Rom Com Weekly

"What, like it's hard?" This week, my friend Jessie returns to chat about the iconic Reese Witherspoon film, Legally Blonde (2001).

We talk about how seminal of a character Elle Woods is, and how amazing Witherspoon is in bringing the character to life. We dive into stereotypes and beauty vs. smarts. We break down the idea of the 'bend and snap,' and I ask Jessie what can turn a bad day into a better day.

This week, my husband Frank is back on the pod to talk about the Netflix original rom-com starring Joey King and Jacob Elordi, The Kissing Booth (2018).

As ridiculous as this movie is, we can't help but wonder, who is this movie made for? We realize that Noah Flynn is a difficult character to root for, we break down the WTF scenarios of a kissing booth, and I ask Frank if he would have been a willing participant at a kissing booth when he was 16.

In light of the Atlanta shootings last week, I wanted to share a few personal thoughts and feelings as I attempt to process everything as an Asian American woman. 

If you need someone to talk to, feel free to DM me at @romcomweekly. You're not alone. 

This week, my friend Lucy is back to talk about the Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen film, Long Shot (2019).

While this film delivers on the laughs, we agree it's an outrageous one that is perfect for an escape. Charlize Theron can basically do no wrong and any kind of inclusion of Boyz II Men is a major plus in our book. I'm confronted with the fact that I should expand my television show watch list, and Lucy shares her affections for Alexander Skarsgard.

This week, my friend Justin is back to talk about our first foreign language rom-com, Amelie (2001).

Despite being a fantastical film, this movie reminds us of what it means to be human and to slow down to observe the small things in life. We both agree that this beautifully stylized and dream-like film is so heartwarming and uplifting, and we each share the simple things we find small pleasures in our daily lives.

This week, my friend Jon S returns to the podcast as we chat about the Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake rom-com, Friends with Benefits (2011).

We agree that Mila and JT have believable chemistry that makes this movie entertaining and fun, but it's really the cameos that make this film a bit more special. We give a nod to the perennial debate between NYC vs LA, Jon throws down for his love and respect for Third Eye Blind, and I admit that I don't love it when rom-coms are too self-aware. 

"Our love fern! You let it die!" This week, my friend Rosanna is back as we do a deep dive into the Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey classic, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003).

We talk about love and deception and the important roles our friends play in romantic relationships. While this film has a laundry list of WTFs and problematic concepts, it's undeniable that Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey's chemistry make this film a charming and entertaining rewatch.

This week, my friend Ming returns to the podcast as we rewatch the third highest grossing rom-com of all time, the Will Smith blockbuster, Hitch (2005).

We dive into the concept of a "date doctor" vs "pick-up artist," and how being oneself is ultimately the way to win someone's heart. Ming shares how this film was informative for his early dating years, and we both agree that the winning relationship in this film is between the charming Will Smith and endearing Kevin James.

Rom Com Weekly is back, just in time for Valentine's Day!

This week, my friend Valerie returns to the podcast to chat about the Netflix favorite, To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018).

Val and I talk about the power in seeing Asian-American representation on screen and the courage it takes in writing down and confronting your feelings. We gush about how sweet and endearing these emotionally aware teenagers are, and I wonder, is Peter Kavinsky perfect?

Disclaimer, this episode was recorded before the release date announcement of the latest and final installment, To All the Boys: Always and Forever.

Happy New Year, everyone! My friend Tim joins me this week as we rewatch and dive into the holiday classic, Love Actually (2003).

With such a broad ensemble cast and multiple storylines, we’re changing up the format a bit. It’s a countdown from the LEAST valuable storyline, to the MOST valuable storyline.

We also talk about realism in rom-coms and needing to put disbelief aside. I share how this movie doesn't quite have the same impact as it did for me years ago, and Tim doubles down on his love for a certain storyline.

Warning: Game of Thrones spoilers alert at 56:00, so tune in at your own risk!