Red, White & Royal Blue, the newest romantic comedy, features Nicholas Galitzine as Henry, the Prince of the United Kingdom, and Taylor Zakhar Perez as Alex, the son of the United States President. The film explores their blossoming romantic relationship, which evolves from a traditional enemies-to-lovers storyline, and delves into the complexities that arise from this unique union.
Romantic comedies consistently provide audiences with enjoyable entertainment. People always appreciate a timeless love story, even if the concept may seem far-fetched. For fans of Red, White & Royal Blue seeking more heartfelt tales, there are numerous films available that share similar premises, themes, or storytelling devices to satisfy their desires.
10. 'What a Girl Wants' (2003)
Cast: Amanda Bynes, Colin Firth, and Kelly Preston
Amanda Bynes, the iconic teenage sensation of the 2000s, shines alongside the legendary Colin Firth, a distinguished Englishman known for his unwavering composure, in the delightful 2003 teenage romantic comedy titled What a Girl Wants. The story revolves around Daphne, a spirited American teenager who embarks on a captivating journey to England, where she seeks to reunite with her estranged father, Lord Henry Dashwood, a prominent figure in the British elite with ambitious political aspirations.
A beloved favorite of the teen genre and one of the best teen movies of the 21st century, What a Girl Wants is a timeless story that brings together different cultures along with a delightful touch of frivolous drama. Bynes shines bright as the carefree Daphne, while Firth captivates as the sophisticated Lord Dashwood. Fans of Red, White & Royal Blue will definitely adore What a Girl Wants, as both movies share similar essences. Apart from the royal element, they explore similar notions of love and its transformative power.
9. 'The Prince & Me' (2004)
Cast: Julia Stiles, Luke Mably, and Miranda Richardson
Red, White & Royal Blue is not the first film to tell the story of a prince falling in love with a commoner. The 2004 film, The Prince & Me, introduces Paige, a driven student who unexpectedly falls for Eddie, a studious individual who happens to be the heir to the throne of Denmark. As they navigate the challenges of their different backgrounds, they must decide if their love can overcome the obstacles standing in their way.
The Prince & Me is an endearing and captivating romantic film that indulges in the allure of a fairy tale. While it may not have revolutionized the romantic comedy genre in the 2000s, it still offers a charming and enjoyable experience for viewers yearning for a delightful love story. The film's success led to the creation of three direct-to-video sequels, proving that audiences have a penchant for royal romances.
8. 'Bros' (2022)
Cast: Billy Eichner, Luke MacFarlane, and Guy Branum
Image via Universal Pictures
Bros, a romantic comedy co-written and starring Billy Eichner alongside Luke Macfarlane, tells the story of two individuals who struggle with commitment and intimacy, but decide to take a chance on their relationship. With Nicholas Stoller as the director and Judd Apatow as the producer, this film boasts an openly LGBTQ+ principal cast.
This exceptional romantic comedy is a delightful choice for those who typically dislike the genre. Bros captures humor, wit, and a sweeping narrative, offering a contemporary portrayal of gay love that deserves recognition among the finest romantic comedies in recent times. Eichner and Macfarlane form a refreshing and appealing couple, while the screenplay capitalizes on its R-rating to deliver numerous side-splitting moments. After enjoying Red, White & Royal Blue, fans seeking more LGBTQ+ love stories will find the subversive yet charming Bros to be an excellent choice.
Watch on Prime Video
7. 'First Daughter' (2004)
Cast: Katie Holmes, Marc Blucas, and Michael Keaton
In the 2004 romantic comedy First Daughter, Katie Holmes portrays Samantha MacKenzie, the daughter of the President of the United States. The film follows Samantha's college journey, where she finds love and romance with James Lansome, a fellow student and her resident advisor.
While First Daughter may not be the top choice for a teenage romantic comedy, it offers an enjoyable and comedic experience, showcasing one of Holmes' most captivating performances. Surprisingly, the love story between Holmes and Marc Blucas is both endearing and amusing, setting it apart from other films in this genre. Notably, First Daughter was released in the same year as Chasing Liberty, another rom-com featuring a similar plot and starring Mandy Moore.
Watch on Plex
6. 'Fire Island' (2022)
Cast: Joel Kim Booster, Bowen Yang, and Margaret Cho
Joel Kim Booster's 2022 gay rom-com, Fire Island, offers a fresh take on Jane Austen's timeless masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice. Following the escapades of five gay friends on a vacation to Fire Island, their encounter with a group of snobbish and attractive gentlemen challenges their perspectives on love and social status in unexpectedly entertaining ways.
With its modern twist on a beloved narrative, Fire Island delivers a complex and fulfilling queer romantic comedy experience. Booster's exceptional performance, alongside the stellar cast, including the captivating Bowen Yang, elevates the film to new heights. Thought-provoking, intelligent, steamy, and hilariously funny, Fire Island is the perfect choice for a romantic comedy aficionado, especially for fans of Red, White & Royal Blue.
