Entertainment
15 Best Shows About College, Ranked
Some folks love workplace shows, while others enjoy single-camera family sitcoms; no matter how popular, these genres rarely satisfy the specific itch that only college-based shows can scratch. To avoid making it sound more like an incurable rash, college shows are continuously popular among various demographics and audiences. Whether they’re more of a coming-of-age story or a surreal comedy, college shows have something for every taste.
Though many of these ten best shows about college are now over, their popularity endures, mostly because they’re, well, kind of rare. Most school-based shows happen in high schools with rebellious teens (Euphoria, Riverdale, the list is long), but college is often a much better setting for stories about finally entering adulthood, making them more relatable to young folks and adults alike.
15
‘Glory Daze’ (2010–2011)
The comedy-drama Glory Daze is set in the fall of 1986 and follows a group of first-year students at the fictional Hayes University who join a fraternity and dive headfirst into college life. Although the show had a brief run (ten one-hour-long episodes), it gives a glimpse of school life that’s equal parts smart and funny. Its title and plot might feel like an homage to the 1995 movie of the same name starring Ben Affleck, but there are no accounts of them being connected. Still, the show’s creators were probably inspired by the cult comedy.
Glory Daze follows Joel Harrington (Kelly Blatz), a straight-laced freshman who believed that academics would be his biggest obstacle. Life in college soon shows him that his fraternity is all about getting in trouble, throwing parties, and nurturing a community. Glory Daze evokes a nostalgic sense of mischief and belonging, uniquely honing a 1980s atmosphere and vibes; its narrative often leans into rivalry, camaraderie, and the universal awkwardness of growing up. Fans of era-specific college humor mixed with coming-of-age storytelling will enjoy it.
14
‘The Chair’ (2021)
Sandra Oh leads the cast of The Chair, a look at college life from a professor’s perspective. This offbeat, understated comedy follows Oh as Dr. Ji-yoon Kim, the first woman of color to become the head of the English department. The series shows her troubles navigating her new position, as well as her love life, friendships, and managing the state of the entire English department. The series was co-written by Amanda Peet and produced by D.B. Weiss and David Benioff, among others.
Sandra Oh is always a breath of fresh air and one of this generation’s best actors, so her leadership on this show makes it all the more likable and enjoyable. Her comedic chops are displayed, too, which is Oh’s forte in a serious setting. The Chair was, unfortunately, canceled after one season, leaving all of its ambitious themes unresolved, but it’s still an enjoyable show about college life—from a different perspective.
13
‘Dear White People’ (2017–2021)
Based on the movie of the same name, Netflix’s romantic comedy Dear White People tries its best to tackle racism, adversity, and the college experiences of young Black people at a predominantly white Ivy League university. The show superbly gives the spotlight to amazing talent, from the lead, Logan Browning, and her character Sam’s quick-witted, headstrong charm, to Antoinette Robertson and her character Coco, who balances her struggles with appearance and belonging to causes bigger than what she looks like.
Dear White People is a clever and profound dive into the lives of Black college students, but it seems like its final season didn’t stick the landing. The famous author Ta-Nehisi Coates gave commentary about the first season for The Atlantic, adding, among other things, “it’s always hinting that there is something beyond the pleading and wokeness.” Coates’ comment emphasizes the troubles of the show while still giving it some praise for being nuanced and analytical; this combination of ideas and impressions still makes Dear White People a great watch.
12
‘Hellcats’ (2010–2011)
Hellcats is a CW college drama that combines the action and thrills of competitive cheerleading with the troubles of personal ambition. With personal journeys and interesting character development, the show offers viewers a glimpse into the often intense world of college cheerleading while combining elements of comedy and drama. Hellcats is known for being a lively depiction of ambition, teamwork, and college life despite having a brief one-season run.
Hellcats was based on the nonfiction book Cheer: Inside the Secret World of College Cheerleaders, and follows Marti Perkins (Aly Michalka), a pre-law student whose academic future rests on keeping her scholarship. She unwillingly tries out for the competitive Hellcats cheer team at a Southern California university to continue her education. Once there, Marti has to manage tough routines, long practice sessions, and the social pressures of college life while developing friendships and rivalries with her teammates. Along the way, she works on her confidence while trying to fit into the athletic and academic worlds.
