Ex Mas is a BRAND NEW HOLIDAY ROM COM. This is the story of Graham played by Robbie Amell. Graham is a video game programmer workaholic who has seemingly recently been broken up with, by his fiance Ali played by Leighton Meester. Graham is not coping well, he is swamped at work, and after first believing he will not be able to make it home to Minnesota for the Holidays, on a spur of the moment, he decides to still make the trip. The only problem is, his family, when realizing he wouldn’t be home for the Holidays, decided to invite his ex Ali to Christmas. That is your lead in for Ex Mas. 

The Other Zoe is a 2023 Romantic Comedy on Amazon Prime, directed by Sarah Zandieh. This is the story of Zoe Miller played by Josephine Langford. Zoey is a computer major junior at Queen’s College… she is extremely intelligent in the field of programming and is trying to launch her dating app that specializes on matching people based on algorithms and shared interests and compatibility. Zoey however ends up in a classic, mistaken identity, amnesia love triangle with star soccer stud Zach McLaren played by Drew Starkey. Zach believes that he is dating this Zoey… because of a strange accident, instead there is another Zoey out there on vacation who he is actually dating… hence, the other Zoey. Shoutout to Miles who is our other love interest played by Archie Renaux.

17 Again is a 2009 American teenfantasy romantic comedy film directed by Burr Steers. This is the story of Mike O Donnell played by Matthew Perry and Zac Efron… this is a CLASSIC body swap movie… time swap movie…  Mike O Donnell (Zac Efron)  was the high school all star basketball jock, he had aspirations of playing college basketball until his girlfriend Scarlet became pregnant. That occurred back in 1989, now in present day Mike O’Donnell (Matthew Perry) is struggling with his career, cannot connect with his kids Alex played by Sterling Knight or Maggie played by Michelle Trachtenberg, and he has a failing marriage with Scarlet played by Leslie Mann. All of this comes to a head as Mike finds himself back at his old high school and after meeting a sage janitor his body is swapped back to his high school self (Zac Efron) so he can relive his high school days alongside his actual children who attend the same school. This film grossed 139 million dollars on a 40 million dollar budget.

You Again is a 2010 romantic comedy directed by Andy Fickman. This is the story of Marni Olsen played by Kristen Bell. Marni was tormented and bullied in highschool however at the time of our film is now a successful public relations executive in Los Angeles and was just promoted to a management job in New York. However, Marni returns back to her small town of Ridgefield to celebrate her brother, Will, played by James Wolk, wedding. As it turns out, Will is marrying Marni’s highschool bull Joanna or JJ played by Odette Yustman. The awkwardness is amped up when JJ’s aunt Ramona visits, played by Sigourney Weaver and SHE also has bad history with Marni’s mom Gail played by Jamie Lee Curtis… two generations of women… hating each other.

Twilight is a 2008 Romantic Fantasy directed by Catherine Hardwicke… it’s based off the 2005 Stephenie Meyer Novel. This is the story of Bella Swan played by Kristen Stewart. Bella leaves her home of Phoenix, Arizona for a small town called Forks in Washington State. In Forks Bella lives with her father, the police Chief Charlie Swan. She meets Jacob Black played by Taylor Lautner, his family are close friends with Charlie. As Bella goes to school we meet a number of her classmates including Jessica played by Anna Kendrick. We also meet The Cullen’s. They are a group of kids adopted by Carlisle Cullen the town physician. Carlisle is played by Peter Facinelli, Esme Cullen played by Elizabeth Reaser… and their adopted children. Alice played by Ashley Greene, Jasper played by Jackson Rathbone, Rasalie played by Nikki Reed, Emmett played by Kellan Lutz and finally Edward Cullen played by Robert Pattinson… it is in Edward that Bella discovers something strange and unusual about the Cullen’s. It’s also where Bella possibly finds love?

The Fault In Our Stars is a 2014 coming of age romance directed by Josh Boone, based off the 2012 John Green novel of the same name. The Fault in our Stars in the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster played by Shailene Woodley. We meet Hazel as a teenager living with thyroid cancer that has spread to her lungs. Hazel’s parents, Fannie and Michael Lancaster played by Laura Dern and Sam Trammell convince Hazel to take part in a weekly cancer patient support group. Although she is not thrilled, Hazel attends those meetings and meets Augustus Waters ‘Gus’ played by Ansel Elgort. Gus had lost his leg to bone cancer, he and Hazel immediately hit it off… and this begins our story of The Fault in Our Stars.

