As someone who self-identifies as a film buff and religiously watches Oscar-worthy dramas, 2000's rom-coms have been a major guilty pleasure of mine. Find me cuddled up under a blanket, with a pint of Halo Top ice cream in hand, watching "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" for the umpteenth time.
I mean, I couldn't help but swoon over the dreamy male leads, wishing to be swept away to a picturesque autumn date in New York City. The 2000s was the golden age for the classic boy-meets-girl movies. This specific genre of romantic comedies has its own tropes and cinematic style, with films often set in large urban landscapes and featuring a cute, upbeat soundtrack. Cue the Vanessa Carlton songs.
Of all the movies I have seen, I can say that there are quite a few things we can pick up from our favorite rom-coms. Below are five crucial takeaways from your favourite 2000s rom-coms.
It's OK to be a hot mess at times.
13 Going on 30 (2003)
We all have those "hot mess" moments of waking up somewhere completely strange, yet making it on time for an 11 a.m. meeting or blanking out during an important conference.
It's OK to be a hot mess or even to not know what's going on at times. Laugh at your mistakes and bounce back.
You get what you put into your aspirations into.
Legally Blonde (2002)
Yay for ambitious career women! Every good 2000s rom-com features a leading lady who knows what she wants and works hard to achieve her goals — whether it be preparing for a presentation at work or testing out the waters at a new job.
Think "13 going 30" or "Confessions of a Shopaholic."
Romance finds itself in very unexpected places.
27 Dresses (2008)
Romance finds itself in places you're least expecting, even if you're broke, in your 20s and single in a big city. Love itself is a strange thing, and sometimes you may have to wait it out.
Perhaps something will spark on a Friday night bar hop.
Run away and take a break.
How to lose a guy in 10 days (2003)
When everything seems a little too much handle, it's OK to escape and take a break. Go outside and take a breather.
Break out of your comfort zone.
13 Going on 30 (2004)
You never know what could happen if you don't take that chance.
