Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Valentine's Day is a special occasion where lovers exchange chocolates and gifts to express their feelings. Despite the cold winter, this day offers a chance to bask in a warm and romantic atmosphere. Here, we introduce some delightful romantic films that couples can enjoy together.
By Mam&Eye Editorial Team
"Valentine's Day" explores various love stories that unfold on the eponymous day. Reed Bennett, played by Ashton Kutcher, is overwhelmed with work at his flower shop. He receives a proposal acceptance from his girlfriend, Molly (Jessica Alba), only for her to leave him later in the day. His best friend Julia (Jennifer Garner) grapples with the discovery that her boyfriend (Patrick Dempsey) is married, not divorced as she believed. Meanwhile, Kara (Jessica Biel) despairs at the thought of spending Valentine’s Day alone.
The narrative intertwines with other characters such as Sean (Eric Dane), an NFL player facing contract renewal; Kelvin (Jamie Foxx), a sports journalist; a busy PR agency operator (Anne Hathaway) working part-time as a phone operator; and an intern Jason (Topher Grace). Additionally, a soldier (Julia Roberts) and her charming seatmate Holden (Bradley Cooper) form a bond during a 14-hour flight. The film also features an old affair confession to a husband (Hector Elizondo) by his wife (Shirley MacLaine), and Grace (Emma Roberts), who dreams of her first intimate experience on Valentine's Day.
With diverse couples featured, ranging from sweet to separated to those in crisis, "Valentine’s Day" reveals what this special day holds for each of them.
In "About Time," Tim (Domhnall Gleeson), a London-based lawyer, unveils a family secret—the ability to travel back in time. His father (Bill Nighy) used this ability to read extensively, while Tim chooses love as his pursuit. Upon meeting Mary (Rachel McAdams) in a darkroom café, love seems promising but becomes complicated when he travels back in time to assist a friend, consequently missing their encounter. Undeterred, Tim waits at a photography exhibition featuring her favorite actor, leading to their eventual romance.
Married with an adorable daughter, their life is initially idyllic. However, a car accident involving his sister prompts him to time travel again. A poignant turn of events unfolds when his father is diagnosed with terminal cancer. "About Time" initially depicts a sweet love story, but it profoundly examines familial love, especially between father and son, inviting viewers to reflect on the true meaning of ‘love.’
Following a four-year courtship, Young-min (Jo Jung-suk), a level 9 civil servant, and Mi-young (Shin Min-ah), an art instructor, tie the knot. Their marriage, initially brimming with happiness and sweetness, faces trials as they uncover facets of each other previously unknown. Young-min, juggling poetry and his civil service duties, neglects household responsibilities and frequently invites friends over unplanned, much to Mi-young’s annoyance.
As tensions rise during their imperfect married life, Young-min finds himself drawn to woman friend Seung-hee, while Mi-young reconnects with an ex-boyfriend. Despite marrying for love, both question the changes they face. "My Love, My Bride" uses humor to explore marital challenges. Whether their journey culminates in a happy ending remains a question, reflective of many real-life marriages.
