20 Comedies Where the Romantic Subplot Actually Works

A strong romantic storyline can really elevate a comedy, giving the jokes more impact by adding depth, purpose, and satisfying resolutions. Here are twenty comedies where the romance isn’t just a side plot—it’s woven into the main story, influencing the characters’ decisions and making the whole film more memorable.

‘Ghostbusters’ (1984)

The movie creates a romantic connection between Peter Venkman and Dana Barrett, portrayed by Bill Murray and Sigourney Weaver, which is closely linked to the supernatural mystery the Ghostbusters are solving. Dana’s apartment is central to the ghostly activity, and their relationship develops alongside the increasingly intense ghostbusting. Director Ivan Reitman, along with writers Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, skillfully integrates this romance into the overall story and world of the film. This relationship also gives Venkman extra motivation when facing the threats of Zuul and Gozer.

‘Groundhog Day’ (1993)

In “Groundhog Day,” Phil Connors’ attempts to win over Rita, portrayed by Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell, drive his personal growth as he relives the same day over and over. The film, directed by Harold Ramis, uses their developing romance to illustrate Phil’s gradual improvement and increasing morality. Because of the time loop, his learning and progress feel natural, showing how repetition leads to change. Important moments, such as their conversations in the diner and the ultimately selfless day Phil spends helping others, directly connect his emotional development to his relationship with Rita.

‘The 40 Year Old Virgin’ (2005)

Andy’s relationship with Trish, portrayed by Steve Carell and Catherine Keener, transforms what could have been a purely crude comedy into a story focused on the characters themselves. Judd Apatow’s film uses the romance to delve into themes of emotional openness, personal limits, and how people connect. While Andy and his friends provide plenty of laughs, the story is driven forward by the dating scheme and the challenges of getting to know Trish’s daughters. Moments like a speed dating event and a scene at an eBay store highlight how Andy changes as he begins to trust Trish.

‘Shaun of the Dead’ (2004)

Shaun’s split with Liz sets the stage for everything that happens when zombies attack: he needs to rescue her, win her back, and stay alive. Director Edgar Wright cleverly uses locations like pubs, apartments, and the streets of Winchester to connect the action with key moments in Shaun’s relationship. The supporting characters – Ed, Liz, and her friends – add both humor and emotional depth. Having a romantic goal gives Shaun clear motivations, helping him make tough decisions, whether it’s figuring out the best escape route or making sacrifices along the way.

‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’ (2004)

The central focus of this newsroom comedy is the complicated relationship between Ron and Veronica Corningstone, portrayed by Will Ferrell and Christina Applegate. Their rivalry and romance fuel the show’s conflicts, on-air mishaps, and even a dramatic animal rescue. Director Adam McKay uses their connection to push Ron’s character, creating increasingly funny situations. Promotions, viewership numbers, and team dynamics all depend on how Ron and Veronica handle their relationship at work.

‘Superbad’ (2007)

I was completely drawn into Seth and Evan’s night! It wasn’t just about trying to get with Jules and Becca, it was about how far they’d go for a chance with them, and how that tested their friendship. Every challenge – the fake IDs, sneaking around for drinks, even avoiding the police – felt connected to what they really wanted. By the end of the night, they were forced to confront some tough truths about how they were changing and drifting apart. And honestly, the funny stuff happening at the mall and the party felt so much more meaningful because it was all tied to these real stakes.

‘Booksmart’ (2019)

Amy and Molly are wrapping up their senior year, navigating new crushes and changing friendships. The movie follows them as they check in with their respective interests – Amy’s with someone named Hope, and Molly’s with a surprising connection to a classmate – throughout the busy party scene. It’s a story about balancing school, friendships, and the excitement of new romance, all as the characters reveal their true selves away from campus and in more relaxed settings like parties, pools, and car rides.

‘Zombieland’ (2009)

The connection between Columbus and Wichita unfolds carefully, influenced by their focus on staying safe, the quirky environments they find themselves in, and a tendency to be suspicious. Because both characters have hidden pasts, every step they take toward romance impacts the entire group, including Tallahassee and Little Rock. The film’s journey from place to place – like gas stations, famous houses, and amusement park rides – acts as a test for their growing trust. Ultimately, their personal feelings and the team’s rescue plan come together.

‘The Lego Movie’ (2014)

As Emmet and Wyldstyle team up to fight Lord Business, their connection deepens. Their romance blossoms while they plan daring missions, build amazing creations, and journey to different worlds. Even with appearances from other characters and team efforts, their relationship remains central, helping Emmet evolve from someone who simply follows directions to a truly creative builder. The story highlights how working together builds confidence and helps them overcome challenges.

‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’ (2010)

Scott’s journey to win Ramona’s heart is complicated by her seven evil exes, and their battles actually become the way their relationship progresses. Each ex is like a boss in a video game, and the fights take place in locations around Toronto, mirroring Scott’s growth as he deals with emotional baggage. Director Edgar Wright cleverly connects the fast-paced editing, visual effects, and even band practice scenes to show how Scott advances, with each victory revealing more about Ramona’s past. Meanwhile, the story also follows Knives Chau, forcing Scott to take responsibility for his actions.

