10. Love & Basketball

Why the panel loved it: a movie about the importance of friendship in developing any romantic relationship was highlighted in this film. There was also very real chemistry between Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps who dated shortly after filming the movie.

9. Twilight (the series)

Why the panel loved it: Twilight the series has become the Romeo and Juliet of the 21st Century. The films have crossed cultural and generational barriers and tell the story of a love that transcends backgrounds.

8. Rome & Juliet (modern version)

Why the panel loved it: this modern version helped younger audiences connect with a classic.

7. Pride & Prejudice (modern version)

Why the panel loved it: a classic love story that reminds us that love goes beyond socio-economic background.

6. Love Jones

Why the panel loved it: filmed in the 90’s Love Jones was one of the few African American love movies at the time. It allowed Black audiences around the nation to relate to the characters and also ushered in a new wave of Black cinema.

5. Pretty Woman

Why the panel loved it: Juliet Roberts and her megawatt smile make you fall in love with her character. You want to cheer for her. The movie shows that everyone is deserving of love.

4. Ghost

Why the panel loved it: creating this list would havebeen incomplete without putting this touching love story on here. A man so in love with his wife he refuses to crossing into the afterlife.

3. Titanic

Why the panel loved it: the movie not only displayed amazing chemistry while throwing a bit of history, it did a good job of showing that love doesn’t end at death.

2. P.S. I Love You

Why the panel loved it: the first five minutes of the film grip you, pull you in with the reality that sometimes spouses die. But, the film moves beyond dealing with the process of grieving by adding an element of romance.

1. The Notebook

Why the panel loved it: to start one word—Ryan Gosling. The Notebook being loosely based on a true story highlights one of the greatest calls and challenges in love and marriage—commitment. The movie showed that the vows “until death do us part” are not antiquated.