500 Days of Summer (2009)

"500 Days of Summer" isn't your typical romantic comedy; it's a deconstruction of the genre that explores the messy realities of relationships and the often-idealized expectations we place on love. Tom, a greeting-card writer with a romantic soul, finds himself blindsided when his girlfriend, the enigmatic Summer, unexpectedly ends their relationship. The film then cleverly weaves through fragmented memories of their 500 days together, as Tom desperately tries to understand where things went wrong and dissect the perceived flaws in their love story. This non-linear narrative mirrors the way we often replay significant moments in our own lives, searching for answers and meaning in the aftermath of heartbreak. While it might seem counterintuitive to include a film about a breakup on a "Best Romance Movies" list, "500 Days of Summer" earns its place by offering a refreshingly honest and relatable perspective on love and loss. It challenges the notion of soulmates and the idea that finding "the one" will automatically lead to happiness. Instead, the film highlights the importance of self-discovery, personal growth, and the recognition that not every relationship is destined to last. Ultimately, it's a story about moving on, embracing change, and finding your own path, even when faced with the disappointment of unrequited love. This ultimately makes it one of the best movies with a "romance" sub-plot to be enjoyed and learned from.