11
‘Felicity’ (1998–2002)
The it-girl of the late 90s, Felicity made waves as a popular curly-headed, lovestruck girl who changes her college plans to follow her crush to NYC. This coming-of-age drama was not only very popular, but Keri Russell won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of the titular character. Another less flattering accolade is the national outrage sparked by Keri Russell’s decision to cut her hair in Season 2.
Felicity ran for four seasons and showed the ups and downs of Felicity’s romantic life, as well as her time as a part-time worker and student. The premise of her asking her crush to sign her yearbook and then deciding to change all her plans to follow him to NYU would be soapy nowadays; times are different, and this sort of move is unimaginable to many young girls. But, despite the plot, Felicity is still about a girl navigating life after leaving the security of her hometown to live in a large, chaotic city. It’s one of the best college shows out there and one of Keri Russell’s most memorable roles (if not the most memorable, let’s be honest).
The offbeat comedy Community may not represent college life accurately, but its elaborate jokes and niche humor make the typically, let’s face it, unfunny college setting hilarious. Community follows a group of people of various ages and backgrounds, forming a study group at the community college they’re attending. This show doesn’t make college more relatable, but it does do an excellent job of portraying unlikely friendships that end up being like family. When it tries to be wholesome, Community is all that and more, but fans of the show know it doesn’t always go for that kind of punchline.
It’s tough to say who’s the greatest Community character—from the inseparable, iconic TV duo Troy and Abed (Donald Glover and Danny Pudi) and the eccentric dean Pelton (Jim Rash) to the controversial Pierce (Chevy Chase) and the unpredictable Spanish language professor Ben Chang (Ken Jeong). Fans of quirky humor love Community, and if anyone’s looking to enjoy a college experience on TV without it always making sense, Community is the perfect show to binge-watch.
9
‘Blue Mountain State’ (2010–2011)
Blue Mountain State is a raunchy sports-themed comedy that depicts life at a fictional American university called Blue Mountain State with one of the most over-the-top football programs. The show’s focus is on football culture, with hard practices and Saturday night games, providing a setting for wild humor, sarcasm, and over-the-top college pranks. Blue Mountain State became popular because it was streamable on Netflix and gained a cult following over time. Interestingly, it had three seasons and 39 episodes, but it only aired between 2010 and 2011. It’s also, most notably, a show that made Alan Ritchson famous.
Blue Mountain State follows three freshman students: quarterback Alex Moran (Darin Brooks), running back Craig Shilo (Sam Jones III), and team mascot Sammy Cacciatore (Chris Romano) as they attend classes and wild parties, go through hazing rituals, and have personal adventures on and off the football field. Despite poor reviews, Blue Mountain State became a fan favorite for its unreserved humor and wild portrayal of locker-room antics. Essentially, it’s about friendship, loyalty, and getting through the ridiculousness of college.
8
‘Greek’ (2007–2011)
Greek is the ultimate teen college show that delves into the lives of college students and pledges to fraternities and sororities. With some essential 2000s fashion, a theme song by the then-it band Plain White T’s, and elaborate and dramatic plots and subplots, Greek is feel-good viewing for anyone who was a teen during its runtime. If anyone wants to do serious research about what the 2000s looked and felt like, putting Greek on and binge-watching it will be like an express train to the past.
Starring Scott Michael Foster as the “bad boy” of the show, Cappie, Jake McDorman as the trust fund baby Evan, and Spencer Grammer as the clever and ambitious Casey, their love triangle is the center of the story. Other side characters are often snarky, quirky, or misunderstood, but Greek allows them to experience a happy ending, too. Unlike some other shows from that time (mostly Glee), Greek holds up very well even today.
7
‘Sweet/Vicious’ (2016–2017)
The short-lived but highly praised teen drama Sweet/Vicious was often referred to as MTV’s best drama (though Taylor Sheridan‘s shows seemingly took that title since). The story follows Jules (Eliza Bennett), a preppy sorority girl, and Ophelia (Taylor Dearden), a quiet hacker, and their unlikely friendship. Ophelia defends Julie from an attacker one night on campus, and the two become friends; their bond turns them into a pair of vigilantes who take vengeance on sexual predators who walk around their campus.
While Sweet/Vicious is a teen dramedy in some ways, it’s more often dark and serious. The #MeToo movement sparked more open conversations about sexual assault, putting women’s voices at the forefront. This show embraces the conversation without ever being cliché or over the top, boasting some cool action scenes, too. Though it was canceled after one season and later revived as a comic book, Sweet/Vicious really is one of the best college shows out there.
