The 80s and 90s were golden eras for romantic comedies, where love stories not only captured hearts but also dominated the box office. These films are timeless treasures, offering a blend of humour, romance, and memorable moments that continue to enchant audiences. Here's a curated list of the top 10 box-office hits in the rom-com genre from those decades, each with its unique charm and appeal.

The Princess Bride (1987)
Description: A fairy tale adventure that's both a parody and a heartfelt romance, this film has become a cult classic with its memorable quotes and characters.
Fact: The film was initially considered a box office disappointment but has since gained a massive following.


When Harry Met Sally... (1989)
Description: This film explores the age-old question of whether men and women can ever just be friends, delivering both laughs and heartfelt moments in equal measure.
Fact: The famous deli scene where Sally fakes an orgasm was improvised by Meg Ryan, leading to one of the most quoted lines in cinema.


Ghost (1990)
Description: While not strictly a comedy, Ghost blends romance, drama, and comedy with a supernatural twist, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of its time.
Fact: The pottery scene with "Unchained Melody" playing in the background became an iconic moment in film history.


Pretty Woman (1990)
Description: A modern-day Cinderella story, Pretty Woman became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the transformative power of love and the allure of Hollywood glamour.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a much darker drama, but Julia Roberts' charm led to a lighter, more romantic tone.


Groundhog Day (1993)
Description: A unique blend of comedy and romance, this film explores the concept of living the same day over and over, leading to personal growth and love.
Fact: The film's concept has become so popular that "Groundhog Day" is now used to describe any situation where events repeat endlessly.


Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
Description: A heartwarming story about fate, destiny, and the power of love, this film pays homage to classic romance films while creating its own legacy.
Fact: The Empire State Building scene was inspired by the 1957 film "An Affair to Remember."


Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
Description: This film is a quintessential British rom-com, capturing the essence of love, friendship, and the chaos of weddings. Its success lies in its witty script, charming performances, and the iconic song "Love Is All Around."
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards and became the highest-grossing British film in the U.S. at the time.


My Best Friend's Wedding (1997)
Description: A tale of friendship, love, and the realization that sometimes the one you love might not be the one you're meant to be with, this film struck a chord with audiences worldwide.
Fact: Julia Roberts was originally offered the role of Kimmy, but she chose to play Julianne instead.


Notting Hill (1999)
Description: A charming tale of an ordinary man falling for a famous actress, Notting Hill captures the magic of London and the universal appeal of love against all odds.
Fact: The film's title song, "She," was written specifically for the movie and became a hit.


Love Actually (2003)
Description: Although released just after the 90s, this ensemble rom-com captures the essence of the era with its interwoven stories of love in all its forms.
Fact: The film features a star-studded cast and has become a Christmas classic, despite its title suggesting otherwise.