In our Rom Com Rewind first, we take a foray into the wild world of reality t.v to bring you a recap of Love Is Blind season 5 on Netflix! The Izzy, Stacey, Johnnie, and Chris conundrum is discussed. Were Nick and Vanessa Lachey up to snuff as hosts? What in the world occurred with Lydia and Uche. Who is Renee and why is she in so many scenes???? We discuss it all on this week's episode! 

Sweet Home Alabama is directed by Andy Tennant. He has directed It Takes Two, Fools Gold, Hitch, The Bounty Hunter. This is the story of Melanie Carmichael played by Reese Witherspoon. We first meet Melanie as a 10-year old with her first ever love Jake Perry played by Josh Lucas. We meet them in the fictional town of Pidgeon Creek Alabama, after a quick meeting we jump forward in time to present day where Melanie is now a famous fashion designer, she is dating New York political socialite Andrew played by Patrick Dempsey. Andrew’s mother Kate is actually the mayor of New York and she is grooming Andrew to be a politician, played by Candice Bergen. After Andrew proposes to Melanie though, we learn that she has not gone back to her hometown in Alabama in 7 years, and now that she is engaged, she needs to make her way back to Pidgeon Creek to tie up some loose ends.

Keeping Up With the Joneses is the story of Jeff and Karen Gaffney played by Zach Galifianakis and Isla Fisher. The Gaffney’s live in a quaint cul-de-sac however their mundane lives are twisted upside down with the arrival of neighbours… the Joneses. Tim and Natalie Jones are seemingly perfect individuals played by Jon Hamm and Gal Gadot, they excel at everything, they have unique and wonderful lives… but not all is what it appears to be with the Joneses.

Mean Girls is a 2004 Teen Romantic Comedy directed by Mark Waters, Mark Waters also directed Just Like Heaven, Ghosts of Girlfriends Past, Freaky Friday. This movie is also written by Tina Fey and produced by Lorne Michaels. Mean Girls is the story of Cady Heron played by Lindsay Lohan. Cady was homeschooled and lived in Africa for 12 years and she is finally going to highschool for the first time… she has no idea what she is in for. Cady quickly meets the school rejects Janis Ian played by Lizzy Caplan and Damian played by Daniel Franzese. She also meets the ‘plastics’ or the MEAN GIRLS, Regina George, Karen Smith and Gretchen Wieners, played by Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried and Lacey Chabert respectively.  Really this movie is just the story of Cady navigating through having no experience with North American highschool and being THRUST into a friendship with Regina George… and all the comedy that comes with that. Also, Jonathan Bennett plays our love interest Aaron Samuels.

Somebody I Used to Know is a 2023 American romantic comedy film directed by Dave Franco and co-written with his wife Alison Brie.  This is the story of Ally played by Alison Brie. She is the show runner of a once successful reality series called Dessert Island… Upon learning that her show is being cancelled Ally returns to her small town of Leavenworth Washington to take a break and visit her mom. Upon returning Ally meets up with her ex-boyfriend Sean played by Jay Ellis and sparks seem to reignite between them? But as always, not all will go according to plan. This film also stars Kiesey Clemons as Cassidy, Danny Pudi as Benny and Haley Joel Osment as Jeremy.

The DUFF is a 2015 high school teen rom com directed by Air Sandel. Based on the 2010 novel by Kody Keplinger.  The Duff is the story of Bianca played by Mae Whitman. Bianca is a high school senior from Atlanta, she has two best friends Jess and Casey played by Skyler Samuels and Bianca Santos. After an abrupt run in with Bianca’s hearthrob neighbour Wesley played by Robbie Amell and his girlfriend Madison played by Bella Thorne, Bianca learns a terrible truth… Bianca… is the DUFF of her friend group. The Duff being the quote ‘designated ugly fat friend’. Upon learning this, Bianca ditches her friends and sets out with Wesley to reclaim her identity and score a date with Toby Tucker, played by Nick Eversman.

Is the Joe Jonas and Sophie Tuner split the saddest celeb breakup in recent memory? What is happening with Fyre Festival 2? What are the upcoming Romantic Comedies YOU need to know for the rest of 2023? Join us for the Summer Pop Culture Round Up! 