6
‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2024)
The first four seasons of the spin-off of the beloved sitcom Black-ish show Zoey (Yara Shahidi), the oldest child of the Johnson family, as she embarks on her college journey, taking the first steps to independence. The fifth and sixth season shift focus on the Johnsons’ second-born, Andre Junior (Marcus Scribner), and his forays into college life and adulthood. The charismatic Yara Shahidi is brilliant as Zoey, the fashion and sociology enthusiast whose ambitions are mixed up with troubled relationships and difficult career decisions.
Overall, Grown-ish focuses on the college experience while digging deep into its lead’s personality and her adaptation to numerous changes to her plans. She’s supported by an awesome ensemble of actors, most notably Chloe and Halle Bailey (who also sing the theme song), and comedy regulars Deon Cole and Chris Parnell. Fans of binge-watching will rejoice in learning that Grown-ish has 105 episodes, with Season 1 carrying a 95% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Entertainment
Olympic figure skater Ilia Malinin speaks out about 'vile online hatred' after falling twice in final
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“The strongest may still be fighting invisible battles on the inside,” wrote the two-time world champion.
Jaylen Brown
Cops Shut Down All-Star’s Event
… ‘Beverly Hills Is So Trash!’
Published
Jaylen Brown says Beverly Hills screwed up — and he’s not staying quiet about it.
Beverly Hills police shut down his All-Star Weekend panel event on Saturday night, and the Celtics star isn’t holding back … going scorched earth on the city following Sunday’s All-Star Game festivities.
“Beverly Hills is so trash,” Brown posted to X. “I’m offended had a great panel about the future of culture with great guest people worked hard for this how dare yall.”
He then tagged the city’s police department … saying “300k down the drain.”
300k down the drain @BeverlyHillsPD
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) February 16, 2026
@FCHWPO
It wasn’t the first time Brown — who started for runner-up Team USA Stripes in the All-Star Game — went in on Bev Hills this weekend … after organizers suggested he applied for a permit, was denied, and moved forward anyway.
He says that version is flat-out wrong.
“I’m offended by Beverly Hills by the statement they put out, like we applied for something and didn’t get it, and we did it anyway (and) we were insubordinate,” Brown said. “I know how to follow the rules. I’m smart enough to follow the guidelines.”
Brown says the event — for his performance brand, 741, and hosted at a private residence owned by Oakley founder Jim Jannard, didn’t require a permit at all.
“I didn’t have to pay for the house or anything,” he said. “They just opened it up. I had to pay for the build-out, but it was hundreds of thousands of dollars wasted for an event that was supposed to be positive.”
According to Brown, the shutdown didn’t add up — especially given the timing.
“It was 7 PM It wasn’t 10 PM, it wasn’t 11 PM, it wasn’t midnight,” he said. “(It was) 7 PM … We’re doing a panel. We’re doing stuff that’s positive. There was nobody that was inconvenienced.”
He also pointed out that other All-Star activations appeared to go off without a hitch.
The Beverly Hills Police Department has maintained the event lacked proper approval — but Brown clearly believes something else was at play.
And he’s not letting the city have the final word.
For years, Nick Viall has positioned himself as podcasting’s blunt truth-teller and the former reality TV villain who turned heartbreak into a booming media empire.
However, as his podcast “The Viall Files” continues to dominate downloads and land major celebrity guests, a wave of insider criticism is threatening to chip away at that polished brand.
From accusations of hypocrisy to backlash over deeply personal interview questions, Nick’s carefully constructed platform is facing one of its most uncomfortable moments yet.
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Inside Nick Viall’s Rise From Reality TV Runner-Up To Podcast Mogul
Before the podcast empire, there was “Bachelor Nation.” Nick Viall first appeared on “The Bachelorette” in 2014, competing for Andi Dorfman’s heart.
He made it to the finale but lost to Josh Murray. He returned the following season for Kaitlyn Bristowe, only to finish second again, with winner Shawn Booth calling him arrogant, cocky, and manipulative on camera.
His redemption arc began on “Bachelor in Paradise,” eventually leading to his starring role as “The Bachelor” in 2017.
After proposing to Vanessa Grimaldi, the relationship ended less than a year later.
By 2019, Nick pivoted. He launched “The Viall Files,” offering dating advice and recapping reality TV drama.
