I’ve been on a real romance kick recently, in films, tv and audiobooks, going back to some old favourites that really make me smile. I love love, and though I read plenty of worthy literary tomes, sometimes the only thing that will do is an hour or so of mild emotional threat which culminates in that crucial, comfort-giving, happy ending.

My mental rolodex of these is pretty limited though, because so many don’t stand up to the test of time - ie they feature 2-dimensional women merely as a pretty foil to the real star, The Rugged Rich Man.

So I can’t tell you how delighted I was to see this book pop up on NetGalley. I recognised the illustration style immediately from years of following Lily O’Farrell (@vulgadrawings), then was drawn in by the premise.

I Love Romcoms And I Am A Feminist takes a ride through the last several decades of films that shifted perspectives, broke taboos, and started conversations while centring women in all our complex messy wonder. Each page summarises a romcom, explains the key themes, and talks about the impact that the film had. It’s all beautifully enhanced by Lily’s brilliant illustrations - sometimes with wee easter egg nods to the films.

Ideal present for the film-lover in your life

Antrobus is a film journalist and the founder of The Bechdel Test Fest - so she really knows her onions, and I found the information she provides about the context in which the films were made and originally viewed really helpful in understanding why some of the films were featured, even when modern audiences may sniff at certain characters or portrayals.

Each page concludes with recommendations for three other films with a similar vibe, and I had to start a new Note on my phone as I discovered more and more that sounded right up my street. I was really chuffed to see one of my own personal favourites featured - Bend It Like Beckham, which introduced me to women’s football culture in a way that still features in my life today. Jess 4eva.

From When Harry Met Sally, via Ten Things I Hate About You, to Muriel’s Wedding, and dozens of others less well known, if you have ever enjoyed a romcom you’ll find something in here that’s for you. This would also be a great gift for your movie-loving bestie, relative, or teacher - or even your partner, to help build a list of date-night films you’ll actually enjoy watching together.

Thank you to White Lion Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book will be released on August 29th 2024.