Ah, the allure of the forbidden crush. For hopeless romantics, sometimes Cupid’s arrow strikes in the most unexpected places – like across a throng of screaming fans, straight into the heart of a jaded chaperone tasked with wrangling a heartthrob pop star.
“The Idea of You” isn’t your typical meet-cute; it’s a deliciously complex dance between desire and reality, where age differences and the pressures of fame threaten to drown out the whispers of “what if.”
If this synopsis has your heart fluttering and your need for a happily ever after burning bright, then fret no more – this is just the first course in our multi-course rom-com feast.
Dive into 5 more rom-coms that sizzle with age gaps, secret connections, and the intoxicating thrill of wanting what you can’t quite have.
1. I’ll See You in My Dreams (2015)
Blythe Danner & Sam Elliott in “I’ll See You in my Dreams”
- Director: Brett Haley
- Writers: Brett Haley, Marc Basch
- Stars: Blythe Danner, Martin Starr, Sam Elliott
Solène’s life before her romance with Hayes is briefly glimpsed at the start of “The Idea of You.” She tells her friends she’s content being alone while her daughter is away, and she boosts her confidence in front of the mirror, pretending to reassure her ex-husband that she’s happier after their divorce.
This solitary yet self-assured lifestyle is depicted in “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” where Carol (played by Blythe Danner) has remained single since her husband’s death 20 years ago.
Despite not actively seeking another relationship, Carol is clearly lonely and is perhaps guarding herself from potential hurt. Her apprehensions about opening up to new connections mirror Solène’s experiences with her ex-husband and her initial hesitance with Hayes.
Carol’s internal struggle forms the heart of the film, but it also offers enough charm and humor to appeal to fans of romantic comedies.
2. Long Shot (2019)
Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen in “Long Shot”
- Director: Jonathan Levine
- Writers: Dan Sterling, Liz Hannah
- Stars: Charlize Theron, Seth Rogen, June Diane Raphael
In “The Idea of You,” the challenges of managing relationships while dealing with unwanted attention and public scrutiny, particularly in the context of boy band fame, are highlighted.
Similarly, “Long Shot” explores this theme but shifts the setting from a stadium stage to the Oval Office, focusing on the unlikely relationship between Charlotte (Charlize Theron), a former US Secretary of State running for president, and Fred (Seth Rogen), a journalist.
The film examines how success can complicate relationships and often forces individuals to choose between their personal lives and their careers.
Unlike the more serious tone of “The Idea of You,” “Long Shot” embraces comedy, featuring humorous moments such as an adventurous night shared by Charlotte and Fred while under the influence of drugs. Theron and Rogen exhibit delightful chemistry, adding to the playful dynamic of their mismatched characters.
3. Love & Other Drugs (2010)
Jake Gyllenhaal and Anne Hathaway in “Love & Other Drugs”
- Director: Edward Zwick
- Writers: Charles Randolph, Edward Zwick, Marshall Herskovitz
- Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Judy Greer
Anne Hathaway stars alongside Jake Gyllenhaal in the romantic comedy “Love & Other Drugs.” Hathaway portrays Maggie, a woman diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, opposite Gyllenhaal’s character Jamie.
Their initially casual relationship deepens as Jamie grips the seriousness of Maggie’s condition. What begins as a light-hearted rom-com swiftly evolves into a more dramatic narrative.
Maggie’s uncertain future not only affects her bond with Jamie but also sets a mature tone for the film. Unlike many romantic comedies aimed at younger audiences, “Love & Other Drugs” maintains an adult sensibility.
4. Upgraded (2024)
Camila Mendes and Archie Renaux in “Upgraded.”
- Director: Carlson Young
- Writers: Christine Lenig, Justin Matthews, Luke Spencer Roberts
- Stars: Camila Mendes, Archie Renaux, Marisa Tomei
In “The Idea of You,” Solène’s role as an art gallery owner serves as a convenient cover for her romantic involvement with Hayes. While art is not central to their relationship, it acts as a catalyst when Hayes expresses his interest by purchasing art from her gallery.
Similar themes of the art world and hidden identities are explored in the 2024 film “Upgraded.” Ana (Camila Mendes) is an intern in the art world, aspiring to achieve success. During a work trip to London, she meets William (Archie Renaux) and embellishes her position, presenting herself as more influential than she actually is.
Ana fears revealing the truth could jeopardize her relationship with William as the lie grows, leading her to live a double life.
5. Notting Hill (1999)
Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant in “Notting Hill”
- Director: Roger Michell
- Writer: Richard Curtis
- Stars: Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts, Richard McCabe
“The Idea of You” and “Notting Hill” make for a compelling double feature, as both films delve into the complexities of relationships involving celebrities. In “Notting Hill,” Will (played by Hugh Grant), a bookstore owner, becomes romantically involved with Anna (Julia Roberts), a famous actress.
The intrusion of the public into their private lives mirrors the challenges faced by Solène and Hayes in “The Idea of You.” Both movies highlight the detrimental effects of fame and public attention on the couples’ relationships. In “Notting Hill,” Anna bears the brunt of this scrutiny due to her enduring celebrity status.
Ditch the tissues (for now) and get ready to fall in love. These 5 rom-coms, like “The Idea of You,” offer a captivating blend of forbidden desires, second chances, and the undeniable magic of finding love in unexpected places.
Grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to have your heartstrings well and truly serenaded.
