We Ranked the Best Rom-Coms of the 80s—True Gen Xers Agree

The 1980s were a golden age for romantic comedies, filled with unforgettable moments and iconic characters that still make audiences swoon.

These films combined humor, love, and often a dash of absurdity, creating memorable stories that captured the hearts of many.

From dance floors to castles, this decade showcased a wide range of tales that made people laugh and cry, proving that love can be both hilarious and heartwarming.

Each movie brought a unique take on romance, reminding viewers that finding love can sometimes be the funniest journey of all.

1. The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride” is a delightful mix of romance and adventure. It features a giant, an evil prince, and true love that conquers all.

This film proves that a little humor and some sword fights can make any romantic story unforgettable.

Plus, who doesn’t love a good “as you wish”?

2. When Harry Met Sally

“When Harry Met Sally” is a classic rom-com from 1989. It follows Harry and Sally, who debate whether men and women can just be friends.

With witty banter and charming moments, it answers that age-old question while serving up plenty of laughs and memorable scenes.

Who could forget that diner scene?

3. Dirty Dancing

“Dirty Dancing” is a classic that takes place at a summer resort.

It features a young woman named Baby who learns to dance and love from a charming instructor, Johnny.

Who could forget that iconic lift? No pressure or anything, just the best moment in dance history!

4. Sixteen Candles

“Sixteen Candles” is a classic tale of a girl whose birthday gets totally overlooked. Samantha feels like a ghost at her own party. The movie is full of awkward moments, crushes, and one super dreamy Jake Ryan. It captures the chaos of teenage life with a hilarious twist!

5. Moonstruck

“Moonstruck” is a delightful mix of love and laughs. Cher plays a widow who finds herself in a romantic mess. Nicolas Cage’s quirky charm adds spice, making viewers laugh and swoon. With memorable quotes and a fantastic supporting cast, it’s a film that charms hearts and tickles funny bones.

6. Romancing the Stone

In “Romancing the Stone,” a shy romance novelist finds herself in a wild adventure. She travels to Colombia to rescue her sister, only to meet a rugged treasure hunter. Together, they stumble through danger, romance, and a few laughs, proving that love can really turn up the heat!

7. Splash

In “Splash,” Tom Hanks plays a man who falls for a mermaid, played by Daryl Hannah. Who wouldn’t want to date someone from the ocean? It blends romance and comedy, featuring a magical twist. Just watch out for that fishy smell!

8. Valley Girl

Valley Girl” is a classic teen rom-com from 1983. It features Julie, a girl from the San Fernando Valley, who falls for Randy, a punk rocker. Their love story proves that opposites really do attract, even when one is all about shopping and the other is about rebellion.

9. Say Anything…

“Say Anything…” is a classic teen romantic comedy from 1989. It features John Cusack as Lloyd Dobbler, a charming underachiever.

In a memorable scene, he stands outside his crush’s window holding a boombox. It’s all about love, dreams, and the awkwardness of youth, sprinkled with some humor.

10. The Sure Thing

“The Sure Thing” is a classic from 1985 that mixes road trips with romance. John Cusack stars as Walter, a college freshman with a plan to meet a guaranteed date in California. Along for the ride is a witty girl who complicates everything—and sparks fly!

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