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The show exploded in popularity, amassing more than 250 million downloads worldwide. In 2024, he expanded further, launching Envy Media and building a podcast network.
A four-year Libsyn deal reportedly worth $30 million cemented his status as a major player in the audio media industry. However, as his business grew, so did scrutiny.
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Nick And Natalie Joy Face Fallout Over Austen Kroll Interview
The most recent uproar stemmed from a January 7 episode featuring “Southern Charm” star Austen Kroll.
During the interview, the conversation shifted unexpectedly to the childhood death of Kroll’s sister, Kyle, who lost her life after falling from a cliff during a family hike.
Nick Viall’s wife, Natalie Joy Viall, asked Kroll, “What was this cliff?” The moment left listeners unsettled.
Kroll appeared visibly uncomfortable before responding, “I won’t even say the name of the town.”
The YouTube backlash was swift. One top comment read, “Natalie, that was the most unprofessional and rude segway [sic] into a question about his sister I’ve ever seen. Extremely insensitive.”
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Another listener wrote, “You guys could not be more careless with your words. Austen was so kind as you both were so careless and flippant about his grief.”
A third comment was even harsher, calling them “TERRIBLE PEOPLE.” Despite the criticism, neither Nick nor Natalie issued a formal apology.
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Nick Viall’s Co-Host Under Fire As Critics Question Qualifications
Natalie, who began dating Nick when she was 20 and he was 38, has increasingly become a lightning rod for criticism.
The couple married and welcomed their daughter, River Rose Viall, in February 2024.
Still, insiders describe her as having “no qualifications” and lacking the empathy required for difficult interviews.
Pop culture commentator Jordy Cray told the Daily Mail exclusively, “For me, I just don’t think they’re that knowledgeable about the subjects they choose to bring on to their platform.”
He continued, “I mean, they have very impressive guests, but I don’t think they are well versed in whatever they’re discussing, and I don’t think that they’re equipped to handle the empathy that’s required in certain conversations.”
Josh Banfield offered a more measured take. “I am reluctant to buy into the narrative that the woman ruined everything,” he said.
However, he suggested that when Natalie joined permanently, it appeared as if she had no qualifications or understanding of how to talk about these things in an empathetic way.
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Nick’s Pattern Of Controversy Extends Beyond One Episode
This is not the first time “The Viall Files” has faced backlash. In December 2025, Nick Viall and his wife were accused of “mom-shaming” Whitney Leavitt after questioning how she would balance motherhood with a Broadway role in Chicago.
Natalie asked, “She just did Dancing With the Stars for three or four months. She has kids on a school level – maybe they are homeschooled. I don’t know. To shift to Chicago in New York, that takes so much of her time. How is she managing being a mom?”
She continued, “How is she managing, prioritizing being a mom and her kids who I imagine have some sort of schedule and routine? And I know their home base was Utah… I’m just so curious.”
Listeners accused the pair of applying a double standard, suggesting a father might not face similar questioning. No public apology followed.
During a reunion special, he defended his questioning by saying the “perceived lack of accountability of Whitney is something that I wanted to have a chance to address with her.”
Meanwhile, Nick has built much of his reputation on pressing guests hard. When Tom Sandoval appeared following his cheating scandal, the podcast host made clear he intended to hold him accountable.
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Nick Viall’s Accountability Brand Now Faces Hypocrisy Claims
The tension between brand and behavior is what critics say fuels the backlash.
Midori Collusion, who has about 10,200 followers on TikTok, argued, “In my view, it’s the hypocrisy that has rubbed people the wrong way.”
She noted that Nick frequently dispenses life and relationship advice, often urging callers to take responsibility.
“They are creating and monetizing content based on the difficult moments in other peoples’ lives, and holding themselves out as authorities on human relationships, and yet they don’t seem to practice what they preach,” she said.
Cray was even more blunt. “I think that the saddest part about all this is that I don’t think Nick or Natalie even care about the backlash, because all they care about is numbers at this point,” he said, suggesting controversy may simply drive more traffic.
“Down Low” Whisperer Naquan Palmer has come under fire amid reported “protective orders, harassment allegations, and criminal investigations.” Palmer built a following by coaching women and exposing “down low” men. He reportedly did so through viral livestream and reaction videos where he broke down male behavior. But now it appears he’s become the target of negative attention.