To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before is a 2018 Teen Romantic Comedy directed by Susan Johnson and based on the novel by Jenny Han. To All The Boys is the story of Lara Jean Covey - LJ, played by Lana Condor. Lara Jean writes 5 letters dedicated to all the boys she’s ever loved. The letters were never sent, just a way for her to express her emotions… until… somehow… the letters get mailed. Of the 5 letters sent, 3 of them are pretty notable, including one sent to Lara’s older sisters ex boyfriend Josh played by Israel Broussard. There is also a letter sent to Kenny, played by Edward Kewin. And finally a letter is sent to Peter Kavinsky played by Noah Centineo.  Also want to mention Anna Cathcart who plays Lara Jean’s younger sister Kitty. Janel Parrish plays the older sister Margot. John Corbett plays Dr Covey, Lara Jean’s father.

Bride Wars is a 2009 Romantic Comedy directed by Gary Winick. This is the story of childhood best friends Liv played by Kate Hudson and Emma played by Anne Hathaway. Liv and Emma have always ever dreamed of one thing, getting married at New York’s famous Plaza Hotel in June. However when both of these ladies get engaged around the same time and the Plaza only has bookings for the same day in June, these friends quickly turn to enemies as debauchery ensues.

Overboard is a 1987 Romantic Comedy directed by Garry Marshall. This is the story of Joanna Slayton played by Goldie Hawn. Joanna is filthy rich, she lives a life of style and fortune on her yacht with her husband Grant Slayton the Third played by Edward Hermann. Joanna, while in the seaside town of Elk Cove, Oregon, hires a carpenter to remodel her closet on her yacht. This carpenter is Dean Profitt, played by Kurt Russell. Joanna and Dean have a bitter argument BUT… through a series of strange events, Joanna ends up with total memory loss, amnesia after an accident falling off her yacht, and after she is not claimed by her husband Grant, she ends up in a web of lies regarding her past with Dean, who now claims she is HIS wife…

When I’m Rome is a 2010 Romantic Comedy directed by Mark Steven Johnson. This is the story of Beth, a workaholic art curator who is disillusioned by love, played by Kristen Bell. When Beth’s little sister Joan, played by Alexis Dziena, gets engaged (after 2 weeks) Beth flies to Italy for the wedding. There she meets Nick Beamon, the best man, played by Josh Duhamel. He is ONE of our love interests. The premise of our story today is brought on by Beth drunkenly wading her way INTO the fountain of love in Rome. It’s a take on the Trevi Fountain. There in an act of defiance against love, she pulls 4 coins out of the fountain, unknowingly bringing upon her self a spell. The owners of those 4 coins have now fallen in love… with Beth. Which is a good time to tell you about our supporting cast of Will Arnett as a tortured artist. Jon Heder is a magician illusionist. Dax Shephard is our self absorbed male model. Danny DeVito plays the owner of a sausage company.

Barbie is a 2023 Fantasy Comedy directed by Greta Gerwig who has a fantastic acting career and has also directed Little Women and Lady Bird.  Barbie is the story of Barbie, played by Margot Robbie. She’s living in Barbie land (Margot is ‘Stereotypical Barbie’) with all the other Barbies and of course the Ken’s. Mainly played by Ryan Gosling and Simu Liu. Oh, and Allan played by Michael Cera. But something goes wrong with Barbie, somethings not quite right, and after gaining some sage wisdom from another Barbie played by Kate Mackinnon, Barbie realizes she must travel into the real world to find the person playing with her. We also have America Ferrera and Will Ferrell in this film. 

Just Go With It is a 2011 Romantic Comedy directed by Dennis Dugan who is a Happy Madison All Star. He directed Big Daddy, I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry, Grown Ups. Just Go With It is the story of Danny Maccabee played by Adam Sandler. Danny is a successful plastic surgeon and he has a gambit with women where you pretends to be married to a horrible woman in order to disarm ladies and convince them to sleep with him. All goes horribly wrong when Danny ends up falling for a woman named Palmer, played by Brooklyn Decker, who is determined to MEET this made up woman before they continue a relationship. Danny enlists the help of his assistant Katherine played by Jennifer Anniston to hold up this lie as they all travel to Hawaii for a vacation with Katherine’s family. This film also stars Nicole Kidman and Nick Swardson.

