Top eight movies to watch after a breakup

by ichi nuraini

Breakups are tough – there’s no question about that. But when it comes to coping with heartbreak, what’s the best way to get over it? For some, rebound boyfriends are part of the “moving on” process. For others, alone time will suffice. For me, self discovery would be in order. And I do that with the help of some movies.

If you’re going through heartache, watch these for some necessary realizations in love…

1. The Sweetest Thing

You might just realize you’re like Cameron Diaz in this movie. Maybe you do sabotage good relationships and find things wrong with guys you date because you’re a bit of a commitment phobe? Regardless, this fun chick flick will clue you in on one thing: For the right guy, you will open up and refrain from ruining a good thing.

2. Sliding Doors

When one door closes, another one opens. That’s a good mantra to have after a sad end to what you thought was a good relationship. As hard as it is to believe, you have to know that you’re on a path that will eventually lead to something better. In this Gwyneth Paltrow love story, you’ll see how even the slightest change will reroute your heart. But at the end of the day, you’ll be right where you belong.

3. August Rush

Chances are, this ex-boyfriend of yours isn’t “the one.” Believing there’s a perfect match for you out there is just as important as moving forward after a failed relationship. Not convinced? If you watch this Keri Russell and Jonathan Rhys Meyers, you’ll become a believer. In the movie, two star-crossed lovers misplace each other. Spoiler alert! Their lovechild, an orphan, brings them back together like some kind of miracle.

4. Closer

After a breakup, watching people more messed up than you with even more horrific relationships can be soothing. In this movie, starring Natalie Portman, Jude Law, Julia Roberts, and Clive Owen, you’ll witness betrayal, lust and a lot of drama. You’ll also witness Natalie’s character rise above all of the mess. Trust me, the last scene will make you realize walking away from a bad situation was the best thing you’ve ever done.

5. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Where would you be without your girlfriends? There’s nothing like talking with your lady pals after a breakup. They really get you through tough times, don’t they? This movie, starring America Ferrara, Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel, and Amber Tamblyn, celebrates the friendships that travel with us. Our BFFs are our rocks, and when men treat us less than fab, it’s our pals who nurse us back to health.

6. Love Actually

Yes, love exists. Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightly and Hugh Grant prove just that in this love escapade of a movie. This romance/holiday flick demonstrates various ways of lovin’ (not the dirty kind – relax). During heartbreak, it may be hard to see the silver lining – odds are you think love is crap. But if you catch this film, your faith in romance will be restored.

7. Amelie

Rough situations like breakups can derail our mental states. You might be able to relate to Amelie. She grew up a little on the strange side. Her father thought she had a heart defect so as a little girl, she rarely had contact with other people. She finally grows up and settles into a life in Paris. Partly due to her unusual upbringing, the waitress becomes consumed with people around her – it’s like she worried more about them than herself. Upon realizing she was damaging her own quest for love, she decides to assert herself to find the love she’s always dreamed of. Now it’s your turn.

8. A Lot Like Love

Timing is everything. Perhaps the reason you and whatshisface broke up is to make room for that guy who manages to come around at inopportune times. And if he looks anything like Ashton Kutcher and can make you laugh, even better. Now’s your chance – maybe both you and your on-again/off-again rebound guy have a chance!