Personally, I’ve always been a fan of Valentine’s Day. I remember the excitement of passing out cards and candy during class in Elementary school, as well as the act of working out exactly how I was going to get the biggest, prettiest card into my crushes decorated Kleenex card box. Now, I spend Valentine’s Day with my boyfriend, some candy, and a good Rom-Com. Overall, I find it to be a pretty enjoyable day, but, as much as I do enjoy celebrating Valentine’s Day, I’m not delusional. I can admit that, despite the history of St. Valentine, it is, essentially, a holiday invented by corporations that’s full of cliches and misdirection. And for as many cutesy Valentine’s Day Rom-Coms that exist, there are just as many movies for those who consider themselves opposed to Valentine’s Day.
So, go buy yourself a box of chocolates and something bubbly, and enjoy a movie from this list of the best anti-Valentine’s Day movies!
- The First Wives Club (1996)
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It can’t get any better than watching Bette Midler, Diane Keaton, and Goldie Hawn team up to get revenge on their ex-husbands for dropping them for younger, less powerful women. This movie has something for everyone from the recently single to the recently reconciled. And you will not be disappointed by the final scene—trust me!
- Gone Girl (2014)
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This is a story for those who are seeking revenge, or maybe just a good thriller. Based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, this movie follows the disappearance of rich and beautiful Amy Dunne and her husband Nick (who also happens to be the lead suspect). Viewers watch as dark secrets about the couple’s past are brought to light, making them think that they may not know their loved ones like they think they do…
- Marriage Story (2019)
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I will admit that I was not the biggest fan of this film, however, it was nominated for a few Academy Awards, among others, so I’m willing to say that I am in the minority. Despite how I felt about this movie, it is probably the most anti-Valentine’s day movie on this list, considering it’s about a rocky relationship that leads to a nasty, cross-country divorce. It could be said that the title Bitter Divorce might suit this movie better.
- The Other Woman (2014)
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This is another film to watch simply for the cast: Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, and Kate Upton. The Other Woman is a Rom-Com that lends itself more toward the traditional Valentine’s Day film, but I included it on this list anyway. When Kate King discovers her husband, Mark, is dating two other women, she convinces them to join her in getting revenge on her three-timing husband, and it’s hilarity cannot be missed. It could be said that this is a more grown-up version of John Tucker Must Die.
- Election (1999)
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While this movie is actually about a feud between a teacher and his student over Student Body President elections, it also includes some really pitiful depictions of men and marriage. Viewers get to watch Jim, a well-liked teacher, ruin his entire life in the matter of a week over his dislike of Tracy Flick, a successful, calculated, student, making it a great anti-Valentine’s day film.