Ah, Valentine’s Day—the annual festival of roses, overpriced chocolates, and an endless barrage of romantic comedies. While there’s nothing wrong with a classic love story (I even wrote a recommendation of my favourite period dramas for Valentine’s Day one year), maybe this year, it’s time to shake things up. Instead of another predictable “boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy stands in the rain declaring his love” scenario, why not try something… different? Love stories don’t always follow a traditional formula, and sometimes, they are even better when they defy expectations. Here are some unconventional Valentine’s Day movie picks for those looking for love stories with a twist (or, in some cases, a body count).
1. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) – Love and Amnesia
If you think forgetting an ex is the best way to move on, think again. This mind-bending love story follows Joel and Clementine, two ex-lovers who undergo a procedure to erase each other from their memories. As Joel relives their relationship in reverse, he realizes that even the painful moments were worth experiencing. It’s heart-wrenching, weird, and a poignant reminder that love, no matter how flawed, is something we carry with us. This film is perfect for those who like their romance served with a side of existential crisis and emotional depth.
2. The Shape of Water (2017) – Love is… Scaly?
Who says love stories have to be between two humans? Guillermo del Toro’s visually stunning and deeply emotional film tells the tale of a mute woman, Elisa, who falls in love with an amphibious creature held captive in a government facility. As their connection grows, Elisa risks everything to save him. The film is a poetic ode to love in all its forms, reminding us that true connection goes beyond words or appearances. It’s beautiful, moving, and possibly the most romantic fish-human love story ever told (sorry, Splash).
3. Shaun of the Dead (2004) – Love, Laughter, and Zombies
Nothing says “I’d fight for you” like battling the undead together. This hilarious horror-comedy follows Shaun, a slacker who suddenly finds himself leading a small group of survivors—including his ex-girlfriend Liz—through a zombie apocalypse. Amidst all the gory mayhem, Shaun discovers that true love sometimes requires stepping up, growing up, and proving you can be the hero someone needs. It’s a perfect pick for couples who enjoy a mix of romance, comedy, and a little bit of flesh-eating terror.
4. Her (2013) – Romance in the Digital Age
A lonely writer, Theodore, falls in love with his AI assistant, Samantha, and somehow, it’s one of the most tender love stories in years. As their relationship deepens, Theodore experiences emotional growth in ways he never expected. This film is a poetic meditation on love, loneliness, and the ever-evolving connection between humans and technology. It raises the question: Can love exist without physical presence? And, perhaps more importantly, is your Siri secretly in love with you too?
5. True Romance (1993) – A Love Story with Gunfire
Written by Quentin Tarantino, this high-energy crime thriller is packed with action, passion, and some truly wild road trip moments. Clarence, a comic book store clerk, falls hard for Alabama, a call girl with a heart of gold. The two embark on a chaotic journey involving stolen drugs, the mafia, and a lot of bullets. It’s an adrenaline-fueled ride that proves love isn’t just about candlelit dinners—it’s also about dodging bullets together. If your Valentine’s Day needs a dose of action with its romance, this one’s for you.
6. Warm Bodies (2013) – A Zombie Love Story… Again
Yes, another zombie flick, but this time with a romantic twist. When R, a zombie, meets Julie, a human survivor, something strange happens—he starts regaining his humanity. As their connection grows, R slowly transforms, proving that sometimes all you need to cure your heart (or restart it) is a little love. Warm Bodies is a charming and quirky take on Romeo and Juliet, except with brain-eating and undead charm. If you think love can bring someone back to life, this is the movie for you.
7. The Lobster (2015) – Romance, but Make It Absurd
In a dystopian world where single people are turned into animals if they don’t find love, Colin Farrell’s character must find a mate or risk becoming a lobster. This darkly comedic and delightfully weird film explores the pressures of romance and society’s obsession with coupling up. It’s a bizarre, yet brilliant, take on relationships that will make you laugh, cringe, and possibly question the rules of dating. Perfect for those who like their romance with a side of absurdity and social commentary.
8. Gone Girl (2014) – Love, Marriage… and Murder
If your idea of romance involves psychological mind games and true crime vibes, this is the Valentine’s Day movie for you. When Amy Dunne goes missing, her husband Nick becomes the prime suspect. But nothing in this twisted thriller is as it seems. The film delves into the complexities of marriage, media manipulation, and the darkness that can exist between two people. It’s a gripping, unsettling take on love that may make you rethink the phrase “’til death do us part.”
9. Love and Monsters (2020) – Romance, Adventure, and Giant Creatures
This underrated gem is a perfect mix of action, humor, and heartwarming romance. After the world is overrun by giant monsters, Joel braves the post-apocalyptic landscape to reunite with his high school sweetheart, Aimee. Along the way, he grows into a courageous survivor, proving that love can give you the strength to face even the most terrifying obstacles. With fun action sequences, charming characters, and an uplifting message, Love and Monsters is an adventurous twist on the classic love story.
10. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010) – Love, Video Games, and Epic Battles
If you’ve ever felt like dating is a battle, this movie takes that concept literally. Scott Pilgrim must defeat his new girlfriend Ramona’s seven evil exes in epic video game-style fights to win her heart. Packed with humour, action, and a killer soundtrack, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World is a love story for the geeky at heart. It’s a fun, visually unique, and energetic ride that proves love can sometimes feel like a boss battle.
So, ditch the predictable rom-coms and try something unexpected this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re in the mood for love, laughter, or a little light horror, these films prove that romance comes in many forms—some of them weirder than others. Whatever your taste, there’s a love story out there for everyone—even if it involves zombies, AI, or giant monsters.
Featured Image by Michael Fenton on Unsplash