Watch on Hulu
5. 'The Young Victoria' (2009)
Cast: Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, and Paul Bettany
Hollywood loves making movies about real royals, often adding a touch of fiction, especially if they have their sights set on awards. However, The Young Victoria distinguishes itself by striving for historical accuracy, delving into the early reign of Queen Victoria and her timeless romance with Prince Albert with unwavering dedication.
Emily Blunt gives a brilliant performance as the titular character, portraying a more understated and vulnerable version of the monarch, especially when sharing the screen with Rupert Friend as her true love. While occasionally overly sentimental, The Young Victoria manages to capture a deep and captivating love story, sure to captivate fans of both royalty and romance.
Watch on MGM+
4. 'The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Cast: Anna Hathaway, Julie Andrews, and Chris Pine
Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews, both Academy Award winners, joined forces once again for The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, the sequel to their successful 2001 film The Princess Diaries. The story takes place in Genovia during the days leading up to Mia's coronation. Mia finds herself determined to find a suitable husband as she discovers that an unmarried woman cannot become queen. However, her romance with a charming Duke is threatened by the conniving Viscount Mabrey, who has plans to marry his nephew, Nicholas, to the unsuspecting Mia.
The Princess Diaries 2 cleverly embraces its somewhat implausible premise. The film's real ace is Chris Pine's portrayal of the captivating scoundrel Nicholas, who provides a perfect contrast to Hathaway's innocent and wide-eyed Mia. Pine and Hathaway's undeniable and explosive chemistry is so magnetic, it can almost make viewers forget they're watching a Disney movie. Fans of the passionate romance found in Red, White & Royal Blue will certainly adore this heartwarming romantic comedy.
Watch on Disney+
3. 'Alex Strangelove' (2018)
Cast: Daniel Doheny, Antonio Marziale, and Madeline Weinstein
Craig Johnson's 2018 romantic comedy, "Alex Strangelove," is hailed as a groundbreaking piece in queer cinema. The story revolves around Alex Truelove, a high school senior who initially plans to lose his virginity to his best friend-turned-girlfriend, Claire. However, everything changes when he meets Elliot, a charismatic and self-assured gay teenager who challenges Alex's understanding of his own sexuality.
"Alex Strangelove" is a remarkable film that manages to be funny, intelligent, heartwarming, and thought-provoking, while also capturing the essence of romance. It fearlessly tackles the complexities of teenage love and sexuality, offering a refreshing and mature perspective that many other teen movies fail to achieve. The movie's portrayal of romance is unabashedly optimistic and irresistibly genuine, solidifying its place as one of the top LGBTQ+ movies available on Netflix and a defining work within 21st-century queer cinema.
2. 'Handsome Devil' (2016)
Cast: Nicholas Galitzine, Fionn O'Shea, and Andrew Scott
Image via Treasure Entertainment
Fans of Red, White & Royal Blue will find Nicholas Galitzine's breakout performance in the 2016 coming-of-age dramedy Handsome Devil highly appealing. The film revolves around Ned, a marginalized student attending a rugby-focused Irish boarding school, who forms an unexpected connection with Conor, his new roommate and the school's star athlete.
Handsome Devil is a poignant and heartfelt exploration of sexuality, friendship, and the complexities of adolescence. It stands out as a remarkable teenage film that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable. Galitzine and his co-star Fionn O'Shea create a captivating and profound bond that deeply resonates with audiences, making Handsome Devil a true jewel in contemporary queer cinema.
Watch on Tubi
1. 'Roman Holiday (1953)
Cast: Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, and Eddie Albert
Starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, Roman Holiday is a beloved romantic comedy directed by William Wyler. Hepburn won an Academy Award for her role as Ann, a princess from an unnamed European country who escapes her royal duties to enjoy a day in Rome. Joe, a reporter seeking an exclusive interview with the elusive princess, accompanies her on this adventure.
Known for its clever dialogue, captivating storyline, and poignant ending, Roman Holiday has become a timeless classic in the romantic genre. Hepburn's portrayal of Princess Ann remains delightful and endearing, and her chemistry with Peck is just as enchanting today as it was in 1953. With its romantic charm, Roman Holiday is an exceptional rom-com and a fitting companion film for those who appreciate films like Red, White & Royal Blue, albeit with a slightly more cynical twist.
Watch on Paramount+
Editor's P/S
As a fan of romantic comedies, I am always on the lookout for new movies to watch. I was excited to see Red, White & Royal Blue, and I was not disappointed. The film is a charming and heartwarming story about two young men who fall in love against all odds. The cast is excellent, and the chemistry between the two leads is undeniable.
I also enjoyed the film's portrayal of the royal family. The royals are often seen as being stuffy and out of touch, but this film shows that they are just like anyone else. They have their own hopes, dreams, and fears. I found it refreshing to see the royals portrayed in a more realistic light.
Overall, I thought Red, White & Royal Blue was a great film. It is a must-see for fans of romantic comedies and royal family dramas. I can't wait to see what these two characters do next.