Maybe I Do is a new 2023 Romantic Comedy on Netflix written and Directed by Michael Jacobs based on his own play Cheaters. This is the story of Michelle and Allen played by Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey. Well it’s not exactly the story of them… it’s the story of how they pulled a group of cheaters together. We also meet Howard and Monica played by Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon, they are in a hotel room together, Monica is throwing herself at Howard, he wants none of it, because we learn that both of them are already married… they are cheating.  Then we meet Grace played by Diane Keaton and Sam played by William H Macy. After watching a very sad movie together they also go off on a magical night and spend some time in a motel together… Grace and Sam are also already married to other people… they’re already married to those other two people who are cheating… and they are ALL the parents of Michelle and Allen… except nobody knows it.

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates is a 2016 Romantic Comedy directed by Jake Szymanski. Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates is the story of Mike and Dave Stangle, played by Zach Efron and Adam Devine. These two are your classic family black sheep, their constant antics ruin every family gathering. To this end their younger sister Jeanie played by Sugar Lyn Beard is getting married, but Mike and Dave are banned from ruining her wedding, they need to bring some nice wedding dates in an effort to curb their ridiculous behaviour… enter our love interested Alice and Tatiana played by Anna Kendrick and Aubrey Plaza. Sugar Lyn Beard on YTV's The Zone - 2001

Splash is a 1984 fantasy romantic comedy directed by Ron Howard.  Splash is the story of Allen Bauer played by Tom Hanks who we first meet as an eighty year old on a boat tour at Cape Cod. He has a boat accident, falls off but encounters a young girl under the water who allows him to breathe underwater. Years later Allen is a co-owner of a wholesale fruit and vegetable business in New York City. He owns this company with his brother Freddie played by John Candy. After Allen’s failed relationship he ends up traveling back to Cape Cod, falls off a boat and once again is rescued by a mysterious woman, played by Daryl Hannah.

Love, Simon is a 2018 Romantic Comedy Drama directed by Greg Berlanti and based on the novel Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli. Love Simon is the story of Simon Spier played by Nick Robinson, who is a highschooler living in a suburb of Atlanta Georgia. Simon is gay but he is not ‘out’ yet. Love, Simon takes us on the journey of Simon as he is challenged with being true to himself, and who he is while dealing with a society that does not accept the type of person he is. Simon’s parents are Jack and Emily Spier played by Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Garner. We also have his cast of friends, Leah, Abby and Nick payed by Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp and Jorge Lendeborg JR.

Part 2 of our XO Kitty episode.  XO Kitty is a brand new Netflix Romantic Comedy Series, it’s a spinoff of the To All The Boys Series written by Jenny Han. The original film Trilogy was the story of Lara Jean, this is the story of her younger sister Kitty Song Covey played by Anna Cathcart. Kitty is dating this guy she met in South Korea named Dae. Kitty applies to go to the same school as Dae in South Korea. Kitty gets IN, but not all goes to plan specifically with a classic love triangle/new romance with one of Dae’s class mates Yuri.

Somethings Gotta Give is a 2003 Romantic Comedy Drama, Produced and Directed by Nancy Meyers. Meyers has been responsible for The Parent Trap, The Holiday. It’s Complicated, What Women Want, Father of the Bride, she is Romantic Comedy Royalty. Something’s Gotta Give is the story of Harry Sanborn played by Jack Nicholson and Erica Barry played by Diane Keaton. When we meet Harry Sanborn he is actually dating Erica Barry’s daughter Marin played by Amanda Peet. Amanda is 35 ish years younger than Harry. We learn very quickly, Harry is one of those perpetual bachelors who exclusively dates women much younger than him. When Marin and Harry go to her mother’s beach house they run into Erica Barry along with Marin’s sister Zoe played by Frances McDormand. Through this awkward meeting and a serious of unfortunate events for Harry it ends up that he must stay at that beach house with Erica until his health returns… much to both of their chagrins… but of course, love is likely to blossom in this very unlikely pairing.

XO Kitty is a brand new Netflix Romantic Comedy Series… it’s a spinoff of the To All The Boys Series written by Jenny Han. The original film Trilogy was the story of Lara Jean… this is the story of her younger sister Kitty Song Covey played by Anna Cathcart. Kitty is dating this guy she met in South Korea named Dae… Kitty applies to go to the same school as Dae in South Korea. Kitty gets IN but not all goes to plan specifically with a classic love triangle SLASH new romance with one of Dae’s class mates Yuri.

