6 films that will make you glad that you're single

Valentine’s Day marks the time of year that symbolises love and relationships. However, for those who remain single on this particular day, it could be a day of self-reflection if not being alienated by the excessive display of affection by those in committed relationships. Today’s List Hai Toh Hit podcast is dedicated to those who celebrate the idea of being single whilst navigating through a journey of self-discovery, growth, and happiness. We have curated a list of six films for this podcast that challenge societal norms surrounding conventional relationships.

Blue Valentine - Prime Video, LionsgatePlay, OTTplay Premium

Filmmaker Derek Cianfrance, who is best known for acclaimed hits such as A Place Beyond the Pines, earned plaudits for his first major feature film, Blue Valentine. The Oscar-nominated 2010 film is a poignant exploration of a crumbling marriage between Dean, played by Ryan Gosling and Cindy, played by Michelle Williams. The film examines how the initial excitement of their relationship eventually spirals into a heart-wrenching separation years later. Cianfrance has crafted a complex film that takes the audience on a journey, oscillating between the past and present circumstances of the protagonists, unravelling their complex equation that fragments when their relationship begins to crack. The film examines the idea that even the most profound relationships could enter a phase of disappointment and heartbreak.

Queen - Netflix

The 2014 Hindi film Queen is a Vikas Bahl directorial that stars Kangana Ranaut in the lead as Rani, a young woman whose wedding is called off by her fiancé Vijay just a couple of days before the ceremony. Instead of wallowing in her own despair, the once timid and soft-spoken Rani decides to go on her pre-planned honeymoon by herself. Rani’s journey becomes one of self-discovery and empowerment as she finds new friends from all walks of life as she travels across Europe, from Paris to Amsterdam. The film offers an excellent blend of humour and thought-provoking themes elevated by Ranaut’s compelling performance.

Revolutionary Road - Prime Video

The 2008 film Revolutionary Road is based on Richard Yates’ eponymous novel that examines the lives of a suburban American couple in 1950s America. The film reunites Titanic stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, who slip into the roles of Frank and Alice Wheeler. The Sam Mendes directorial tells the story of a seemingly happy couple struggling to come to terms with a sudden change of plan of a major life decision. The film opens a discourse on the complexities of unfulfilled dreams and the slow decay of passion within a marriage.

(500) Days of Summer - Prime Video rental, Apple TV rental, Google rental

Marc Web’s 2009 film, (500) Days of Summer continues to be a subject of great debate amongst cinephiles since its release. The film’s non-linear narrative focuses on the mercurial relationship between Tom, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Summer, played by Zoey Deschanel. It offers a unique take on romcoms with unconventional tropes and an unconventional relationship at the centre of the film’s narrative. Tom believes in the institution of marriage while Summer loathes the idea and as one would imagine, it all goes south from there.

The Devil Wears Prada - Prime Video rental, Apple TV rental, Google rental

The Devil Wears Prada is arguably one of the most iconic Anne Hathaway films of all time. She essays the role of Andy, an aspiring young journalist, who is hired as the assistant to the editor-in-chief of a renowned fashion magazine. Hollywood legend Meryl Streep plays the role of Miranda Priestly, Andy’s notorious boss. The film explores Andy’s journey as she navigates the demanding fashion industry, grapples with the challenges of her demanding job, and finds herself torn between professional success and personal values. The film leans on wit and humour to serve as a commentary on the cost of ambition. Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Adrian Grenier, and Simon Baker play other prominent roles in this David Frankel directorial.

Legally Blonde - Prime Video

Reese Witherspoon’s iconic turn as Elle Woods in the hit 2001 comedy Legally Blonde has become part of pop-culture history. The Robert Luketic directorial tells the story of how Elle breaks down stereotypes as a fashionable sorority girl who happens to get enrolled into Harvard to pursue a career in law. Her journey of self-discovery and empowerment is triggered when her boyfriend dumps her for not being ambitious enough in life. The film puts societal norms and gender roles under the microscope to tell a compelling story of a woman who refuses to accept her circumstances and rises above how those around her perceive and judge her. Selma Blair, Jennifer Coolidge, and Luke Wilson play prominent roles in this hit comedy.

That's all we got for this episode, see ya in the next one until then its me Nikhil signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

Written by Ryan Gomez