May 2008 is not a big month for romantic comedy releases on DVD, but you can find romantic films and comedy films to enjoy.
Three of my top four picks are re-releases of much earlier films, with only P.S. I Love You having recently played at the theaters. So if you missed them the first time around, here’s your second chance.
Romantic Dramas
The Bridges of Madison County: Deluxe Edition
- A story (from 1995) of an enduring and forbidden love, this drama stars Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood as two people who embark on a short-term love affair in rural Iowa. The performances sizzle despite the middle-aged leads.
- Director: Clint Eastwood
- Run Time: 137 minutes
- Rating: PG-13
P.S. I Love You
- This drama stars Hilary Swank and Gerard Butler in a tear-jerking romance about how everlasting love continues after one’s physical life ends. Supporting cast includes Lisa Kudrow and Gina Gershon.
- Director: Richard LaGravenese
- Run time: 126 minutes
- Rating: PG-13
Comedies
If It’s Tuesday, It Must Be Belgium
- This 1969 farce stars Sandy Baron, Senta Berger, and Suzanne Pleshette in a comedy (with some added romance) about a group of American tourists who take a whirlwind tour with a young British tour guide (Ian McShane).
- Director: Mel Stuart
- Run Time: 98 minutes
- Rating: G
Serial Mom (Collector’s Edition)
- From 1994, this dark comedy stars Kathleen Turner as a suburban mom who resorts to serial killing to get her point across to people who create obstacles in her perfect little world. Sam Waterston, Ricki Lake, and Matthew Lillard co-star as her cookie-cutter family.
- Director: John Waters
- Run Time: 94 minutes
- Rating: R
If you watch one from the first group followed by one from the second, you can still get your fill of "romantic comedy."
