By Nova Blanco-Rico, Photo Editor

It is that time of the year again where the overpriced heart-shaped candies and teddy bears are put on the shelves, along with the feel-good romantic movies that get the hearts fluttering. But what’s even better are the somber movies that get our hearts to break, forcing us to consume chocolates until the cracks are filled. 

Romantic movies have always been an interesting genre for me. Specifically, romantic films that have unhappy endings. The realism behind them shows life doesn’t always have a happy ending, so appreciate the journey instead. I present to you a selection of films I believe perfectly demonstrates such a theme. 

Her (2013), Directed by Spike Jonze. 

A man falls in love with a machine. It is rather a typical cliche. Forbidden love. But in this film, Jonze captures a beautiful story of a man and an Artificial Intelligence (AI) program falling in love through a great performance from Joaquin Phoenix, amazing cinematography and an even better soundtrack. It brings a unique perspective of love with an ending that will pull on your heartstrings. 

About Time (2013), Directed by Richard Curtis. 

Time travel and love. A perfect combination of things to go wrong. The story starts off as a normal love story, but changes when the protagonist discovers his ability to time travel. At first, it’s amazing, but it’s time travel, so things get rather messy. It is a film that is surprising in its depth from the initial impression as a basic rom-com. So if you’re looking for a film to cry with your significant other, or solo, look no further. 

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), Directed by Michel Gondry. 

Now, I know it’s the time of love, but if you could erase someone who broke your heart, would you do it? If your answer is yes, then you might be the main character of this film. In this story, we follow a heartbroken character who decides to erase the memories of his former lover. Through a unique script and visuals, Gondry’s story of love and heartbreak unravels into a thought-provoking piece. A perfect movie to ease a break-up or make you think, “At least that’s not me.”

Marriage Story (2019), Directed by Noah Baumbach. 

Amazing performances from Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver help bring to life to this story of divorce and the anguish that follows. Scenes that easily capture one’s attention making you either smile or, more likely, tear up. Not to mention the score and the emotions it brings, accompanied by the actors’ persuasive acting in each scene. It is a film that is worth your time, especially if you want to enjoy an amazing piece of art or if you’re just thinking about divorcing your significant other. 

So enjoy at least one of these films this coming Valentine’s Day. If you’re feeling heartbroken, just remember all candy will be discounted Feb. 15.