What’s really going on with the “Down Low” Whisperer Naquan Palmer?
Well, The Shade Room’s Justin Carter is sharing some insight on ‘TSR Investigates.’
More On The Harassment Allegations Against The “Down Low” Whisperer, Naquan Palmer
According to Carter, the DL Whispherer initially rose to virality by dishing on his “loverboy” escapades and relationships with men. Per Palmer, he believes that a DL man is a man who is “dating women and secretly sleeping with men; having desires for men; or anything of that nature involving homosexual activity.”
Per Carter, Palmer shares his tips for women for hours on end via TikTok. In turn, many women have shared their public support of him. However, his videos, which sometimes highlight certain high-profile men and content creators in particular, have sparked backlash.
“You’re telling me that a n***a that was born a man… and wants to be a girl knows what a real n***a is thinking? Knows how real n****s is supposed to move? And how real n****s is supposed to feel? You didn’t even give yourself a chance to be a man,” Steve Da Stoner told viewers in reaction to Palmer.
More Reactions To The DL Whispherer’s Teachings
While Palmer contends that he is protecting women from men who hate themselves, other internet users believe Palmer’s actions are just a reflection of his hurt from being rejected by DL men.
Scroll above to watch as additional internet users share their thoughts on the DL Whisperer. Additionally, Carter even speaks with Palmer about his viral back-and-forth with TS Madison. Lastly, Carter details how dangerous rhetoric shared about sexuality can be when shared online.
RELATED: Shein Faces Backlash Over AI Designer Theft | TSR Investigates
What Do You Think Roomies?
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She also explains why she will be fact-checking everything this time around.
Entertainment
Why Kathie Lee Gifford is thankful Hoda Kotb went against her wishes on day husband Frank Gifford died
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The former NFL pro died on Kotb’s birthday in 2015.
Miss Universe
Takes a Tumble on Parade Float!!!
Published
Jam Press
Newly crowned Miss Universe Fátima Bosch Fernández experienced a sudden collapse in front of a crowd of thousands Sunday … giving attendees at the Fruit and Flower Festival in Ecuador quite the scare.
As Fátima was enjoying her moment, waving and blowing kisses to the crowd, her energy quickly seemed to shift as she struggled to stand … suddenly falling to her knees.
Watch the video … officials working the event immediately jumped in to attend to the Mexican model, who was crowned Miss Universe 2025 in November. She was later attended to by paramedics at the scene, and she was relieved of her duties for the day to undergo tests.
The Miss Universe Organization and Fátima herself have yet to address the cause of the alarming drop … but she handled the situation ever so elegantly like the royalty she is.
This isn’t the first time Fátima has made the headlines recently, ’cause her win actually sparked quite the controversy late last year.
Weeks after pageant exec Nawat Itsaragrisil called her a “dummy” — triggering a full-on contestant walkout in her defense — Fátima’s win at the pageant in Thailand looked like the ultimate “against all odds” comeback … but fans watching at home were shocked that Olivia Yacé, Miss Côte d’Ivoire — who only landed 4th runner-up — didn’t take the whole thing.
Others were just as fired up, insisting the crown should’ve gone to fan faves like Miss Philippines or Miss Thailand instead … in fact, the latter had some serious backup with judge Natalie Glebova — AKA Miss Universe 2005 — saying she’s the real winner in her eyes.
Through all the highs — and very public lows — Fátima’s kept her crown on straight. Here’s hoping for a fast, flawless recovery fit for a queen!
Y’all! The undeniable bond between Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande has left fans buzzing. Apparently, their chemistry on and off the set of ‘Wicked’ had everyone wondering if it’s more than just friendship. And now, Erivo is stepping up to address the rumors head-on.
RELATED: Back It Up! Cynthia Erivo Breaks Her Silence On Ariana Grande’s Red Carpet Scare In Singapore (VIDEO)
Erivo Claps Back At Ariana Grande Romance Rumors
In an interview with Stylist published last week, Erivo addressed the whispers, calling the fascination “strange.” Erivo added, “People either thought we were putting it on for the cameras or that we were lovers,” she said, explaining that society often struggles to recognize “deep and real” platonic female friendships. “A relationship where people are connected sometimes just makes people uncomfortable; we aren’t taught that those relationships are good for us,” Erivo added.