Welcome to The Rom Com Rewind Podcast, where we revisit and deconstruct the most beloved romantic comedies of all time. In this episode, we're diving into the action-packed romantic comedy "This Means War" and uncovering the layers of its thrilling love triangle. Join us as we explore the high-stakes world of two CIA agents, Tuck (Tom Hardy) and FDR (Chris Pine), who unknowingly find themselves dating the same woman, Lauren (Reese Witherspoon). With friendship, romance, and espionage colliding, we'll dissect the intricate dynamics that unfold in this unconventional romantic comedy. Throughout the episode, we'll delve into the themes of trust, honesty, and the delicate balance between love and friendship. We'll discuss the complexities of navigating relationships, as Tuck and FDR compete for Lauren's affections, resorting to elaborate schemes and clandestine tactics. But "This Means War" isn't just about a battle for love—it's a showcase of growth, forgiveness, and the power of second chances. We'll analyze the characters' journeys, examining how they confront their own vulnerabilities, learn from their mistakes, and ultimately find redemption.

Mamma Mia! Is a 2008 jukebox musical romantic comedy directed by Phyllida Lloyd based off the 1999 musical of the same name, this film is based on the songs of pop group ABBA. Mamma Mia is the story of Sophie Sheridan played by Amanda Seyfried. Sophie lives on the FICTIONAL Greek island of Kalokairi with her mother Donna played by Meryl Streep and her soon to be husband Sky played by Dominic Cooper. Sky and Sophie are set to be married in just a few days, the catch is that Sophie has no idea who her father is, however Sophie found her mother Donna’s journal from right around when she was conceived. In sleuthing through this journal Sophie has discovered there are 3 possible men who could be her father… and so, naturally, she invites all three of them to her wedding on this Greek island. Bill Anderson played by Stellan Skarsgard, Sam Carmichael played by Pierce Brosnan and Harry Bright played by Colin Firth.

Ghosted is a 2023 Romantic Action Adventure Comedy directed by Dexter Fletcher. This is the story of Cole Turner played by Chris Evans. Cole lives near Washington DC where he helps his parents at their family farm. At a local farmers market Cole runs into Sadie, played by Ana De Armas. After a flirty but anxious meet cute Cole and Sadie hit it off, have one great night and a fantastic next morning, but after that, Sadie has seemingly Ghosted Cole. In an attempt at a grand romantic gesture Cole flies to London (he knows where she is because he has a tracker on his inhaler which she still has), at which point Cole realizes that Sadie was not who she appeared to be. This film also stars Adrien Brody as Leveque, MULTIPLE surprise cameos and fun little roles that we will get into later.

John Tucker Must Die is a 2006 teen romantic comedy directed by Betty Thomas.  This is the story of teenager Kate Spencer played by Brittany Snow. Kate and her mom Lori played by Jenny McCarthy live just outside of Portland, Oregon. They are kinda nomads, they move constantly, Lori can’t hold down a relationship with a guy, Kate has moved from school to school… but NOW she goes to a school with John Tucker played by Jesse Metcalfe. John is your classic, all-american athlete, basketball stud, girl’s love him, guys wanna be like him, however Kate stumbles upon a serious problem. She comes to the realization that John Tucker is dating 3 prominent girls at school, all at the same time. Beth McIntyre played by Sophie Bush is your vegan activist, Carrie Schaeffer is played by Arielle Kebbel she’s your overachieving journalist, and Heather Montgomery played by Ashanti, head cheerleader. In one cataclysmic moment all 3 of these girls find out they’re all dating John Tucker and decide to take Kate’s help in bringing him down and bringing John Tucker justice…

Ruby Sparks is a 2012 romantic fantasy, written by Zoe Kazan and directed by Valerie Faris and Johnathan Dayton, those two were responsible for Little Miss Sunshine. This is the story of Calvin, played by Paul Dano. Calvin is an anxious, young, novelist, he found MASSIVE success on his first novel, became an instant sensation and how is struggling to find inspiration. Calvin’s therapist encourages Calvin to work on some writing projects and after writing about a girl named Ruby who liked Calvin’s dog Scotty spurs his imagination. She becomes real. Calvin writes this character named Ruby Sparks, and this fictional character he created is brought to life, played by Zoe Kazan. This film also co-stars Chris Messina as Calvin’s brother Harry. Annette Bening as their mother, and Antonio Banderas as Mort their father in law.

