Movies Your Spouse Won't Hate

If you are anything like me, you have scoured the internet for a movie night flick that passes the spouse test. My husband and I have a once-a-month rule where I can pick a romance movie to watch together. Over seven years of being together and I have seen him get up to go to the bathroom more times than can be healthy to avoid watching a movie with me that he does not enjoy.

Telling him you want to watch The Notebook is like asking for him to give up his spleen. Trust me; it sounds just as dramatic as his reaction. If you are having trouble finding the perfect movie to watch together with your significant other, I've compiled helpful suggestions based on movies you may have already caught him enjoying.

The recommendations are split into two categories. The first list is based on romantic movies you may have seen together before and enjoyed. The second list is for ideas based on other genres they frequently watch.

When You Need Something New

For Fans of Two Weeks Notice

Recommendation: Always Be My Maybe

Two Weeks Notice is an old classic that has a lot of wit and humor. This is not the mushy drama of Pride and Prejudice. It also dodges the unapologetic nudity of Game of Thrones. For a fun comedy featuring older adults and some awkwardly adorable moments, try Always Be My Maybe.

Always Be My Maybe is funny without trying too hard. Ali Wong and Randall Park play opposites in this witty mid-life coming of age classic. The cultural elements and anti-fairy tale approach really made this movie shine. Always Be My Maybe can be found on Netflix.

For Fans of The Last Holiday

Recommendation: Brittany Runs A Marathon

I loved the self-exploration aspect of The Last Holiday. Though the romance was certainly featured in this movie, it wasn't the focal point. If you are looking to spare your spouse too much romance but still get your romance fix, I would recommend Brittany Runs A Marathon.

This movie is available through Amazon since it's an Amazon Original. Although it's based on a true story and has undoubtedly sincere moments, this film is still rated R, so it wouldn't be a film to invite the kids to watch. Brittany Runs A Marathon is a transformation story that speaks more to the emotional transformation than physical and hits all the right notes.

For Fans of Pitch Perfect

Recommendation: Isn't It Romantic

If you love a non-traditional romance flick with a sassy yet comical approach, you'll love Isn't It Romantic. Rebel Wilson pulls off another odd and vivacious character that leaves you guessing what they'll do next. This is a great movie for a spouse that always makes fun of traditional romance movies.

This is a film that may not be for a conventional audience. Rebel Wilson and Liam Hemsworth make an oddly paired duo, which fits into the satirical nature of the movie. You'll either love the movie, or you'll love to hate it. Either way, you are in for a fun date night.

For Fans of Moulin Rouge

Recommendation(s): The Greatest Showman and High Strung Free Dance

Musicals can be a lot of fun, especially if you love to add new songs to your soundtrack playlist. This iconic film was memorable for all the right reasons. The energy carried all the way through, and the characters wrenched at our hearts. Two films can leave you with all the same emotions.

The Greatest Showman came out in 2017 and has inspired many artists to create cover songs. While romance isn't the central part of the film, the cast of characters is equally as eccentric as those from Moulin Rouge. It also hits on the same dramatic elements that pull you into the backstory of the characters. Though the film is not an accurate retelling of the real-life of P.T. Barnum, it is still a master performance by Hugh Jackman.

Another film you may be less familiar with is High Strung Free Dance. It isn't necessary to see the first Free Dance film before watching this one. While it isn't a typical musical if that puts your spouse off, it has wonderfully similar elements. It has a fantastic blend of modern hip hop with the poise and grace of classical music. This funky and spirited film will earn its spot on your top ten romance films of the last five years.

For Fans of Amelie

Recommendation: I Am Dragon

Because a romantic movie list wouldn't be complete without an international film, my recommendation is I Am Dragon. Amelie is an incredible film that has charm and drama. It has a strong message and a more serious edge. I Am Dragon was released in Russia and is far from the harsh-sounding language you may be expecting.

I Am Dragon is a hidden gem and can be located on Amazon. It is a tale of both tragedy and triumph. One of the best selling points is the polished graphics featuring a fire-breathing dragon. For the pickiest of spouses, that makes it much easier to pitch as a date night idea.

When You Are Desperate For Ideas

For Fans Of Action

Recommendation: Ocean's Eleven (2001)

This is a remake of a classic and has three movies (Eleven, Twelve, and Thirteen), so it's a great start that has the potential to add more films to watch together if your significant other enjoys it. George Clooney plays off of Julia Roberts for a funny heist flick with a solid dash of romantic charm. Clooney takes the lead of a smart mashup of supporting characters. Admittedly, Ocean's Twelve didn't have the same box office hit as Eleven, but Thirteen made a very respectable comeback.

For Fans Of Comic Books

Recommendation(s): Wonder Woman and Guardians Of The Galaxy

There's something in here for both DC and Marvel fans. Wonder Woman, one of DC's best films, is a great watch for men and women alike. The strong female characters in both films have plenty of sex appeal without being underdressed.

There are sequels to both films to give you more movie nights to enjoy. Both of these are younger audience-friendly in case the whole family wants to take part.

For Fans Of Sci-Fi

Recommendation: The Fifth Element

Some movies last the test of time. The Fifth Element has been a sci-fi fan sensation since it came out in 1997. This movie could also easily cross into the action and comedy genres as well, so it is a very well-rounded movie and will have something for everyone to enjoy. Despite being an older movie, the special effects were ahead of their time and still make an enjoyable experience for those who haven't seen it before.

For Fans Of Comedy

Recommendation: Crazy Rich Asians

This is one of the most popular romantic comedies of the last five years. If you enjoyed the novel but are worried about the film adaptation, you will be pleasantly surprised. While it touches on many of the usual romantic comedy tropes, it is unique and original, with a culturally insightful script and a well-chosen cast.

For Fans Of Drama

Recommendation: The Fault In Our Stars

Get ready to laugh and cry and have tissues on standby. This doesn't have the glitter and gold of romantic comedies. It's raw and real but told in a genuinely appealing way. If your significant other doesn't like Romeo and Juliet-type romantic dramas, this is a fabulous alternative. Anyone who loved A Walk To Remember should give this movie a try.

For Fans of Horror or Thrillers

Recommendation: Spring

In case you thought that you would never have a movie night with a spouse who loves horror films, there's still hope. Spring is a unique movie with a decidedly H.P. Lovecraft vibe. Spring is graphic and not something to watch around young children. It's a wicked, romantic twist on the adage of not judging a book by its cover.

Get Ready To Crush Your Date Night

Date nights that make everyone happy are an art. There's nothing better than finding a new favorite romantic movie to watch together. No matter how long you've been with your significant other, date night is a tradition that shouldn't be forgotten. There's a romance movie out there for even the pickiest of dates. With a few go-to options, the only thing left to argue about is which snacks to eat with your movie.

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