10 Unique Valentine's Day Movies

When you think of this holiday, you may immediately call certain films to mind. There's "When Harry Met Sally" or, "Sleepless in Seattle" or any other movie starring Meg Ryan. There's also the inevitable slew of rom-coms that get released right around Valentine's Day that hope to become THE date movie of the year. But I'd like to suggest ten films that may not fit in with your perception of a romantic movie. Consider avoiding either extreme. No sappy rom-coms and no slasher films.

Yes, this year, I'd like to focus on movies that echo Old Hollywood. You know, that glamorized version of the studio system (or the films they produced) that never really existed. Most of these films offer a refreshing quality for this sometimes depressing holiday, they look at life and love in a less than serious light. They have the sweetness of old movies, but the bonus of modern technicality. The nostalgic settings or tones of these movies can make for a satirical approach to the very idea of a romantic comedy, but they're not edgy enough to be spiteful toward it.

You may not be weeping like you would at The Notebook or Titanic, but you'll probably be laughing. Sometimes at the movie itself, which can give you a little break from all the romantic pressures swirling around this time of year. You may even get a mild case of the warm fuzzies. Another bonus to most of these movies is that your date might actually enjoy them as much as you do. Admittedly, I've slipped some chick flicks in there, but for the most part these choices can appease anyone.

I've recommended several of these movies before in other lists, but I thought they actually made quite a tidy list themselves. Note that absent are any dramas set in this particular period, such as L.A. Confidential, Memphis Belle, Mrs. Henderson Presents, or Mrs. Pettigrew Lives for a Day. I'm aiming square at comedy and adventure since it is meant for Valentine's Day viewing.

1.) The Hudsucker Proxy (1994) - This is a must-see for anyone anytime of the year, but it's "winter in New York" setting adds that extra little romantic feeling. It really captures the dialogue from movies of the 30's and 40's and has some stunning visuals as well as a strangely believable love story. "You know, for kids."

2.) Down With Love (2003) - This is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to Doris Day/Rock Hudson movies that works on an almost Mel Brooks level of mockery. It has a striking visual style meant to echo the fifties and sixties, and features excellent cartoon-like performances from the entire cast. My particular favorite in this movie is David Hyde Pearce. This leans a little more toward chick flick territory...

3.) The Rocketeer (1991) - This is a highly under-rated adventure directed by Joe Johnston, who is apparently set to direct the Captain America movie. It's got Jennifer Connolly, so men will love it. It's got jet packs and guns, romance and love, and Timothy Dalton doing his best impression of Errol Flynn. What's not to love?

4.) The World's Greatest Lover (1977) - This one is especially perfect for V-Day. It's a little known Gene Wilder film about a man going to Hollywood to pursue his dream of becoming the next Rudolph Valentino. It features Carol Kane and several other familiar faces, like Dom Deluise. It's funny and surprisingly romantic. Special Note: I had a different version of this movie as a kid and was surprised to rent it as an adult and find that it actually has some pretty raunchy humor. So be careful not to watch this one with the kids.

5.) Dick Tracy (1990) - This movie seems to have really been buried over time, never gaining any kind of cult classic status. But it was a big hit almost 20 years ago. It's like a MUCH cleaner version of Sin City. It has the same literal comic book exaggerations brought to life, and some decent musical numbers to boot.

6.) The Three Amigos (1986) - I don't really need to describe this one, it's a classic, right?

7.) The Shadow (1994) - Unlike Dick Tracy, this one has not stood the test of time very well. This is more of a movie to rent and laugh at, if for any other reason than that it's hard to take Alec Baldwin seriously as a leading man since his stints on SNL and his home at 30 ROCK, as well as his very public life. But it's bad in that funny way. Penelope Ann Miller makes some, interesting accent choices that are less than consistent. But there's something charming about the movie, you watch it and think "Wow, this is really lame." But you still manage to have a really good time watching it. I also want to note the STRIKING plot similarities between this film and Batman Begins. Watch it and tell me what you think.

8.) Leatherheads (2008) - Good, not great. If you liked Down With Love, chances are you'll like this.

9.) Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) - Visually impressive, can be a little grating if you're not in the mood due to the wackiness factor.

10.) Singin' In The Rain (1952) - Epic musical comedy. You can't go wrong with this one.

BONUS: Johnny Dangerously (1984) - If nothing above struck your fancy, try this one. It works as a spoof of many gangster movies, but could go well hand in hand with Dick Tracy if you feel like having a little mini-festival.