Something Different To Watch On Valentines Day

Lost in Translation, The Fountain, Sliding Doors, Sideways & More

Feb 13, 2009

Movies to watch with that special someone in your life come in all shapes and sizes. But these six films offer something new; something original and unexpected.

Finding the perfect movie to watch on Valentine's Day or any other special, romantic evening often results in the viewing of the tried and true. Films like Pretty Woman, An Affair to Remember, Roman Holiday, Casablanca and a slew of other easy ideas get first pick. But there are some wonderfully unusual, and wholly satisfying stories to be found out there that you needn't rely on what’s been done (and watched) far too many times before.

Lost in Translation is a wonderful accomplishment. Extremely well written characters and terrific performances by Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson that live and breathe help mold a strikingly genuine piece of modern cinema. First time director, Sofia Coppola is clearly an apple that fell close to the tree (her father is Francis Ford Coppola), making a film with sublime intimacy and stunning acknowledgment of real people. As a story of two people struggling to find their way when they are out of place, it sinks into the heart with an unassuming skill, and there the characters stay until the final reel. And long after the film has ended, you will find these two sweet and flawed people, lost on the other side of the world, occupying your thoughts.

4 out of 5 Stars

Director Darren Aronofsky is a remarkably astute and visionary storyteller. His film, The Fountain, is almost indescribable at times with its beauty, sincerity and deeper meaning. Just about every moment of the film is dedicated to love absolute - while persistently philosophizing about the nature of life and death. An astonishingly powerful story that, if you are really looking for something completely different, this tale of life, death and the hereafter is highly recommended.

5 out of 5 Stars

The beautiful Gwyneth Paltrow dons a flawless British accent to star as Helen Quilley in this surprising, dramatic and superbly crafted film. Beyond the outstanding performances, this film stands out as having an unorthodox approach to the story of love and the people who struggle to find it and survive it. The notion of life’s path, the impact of a single moment or decision is intriguingly explored in this dual version of life. Paltrow's thoughtful and subtle performance is her finest work and helps make this absorbing and slightly fantastical story tangible and real.

Adam Sandler is likely the last person you would expect to have on your list of stars to watch on Valentine’s night and, despite the romantic points he earns in 2004's 50 First Dates, nothing tops his off-beat and endearing performance in Paul Thomas Anderson's Punch Drunk Love. A strange film by all accounts, but one that pours it heart on its sleeve - despite that sleeve being two parts bizarre and one part odd. Impossible not to enjoy, this gem is moving and funny.

It will be impossible not to fall immediately and genuinely in love with this quirky, engaging film. Jim Carrey, in a career high for him, stars as a man who is so distraught over a break-up that he elects to have all memory of the relationship erased. Told with a sublime sense of humor and humanity coupled with outstanding performances by Carrey and his heartbreaking lover, Kate Winslet, the film smolders with unusual warmth and a grin inducing sense of hope.

Perhaps more of a comedy than a romantic piece of cinema, Sideways is, nonetheless, one of the best and least obvious films for the romantically inclined. Superb performances all round from an impeccable cast including Paul Giamatti, Sandra Oh, Virginia Madsen and Thomas Hayden Church. You will find youself laughing hard while being endeared to the pathetic, almost tragic lead characters. This is not your typical romantic tale, but it is absolutely one of the best. Enjoy with a glass of fine wine (but not Merlot)!

The copyright of the article Something Different To Watch On Valentines Day in Romantic Films is owned by Neil Middlemiss. Permission to republish Something Different To Watch On Valentines Day in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.