My Personal Favorites - Part II

Notorious (1946)
Though primarily a suspense film by Hitchcock, the romantic scenes between Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman make this one of the favorite romantic films of the 40s. Claude Rains' Oscar-nominated performance as the bad guy is also excellent, though the romance there is mostly with his mother, to whom he is a little too devoted for his own good.

Adam's Rib (1949)
My favorite of the Hepburn/Tracy films, and a tribute to one of the world's great on- and off-screen romances. Like the Thin Man series, you can watch almost any of the Hepburn/Tracy flicks and see the chemistry.

An American In Paris (1951)
One of the most romantic scores every written. Wonderful dancing, and Leslie Caron is to die for. Kelly I can take or leave. (Just kidding.)

The African Queen (1951)
There's never been a better odd couple, and it's one for the older folks.

Roman Holiday (1953)
We fell in love with Audrey Hepburn and even gave her an Oscar in her first big role, as she played a princess opposite Gregory Peck as a reporter who shows the royal runaway a good time in Rome. The story by Dalton Trumbo won an Oscar, too, but he couldn't accept it at the time because he was blacklisted. Not very romantic, but true.

Guys and Dolls (1955)
Despite the Brando mis-casting (he's not that bad), this one is all about romance, and even ends with (SPOILER ALERT) a double wedding.

South Pacific (1958)
Another great 50s movie musical, with two tragic romances for the price of one. You'll be younger than springtime, in love with a wonderful guy, and talkin' happy talk.

Spartacus (1960)
Nobody ever suffered more for love than Kirk Douglas' character in this film, and Jean Simmons is worth it. A romantic film with something for the guys.

Part I - 1934-1944

Part II

Part III - 1961-1989

Other Classic Movie Checklists that you'll enjoy.