At this point in the year, I am in need of a little post-winter inspiration and likewise, starved for a fun romance flick–emphasis on the fun and the romance as opposed to tragic and dark, which for me, defeat the purpose of going to see a romantic movie. The last straight-up lighter-than-air example of the genre that I remember seeing this year was “New In Town” starring Renée Zellweger, Harry Connick Jr., and that was in January!
But, not to fear. There’s romantic relief on its way and it starts today! In order of release date, here are the five I’m looking forward to:
“Ghosts of Girlfriends Past”: This one, starring Jennifer Garner (yay!) and Matthew McConaughey (he just gets an “eh” from me) comes out May 1. I’m not overly excited about the premise–“A bachelor is haunted by the ghosts of his past girlfriends at his younger brother’s wedding”–but I’m confident that Jennifer Garner will carry the movie and at least make it fun.
“The Proposal”: I’ve often written here about how Sandra Bullock is like mashed potatoes–her movies are like comfort food and they generally are romances. This one, described as: “A pushy boss forces her young assistant to marry her in order to keep her Visa status in the U.S. and avoid deportation to Canada,” also stars Ryan Reynolds from “Definitely, Maybe” which I enjoyed. I’m hoping Sandra will pull through for me on this one, especially since it’s all I’ve got for June (19).

“The Ugly Truth”: Here’s another movie where I am not totally sold on the premise: “A romantically challenged morning show producer is reluctantly embroiled in a series of outrageous tests by her chauvinistic correspondent to prove his theories on relationships and help her find love. His clever ploys, however, lead to an unexpected result.” But, it stars Katherine Heigl and I’m sold on her after “27 Dresses.” This one hits theaters July 24.
“The Time Traveler’s Wife”: Have you read the book by Audrey Niffenegger? If you haven’t, let me tell you the following: seeing the movie of this bestseller before reading the novel is absolutely, categorically a sin. The book is not to be missed, and I’ll be lining up for the movie with tissues in hand. If it’s anything like the novel, it will be a tear-jerker, but an amazing one. Releases August 14.
“500 Days of Summer”: I keep hearing amazing things this Sundance favorite. Too bad we have to wait until August 20 for this “Offbeat romantic comedy about a woman who doesn’t believe true love exists, and the young man who falls for her,” starring Zooey Deschanel who has those big, enchanting eyes.
What I’ll do to tide myself over in these big gaps between release dates is a good question. Any suggestions? Romance faves that are coming soon to a theater near you?