Love at the Movies: Why Romance is Dead, but Hollywood Pretends Otherwise
What does it mean to love someone? The answer to that question has shaped the greatest stories ever told—both in scripture and in popular culture. From Adam and Eve to Romeo and Juliet, love has long been depicted as a force that drives human choices, binds people together, and gives life meaning. Yet, the world’s portrayal of love is ever-changing. In today’s films, love is often stripped of its deeper purpose and reduced to personal fulfillment rather than selfless devotion. This shift stands in stark contrast to the Savior’s example of divine love—love that is patient, enduring, and rooted in sacrifice.
For Valentine’s Day, I looked at five recently released films that attempt to define love for modern audiences. These movies, spanning genres from romantic comedy to action thriller, offer a revealing snapshot of contemporary views on relationships. What is the state of love at the movies? And what does that offer as a commentary about love in today’s world?
The five films each have several romantic relationships. They cross genres, platforms, and creative teams:
- “You’re Cordially Invited,” the Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell romantic comedy, about two weddings scheduled for the same venue.
- “Kinda Pregnant,” the Amy Schumer comedy about feeling jealous about her pregnant friend and meeting the man of her dreams.
- “Love Hurts,” the Ke Huy Quan action film about a lost love taking him back to his organized crime days.
- “La Dolce Villa,” a Hallmark-style romance on Netflix starring Scott Foley and set in Italy.
- “The Gorge,” a horror-thriller about two military operatives who fall for each other while guarding opposite sides of a mysterious gorge.
To read the entire article: Public Square Magazine
