds is hard to find in a film these days, which I've appreciated each of the half dozen times I've watched this movie. Still, this isn't a show for the faint of heart, as it can get dark and destructive within the blink of an eye, yet somehow manages to leave viewers with a hopeful spin at the end.36. Shrek
I realize Shrek is essentially a kids' movie - but its a kids movie with heart, class and enough laughs for the adults to get and not have to explain to the wee ones. I saw Shrek for the first time while on a date, and neither of us brought any kids. But boy did we laugh and have a good time with this oh-so-green Cinderella story, and I'm sure you will too if you watch this with someone you're seeing.37. Practical Magic
A sexy, surprising romantic comedy filled with magical moments (both figuratively and literally), Practical Magic just sizzles with chemistry between all of the characters. You'll not only get to watch a couple of now-famous actors cut their teeth on an interesting script, but you'll be taken away by the amazing beauty of the story's landmarks and geography, as well as the two sisterly beauties on screen (Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman). This is another of my personal favorites, and every gent I've dragged into watching it has been pleasantly surprised.38. Memento
Memento is one of those date movies that everyone forgets about in their top 10 lists, but those who have watched it usually agree it would be a fantastic flick to watch with someone you're dating -- if only because it'll incite some fantastic conversation after the credits start rolling. Complex, intriguing and heart breaking, Memento is the unusually told story about a man trying to avenge his wife's death, and whose story is seriously complicated by the main character's severe memory loss/scramble.39. Leon (The Professional)
Not a love story per say in a way that most North Americans could appreciate, but still an excellent action film that can't help but tug on the heart strings. Leon (Jean Reno) who works as a professional hit man and is comfy with his life -- until a very young Natalie Portman comes knocking on his door one day pretending to be his daughter so as to escape death.40. Fiddler on the Roof
My mother hooked me on this film when I was still a weep pup, which is where I learned how to shake my shoulders and sing "Youbedobedobedoo," well before Gwen Stefani redid the classic song. Yes its a classic, but not only that, its a great love story. Watch it with your sweetie and be thankful that matchmaking is no longer mandatory in most parts of the world today.