Top 10 Most Parodied Romantic Movie Moments

“Spider-Man” (2002)
There are many memorable movie kisses, but maybe none as unique as this one. Tobey Maguire’s Peter Parker first locks lips with Mary Jane after his alter-ego rescues her from an attempted attack. She’s curious about the man behind the mask, but he’s determined to keep his true identity hidden. Their compromise results in one of the most iconic movie moments of the 2000s. As Spider-Man hangs upside-down, MJ rolls down the mask and they share a kiss in the rain. The scene was a natural target for parody and has been spoofed many times, including at the 2003 MTV Movie Awards.

“From Here to Eternity” (1953)
Two years after the release of this romantic drama, the movie’s most famous scene was already the subject of parody. “The Seven Year Itch” recreated the interlude on the beach in a dream sequence. It has also been spoofed in comedies like “Airplane!” and referenced in “Shrek 2.” However, when the original debuted, it was considered very risque. It was allegedly actor Burt Lancaster who suggested lying down in the waves rather than standing up to kiss, flying in the face of restrictive movie censors. Over seventy years on, the scene is still considered one of cinema’s steamiest moments.

“Twilight” (2008)


Hold on tight, spider monkeys. “Twilight” was a massive cultural phenomenon with fans around the globe. But the scene in the forest, where Edward first reveals he’s a vampire, will be familiar even to non-fans. It’s chock full of quotable lines and memorable images. Edward confirms his vampiric nature to Bella, before taking her to see for herself. However, her reaction to his sparkly skin isn’t fear or evulsion, but awe. Is it strictly romantic? No. It may be corny, but it's pure cinema. We believe in the acting talents of Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart — but maybe not in this scene in particular. But it sure does stick with you.

“Notting Hill” (1999)
Richard Curtis rom-coms are full of moments just begging to be parodied. Even if you’ve never seen “Notting Hill,” you’ve probably heard the movie’s most famous line referenced by a TV character or two. Hugh Grant’s hapless bookshop owner, William Thacker, has already had his heart broken by movie star Anna Scott when Julia Roberts delivers that immortal line in an attempt to win him back. It’s cheesy, but it’s the vulnerability shown by the previously guarded character that makes the moment so winning. When William echoes back Anna’s words to a room of his disbelieving friends, it's obvious to everyone that he’d be crazy to let her go.

“Casablanca” (1942)
Loved and admired for generations, “Casablanca” is a certified classic. It seems like the movie has more quotable lines than forgettable ones. “We’ll always have Paris,” “Play it, Sam,” “Of all the gin joints…” we could go on. However, the movie’s most famous quote is the oft repeated toast originally spoken by Humphrey Bogart’s Rick Blaine. It had even become popular by the time the film was being honored at the Academy Awards, as fervent fans shouted the line at Bogart as he exited his car to enter the ceremony. With that kind of immediate power, we’re not surprised it’s been echoed in so many forms.

“Titanic” (1997)
More than one scene in “Titanic” is ripe for parody. Comedians have had a field day with this one, whether they’re asking to be painted like one of Jack’s French girls or shouting that they’re king of the world. It’s a testament to the movie’s love story that the film’s most striking image is not of the sinking ship, but of Jack and Rose standing at the prow. The sunset is blazing behind them and “My Heart Will Go On” plays in the background. We’ve seen it mocked many times, but it’s still a beautiful scene.

“Dirty Dancing” (1987)
This move has become so embedded into popular culture that ‘the lift’ has made appearances at weddings all over the world. And it’s not an easy thing to attempt. The big finale of this enduringly popular eighties movie sees Baby finally get her time to shine. After uttering his equally legendary line, Johnny pulls Baby up onto the stage where they show off the routine they’ve been practising all summer. She’s held aloft by Johnny in a feel-good finale that’s memorable for all the right reasons.

“Love Actually” (2003)
Whether you think it’s romantic or just plain creepy, we can probably all agree that the “Love Actually” cards scene is a standout movie moment. The best thing about this sequence is how easily it can be adapted into a spoof. You can put anything you like on those cards — it’s a very transferable joke. In the original, Andrew Lincoln’s Mark is secretly confessing his love for his best friend’s wife, while the said best friend remains oblivious to the whole bit. It’s okay though, because it’s not like he’s planning to act on his feelings. Or so he says, anyway.


Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Love_Actually

“Ghost” (1990)
Back in 1990, the movie “Ghost” made pottery sexy with the help of Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and The Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody.” Moore’s Molly is working at her wheel when she’s joined by her husband, Sam. The romantic moment is part of our introduction to the couple and reveals the love and affection between them. There’s also a callback to the scene later in the movie, when the couple hear their song play and are reminded of the moment. The scene has been the subject of pastiche in a number of TV shows, comedy sketches, and some pretty interesting commercials.

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

In a Movie Full of Iconic Lines, This One Is Often Imitated

The Kissing in the Rain Trope Really Peaked Here

We Love a Playful Homage to This Bella Notte Moment

When It Comes to Romantic Quotes, This One’s a Modern Classic

“Say Anything...” (1989)
Even if you prefer other eighties teen movies like “Pretty in Pink,” “The Breakfast Club,” or “Sixteen Candles,” you probably know this scene. This film starring John Cusack is arguably the most romantic of the lot. Cusack’s slacker, Lloyd Dobler, wins the heart of class valedictorian, Diane Court. But when things start to go wrong for them, he needs to make a statement in order to get her back. Standing outside Diane’s bedroom window armed with a boombox and a Peter Gabriel song, Lloyd shows that he’s willing to risk his pride to prove his love. The memorable proclamation has been parodied more times than we can count.


Which romantic movie moment do you think is the most iconic? Share your favorites in the comments!