By Andrea K. Hammer
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, news about the opening of another Serendipity3 this spring prompted a second look at the New York restaurant’s cameo in the Serendipity film. As part of a growing collection of romantic movies, here are some favorites with unexpectedly engaging pairs:
An Affair to Remember: Playing the suave Nickie Ferrante, Cary Grant creates memorable scenes with night club singer Terry McKay (Deborah Kerr). Leading the way in classics style and grace, this pair makes going up and down a cruise ship stairwell, visiting a beloved relative together and discovering the reason for a missed meeting 6 months later pure movie magic.
It Happened One Night: This winner of five Academy Awards pairs seemingly polar opposites: the pampered Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert) and initially willing-to-do-anything-for-a-buck reporter Peter Warner (Clark Gable). Watching Gable ultimately ask for a minimal reimbursement from Ellie’s millionaire father and the simple yet effective tension created with the “Walls of Jericho” make this oddly matched duo one for the books.
Best Man: This Golden Globe Nominee for Best Foreign Film explores a frequently covered theme with observant details: bride-to-be Francesca reluctantly decides to marry a disdained wealthy older man. While reciting her vows to Edgardo, she instantly experiences the seemingly elusive love described in books–as she falls for the man standing next to her husband.
Far From the Madding Crowd: Based on Thomas Hardy’s classic love story, this film follows the romantic choices of the feisty Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan). The three radically different suitors–a sheep farmer (Matthias Schoenaerts), soldier (Tom Sturridge) and wealthy older bachelor (Michael Sheen)–finally reveal one true love for an independent and spirited woman ahead of her time.
Last Chance Harvey: As another unlikely but touching couple, Emma Thompson and Dustin Hoffman play two guarded strangers who form a deep connection later in life. Touching on the way that two people can help each other heal after previous disappointments, the movie gains strength during quiet moments and loyal staying-by-your-side gestures.
Serendipity: Emerging from intriguing questions about destiny and timing, this romantic film is a pure charmer. The surprising but compelling match-up of Kate Beckinsale and John Cusack infuses the Serendipity film with authenticity, along with captivating cinematography framing popular New York spots such as Serendipity3 in all their glory.
Two Weeks Notice: Despite the conflicting interests of save-the-community attorney Lucy Kelson (Sandra Bullock) and looking-out-for-my-own-interests billionaire George Wade (Hugh Grant), romance bubbles. Bullock’s strong comedic skills–especially while desperately needing a restroom and running or lumbering in all types of scenarios–add levity to this entertaining romantic comedy.
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