Yes. It happened. It did not work.
While breakups are as varied and nuanced as people are, they have been happening for as long as there has been been people, so we’ve gotten pretty good at failed relationships. This means that we have been making films about breakups, or in response to breakups, for a long time.
Of course, everyone is different, and the best post-breakup viewing experience depends on how you, as a person, prefer to work through the bad times. Maybe you want a distraction, and anything will do. Maybe you want the embrace of a cheesy rom-com, or a movie that makes you want to kick someone in the ass. Consider this a sample dish to make the decision a little easier for you if it’s not clear how to do something next.
Really, the best thing you can do after life and love have knocked you on the ass is to simply take the smallest step forward, even if it’s just pressing play on your remote. Maybe this will help you find something that will help you the rest of the way.
For those who want to get sad
Forgot Sarah Marshall
Image: Universal images
Because: It’s all a matter of wallowing and moving on. It’s also very funny.
Where to watch: Digital rental/purchase on Amazon, Apple TV and Vudu
Blue Valentine
Photo: Davi Russo/Weinstein Company/Everett Collection
Because: It’s one of the best anti-love stories ever made. Really for those who feel better by leaning into misery.
Where to watch: Max
In the mood for love
Image: Criterion collection
Because: It’s the opposite of Blue Valentine. A beautiful, sensual film by tactile desire for love that may never be.
Where to watch: The Criterion Channel, Max
For those who want revenge
Birds of prey
Image: Warner Bros.
Because: Your ex is probably not as bad as the Joker, but you know what? Maybe they are. Here are some ideas to get past that.
Where to watch: Netflix, Max
Death Bill parts 1 and 2
Photo: Andrew Cooper/Miramax Films
Because: It’s truly inspiring the lengths Uma Thurman goes to to catch the man who wronged her.
Where to watch: Starz, AMC Plus, The Roku Channel (with ads)
John Tucker must die
Image: 20th Century Fox/Courtesy Everett Collection
Because: Sometimes a nasty ex is the best fuel for solidarity.
Where to watch: Digital rental/purchase on Amazon, Apple TV and Vudu
When a rom-com does it for you
Ms. Congeniality
Image: Warner Home Video
Because: It’s one of the best rom-coms about finding someone who likes you, while also being a very fun spy movie.
Where to watch: Digital rental/purchase on Amazon, Apple TV and Vudu
My big Greek wedding
Photo: IFC Films
Because: Maybe you’ve got your whole family involved in your business, and it’s nice to remember that you might like them.
Where to watch: Max
Tow bar
Image: Columbia Photos
Because: You could be the friendliest mother in the world and none of it will matter when the time comes. You have to be yourself! That’s some completely original advice I just came up with.
Where to watch: Hulu
If a rom-com about loving yourself is the answer
Legally blonde
Image: MGM
Because: Breaking up is a good time for self-actualization. You can now become a famous lawyer! Do it!
Where to watch: Max
My best friend’s wedding
Image: TriStar Photos
Because: Sometimes you have to sing ‘I Say a Little Prayer’ really loudly in a restaurant.
Where to watch: Netflix, Starz
(500 days of Summer
Image: Fox Searchlight Photos
Because: All that negative energy you feel towards someone? It’s great fuel for finally become an architect working towards your goals. However, it’s okay if you need to break a few plates first.
Where to watch: Hulu, Max
If you don’t want to do anything for a while
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Extended Edition)
Image: New Line Cinema
Because: What else are you going to do in the next 12 hours? Just get in line at Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Dekalog next one. You have the time.
Where to watch: Prime video, Max