Five essential rom-coms to watch on Netflix instead of ‘Irish Wish’

Lindsay Lohan’s latest venture on Netflix, the rom-com Irish Wish, will leave both Lohan’s fans and casual viewers disappointed. Despite Lohan’s star power, the film lacks any charm or finesse expected from a movie. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives to spend your weekend binge-watching on Netflix. 

While Irish Wish may have missed the mark, we have curated five essential rom-coms that are available to stream on Netflix. And these will satisfy your craving for love, laughter, and heartwarming stories. 

Be it the colourful pastel world of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before or the reluctant adulthood of Love Per Square Foot, these films are sure to satisfy your romantic comedy cravings. Plus, these films are more relevant to the current zeitgeist than some of the more iconic classics we tend to keep falling back on.

So, here are five essential rom-coms that promise to delight and entertain you far more than Irish Wish. Happy watching!

Five essential rom-coms to binge on Netflix instead of ‘Irish Wish’:

Love, Simon (2018)

Love, Simon revolves around Simon Spier, a high school student who is struggling to come out as gay to his friends and family while also dealing with an anonymous classmate’s online confession. 

This film stands out for its heartfelt portrayal of teenage romance and self-discovery. Directed by Greg Berlanti, Love, Simon captures the challenges and triumphs of first love wrapped in a story that can easily resonate with audiences of all ages.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before follows Lara Jean Covey, a high school junior whose secret love letters are unexpectedly sent out to her former crushes, leading to a series of romantic misadventures. 

Directed by Susan Johnson and based on Jenny Han’s novel, this film depicts a cosy take on young love, endearing characters, and charming performances. With its vibrant cinematography and delicious soundtrack to boot, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is a delightful rom-com that will leave you swooning.

Bareilly ki Barfi (2017)

Set in the small town of Bareilly, India, Bareilly ki Barfi tells the story of Bitti Mishra, a free-spirited young woman who sets on a journey of self-discovery after reading a novel that reflects her desires. 

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, this Hindi romantic comedy has witty dialogue, lively performances, and a colourful (albeit a little unrealistic) depiction of life in a small Indian town. Bareilly ki Barfi also sees two young Bollywood talents—Ayushmann Khurrana and Rajkummar Rao—play off each other with chemistry not seen on the screen for a long while.

Always Be My Maybe (2019)

Always Be My Maybe follows childhood friends Sasha and Marcus, who reconnect years later and navigate the complexities of their budding romance. 

Directed by Nahnatchka Khan, this film shines with its sharp humour and standout performances by Ali Wong and Randall Park. Featuring a delightful cameo by Keanu Reeves, Always Be My Maybe is a heartwarming and relatable rom-com that celebrates friendship and second chances.

Love Per Square Foot (2018)

Love Per Square Foot follows two individuals in Mumbai who enter into a marriage of convenience to fulfil their dream of owning a home in a city facing a serious space crunch.

Directed by Anand Tiwari, this Indian romantic comedy has a fresh premise, charismatic leads, and a vibrant depiction of urban life in contemporary India. Love Per Square Foot offers an entertaining and endearing take on modern relationships in a bustling metropolis.