Romantic Comedies That Received Multiple Oscar Nominations
Romantic comedies have captivated hearts and minds for years, but these five films went above and beyond the boundaries of the genre and received multiple Oscar nominations for their stellar performances, writing and direction. Whether you’re searching for the perfect movie to cozy up with that special someone or just looking for an uplifting afternoon of joy, the following films offer something for everyone, and have become beloved standards in the collective cinematic consciousness.
The Apartment – Best Picture & Six Other Nominations
The Apartment is a 1960 romantic comedy starring Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine and Fred MacMurray. Not typical of most romantic comedies, The Apartment delves into some darker subject matter. Lemmon stars as C.C. Baxter, an office worker whose superiors take advantage of his apartment and give it away to their mistresses. The film follows his current relationship with Fran Kubelik, an elevator operator in the same office building, while Baxter attempts to retain his dignity. For its unflinching look at love and the workplace, The Apartment was nominated for seven Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay, ultimately winning Best Picture and Best Director.
Annie Hall – Four Oscars & Six Other Nominations
Annie Hall is a 1977 romantic comedy co-written, directed by and starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton. One of the most well known romantic comedies of all time, Annie Hall follows former lovers Alvy Singer and Annie Hall as they navigate their break-up and try to understand their individual lives; it reflects Allen’s own difficulties in dealing with modern life. The film was nominated for seven Oscars, and won four for Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Original Screenplay and Best Director.
When Harry Met Sally – One Nomination
The 1989 romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally starred Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, and is considered one of the most quintessential movies in the genre. Following two college friends (Harry and Sally) as they navigate the tricky matters of love, When Harry Met Sally follows them through nearly a decade of their lives, leading to a dramatic and heartfelt climax. Coming off of the success of Sleepless in Seattle, this classic was the quintessential follow up, and although it only landed one Oscar nomination (for Best Original Screenplay) it is still considered by many to be the gold standard of romantic comedies.
Four Weddings and a Funeral – Two Nominations
Four Weddings and a Funeral is an iconic British romantic comedy directed by Mike Newell and released in 1994. Starring Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell, the comedic tale follows the lives of Charles, an English “everyman”, and Carrie, an American in the UK for a wedding, as their lives unfold unexpected tensions and joys. For its British wit and charm, Four Weddings and a Funeral received two nomination for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, and became an international success.
Silver Linings Playbook – Eight Oscar Nominations
Finally, the 2012 romantic comedy Silver Linings Playbook, based on the novel by Matthew Quick, stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. When Pat Solitano is released from a mental institution, he is intent on getting his life back on track and rekindling his relationship with his estranged wife. Through his journey back to normalcy, Pat encounters Tiffany, an emotionally damaged widow, and together they attempt to bring balance back to each other’s lives. The film received eight nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress and Best Actor in a Leading Role, and stands today as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
These five films, although varied in their intricate plots and unique characters, each represent a beautiful testament to the power of love and friendship. From the exhilaration of newfound attraction to the sorrow of loss, these films paint a realistic picture of the complexities of relationships and the ultimate strength of joy and redemption. Whether preparing for a romantic night in or looking to escape the typical rom-com cliches, these films are sure to excite and inspire all who watch.
