10 Unconventional Movie Romances: From ‘Her’ to ‘Eternal Sunshine’
Unconventional movie romances have a unique ability to captivate audiences by exploring relationships that defy societal norms. Films such as “Her,” “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” and “Harold and Maude” showcase this theme with creativity and depth. Here’s a closer look at ten unconventional romances worth watching.
1. Harold and Maude (1971)
Directed by Hal Ashby, “Harold and Maude” is a black comedy highlighting a May-December romance. The film stars Bud Cort as Harold, a young man fascinated by death, and Ruth Gordon as Maude, a 79-year-old woman with a penchant for stealing cars and crashing funerals. Their relationship blossoms despite disapproval from Harold’s mother. This movie combines morbid humor with genuine affection.
2. The Fly (1986)
David Cronenberg’s “The Fly” tells the story of Seth Brundle, played by Jeff Goldblum, who merges with a fly due to a science experiment gone wrong. His girlfriend, Ronnie (Geena Davis), remains steadfastly supportive. This intense love story intertwines horror with an exploration of determination and loyalty.
3. Starman (1984)
In John Carpenter’s “Starman,” Jeff Bridges portrays an alien who takes on the form of a recently deceased husband. Karen Allen plays the widowed wife who helps him return to his home planet. This heartfelt sci-fi romance blends elements of comedy with a touching narrative, showcasing the power of love amidst extraordinary circumstances.
4. Lars and the Real Girl (2007)
Ryan Gosling stars as Lars, a socially isolated man who finds companionship with a life-size doll named Bianca. This whimsical dramedy addresses themes of loneliness and acceptance, as Lars’s family and community come to terms with his unconventional relationship, offering a unique take on romantic attachment.
5. Her (2013)
Spike Jonze’s “Her” features Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore, a man who falls in love with an advanced AI operating system voiced by Scarlett Johansson. Set in the near future, the film examines themes of connection and alienation in a digital world, blurring the lines between human and artificial relationships.
6. Electric Dreams (1984)
This love triangle revolves around architect Miles (Lenny Von Dohlen), his crush Madeline (Virginia Madsen), and his sentient computer, Edgar, voiced by Bud Cort. With a nostalgic 1980s soundtrack, the film humorously explores love and desire in the age of technology.
7. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Michel Gondry’s “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” stars Jim Carrey as Joel, who undergoes a procedure to erase memories of his ex-girlfriend Clementine (Kate Winslet). The film’s narrative explores the complexities of love, longing, and the impact of memories on relationships.
8. Witness (1985)
Harrison Ford stars as a detective who forms a complex bond with Rachel (Kelly McGillis), an Amish woman. Their unexpected connection, highlighted by a poignant slow dance scene set to Sam Cooke’s “(What a) Wonderful World,” showcases romance amid tension and danger.
9. The Annihilation of Fish (1999)
This lesser-known film features James Earl Jones as Fish, who navigates a quirky relationship with Poinsettia (Lynn Redgrave). Their unusual bond, accompanied by mystical elements, explores love in unexpected circumstances.
10. Ladyhawke (1985)
Matthew Broderick stars in a medieval romance filled with magic and curses. The narrative follows a thief who tries to reunite a cursed couple, played by Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer, kept apart by a bishop’s spell. This fantasy adventure captures the essence of love prevailing against the odds.
These unconventional movie romances challenge traditional norms about love and relationships. Each film offers a unique perspective, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of human connection in diverse forms.
