Hey there, movie buffs! Are you ready to dive into the world of romance with a touch of English charm? In 2022, we saw some fantastic new romantic English movies that tugged at our heartstrings and left us swooning. So, grab your popcorn, get cozy, and let's explore the best of the best. This article is your guide to the most captivating romantic films of the year, ensuring you don't miss out on any cinematic gems. We'll delve into the plots, performances, and overall impact of these movies, giving you a comprehensive look at what made them stand out. Whether you're a die-hard romantic or just looking for a feel-good movie night, there's something here for everyone.

What Makes a Great Romantic Movie?

Before we jump into the specific titles, let's quickly discuss what makes a romantic movie truly great. It's not just about cheesy lines and predictable plots; the best romantic films offer something deeper. They explore the complexities of human connection, the joys and pains of love, and the universal desire to find someone special. A great romantic movie should have compelling characters, a believable storyline, and, of course, plenty of chemistry between the leads. The dialogue should be sharp and witty, drawing you into the characters' world and making you care about their journey. Additionally, the movie should evoke genuine emotions, whether it's laughter, tears, or that warm, fuzzy feeling inside. The soundtrack also plays a crucial role, enhancing the mood and amplifying the emotional impact of key scenes. Ultimately, a great romantic movie stays with you long after the credits roll, reminding you of the power and beauty of love. Now, let's see which 2022 movies managed to capture this magic.

Top Romantic English Movies of 2022

"Ali & Ava"

First up, we have "Ali & Ava," a heartwarming and unconventional romantic drama that captured the hearts of many in 2022. This film stands out for its realistic portrayal of love and its focus on characters who are often overlooked in mainstream cinema. Set in Bradford, England, "Ali & Ava" tells the story of two individuals from different backgrounds who find solace and connection in each other's company. Ali, a charismatic landlord, is dealing with the complexities of his arranged marriage, while Ava, a single mother and teaching assistant, is navigating the challenges of raising her children. Their paths cross through a shared connection to one of Ava's students, and an unlikely friendship begins to blossom. What makes "Ali & Ava" so special is its understated approach to romance. There are no grand gestures or dramatic declarations of love; instead, the film focuses on the small, everyday moments that build a genuine connection between two people. The chemistry between the lead actors, Adeel Akhtar and Claire Rushbrook, is palpable, making their relationship feel authentic and relatable. The film also explores themes of cultural identity, family, and the importance of finding happiness in unexpected places. If you're looking for a romantic movie that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, "Ali & Ava" is definitely worth watching. Its realistic portrayal of love and its focus on character development make it a standout in the genre.

"Good Luck to You, Leo Grande"

Next on our list is "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande," a romantic comedy-drama that tackles the subject of sex and intimacy with honesty and humor. This film stars Emma Thompson as Nancy Stokes, a widowed former teacher who is seeking to experience sexual pleasure for the first time. Nancy hires a young sex worker named Leo Grande, played by Daryl McCormack, to help her explore her desires and overcome her inhibitions. What follows is a series of intimate and vulnerable conversations between Nancy and Leo, as they navigate the complexities of sex, love, and self-discovery. "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande" is a refreshing and empowering take on the romantic genre, challenging societal norms and celebrating female sexuality. Emma Thompson delivers a tour-de-force performance, bringing both humor and pathos to her role as Nancy. Daryl McCormack is equally impressive as Leo, portraying him as a compassionate and understanding companion. The film's success lies in its ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space for its characters to explore their vulnerabilities and desires. It's a romantic movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, sparking important conversations about sex, aging, and the pursuit of happiness. If you're looking for a film that is both funny and insightful, "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande" is a must-see.

"Persuasion"

For fans of period dramas, "Persuasion" is a romantic movie that offers a modern take on Jane Austen's classic novel. Starring Dakota Johnson as Anne Elliot, this adaptation tells the story of a woman who regrets breaking off her engagement to Captain Frederick Wentworth, played by Cosmo Jarvis, years earlier. When Captain Wentworth returns to her life, Anne is given a second chance to rekindle their romance, but she must overcome societal expectations and her own insecurities to win him back. While "Persuasion" received mixed reviews upon its release, it remains a popular choice for viewers who enjoy Austen's wit and charm. Dakota Johnson brings a contemporary sensibility to her portrayal of Anne Elliot, making her relatable to modern audiences. The film's lush costumes and beautiful scenery add to its appeal, transporting viewers to the world of 19th-century England. "Persuasion" is a romantic movie that explores themes of second chances, societal pressure, and the importance of following your heart. While it may not be a faithful adaptation of the novel, it offers a fresh and entertaining take on a beloved story. If you're a fan of Jane Austen or enjoy period dramas, "Persuasion" is worth checking out.

"Mr. Malcolm's List"

"Mr. Malcolm's List" is a delightful romantic comedy set in 19th-century England, perfect for those who enjoy a lighthearted and charming love story. The film follows Selina Dalton, played by Freida Pinto, as she attempts to win the affections of the elusive Mr. Malcolm, played by Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù. Mr. Malcolm has a list of qualities he seeks in a wife, and Selina enlists the help of her friend Julia Thistlewaite, played by Zawe Ashton, to meet his expectations. However, their plans are complicated by unexpected feelings and comical misunderstandings. "Mr. Malcolm's List" is a romantic movie that offers plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. The cast is excellent, with each actor bringing their own unique charm to their roles. The film's beautiful costumes and elegant settings add to its appeal, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. It explores themes of societal expectations, the search for true love, and the importance of being true to oneself. If you're looking for a romantic comedy that is both entertaining and uplifting, "Mr. Malcolm's List" is a great choice. Its lighthearted tone and charming characters make it a perfect movie for a cozy night in.

"Emma."

Although "Emma." was released in 2020, it gained significant popularity in 2022 and remains a beloved romantic comedy for many. Based on Jane Austen's novel of the same name, the film stars Anya Taylor-Joy as Emma Woodhouse, a young and wealthy woman who enjoys meddling in the love lives of her friends. However, Emma's matchmaking schemes often lead to comical and disastrous results. "Emma." is a romantic movie that is both witty and visually stunning. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a captivating performance as Emma, capturing the character's charm and flaws with equal measure. The film's vibrant costumes and picturesque settings add to its appeal, creating a delightful and immersive experience. It explores themes of love, friendship, and the consequences of interfering in other people's lives. If you're a fan of Jane Austen or enjoy romantic comedies with a touch of satire, "Emma." is a must-see. Its clever dialogue and charming characters make it a timeless classic.

Honorable Mentions

While the movies listed above are some of the standout romantic English movies of 2022, there are a few other titles that deserve an honorable mention. These films may not have received as much attention, but they still offer plenty of romance and entertainment.

• "The Duke": A charming comedy-drama about a taxi driver who steals a Goya painting from the National Gallery in London.
• "Operation Mincemeat": A war drama with a touch of romance, based on the true story of a daring deception plan during World War II.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a roundup of some of the best new romantic English movies of 2022. From heartwarming dramas to witty comedies, these films offer something for every romantic movie lover. Whether you're looking for a feel-good story or a thought-provoking exploration of love and relationships, these movies are sure to entertain and captivate you. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the magic of English romance on the big screen. Happy watching, guys!