Blue Valentine

Blue Valentine has built a devoted following in the US on Philo and The CW, and in the UK on Studiocanal Presents Amazon Channel among viewers who want their romance taken seriously. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. With 3,543 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. You will have strong feelings about it by the finale. Available now on Philo — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, Blue Valentine earns its spot. The chemistry between the leads is the engine that drives everything, and Blue Valentine makes sure it fires. Dean and Cindy live a quiet life in a modest neighborhood. They appear to have the world at their feet at the outset of the relationship. However, his lack of ambition and her retreat into self-absorption cause potentially irreversible cracks in their marriage. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2010. What makes Blue Valentine work is that the leads feel like people first, a couple second. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

For anyone who wants romantic drama that respects their intelligence, Blue Valentine is a strong recommendation. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Ryan Gosling's performance makes the emotional stakes feel real, not manufactured. Worth watching alone or with someone who shares your taste.