We’re the Millers is a 2013 American CRIME comedy directed by Rawson Thurber, he also directed Dodgeball, Central Intelligence, Red Notice. We’re the Millers is the story of David Clark played by Jason Sudekis. David is a low level marijuana dealer in Denver and he gets into some trouble with his boss Brad Gurdlinger played by Ed Helms after David gets robbed and all his cash and merchandise is stolen. Brad gives David an ultimatum, go down to Mexico and be a drug mule, bring a whole ton of marijuana back for me.  David comes to the realization that families tend to get through security and border patrol A MILLION TIMES EASIER so he enlists the help of his neigbours; Rose played by Jennifer Anniston who is a stripper, Kenny played by Will Poulter, his family is basically non existent, and Casey played by Emma Roberts who lives on the street.  We dress them all up as a fictional family and go down to Mexico to grab the pot… THAT is the story of We’re the Millers.

Say Anything is a 1989 romantic comedy…it’s a cult classic, directed by Cameron Crowe (Jerry McGuire, Elizabethtown, Almost Famous, Aloha) It’s the story of Lloyd Dobbler played by John Cusack.. Lloyd is your classic, noble, nice guy, slight underachiever, doesn’t know what he wants senior in high school… However as we approach graduation Lloyd falls for the class valedictorian Diane Court played by Ione Skye. Diane has been singularly focused on her post secondary life, summer classes, preliminary university courses, she eventually applies for a fellowship in London and wins, all spurred on by her father Jim played by John Mahoney. But Diane’s life turns upside down as she meets Lloyd, learns perhaps life isn’t only about test scores and plans and goals, and perhaps they both find some love along the way…

Your Place Or Mine is a 2023 romantic comedy directed by Aline Brosh McKenna… This is the story of Debbie and Peter played by Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher. Debbie is a single mom to her son Jack. They live in LA, she’s an accountant at a middle school, very tightly wound, very much your typical helicopter over bearing parent to Jack. Then we have Peter who is a successful business consultant in New York City, lives the bachelor life, never REALLY committing to anyone or anything. Debbie and Peter have history, they hooked up this one time BUT ever since have just been best of friends, even when they both live across the country from each other. Our story takes a turn when Debbie is SUPPOSED to travel to New York City to hang with Peter and complete her schooling, her baby sitter falls through. To make sure she can finish the education she needs, PETER swaps places, flies back to LA to babysit Jack.  Along the way while they are apart we learn a little about a rekindled love on both sides. Tig Notaro's show Under a Rock with Tig Notaro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OO1Sfb-j9FU

The Accidental Husband is a 2008 Romantic Comedy directed by Griffin Dunne. This is the story of Patrick Sullivan played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Patrick is a firefighter in New York City and is extremely excited to get married, and start his life with his fiance Sofia, played by Justina Machado. However after Sofia calls into love expert radio show hosted by Doctor Emma Lloyd played by Uma Thurman, Patrick’s life spins out of control as Sofia calls off the wedding. In a wild act of revenge Patrick gets his young neighbour to hack into the government database to make it appear that Emma is actually already married, to Patrick. This immediately creates and issue for Emma as SHE is set to marry her manager and business partner Richard played by Colin Firth. Emma then sets out to find this Patrick Sullivan and get the marriage annulled, however not all goes to plan.

It's a Rom Com Rewind Special: the Pop Culture Roundup on the 2023 Oscars. Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Brendan Fraser, Jamie Lee Curtis, that awkward Ashley Graham/Hugh Grant interview. The 2023 Academy Awards gave the us so many satisfying wins, controversial scenes, meme-able moments and awkward interactions that we had to dedicate an entire episode on this. 

Bend it like Beckham is a 2002 Sports Romantic Comedy directed by Gurinder Chadha… it’s the story of Jesminder or Jess Bhamra played by Parminder Nagra. Jes comes from a British Indian, Punjabi, Sikh family living in London. Jess is OBSESSED with football but her parents Mohaan and Suhki very much want her to focus on other priorities. But, Jess meets Juliette played by Keira Knightly who is on a female football team in London, their coach Joe played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers brings Jess onto the team and it turns out, she has enough talent to possibly play in a pro league in the United States. Bend it Like Beckham is Jess’ story, breaking the mold, disobeying her family, PROVING to everyone that just because she is a woman she CAN still play Football and ultimately, maybe finding love along the way. 

Meet Bill is a 2007 romantic comedy directed by Bernie Goldmann. Meet Bill is the story of Bill, played by Aaron Eckhart. Bill is a dissatisfied middle aged man who works for his father in law, Mr Jacoby’s - bank. No one takes him seriously, he’s the black sheep of the family, he is the VP of human resources, he’s really pushed off to the side in many different ways.  We quickly find out that Bill’s wife Jess played by Elizabeth Banks is likely cheating on him with local news reported Chip Johnson played by Timothy Olyphant. Meanwhile Bill is taking this mentorship kid under his wing, the kid is played by Logan Lerman. There’s also a romance with that kid and a mall retail worker Lucy played by Jessica Alba.

