Anne Hathaway has come back to the romantic comedy, the genre that made her a big star, with “The Idea of You,” based on the novel of the same name by Robinne Lee (and inspired by Harry Styles). And it has been a great success so far.
“The Idea of You” has become the number one movie on Prime Video worldwide, just one day after its premiere. The movie follows Solène Marchand, a 40-year-old single mother, who begins a romance with Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), a 24-year-old lead singer of the boy band August Moon.
The movie has opened up a lot of discussions, not only in reference to the script, which tackles things such as ageism and sexism, but even regarding Anne Hathaway’s reported salary for the film. However, if there’s one thing that is timeless, it is the fantasies around falling in love with a famous person. So, if you want to keep daydreaming about a celebrity, we’ve got 10 more movies with the trope.
Movies about a non-famous person falling for a celebrity
Notting Hill (1999)
Streaming on: Fubo, MGM+
Directed by Roger Michell, “Notting Hill” is a classic film about falling for celebrities. The movie follows the romance between a humble bookstore owner, played by Hugh Grant, and a famous American actress, portrayed by Julia Roberts.
The movie is one of the most beloved rom-coms, and it was a success at the time of its release, grossing $360 million worldwide. Watch it for the chemistry between Grant and Roberts, the charming scenario and the iconic quote: “After all, I’m also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.”
Roman Holiday (1953)
Streaming on: Paramount+ (with Apple TV add-on)
Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn star in this rom-com, which launched the career of the beloved actress. It was directed by William Wyler, and it follows Hepburn as a princess who escapes her obligations to wander around Rome.
Along the way, she meets a charming American journalist, played by Peck, and the two embark on a romantic journey through the city. It also stars Eddie Albert. The movie remains as one of the best of the genre.
Maid in Manhattan (2002)
Streaming on: Fubo, Paramount+, Showtime, Hoopla
While the politics of the film might not have held on, ‘Maid in Manhattan’ is one of Jennifer Lopez’s classic roles. It follows the love story of a hotel maid (Lopez), who is mistaken for a wealthy guest by a politician, played by Ralph Fiennes. As their romance blossoms, they must navigate the challenges of their different backgrounds.
Juliet, Naked (2018)
Streaming on: Max
Rose Byrne, Ethan Hawke, and Chris O’Dowd star in this romantic comedy-drama based on the novel by Nick Hornby. Helmed by Jesse Peretz, the story follows the story of a woman (Byrne) who becomes romantically involved with a reclusive musician (Hawke), much to the dismay of her boyfriend (O’Dowd). The movie was well received, especially for exploring themes such as music fandom.
A Star is Born (2018)
“A Star is Born” tells the tragic love story of seasoned musician Jackson Maine, played by Bradley Cooper, who falls in love with and mentors aspiring singer Ally, portrayed by Lady Gaga. As Ally’s career takes off, Jackson struggles with alcoholism and personal demons.
The film received widespread critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and music. It was a box office success, earning over $436 million worldwide, and received numerous award nominations, including eight Academy Award nominations. Gaga won for Best Original Song.
Beyond The Lights (2014)
Streaming on: Starz, Kanopy, Hoopla
Maybe one of the less known titles on the list. Helmed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the movie follows the journey of a young pop star, played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, who struggles with the pressures of fame and her controlling mother. However, she finds solace in a police officer, portrayed by Nate Parker, who helps her find her true voice.
Long Shot (2019)
Streaming on: Netflix
Another movie about falling for politicians, however, this one was praised for its approach to the serious themes. It also stars the unlikely pair of Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen, who have insane chemistry.
Directed by Jonathan Levine,this rom-com follows the relationship between a journalist, played by Rogen, and a powerful politician, portrayed by Theron, as they navigate the challenges of their different worlds and careers.
Just Wright (2010)
Streaming on: Max
Directed by Sanaa Hamri, the movie stars Queen Latifah and Common. It follows the story of Leslie Wright (Latifah), a physical therapist who falls for Scott McKnight (Common), a basketball player she is rehabilitating after an injury.
However, things become complicated when Scott starts dating Leslie’s beautiful friend, Morgan (Paula Patton). The film received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of the two leads.
Win a Date with Tad Hamilton! (2004)
Streaming on: Fubo, Paramount+, Showtime
Starring Kate Bosworth, Topher Grace and Josh Duhamel, the movie follows a small-town girl who wins a date with her celebrity crush, Tad Hamilton, in a contest. As Rosalee’s starry-eyed fantasies clash with the reality of Tad’s Hollywood lifestyle, she also finds herself drawn to her best friend Pete (Grace).
It definitely won’t change your life, but it’s one of the forgotten classics of the 2000s. All of the three leads nail their roles, and despite its formulaic plot, it’s enjoyable nonetheless, especially for fans of the genre.
Music and Lyrics (2007)
Streaming on: Buy/Rent on Amazon, Youtube, Google Play
This time, Hugh Grant is the big star who falls in love with a non-famous person. Well, a washed-up ‘80s pop star, actually. He plays Alex Fletcher, who gets a chance at a comeback when he is asked to write a song for a current pop sensation. He enlists the help of Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore), a quirky and talented lyricist, to help him complete the song.
Of course, as they work together, their professional relationship blossoms into something more. The film received generally favorable reviews from critics, who praised the chemistry between Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore, as well as the smart dialogue.
