LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – A handsome young knight is madly in love with a princess and… wait, what an ending! Such a predictable storyline in a century of beating banality does not make the cut anymore. The old cinematography may bring nostalgia, awaken an appreciation for simplicity or hold valuable memories, yet the most deserving romances border on unpredictability. The best Valentine’s blockbusters, indies and TV binges make for a cruel experience as lovers suddenly betray or find one another amid a frantic plot line.

“Priscilla” (2023), directed by Sofia Coppola

Besides its beautiful, classy scenery and iconic playlist, “Priscilla” will undoubtedly raise the temperature with its steamy scenes. Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny star as Elvis and Priscilla Presley; their portrayals of the original figures are incomparable and unblemished, authentic and mesmerizing. Every scene leading up to the young woman’s awakening shoots out like a jack-in-the-box, either romantically attaching or throwing off the audience.

“The real beauty of Priscilla is its delicate portrayal of the all-consuming fire and flood of first love and what happens when you grow up and begin to realize the fairy tale doesn’t always have a happy ending,” film magazine Little White Lies says.

“Almost Famous” (2000), Cameron Crowe

The voices, the rock star glamour, the 70s – everything in this movie is to die for. William Miller, the precocious young writer and protagonist, mirrors the charismatic upbringing of director Cameron Crowe himself. Eclectic and distinct, Crowe’s film of the experiences of an “uncool” high schooler documents the feverish, underground scene of the decade between 60s idealism and early punk.

“This coming-of-age story is as much about the preservation of William’s innocence as its loss; the music William loves protects him even as his involvement with it introduces him to all manner of worldly corruption,” The New York Times says.

Drawn to the captivating and soulful Penny Lane, the leader of a group of liberated groupies, Miller refuses to exploit or take advantage of her naivety. He immerses himself in her world and tries to understand her while navigating his complicated desires and fears.

“Good Will Hunting” (1997), Gus Van Sant

A harrowing account inside the psyche of an underachiever, “Good Will Hunting” delves deep into the traumatic effects of abandonment at a young age. Intellectually striking, the combative boy uses his quick wit to drive off people who recognize his outer facade; his mischievous reputation, a chamber of reflection, overshadows his genius and pure heartedness.

With an Elliot Smith (American singer-songwriter) vibe, the film centers on Will’s courageous confrontation with his past through compassionate relationships and heartbreaking realizations. Challenging his view of intimacy and love, Will is tested with the question of whether or not Skylar, an intuitive and direct girl, could be the one for him.

“To hear and heed that inner voice — the sound-minded, pure-hearted critical thinking unmuffled by the shriek of self-righteousness, unlulled by herd mentality, unsullied by external manipulation or internal self-delusion — is perhaps the most consistent challenge we face throughout our lives, playing out in myriad forms across every realm of existence,” the German-Swiss poet and novelist, Hermann Hesse, said on The Earthly Delights blog.

“The Cutting Edge” (1992), Paul Michael Glaser

True love couldn’t be more heart-achingly slow and delicate than that between an arrogant former professional hockey player and a stubborn world-class figure skater. The classic enemy-turned-lover story plays out when Doug Dorsey and Kate Moseley are forced to compete together in attempts to win an Olympic gold medal as a figure skating pairs team; utterly natural, their rare bond leads them through tense, hot moments and desirous eyes, through vulnerable confessions and unforgettable performances.

“The Pamchenko Twist cements the film’s status as emphasizing how passion and love can make the impossible possible, and for that, the film ultimately deserves recognition and remembrance,” the literary review magazine Avidly says.

Whether you’re in a sentimental or hot mood, alone or with company, these beloved movies will surely set the tone for your Valentine’s night.  To all the singles out there, a warning: These films may inspire envy, or at the very least, hurt a lonely heart.