Movies and romance were made for one another. That is why love was in the air at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. As stars flocked to the city and film lovers crowded intimate theaters, downtown in the Big Apple came alive with spring love vibes. Not only was the atmosphere ideal for romance, but many of the films were also linked to love.
I went to a lot of movies and premieres all week long. Here are my top picks for films worthy of your next date night:
The prospect of an arranged marriage would likely make the abundance of New York singles cringe. Yet in A Suitable Girl, directors Sarita Khurana and Smriti Mundhra boldly examine the realities of arranged marriages. They follow the paths of three young, modern women living in India as they embark on the journey to matrimony. The women, Dipti, Amrita, and Ritu, draw you in with their unique stories and perspectives on the institution of marriage.
As someone who built my career around the business of love, I could not help but be fascinated by the complexities of arranged marriages. Yes, there are societal dictates, family pressures, and longstanding traditions involved. And, there is also an undeniable thread of romance. I will not say too much about where each woman ends up, but I will admit that this is a must-watch for anyone who has ever critiqued the notion of an arranged marriage.
A Suitable Girl
If you love romantic comedies, then you need to see Keep The Change, a laughable tale with a real world message. Directed by first time filmmaker Rachel Israel, the plot revolves around David and Sarah, two NYC residents who meet in a support group for adults with disabilities. Israel examines the real-world implications of dating with a disability in a way that is heartfelt and charming. The slow-building romance that develops between the two of them makes this the perfect flick to watch with your significant other. Prep the popcorn and blankets in advance because the positive, heartwarming message and endearing characters will have you wanting to snuggle up with your beau all night.
Keep The Change
Zoey Deutch shines in this dramatic, coming-of-age narrative from Max Winkler. Although the film may not seem overtly romantic at first, the tendrils of love and longing that work their way through the 93 captivating minutes will undoubtedly pull at your heartstrings. Deutch portrays Erica Vandross, an unconventional teen who, along with her two friends, seduces older men for money.
This dramedy certainly confronts serious moral dilemmas and causes more than a bit of internal discomfort. However, the young lust and self-discovery that Vandross and her friends experience will remind you of your own high school days. The new and exciting feelings of young love and attraction are complexified in Flower, but they are there nevertheless. This film will stay with you for days to follow.
Flower
Anyone who has ever had their heart broken will relate to this film by director Ryan Eggold. Justin Long leads the helm of a star-studded cast that includes John Cho, Luis Guzman, Peter Gallagher, and Lea Thompson. Long, as lovelorn Adam, is invited to attend his college sweetheart’s wedding far too soon after their breakup.
Adam’s pre-wedding experience is filled with laughs, awkward moments, and an unrequited love that refuses to disappear. This is the perfect flick to watch with friends, since there is bound to be a moment to which everyone can relate.
Literally, Right Before Aaron
Dito Montiel’s adaptation of his eponymous novel is one that will delight romance lovers of all ages. After Eddie Krumble, portrayed by Ed Helms, relocates to Los Angeles following the death of his wife, he struggles to find footing in his new life. Things turn around once he becomes a paid professional audience member and begins a flirtation with a pretty gas station attendant, played by Amanda Seyfried.
If you love to watch romances bloom on screen, you need to see The Clapper. Helms and Seyfried charm together, even amidst an unexpected fame that threatens to break them apart. This is a cute, modern take on the classic romantic comedy that you will want to share with everyone.
The Clapper
Director Chris Perkel forever memorializes the legendary Clive Davis in this fascinating documentary. As one of the biggest players in the music industry of all time, Clive Davis is arguably one of the most romance-focused as well. The film depicts how he represented some of the top names in the romantic song game, such as Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin, and Whitney Houston, to name a few.
To me, Davis is the pinnacle of romance in the entertainment industry. Not only did he love the music itself and the joy of spreading the medleys of talented artists to the world, but he also loved his work so much that it became a part of him. That he refused to be jaded by the corruption and criticisms of the industry and always maintained a passion for the music is in itself an incredibly romantic notion.
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack Of Our Lives
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