The early days of a relationship are exciting, yet they can leave you sexually frustrated and frankly, broke. Going out to fancy dinners without any dessert (pun intended) can be tough. You don’t always have to spend $200 on French cuisine, or spend the “big bucks” as a desperate attempt at impressing her. A quiet movie and a meal at home can be just as romantic. Choosing from the plethora of date movies out there is sometimes overwhelming, but never fear! Here are some of my favorite classic date films.

Say Anything (1989)

This 80’s rom-com classic stars the irresistible John Cusack who plays an average Joe type attempting a relationship with the high school valedictorian, Ione Skye. Both characters face their ups and downs while navigating through first love together.

The subplot of the film features Cusack’s father who is under investigation from the IRS for tax evasion. Entertainment Weekly ranked Say Anything as the “greatest modern movie romance.”  Bonus scene that will really set the mood – the famous Romeo type part where Cusack romantically blasts music from a boombox declaring his eternal love.

Romance Score: 8 out of 10.

About a Boy (2002)

About a Boy is one of those date movies that shows how people can change for the better. Hugh Grant’s character begins the film as a lazy, womanizing boy-toy, but after becoming a surrogate father blossoms into a real adult. Men love this movie because it’s a coming of age tale and also for the beautiful Rachel Weisz – hello, eye candy! Women love it because the awkward little boy featured in the film is adorable, and watching Hugh Grant do a 180 integrity wise is enjoyable to watch. Plus, he’s cute.

You can also impress your date further with your knowledge of the film. About a Boy was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted ScreenPlay, while Hugh Grant and Toni Collette were nominated for Golden Globes for their performances.

Romance Score: 7 out of 10.

Bull Durham (1988)

Sports movies traditionally make great date movies because they appeal to the masses. Bull Durham stars both Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon. The film centers around a minor league baseball catcher who is mentoring a talented prospect, played by the delightful Tim Robbins. Throughout the film, both men fight over the affections of Sarandon, a townie who has a thing for ballplayers. Sports Illustrated ranked Bull Durham “#1 Greatest Sports Movie of All Time.” Men love this film for the sports, profanity, and nudity, while women love it for the sassy, liberal female lead and the hunky Kevin Costner.

Romance Score: 7 out of 10.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

Featuring the hottest makeup sex scene in the history of film, Mr. & Mrs. Smith is bound to leave you and your date revved up. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie play a monotonous married couple who surprising learn they are both assassins hired by competing agencies to kill one another. This movie is filled with both action and romance – a winning pair for any couple. Mr. & Mrs. Smith is more famous for it’s real life drama than what happens on-screen. Pitt and Jolie met and fell in love on set, subsequently starting the divorce between Pitt and Jennifer Aniston. The couple is still together to this day, and were recently married this summer.

Romance Score: 9 out of 10.

Whether you love or hate them, romantic comedies continually provide inspiration to your own real-life love story.

What are some of your favorite movies to see on a date?