‘Shrek’ (2001)

Shrek’s journey to bring Princess Fiona back to Lord Farquaad is filled with witty conversations, funny takes on classic fairy tales, and the uncovering of a hidden curse. Donkey’s humorous remarks keep the story lighthearted as Shrek and Fiona grow closer while traveling through forests, castles, and even a dragon’s lair. Their budding romance explores themes of self-acceptance and looking beyond appearances, leading to a decision that changes both of their lives. Memorable scenes – like a knight fight, musical numbers, and the dragon’s fiery home – mirror the development of their relationship.

‘The Mummy’ (1999)

Rick O’Connell and Evelyn Carnahan become closer as they explore the desert, solve ancient mysteries, and face terrifying threats brought back from the past. Working together on archaeological puzzles and dangerous journeys forces them to rely on each other. Every new find – like old journals, maps, and ancient jars – leads to unexpected twists and turns that they can only overcome by combining their talents. Their romantic connection deepens through daring rescues and as they move from dusty libraries to underground tombs.

‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ (2003)

The love story of Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann drives the action throughout the film, from the daring rescue attempts and ship chases to the mysteries of Isla de Muerta. Captain Jack Sparrow’s plans constantly cross paths with Will and Elizabeth as they grapple with their responsibilities and desires for freedom. With thrilling sword fights, encounters with cursed pirates, and intense naval battles, their romance is always in danger, making every decision they make even more critical. Meanwhile, a secondary storyline reveals shifting alliances between pirates, naval officers, and ordinary people.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014)

Peter Quill and Gamora slowly begin to trust each other as they navigate dangerous situations like escaping prison, trading for a powerful orb, and dealing with the complex world of Ravager politics. Their growing team – Rocket, Groot, and Drax – keeps things lighthearted with plenty of humor, all while they face threats from the Kree and run into trouble with the Nova Corps. Throughout their adventures, moments like dance-offs, creating mixtapes, and fixing their ship build a foundation of trust. Although a romantic connection develops between Quill and Gamora, it takes a backseat to their main goal of pulling off heists and fighting battles, but it ultimately influences their choices later on.

‘Deadpool’ (2016)

The connection between Wade and Vanessa is central to the movie’s playful, self-aware humor and over-the-top action. Everything – from how Wade got his powers to his quest for revenge – ultimately focuses on him wanting to be with her again. The action sequences, like the fights and bar scenes, are kept lighthearted, and the love story pushes the plot forward, influencing everything from what Wade wears to when and how he fights his enemies. The romantic subplot even affects key decisions during missions and the final confrontations.

‘Grosse Pointe Blank’ (1997)

Hitman Martin Blank goes back to his hometown for a high school reunion and starts seeing Debi, a local DJ whose radio station often becomes a central meeting place. While trying to navigate old contracts and other assassins, Martin revisits his past and wonders if he can leave his dangerous life behind. The story unfolds through school events and a killer soundtrack, and is punctuated by funny moments – like therapy sessions, awkward encounters in the hallways, and improvised schemes at the hardware store – all while a romance blossoms.

‘Game Night’ (2018)

Max and Annie, a married couple who excel at trivia, find their lives turned upside down when a playful kidnapping scheme unexpectedly becomes real. They must rely on clear communication, especially under stress. The story unfolds with funny scenes set in homes and airports, complicated by strict competition rules, nosy neighbors, and cases of mistaken identity. Underlying the adventure, the couple is also dealing with challenges related to starting a family, which influences their decisions during the fast-paced action. A supporting cast adds to the mix, and every clue they uncover moves both the plot and Max and Annie’s relationship forward.

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

Movie star Don Lockwood navigates the transition from silent films to talkies while falling for Kathy Selden, a talented voice actress who secretly dubs his co-star’s lines. Their budding romance faces challenges from the demands of the studio, difficult test screenings, and the elaborate musical numbers they’re filming. Adding to the trouble, the demanding actress Lina Lamont uses her contract to create problems, forcing Don and Kathy to work together to overcome them. The film cleverly blends their love story with the behind-the-scenes world of filmmaking, creating a funny and fast-paced story about love, work, and new technology.

‘His Girl Friday’ (1940)

Walter Burns, a newspaper editor, desperately tries to prevent his star reporter, Hildy Johnson, from quitting to get married again. Their conflict unfolds amidst a fast-paced news story involving an escaped prisoner, political interference, and the pressure of meeting deadlines. The newsroom – filled with ringing phones, crowded desks, and urgent front pages – becomes the battleground for their witty and strategic clashes. The play cleverly connects the characters’ professional lives with their personal decisions through quick, overlapping conversations.

‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)

The connection between Westley and Buttercup grows as they share adventures like fencing, climbing cliffs, and sneaking into castles. The story is told like a classic fairytale, with a grandfather and grandson commenting on the romance throughout. Along the way, friends like Inigo and Fezzik help them with daring sword fights and clever banter. The plot follows a clear path—rescuing Buttercup from kidnapping, surviving dangerous challenges like the Fire Swamp, and finally reaching the castle—keeping their love at the heart of everything, while humor keeps things light and entertaining.

Share your favorite example of a comedy where the love story truly clicks in the comments!

2025-12-01 00:22