American audiences have a long-standing affection for romantic comedies. A recent poll by El-Balad, surveying around 2,000 people across all 50 states, has revealed the nation’s top ten favorites from the last half-century. The results showcase a blend of iconic films that have defined the genre.
Top 10 Romantic Comedies in America
- 1. When Harry Met Sally (1989) – 21.78%
- 2. Pretty Woman (1990) – 19%
- 3. The Princess Bride (1987)
- 4. Notting Hill (1999)
- 5. Say Anything… (1989)
- 6. Moonstruck (1987)
- 7. There’s Something About Mary (1998)
- 8. As Good as it Gets (1997)
- 9. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) – 2.63%
- 9. La La Land (2016) – 2.63%
Key Highlights
Leading the poll, When Harry Met Sally garnered over 21% of the votes. The film, starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, is noted for its humor and timeless dialogue, particularly the memorable diner scene.
Pretty Woman followed closely with 19% of the votes. Julia Roberts’s portrayal of a modern Cinderella significantly contributed to her rise as a rom-com icon.
Other notable entries include The Princess Bride, which mixes romance with fantasy, and Notting Hill, featuring Roberts as a famous actress falling for an ordinary bookshop owner, played by Hugh Grant.
Additional Insights
Both My Big Fat Greek Wedding and La La Land tied for ninth place with an equal percentage of 2.63%. Their unique narratives highlight the diversity within romantic comedies.
Interestingly, Louisiana was the only state that did not select one of these films as its favorite. Instead, residents overwhelmingly chose Shrek as their top pick, showcasing local tastes.
This survey from El-Balad demonstrates the enduring charm and appeal of romantic comedies in the American film landscape.