Shotgun Wedding is a brand new Amazon Prime Romantic Comedy directed by Jason Moore. This is the story of Tom played by Josh Duhamel and Darcy played by Jennifer Lopez. It’s the night before their wedding on a private island in the Philippines. We meet Tom’s mom Carol played by Jennifer Coolidge, Darcy’s parents Renata and Robert played by Sonia Braga and Cheech Marin. All is going kind of well, in that special way rehearsal dinners are kind of hectic. Darcy’s ex Sean played by Lenny Kravitz shows up out of the blue to cause some drama. But the real conflict in this story is the following day, the day of the wedding, pirates crash the island, try to take everyone captive and ransom Darcy and her father for a cash payout… yeah… that is your lead in for Shotgun Wedding. 

The Princess Bride is a 1987 fantasy adventure romance comedy… directed and co-produced by Rob Reiner who was also responsible for Spinal Tap… much like Spinal Tap The Princess Bride has made it’s way into cult classic territory. It’s setup as a grandfather reading a tale to his sick grandson. Peter Falk played the grandfather, Fred Savage the grandson. The tale is that of Princess Buttercup played by Robin Wright, who falls in love with her farm hand Westley played by Cary Elwes. Westley goes off into the world to seek his fortune before returning to Buttercup however she learns of Westley’s death soon after. Years later Buttercup is set to be wed to Florin’s Prince Humperdinck played by Chris Sarandon… before being captured by the likes of Vizini, Fezzik and Inigo Montoya, all played by Wallace Shawn, Andre the Giant and Mandy Patinkin.

Bad Moms is a 2016 Romantic Comedy. This is the story of Amy Mitchell played by Mila Kunis. Amy is your classic, overworked, overcommitted, trying to do everything and hold a family together mom. Her kids are Jane who is way too high strung about school… and Dylan… who can’t do anything for himself… and her husband Mike played by David Walton… turns out is cheating on her, online, via video chats… with some farmer woman… So Amy STOPS trying so hard, she KICKS her husband out of the house, and she commits to focusing more on her mental health, instead of trying to be everything for everyone. And Amy takes on this journey with the help of her friends Carla played by Kathryn Hahn, and Kiki played by Kristen Bell.  They also need to come face to face with the PTA board including Stacey and Vicky played by Jada Pinkett Smith and Annie Mumolo… as well as the PTA president Gwendolyn James played by Christina Applegate.

You People is a brand new Netflix Romantic Comedy directed by Kenya Barris. You People is the story of Ezra Cohen played by Jonah Hill. Ezra comes from a Jewish family, his mom Shelley played Julia Louise Dreyfus and dad Arnold played by David Duchovny very much try to set Ezra up with “a nice smart Jewish girl”. Ezra eventually meets Amira played by Lauren London, and THEY hit it off right away. The only problem. Amira comes from a very strong and proud black family, her dad Woody changed his name to Akbar, he is played by Eddie Murphy, her mom is Fatima played by Nia Long. You People is really the story of love, in the middle of a culture clash between these two families. 

The Vow is a 2012 Romantic Drama. It’s the story of Paige Collins played by Rachel McAdams and her husband Leo played by Channing Tatum. Paige and Leo are married and spoiler alert, shortly after we meet them, there is a car crash, by which Paige loses her memory… she loses her memory of who Leo is, their marriage, their life together, their apartment, it’s all gone. The Vow is the story of Paige and Leo picking up the pieces of the life that she lost complete memory of, and BASICALLY it’s the story of them re-learning how to love each other. With some significant external factors in the way that we get into in the podcast.