Grande Previously Opened Up About Their Friendship
Furthermore, Ariana Grande previously offered context during a November appearance on Amy Poehler’s ‘Good Hang’ podcast. She explained why she and Erivo “like to touch each other,” noting it helps her “channel a lot of energy through [her] hands.” She said she’s “always holding a hand, always squeezing something” or “always reaching for something,” usually with whoever is nearby. The ‘Thank U, Next’ singer emphasized that their physical closeness is about support and maintaining their friendship amid busy schedules: “We…do our best to stay connected in that way and to take care of each other so we can honor the project as much as humanly possible.”
So Yes, They’re Close — But Both Taken
Additionally, sources close to both stars have confirmed that their affectionate gestures are strictly platonic. Both are in relationships with other people: Grande is reportedly still dating her ‘Wicked’ co-star Ethan Slater, while Erivo has been in a long-term relationship with ‘Chi’ creator Lena Waithe. Even with all the media speculation, it seems the pair are just masters of mixing friendship and theatrical energy — and fans are here for it.
RELATED: Not Too Much! Ariana Grande Clocks Rumors About Whether She Plans To Step Away From Singing & Music (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
BARACK OBAMA
WALKS BACK ALIENS ARE ‘REAL’ COMMENTS
Published
Barack Obama sent the internet into a frenzy after saying aliens are real during a recent podcast appearance … but now the former prez is walking it back, saying he’s never seen any evidence of extraterrestrials while in office.
ICYMI … 44 sat down with Bryan Tyler Cohen, who asked him point blank whether aliens are real. Obama replied, “They’re real, but I haven’t seen them,” before joking they’re not being kept at Area 51 — adding there’s no underground facility … unless there was some “enormous conspiracy” being kept from him.
Youtube/@briantylercohen
Obama’s comments spread like wildfire … leading to him issuing a follow-up statement softening any definitive claim. He explains, “I was trying to stick with the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s gotten attention, let me clarify. Statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there.”
He continues, “But the distances between solar systems are so great that the chances we’ve been visited by aliens is low, and I saw no evidence during my presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us. Really!”
Aliens weren’t the only topic Obama hit on during the interview … also addressing Donald Trump sharing a video depicting him and Michelle as apes — dismissing it as part of the “clown show” the current prez is putting on.
Ultimately, Barack doesn’t seem too fazed by any of the buzz … as he was seen hanging courtside Sunday night at the NBA All-Star Game alongside Michelle.
Bottom line … Obama isn’t confirming aliens — just saying the universe is big.
There’s no better activity than getting cozy with a blanket and a movie, no matter the season or weather. The best kinds of movies to watch in such for getting ultimately cozy and comfortable are, undoubtedly, heartwarming romantic movies. Fans of cozy romance movies have a large movie library to choose from, but how about giving a chance to some South Korean ones?
South Korea is known for its romantic K-dramas with incredible stories and slow-burn love, but its romantic feature films tend to take a backseat in the eyes of international audiences. This makes sense, as K-dramas span several episodes and allow viewers to get to know the characters much better. However, romantic feature films from South Korea have the same sentiment but convey their love stories much better. They’re a quick rollercoaster of feelings, heartwarming and heartbreaking alike, making them ideal for those cold winter moments.
20
‘Bungee Jumping of Their Own’ (2001)
One of Korea’s biggest action stars, Lee Byung-hun, is also a well-known heartthrob among South Korean movie fans. He started acting in 1991 and has had various roles since, from cold-blooded vigilantes to romantic leads. One of his unique roles was in the romantic drama Bungee Jumping of Their Own from 2001, which was a bit controversial at the time. Though imperfect in some ways, it’s an interesting love story that depicts the idea of having “the one,” a person who’s meant for us.
Lee Byung-hun and Lee Eun-ju play two young students, In-woo and Tae-hee, who get to know each other and fall in love. When their romance blossoms, things seem to be going well, but suddenly, Tae-hee gets involved in a car accident and dies. In-woo, heartbroken, continues his life, and 17 years later, the story shows him as a high school teacher. When In-woo gets a new student, Hyun-bin, he notices similarities between him and his former love, Tae-hee. The story unfolds, depicting struggles with self-acceptance, self-discovery, and the idea that there’s always that one person in someone’s life.
