10 Movies & Shows Similar to First Date (2021)

Description: 'Before Sunrise' and 'First Date' both capture the magic and spontaneity of a single night that changes everything. The films are dialogue-driven and focus on the deep connection that can form between two people in a short amount of time.

Fact: Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy star as the young lovers. The film was shot in real locations in Vienna over a few weeks. It spawned two sequels, 'Before Sunset' and 'Before Midnight', each set nine years apart.

Description: Like 'First Date', 'Notting Hill' is a charming romantic comedy about an ordinary person finding love in extraordinary circumstances. Both films balance humor and romance, and they feature relatable protagonists navigating the ups and downs of a new relationship.

Fact: Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant star as the unlikely couple. The famous 'I'm just a girl' scene was largely improvised. The blue door of the travel bookshop became a tourist attraction and was later sold at auction.

Description: Like 'First Date', 'Love Actually' explores the complexities of love and relationships through multiple interconnected stories. Both films blend humor and heartfelt moments, creating a warm and engaging narrative. The ensemble cast and the focus on different types of romantic connections make it a great companion piece to 'First Date'.

Fact: The film features an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Keira Knightley. It was directed by Richard Curtis, who also wrote 'Notting Hill' and 'About Time'. The iconic 'To me, you are perfect' scene was improvised by Andrew Lincoln.

Description: While more surreal than 'First Date', 'Eternal Sunshine' similarly explores the highs and lows of a relationship. Both films delve into the idea of whether the pain of love is worth the joy, and they do so with a unique and creative narrative style.

Fact: Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet star in this unconventional romance. The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The nonlinear storytelling was inspired by the structure of memory itself.

Description: As a sequel to 'Before Sunrise', 'Before Sunset' continues the story of two people reconnecting after years apart. Like 'First Date', it explores the idea of missed opportunities and the possibility of rekindling a past connection, all within the span of a brief, intense encounter.

Fact: The film was shot in real time, with the actors walking and talking through Paris. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. The ending is intentionally ambiguous, leaving the audience to wonder what happens next.

Description: 'The Holiday' shares with 'First Date' a focus on unexpected romantic connections and the idea of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Both films have a light-hearted yet sincere tone, and they explore the theme of finding love in unexpected places. The charming leads and picturesque settings add to the romantic appeal.

Fact: The film stars Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz as women who swap homes for the holidays. Jack Black's character was originally written for a more traditional romantic lead, but his comedic touch added a unique flavor. The cottage in the English countryside became a popular tourist spot after the film's release.

Description: Both 'Silver Linings Playbook' and 'First Date' focus on imperfect characters finding love and redemption. The films share a mix of humor and drama, and they highlight the importance of connection and understanding in relationships.

Fact: Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence star in the film, with Lawrence winning an Oscar for her performance. The director, David O. Russell, rewrote the script to better reflect his personal experiences with mental health. The dance competition scene was choreographed to reflect the characters' emotional journey.

Description: Both 'About Time' and 'First Date' delve into the idea of seizing the moment and the importance of human connections. While 'About Time' incorporates a sci-fi element with time travel, its core is a heartfelt romance about making the most of life and love, much like the themes in 'First Date'.

Fact: Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams star as the central couple. The film was directed by Richard Curtis, known for his romantic comedies. The time travel rules in the movie were intentionally kept vague to focus on the emotional story.

Description: 'La La Land' and 'First Date' both celebrate the magic and challenges of new relationships. While 'La La Land' is a musical, it shares with 'First Date' a focus on dreams, aspirations, and the bittersweet nature of love. The vibrant visuals and emotional depth make both films memorable.

Fact: Ryan Gosling learned to play the piano for his role. The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle. The opening highway dance sequence was shot in one take during a hot summer day.

Description: 'The Big Sick' and 'First Date' both explore the awkward, funny, and touching moments of early romance. Based on a true story, 'The Big Sick' deals with cultural differences and personal growth, much like how 'First Date' tackles the uncertainties of new love.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life romance of Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon. It was produced by Judd Apatow, known for his work in comedy. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.