By Heather Tran
Throwback to a time where rom-coms were under 2 hours and mind numbingly amazing. A little bit of innocent fun without being overtly sexual or too elementary. I think that rom-coms are the peak of the movie industry and nothing can change my mind. These films are probably the best cinematic experiences to come out of 2006.
The Break-Up
- Playtime: 106 min
- Rotten tomatoes score: 34%
- Audience score: 46%
- My Review: 3 ☆
- This reversal of a rom-com follows the messy, and hilarious aftermath of Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaugh, rather than the traditional blossoming romance. The performances capture the raw and often comedic realities of a relationship falling apart. The movie balances humor with heartfelt moments, making it a relatable(ish) and entertaining watch. However, its unconventional approach to the genre might not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking a traditional happy ending.
- Other reviews on letterboxd:
- “Was it bad? No. Was it good? Also, no.” – genevieve 2.5 ☆
- “What can I say? I enjoyed it.” – elwood 3.5 ☆
She’s the Man
- Playtime: 105 min
- Rotten tomatoes score: 44%
- Audience score: 79%
- My Review: 4.5 ☆
- Shakespeare only wishes he could have directed this movie. This adaptation of Twelfth Night stars Amanda Bynes and Channing Tatum. The film follows Viola, who disguises herself as her twin brother to join a boys’ soccer team. Bynes does a great job of creating two distinct characters. The movie is a delightful mix of slapstick humor and romantic entanglements, making it a fun and light-hearted teen comedy. Despite its predictable plot, She’s the Man is an enjoyable watch.
- Other reviews on letterboxd:
- “I’m such a sucker for film like this” – rachel 4.5 ☆
- “I relate to viola hastings because i too am allergic to the sun, enjoy eating checking and am in love with channing tatum” – samantha 3 ☆
Last Holiday
- Playtime: 112 min
- Rotten tomatoes score: 55%
- Audience score: 67%
- My Review: 4 ☆
- Queen Latifah takes it to the big screen with a heartwarming and inspirational role of a woman who, upon learning she has a terminal illness, decides to live her last days to the fullest. She travels to a picturesque European town where she indulges in her last experiences. My favorite part of the movie was following her adventures through high end restaurants and seeing her splurge on exotic food. While the plot is somewhat formulaic, the movie’s message and Latifah’s performance make for a feel good rom-com.
- Other reviews on letterboxd:
- “this may or may not have just become a new comfort film…” – kaleb 4.5 ☆
- “if I had 3 weeks to die, I too would spend all my money and go on a lavish european vacation” – carina 2.5 ☆
Step Up
- Playtime: 104 min
- Rotten tomatoes score: 21%
- Audience score: 83%
- My Review: 4 ☆
- Step Up is a dance-centric drama that stars Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan. The film revolves around a street dancer and a privileged ballet student who team up to showcase their talents. The chemistry between Tatum and Dewan is palpable, and, while the storyline follows a predictable trajectory, the film’s dynamic choreography and the lead actors’ performances make it enjoyable. This movie is also the first of a six movie franchise… like The Fast & The Furious movies, just because it’s a franchise doesn’t mean it’s quality.
- Other reviews on letterboxd:
- “going through a channing tatum phase everyone look away” – ferya 4 ☆
- “my heart wants to give this five stars but my letterboxd says nooooooo” – jalene!!! 3 ☆
Click
- Playtime: 107 min
- Rotten tomatoes score: 34%
- Audience score: 66%
- My Review: 4.5 ☆
- Adam Sandler plays a more intricate character than his usual mindless slapstick comedy characters. In a surprisingly poignant character that combines comedy with a deep moral lesson, Sandler plays Michael, a workaholic who acquires a remote control that allows him to fast-forward through life’s mundane moments. What starts as a typical Sandler comedy quickly evolves into a touching narrative about appreciating life’s small moments.While the humor can be hit or miss, Click stands out for its emotional depth and thought-provoking message about time and priorities. It is a slight emotional roller coaster that may result in some shed tears, but rest assured there is a happily ever after.
- Other reviews on letterboxd:
- “I didn’t expect to cry, but I did.” – kangadoodoo 1.5 ☆
- “Oooooh that was a good movie i think all the film snobs trashing this 1 got it wrong” – drippytim69 4 ☆
Takeaways: Rom-coms recycle the same four plot lines and, apparently, Channing Tatum was really big in 2006 rom-coms.