19
‘Love and Leashes’ (2022)
Love and Leashes may be an unusual choice for a great romantic movie, but this rom-com has a lot of surprising elements that will make you chuckle and say “awww.” It’s an unconventional love story and one that’s potentially more realistic than many of the most romantic K-movies. Why? It incorporates sexual desires into its central theme, and a couple who fall in love through exploration of each other’s hidden preferences. Love and Leashes isn’t the first kind of movie to be this open about different types of love, but it’s one of the most prominent recent ones that won over a large audience, mostly due to its Netflix streaming slot.
Love and Leashes follows two employees in a PR firm, Ji-hoo (Lee Jun-young) and Ji-woo (Seohyun). Ji-woo, Ji-hoo’s senior, accidentally learns one day that he is into BDSM, and he asks her to enter such a relationship with him. At first, it’s purely transactional, but then Ji-woo gains more confidence in herself, and the two inevitably fall in love. There’s not a lot of melodrama, but Love and Leashes is just as endearing and romantic as the rest of these movies.
18
‘On Your Wedding Day’ (2018)
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On Your Wedding Day is a romance drama directed by Lee Seok-geun. Park Bo-young and Kim Young-kwang, who had previously collaborated on a film in 2014, maintained their impressive on-screen chemistry. Filming took place from September to December 2017, mostly in Seoul, and the ten-year storyline is meant to show believable character growth from the periods of adolescence to adulthood. The film was a box-office success in Korea and was well-received among wider audiences because of how relatable, romantic, heartfelt, and humorous it is.
On Your Wedding Day follows Woo-yeon (Kim), who receives a wedding invitation from his high school love, Seung-hee (Park). The film then takes a nostalgic look back on their long relationship, starting with Woo-yeon’s teen crush on Seung-hee and going through all the troubles and joys of growing up and love. However, instead of a typical fairy-tale love story, we’re shown the fleeting nature of life, showing that romance and affection aren’t always enough, and that people outgrow each other. The realistic portrayal of first love, which is not always “meant to be,” is what makes On Your Wedding Day memorable long after the credits have rolled, but it is an ending you might not expect.
17
‘Sweet & Sour’ (2021)
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Sweet & Sour is one of the newer South Korean romantic comedies that comes from Netflix, which has produced some great K-romance movies over the past few years (great examples are Love and Leashes and 20th Century Girl). It portrays a couple, Da-eun and Hyuk (Chae Soo-bin and Jang Ki-yong), who become close after Da-eun takes care of him at the hospital where he is her patient. They enter a relationship that soon becomes long-distance because Hyuk accepts a job in Seoul, whereas they live in Incheon.
Hyuk’s traveling back and forth puts a strain on their relationship, evolving the story into a more complex analysis of emotional neglect—both of oneself and their partner—the working and overworking culture, and long-distance romance. The twist at the end is another great part of what makes Sweet & Sour rewatchable and relatable. Though many viewers feel that the ending is disappointing, it shows that happy endings aren’t always realistic and that romance is sometimes like that.
16
‘Love 911’ (2012)
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Love 911 is a romance drama about healing and unexpected connections directed by Jeong Gi-hun. The film balances action, drama, and romance, alternating between fiery rescues and dramatic suspense and soft moments that reveal the characters’ inner selves. Love 911 garnered praise for its performances and chemistry, while Han Hyo-joo received a Best Actress nomination at the 49th Baeksang Arts Awards for her role. Love 911 depicts a romance that develops through the messy and painful, yet ultimately rewarding work of caring for another person by combining the thrill that first responders experience with the slow, imperfect process of emotional healing.
Love 911 follows Kang-il (Go Soo), a devoted firefighter troubled by his wife’s tragic death, and Mi-soo (Han), a tough, career-driven doctor whose initial motive for pursuing Kang-il is less than honorable. After a misdiagnosis causes Mi-soo’s career problems, she attempts to get closer to Kang-il in the hopes of establishing a case, but her strategy backfires as the two clash and slowly start to understand each other’s pasts and inner lives. Love 911 depicts two closed-off people developing a beautiful, honest romance while coping with grief, guilt, and the possibility of moving on.
15
‘Always’ (2011)
Always is a melodrama starring So Ji-sub and Han Hyo-joo, who were at the height of their popularity at the start of the 2010s. So Ji-sub plays a former boxer, Cheol-min, whose rough exterior slowly gets broken down by a blind girl, Jung-hwa (Han Hyo-joo). They meet at his new job, a parking attendant booth, where Cheol-min sits and observes the world passing him by. Jung-hwa is optimistic and relentless in tearing down Cheol-min’s walls, but their romance has rocky moments and chilly periods.
