Nostalgia 6 Classic Hollywood Wedding-Themed Films Full of Drama and Comedy

The 90s to early 2000s was a time when Hollywood was enamored with wedding-themed films. Love stories set against the backdrop of white dresses, lavish parties, and tales of bridesmaids sprinkled with comedy always made for a sweet plot that audiences loved.

Interestingly, these wedding-themed films do not only touch on the romantic side of clichéd love stories. There are elements of social issues and themes that are still relatable to watch even today. So, it's time to reminisce with this lineup of classic Hollywood wedding-themed films! Which one did you like the most back then?

1. RUNAWAY BRIDE (1999) 

Credit: IMDB

This unique love story reunites the iconic couple Julia Roberts and Richard Gere after their success in PRETTY WOMAN. RUNAWAY BRIDE tells the story of Maggie Carpenter, a woman nicknamed "the runaway bride" because she always flees from the altar every time she is about to get married. Maggie's record? Running away from three different weddings!

The story gets even more exciting when Ike Graham, a cynical journalist, becomes interested in uncovering Maggie's life story for a sensational article. However, who would have thought that from this coverage, the seeds of love would begin to grow? This film combines elements of comedy, romantic drama, and a touch of social critique regarding marriage expectations in the eyes of society. Although the premise sounds light, RUNAWAY BRIDE manages to touch hearts thanks to the strong chemistry between Julia and Richard, who never fail to make the audience fall in love.

2. THE WEDDING PLANNER (2001) 

Credit: IMDB

When talking about wedding films from the early 2000s, THE WEDDING PLANNER is a must on the list. This film tells the story of Mary Fiore (Jennifer Lopez), a super professional wedding planner whose life is very orderly. Mary believes that true love is just a myth, until she meets Steve Edison (Matthew McConaughey), a handsome doctor who saves her from a funny accident on the road.

The problem is, Steve turns out to be the groom-to-be of Mary's latest client. This is where the layered conflict begins, filled with awkward moments, misunderstandings, and a dilemma between professionalism and following her heart. The adorable chemistry between J.Lo and Matthew McConaughey, along with the romantic soundtrack of the 2000s, makes this film an entertaining watch that is always fun to revisit.

3. BRIDE WARS (2009) 

Credit: IMDB

Imagine two friends who have sworn since childhood to support each other on their wedding days, suddenly having to compete for a spot at their dream venue. That’s the hilarious premise of BRIDE WARS, which brings together Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson as Emma and Liv.

Initially, they are true friends who share dreams of a perfect wedding at the Plaza Hotel, New York. However, due to an administrative error, their wedding dates clash and have to be held on the same day. Instead of backing down, they both turn into 'bridezillas' trying to sabotage each other. This film is exciting because it touches on the phenomenon of friendship that wavers due to personal ambition, wrapped in slapstick humor and nostalgic bridal fashion.

4. 27 DRESSES (2008) 

Credit: IMDB

Who knows more about weddings than someone who has been a bridesmaid 27 times? That’s Jane Nichols, the main character in 27 DRESSES, played by Katherine Heigl. Jane is the typical good person who always puts others' happiness first, including being a last-minute assistant for brides.

However, Jane's life turns upside down when her own sister gets engaged to the man she secretly loves. Amidst that emotional chaos, Jane meets Kevin Doyle (James Marsden), a cynical journalist who wants to turn Jane's life story into an article. This film is funny, heartwarming, and also touches on the importance of loving oneself before making others happy.

5. MADE OF HONOR (2008) 

Credit: IMDB

Turning the bridesmaid tradition that is typically associated with women on its head, MADE OF HONOR presents Tom Bailey (Patrick Dempsey), a male friend who is asked to be the maid of honor by his female friend, Hannah. The problem is, Tom only realizes that he loves Hannah (Michelle Monaghan) just as she is about to marry another man.

This film is full of relatable awkward moments, from the chaotic wedding preparations because Tom doesn’t understand the wedding world, to his silly attempts to sabotage his friend’s wedding. Patrick Dempsey, known as Dr. McDreamy in GREY'S ANATOMY, is charming and hilarious, making MADE OF HONOR a complete package of drama and comedy.

6. THE WEDDING DATE (2005) 

Credit: IMDB

Have you ever thought about hiring a handsome man as a fake date to attend your ex's wedding? This is the exciting premise of THE WEDDING DATE. Debra Messing stars as Kat Ellis, a woman who is forced to return home to attend her sister's wedding, which coincidentally invites Kat's ex as a guest.

To save face, Kat hires Nick (Dermot Mulroney), a professional man who specializes in accompanying clients to important events. Initially, it's purely business, but slowly, feelings begin to grow between them. This film explores the classic theme of 'fake relationship', but it's packaged warmly and filled with the sarcastic humor typical of the 2000s.

So, what do you think? Do you have a favorite movie on this list? Or perhaps you just realized that the 90s and early 2000s were truly the golden age of wedding-themed films. If you want to indulge in nostalgia or find inspiration for your weekend viewing, this lineup of movies is a must-add to your watchlist for a rewatch on digital streaming platforms! Don't forget to always take advantage of available promotions so that your subscription to digital platforms can be even more economical. Hurry up and stay updated with enticing promotions to enjoy your favorite films even more. Happy watching!

(kpl/wri)