25 of the most swoon-worthy romance movies of all time
By Amy Kaplan
Harold and Maude
This is probably the most controversial film on the list for many reasons. This is a love story between a 20-year-old obsessed with suicide, who stages his own fake deaths (for attention) and an 80-year-old eccentric woman who teaches him the value of life and love. Harold (Bud Court) and Maude (Ruth Gordon) meet at a funeral, how romantic, and develop a friendship which eventually turns physical. This fact alone is why so many people shy away from the film, but it’s a cult classic that really has to be watched at least once. Don’t worry the love scene is quick and classy, you won’t even bat an eye.
Oh, and the ENTIRE movie is set to music by Cat Stevens, which gives this movie an extra 100 points in my book.
The thing that strikes me so strongly about this movie is each of the characters way of looking past what’s on paper (age and looks) and just fully loving each other for who they are. Neither judges the other for their eccentric and sometimes really odd-ball and creepy ways — they are free to be themselves with each other and that’s a truly beautiful thing. Some may say that Maude is taking advantage of a much younger person, but without her influence, I don’t think Harold would have survived.
This movie tanked at the box office, which is probably why I like it so much, due in part to the 70s generation just not “getting it.” I’d like to say that’s why it’s grown in popularity now.
Fun Fact: In the comedy, There’s Something About Mary this movie is a topic of discussion between multiple characters. They debate if it should be considered a romance — which obviously it so is.
Release date: December 20, 1971