Whilst Paris may be the heart’s capital, the world is not lacking in wonderful urban backdrops ripe for romance. From Africa to America, it’s easy to fall head over heels when you’re in the right surroundings.
William Wyler’s Hollywood classic, Roman Holiday stars Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The story sees a princess leave her minders behind for a love affair with an American newsman, whilst on vacation in the Eternal City. Back at the cinema some 60 years after the initial unveiling, the picture defines what it means to celebrate relationships, and the beauty of a particular place, with both stars and settings deeply emotive and evocative.
Inspired, we put together the following list of six more films on a similar theme, all of which will set the mood perfectly, especially if you’re packing suitcases and heading off to explore foreign lands this summer.
Lost In Translation; Sofia Coppola; 2003
Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Bill Murray, Giovanni Ribisi
Whilst on an advertising shoot in Tokyo for a whisky brand, movie-star-in-decline Bob Harris befriends Charlotte, a young wife with a few worries of her own. Feelings deepen, but their time together is limited.
Before Sunrise ; dir. Richard Linklater; 1995
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Andrea Eckert
If you’ve ever been to Vienna, then its charms will already be ingrained on the mind. Here a man and woman meet en route to the Austrian capital, and spend one romantic, spontaneous evening together there.
Casablanca ; dir. Michael Curtiz; 1943
Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
No matter what context it has, if a list is full of cinematic love stories then Casablanca somehow always makes the grade. No introduction necessary, the atmosphere and air of romance remain unparalleled.
Sleepless In Seattle ; dir. Nora Ephron; 1994
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ross Malinger, Rita Wilson
Two birds with one stone, maybe, although the New York scenes are more iconic than those in Seattle. As a film it’s cheesy, and predictable, but also charming and heart-warming, so we found it impossible to say no.
Amelie ; dir. Jean-Pierre Jeunet; 2001
Starring: Audrey Tatou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
The French capital is realised with vivid colours and gorgeous locations as we observe the daily life of Amelie, a girl who cares about everyone but hasn’t found that special someone. Until cupid finally strikes, that is.
Pretty Woman ; dir. Garry Marshall; 1990
Starring: Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Jason Alexander
Los Angeles is the site for an illicit fling-turned-love-affair between a wealthy businessman and a prostitute. He hires her services, and via Rodeo Drive’s luxury boutiques, turns her into a bona fide lady – sort of.
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