This romantic drama has it all: a great-looking tough guy with a kind heart, a beautiful girl whose life didn’t go as planned, but she doesn’t give up, and an unbreakable bond between the two that tugs at the heartstrings. The performances in Always are superb, if not a tad overdramatic, but, as any fan of cheesy South Korean dramas will know, this is how it’s done over there. Letting the emotion in without judging the melodramatics will help viewers enjoy a wonderfully made romance.
14
‘Moonlit Winter’ (2019)
Moonlit Winter is a touching drama that covers many topics, from coming-of-age to forbidden love. Yoon-hee (Kim Hee-ae) lives in the Korean countryside with her teenage daughter Sae-bom (Sohye). Sae-bom finds a love letter in her mother’s possessions one day, which she discovers was sent to her mom from a woman named Jun (Yuko Nakamura) in Japan. Seeing her mother’s loneliness, Sae-bom decides to reunite her mother with the Japanese woman, awakening a decades-old romance that remained hidden for so long.
While the movie follows Sae-bom’s maturing and compassion, it also gives Yoon-hee a second chance to finally live as the woman she always wanted to be. This second life, as well as meeting her first love, Jun, encourages Yoon-hee to embrace herself and make bolder choices that make her happy. While it’s a movie about a queer romance, it’s also a love story that encapsulates more than just romantic love. Moonlit Winter is a visually gorgeous and touching romance for anyone looking for a good cry.
13
‘Architecture 101’ (2012)
Interestingly enough, Architecture 101 had a largely male audience to thank for its impeccable run at the South Korean box office. Architecture 101 was a breakthrough hit upon release and is often cited among must-watch South Korean movies, whether in the romantic category or in general. While that could be solely due to Bae Suzy, the most popular actress of the 2010s, portraying the younger version of her character, So-yeon, there’s a lot more appealing and beautiful to this movie than just her.
Architecture 101 is a story about two architects, Seung-min (Uhm Tae-woong) and So-yeon (Han Ga-in). So-yeon approaches Seung-min to ask him to redesign her Jeju Island home, and while they work on the house, the two grow closer. The movie also introduces a flashback to the time when the two attended college, and it’s revealed that they met while they were students. Architecture 101 is a bittersweet exploration of lost love, entwined with beautiful displays of impeccable architecture. Director Lee studied architecture himself at university, and collaborated with another famous architect to get the details in the movie right; in that way, it’s also a love letter to architecture, here depicted as an art form.
12
‘Be With You’ (2018)
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Another So Ji-sub romance, Be With You, is one of the most popular movies of 2018. This could be because of him or because of his co-star Son Ye-jin (Crash Landing on You), who was the sweetheart of the romance genre at the time (and remains for so many of us). Be With You is a remake of the Japanese drama of the same name, and even the trailer for this movie is a tearfest.
The movie follows Woo-jin, who’s unexpectedly left to raise his son alone after the premature death of his wife, Soo-ah. Before dying, Soo-ah makes a promise to return in the rainy season. Woo-jin soon realizes that Soo-ah miraculously manages to fulfill that promise, but when she does return, her memory is wiped. Woo-jin must show Soo-ah why and how they fell in love, reinventing their romance and getting another chance to hold each other before it gets too late. As the publication London Korean Links said, “If you’re not blubbing uncontrollably at various points in this lovely thing, you are a heartless brute.”
11
‘Spellbound’ (2011)
Spellbound is a romantic comedy with a supernatural twist, and another film starring Son Ye-jin. The movie blends comedy, romance, and horror elements to create a unique tone uncommon in typical South Korean (or global) rom-coms. Supernatural gained a great box office success, with Asian audiences in particular; the movie even got a Philippine remake in 2023, though the original Spellbound remains a staple of quirky, offbeat K-romances.
Spellbound follows Yeo-ri (Son), a woman cursed with the ability to see ghosts, which has made her life lonely and awkward as spirits periodically appear around her without warning. Her world changes when Ma Jo-goo (Lee Min-ki), a charismatic magician, notices her unusual talent and recruits her for his act, partly because her talent and ability add a chilling effect beneficial to his performances. As the two grow closer, their relationship unfolds with a mix of humor, scares, and genuine emotion, forcing Yeo-ri to confront both her fear of isolation and the possibility of love.
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