romantic comedies that don't insult intelligence

List creator: mjeanes Created on: March 17, 2004 - 7:35 AM PST Description: a few good 'date rentals' that don't feature Affleck!

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	movie title	related list	average rating	MPAA rating	watch	rent	buy
	Dummy (2003)
This overlooked gem is just quirky enough to make its otherwise formulaic approach to the romantic comedy story arc worthwhile. It's offbeat but still wistfully romantic.
	Dogfight (1991)
I've watched this with every girl I've ever dated because it's just the kind of film that makes romance and longing seem personal and empowering. The flick is honest and sympathetic and the ending is perfect!
	Amelie (2001)
Resist this though I might, there's no denying the charm and wit on display here. If this film doesn't melt your heart, you probably need a medical exam. It also happens to be visually dazzling!
	Advertising Rules (2001)
This is a funny German film that's not centered on the romance, but does involve a guy trying to make good with his brilliantly arty girlfriend so it's a good movie for those who find themselves in the doghouse.
	Bottle Rocket (Criterion) (1996)
It's impossible not to love this introduction to Luke and Owen Wilson and the absurd but sincere romantic subplot between Anthony and the South American housekeeper he meets is absolutely fun to watch.
	Swingers (1996)
Along with being the most hilariously accurate charicature of LA, Swingers also succeeds in being a 'nice guys win' kind of flick, even if you have to suffer through the torturous answering machine scene!
	Tampopo (1986)			Not Rated
Part western, part farce, part morality tale and how-to lesson on noodle-making, Tampopo is SUCH a Japanese film that had I not lived there, I don't think I would get a lot of it... and I still don't, but it's fun to watch.
	Benny & Joon (1993)
While it's far from a classic, this is another drama/comedy that has characters that are interesting enough to prop up the rest of the story. I don't get too excited about Johnny Depp's silent film homage, but the romance is sweet.
	Much Ado About Nothing (1993)
Leave it to the bard to give us the best romantic comedy ever, and this adaptation is spot on. Kenneth Branagh and Michael Keaton are hilarious, Emma Thompson is radiant, and Keanu Reeves--well he still sucks.
	Punch-Drunk Love (2002)
My girlfriend can't get past Adam Sandler to see how beautiful this movie really is. I can see where Adam Sandler hate would be a problem with this one, but it's still worth a shot and it's one of my favorite films ever.
	Miranda (2002)
Wow, this was an unexpected treat. It's shot with beautiful colors and light and the characters again are strange but endearing. Maybe not as comedic as the rest of this list, but definitely qualifies as a good 'date movie'.
	Stereo Future (2001)			Not Rated