5 Most Lovable & 5 Most Hateable Characters in Rom-Coms

5 Most Lovable & 5 Most Hateable Characters in Rom-Coms

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for characters from romantic comedies we love, and those we can’t stand. Beware of spoilers!

#5: Lovable: Tai Frasier
“Clueless” (1995)

Played by Brittany Murphy, Tai Frasier is one of many standout characters in this ‘90s classic. It’s also one of the actress’ breakout roles, and for good reason. She plays the transfer student with a quirky energy that’s nothing short of relatable. Whether or not you have the same personality, anyone can identify with her attempts to fit in with a new crowd. It’s not easy, and she’s not perfect, but she navigates it in a real and raw way. Moreover, Murphy’s bubbliness makes Frasier an essential part of the incredible ensemble. Funny and lovable, she’s a friend we all wish we could have.

#5: Hateable: Benjamin Braddock
“The Graduate” (1967)

This might be a controversial choice, but Ben Braddock doesn’t exactly make for a terrific person. All of his goofy and endearing moments are overpowered by selfishness. Lost after graduation, Braddock starts an affair with Mrs. Robinson. He sleep walks through life until falling for his lover’s daughter Elaine. Just when you think he can’t get any worse, he stalks the younger woman before interrupting her wedding. He’s not exactly a knight in shining armor when you reconsider his actions. While he might have a rebellious spirit, the college graduate doesn’t seem to consider how his decisions affect others. The ending shot underscores this as the lead boards a bus with his supposed love without realizing that he might be in the wrong.

#4: Lovable: Sandy Lyle
“Along Came Polly” (2004)

Philip Seymour Hoffman never gave anything less than one-hundred percent. “Along Came Polly” is a perfect example of his versatility, as he provides some of the rom-com’s funniest moments. Sandy is an actor that lives life to the fullest. He can even turn a simple hang out at a basketball court into something memorable. There’s multiple points in the story where we wish the hilarious friend could take over the film. Indeed, Hoffman both parodies his profession and becomes the perfect counterpoint to Ben Stiller’s hero. You might not remember the main plot of “Along Came Polly,” but you’ll definitely love this side character upon rewatch.

#4: Hateable: Joey Donner
“10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)

It’s fair to say that the rich kids in high school movies are often villains. If they’re anything like Joey Donner, they’re unequivocally the most loathsome character. He’s nothing short of a vapid teenager that’s mostly concerned with his own looks. When he’s not being narcissistic, Donner only chases and manipulates girls. He’s totally fine with paying Patrick to go out with Kat in order to date the latter’s younger sister. Oh, and did we mention he also dated and mistreated Kat before the events of the movie? The only silver-lining might be that you can laugh at him for being so self-centered. While there may be other flawed characters in “10 Things I Hate About You,” he’s the least redeemable of them all.

#3: Lovable: Philip F. “Duckie” Dale
“Pretty in Pink” (1986)

Jon Cryer’s performance as this sidekick is a quintessential part of what makes “Pretty in Pink” so iconic. He’s constantly wearing his heart on his sleeve, while also making us laugh. The eccentric Duckie is clearly in love with Andie, and is willing to protect her at all costs. He might be a little much sometimes, but his kind heart outweighs any flaws. There’s also his trademark outfits that make him something of a style guru we can’t ignore. He might not end up with the girl, but he shows us that he’ll be a friend for life. Cryer’s honest portrayal still tugs at our heartstrings all these years later.

#3: Hateable: Mike Chadway
“The Ugly Truth” (2009)

In this critically-derided film, TV producer Abby Richter becomes rivals with host Mike Chadway. The latter character specializes in relationship advice, but he just caters to stereotypical male wants. Gerard Butler brings this annoying character to life, having him poke and prod the heroine with his every controversial thought. He doesn’t seem to really care how his ideas might rightfully infuriate women like Richter. Yet by the end, Mike somehow turns into Mr. Right and falls for Abby. Even the rom-com logic seems off here. We’re not sure if we’d want this guy anywhere near us after half of the stunts he pulled.

#2: Lovable: Annie Hall
“Annie Hall” (1977)

Winning an Oscar for her performance, Diane Keaton absolutely steals the show as the title character in “Annie Hall.” She’s quirky, authentic, and funny at the same time. Keaton gives the character added nuances that separate her from the typical romantic comedy heroine. She’s relatable enough that we can empathize with her, but also flawed in a realistic way. Her three-dimensional presence grounds the entire story. She’s also a great match for Alvy Singer, both pushing him further and fully able to compete with him. It arguably raised the bar for female roles in the genre.

#2: Hateable: Sack Lodge
“Wedding Crashers” (2005)

Long before the days of “The Hangover” or “A Star Is Born,” Bradley Cooper played this jerk in “Wedding Crashers.” It shows his range as an actor that he can play such a scummy guy. As Claire’s macho partner, Sack Lodge is among the worst boyfriends in recent movie history. He’s dishonest, aggressive, and violent when he wants to be. Regardless of how you feel about John’s behavior, you want him to save the day just to watch Lodge lose. Cooper’s hyper performance takes the attitude to the next level, giving us a despicable villain to root against.

Before we unveil our top picks, here are a few honorable mentions.

Hateable: Steff McKee, “Pretty in Pink” (1986)
The Preppy Villain Who Embodies the Worst Memories of High School

Lovable: Ronny Cammareri, “Moonstruck” (1987)
Nicolas Cage Goes All Out Playing This Exuberant & Unexpected Love Interest

Hateable: Katharine Parker, “Working Girl” (1988)
A Corporate Villain with a Calm & Calculated Presence

#1: Lovable: Amélie Poulain
“Amélie” (2001)

Through the power of good deeds, the heroine of this story becomes nothing short of lovable. Amélie is a waitress who’s compelled to help others. She does everything from returning a sentimental box to matchmaking, and these simple acts show how much every day kindness can make an impact. Audrey Tautou brings a joyful presence to every scene. Not only that, she taps into such a genuine and human quality within the character. Tautou endears us so much to the role that we’re also invested in the protagonist’s eventual romantic adventures. Helping to make this feel good movie into a magic experience, Amélie makes you want to be a better person by the end.

#1: Hateable: Mr. Yunioshi
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961)

For this classic comedy, Mickey Rooney was cast to play Holly Golightly’s landlord Mr. Yunioshi. Unfortunately, the entire character is a racist caricature of Japanese culture played by a white actor. The performance doesn’t do the problematic role any favors, being both offensive and over-the-top. It’s even more unfortunate to know that this wasn’t exactly rare in older Hollywood films. While the part could’ve been rewritten or recast, it’s hard to justify its existence at all. The character doesn’t necessarily matter for the larger story and mainly exists as a poor attempt at comic relief. Through everything from his appearance to his voice, Yunioshi’s presence is a negative aspect of an otherwise iconic movie.

Did we forget another lovable or hateable rom-com character? Let us know in the comments below.