This is my continuation of my picks for top romance movie couples.

8. Pride and Prejudice (1996 and 2005)
Both the BBC production and the more recent movie are lushly mannered delights. Colin Firth plays the snobbish Mr. Darcy with a smoother (and haughtier) arrogance than the movie’s Matthew Macfadyen. Keira Knightley’s strong-willed Elizabeth Bennett contrasts well with her delicate looks and I like her better than Jennifer Ehle. And when did men stop kissing women’s hands?

9. Body Heat (1981)
Romance takes a back seat to steamy s-e-x in this scorcher set in a sleepy little Florida town. Bored young wife Mattie Walker (Kathleen Turner) likes men who are “not too smart” (which must include her older rich husband). She doesn’t mention “blond” but slightly sleazy lawyer Ned Racine (William Hurt) fits the bill otherwise. Pretty soon they’re heating up the sheets, taking iced baths together and plotting the death of hubby. Naturally, their plans go awry. This was Kathleen Turner’s first movie. Great example of modern film noir.

10. The English Patient (1996)
I’ve read the complex Michael Ondaatje novel on which this movie was based and why director/screenplay writer Anthony Minghella didn’t win the Oscar for his writing efforts is a mystery. Set during World War II, the movie follows two love stories: a count’s affair with his partner’s wife (told in flashback), and a young nurse’s love for a sapper. Both stories intersect as the nurse cares for her dying patient, a terribly burned pilot, in the ruins of an Italian villa during the last days of the war. Winner of nine Academy Awards, including best picture and best director. Tissue alert: have lots of it. Ralph Fiennes, Kristen Scott-Thomas and Juliette Binoche star as the count, the wife, and the nurse, respectively.

11. Last of the Mohicans (1992)
There have been at least eight versions of James Fenimore Cooper’s story. This is the last one to date and features bloody action, sweet romance, gorgeous scenery and a wonderful soundtrack. As such, it’s a great couple flick, with something for everyone. Set during the Seven Years’ War (aka the French-Indian War) between France and England, the lives of the Munro sisters and the men guiding them to their father’s fort fatefully entwine. The siege at Fort William Henry is a marvel, likewise Daniel Day-Lewis, who got into excellent shape for his role as Nathanial. Madeleine Stowe (whatever happened to her?) plays Cora Munro, who finds strength she never knew she had to protect her sister and choose love where she wants.

The final part of my Top Romance Movie Couples will continue. Until then, happy movie viewing!