Chalet Girl is a 2011 romantic comedy directed by Phill Traill. We watched this on Netflix. It’s the story of Kim Matthew’s played by Felicity Jones. She is a former skateboard prodigy who after her mothers untimely death ends up working at a burger joint to help her dad pay the bills. When a new job offer roles around for her to manage a chalet in Austria for an extremely wealthy family run by Richard (Bill Nighy), Caroline (Brooke Shields), Kim runs into their son Johnny (Ed Westwick). Sparks inevitably fly, coupled by Kim confronting her fears of her mothers car crash… not with a skateboard, but with a snowboard this time…

It Takes Two is a 1995 romantic comedy… this film is inspired by the 1881 Mark Twain novel the Prince and the Pauper as well as the 1949 book Lisa and Lottie. It Takes Two is the story of Amanda and Alyssa, played by Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. Amanda is a New York City orphan hoping to find a family of her own one day. She is cared for at her orphanage by the sweetest social worker Diane, played by Kirstie Alley. Then we have Alyssa Callaway, her father Roger - played by Steve Guttenberg is a billionaire. Alyssa and Roger are very close however since his wife (her mother) passed away Roger has now, 10 years later started to date again and we meet CLARICE KENSINGTON. We immediately get bad vibes from her, but after Amanda and Alyssa run into each other new the Callaways summer camp, the two girls hatch a plan to switch places and ULTIMATELY get Roger and Diane together.

It's the first ever Rom Com Rewind Fantasy Draft!!  Here's how it works: Sarah and I are each going to draft 5 upcoming romantic comedies that SHOULD be released in 2023, we will have these romantic comedies on our 'Rom Com Fantasy Team'. When these films are released, we will take the Rotten Tomatoes critic score, audience score and that is the overall score of said film. Whoever has the higher scoring team of Romantic Comedies at the end of the year wins. The reason we love this: We thought this could help YOU with what is coming out this year that you should know about, what are the films you should have on your list for 2023 to watch out for. We also have a loose roadmap for the Podcast of new things to have on the agenda... and selfishly if one of us has that rom com on our team we will want to watch it to see how well your team is performing. Sarah's Team: Barbie Maybe I Do Irish Wish Shotgun Wedding Red, White and Royal Blue Devin's Team: Magic Mike's Last Dance Your Place or Mine You People Ghosted Legally Blonde 3

Christmas With You is a 2022 Netflix Holiday Romantic Comedy. It’s the story of Miguel, played by Freddie Prinz JR. He is a single father to Cristina played by Deja Monique Cruz. His daughter Cristina does an Instagram video singing along to Angelina played by Aimee Garcia, she’s a pop music mega star who has maybe turned a corner on her career, on the down swing a little bit, living off the former hits and glory days. Think of a Christina Aguilera, Katy Perry, maybe even a J-Lo kind of vibe. Angelina is on the verge of getting dropped by her label, she needs a new song, a new hit, a new something and after witnessing this video from Cristina, Angelina decides to go and visit her young fan for the holidays. This is where she meets Miguel, realizes he actually quietly writes songs and might have a hit on his hands. That is your lead in for Christmas With You.

The Family Stone is a 2005 comedy, drama, romance directed by Thomas Bezucha. This is the story of Everett stone played by Dermot Mulroney. He is bringing his girlfriend Meredith played by Sarah Jessica Parker to meet his family for the holidays. The Stone family is BIG, and tight nit, and very outspoken. Sybil Stone is the matriarch of the family, that’s Diane Keaton. We have Craig T Nelson playing the father Kelly Stone. Ben Stone is Everett’s younger brother he is played by Luke Wilson. Sussanah Stone and Amy Stone are the two sisters, they are played by Elizabeth Reaser and Rachel McAdams. The youngest brother of the family is Thad Stone, played by Tyrone Giordano, he is also deaf and gay. His partner is Patrick Thomas played by Brian J White, and another key character is Claire Danes, playing Meredith’s sister Julie. Basically it’s Everett bringing Meredith to meet his family, not all goes to plan and love is found in the most unexpected of places. There’s also a really intense underlying family connectedness storyline.

Love Hard is a 2021 Netflix Romantic Comedy. It’s the story of Natalie Bauer played by Nina Dobrev. Natalie is a LA writer who runs a dating column in which she shares her disastrous dating app stories. After meeting and matching with a man named Josh Linn Natalie thinks she finally found the one. In a spurt of reckless abandon she travels to meet him in Lake Placid New York to surprise him for Christmas. When it turns out… Josh is not who he claimed to be on the dating app. This film also stars Jimmy O Yang as Josh Linn and Darren Barnet who plays Tag. That’s your lead in for Love Hard.

Sleigh rides, precocious kids, big city boys going back to their small town roots to learn about the meaning of Christmas, small town entrepreneurs following their dreams, it's that time of the year. It is officially Hallmark Christmas Romantic Comedy season! Are you up to date on your Hallmark Rom Coms? Want to know the big picks for this year? Have a Hallmark Rom Com suggestion? All that and more on this episode of the Rom Com Rewind Podcast.