Top 10 Movie Couples With the Best Banter

Conversations between couples can be downright unpleasant at times, yet hilarious to watch as well. That’s the case in this romantic comedy following a woefully incompatible pair played by Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae. When Leilani and Jibran get caught up in a bitter argument that culminates in a break-up, their vehicle is commandeered by a murderer. While setting out to clear their names, the lovers gradually overcome their bickering ways. The pair’s incredible comedic chemistry is clearly visible from the start [Jibran and Leilani fight in the opening scene]. But throughout the film, their silly responses to stressful situations - and clever digs at one another - make them an absolute joy to watch.

Reconnecting with an old flame is almost always a bittersweet occasion. In this romantic drama, this encounter takes the form of a truly fascinating — and long — conversation. Two unnamed singles run into one another at a wedding. However, we slowly learn that they’re actually ex-spouses who have moved on to new relationships. Throughout their flirty back-and-forth, the pair discuss how their lives have changed, and go on a trip down memory lane. They only spend one night together, but we see a lifetime’s worth of sparks fly. While things get surprisingly deep, there’s always an undercurrent of wit or humor. With naturalistic performances and meaningful meditations on life’s unexpected twists, this film is as thoughtful as it is entertaining.

Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin’s signature witty dialogue takes center stage in this romantic dramedy directed by Rob Reiner. Michael Douglas stars as a widowed U.S. president who gets romantically involved with an environmental lobbyist - despite the political risks it entails. The couple encounters numerous obstacles, including the stature of his position and their conflicting visions for change. Yet their conversations are consistently sharp. Whether they’re discussing climate change or intimacy, this highly intelligent duo’s sparring is always riveting. Granted, their relationship follows a classic rom-com trajectory, but their truly one-of-a-kind dynamic makes them stand out.

The Coen brothers aren’t necessarily known for making films that sizzle with sexual tension. But this romantic comedy is definitely a major exception. George Clooney stars as a hotshot lawyer named Miles, who has patented a famously effective prenup agreement. Meanwhile, Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Marylin is a swindler in a predatory marriage. Throughout the course of the film, the two go head-to-head in a complicated game of cat-and-mouse. While their interests often diverge, their attraction only grows - and their chemistry is downright electric. As such, we get to see the pair simultaneously flirt and attempt to outsmart each other. The duo’s relationship takes on many different forms, but their verbal one-upmanship is always a treat to watch.

It’s no secret that Shakespeare’s plays typically contain lots of clever dialogue. Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of this classic comedy understands that, and perfectly captures the haters-to-lovers trajectory of Benedick and Beatrice’s relationship. When the nobleman visits Messina as part of Don Pedro’s court, he encounters the Governor’s niece. Their mutual scorn is obvious, as they exchange burns and barbs in front of a cackling audience. But even once they’re persuaded by their friends to fall in love, their dialogue retains its witty spark. Translating such iconic literary banter to the screen is daunting, to say the least. Yet Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh make it look easy.

This cerebral sci-fi dramedy tells the story of a complicated romantic relationship through a nonlinear narrative. When Clementine forgets Joel - literally - he decides to do the same. As he removes all traces of her from his memories, though, he re-experiences important moments in their history. Thankfully, we see the couple’s story play out in the process. And during a chance encounter where neither remembers the other, their chemistry is still off the charts. Joel’s awkward and quiet nature is the perfect foil for Clementine’s off-the-cuff humor. Their conversations, whether real or in Joe’s head, are always enthralling to watch.

This romantic drama from director Richard Linklater is the first in his three-part “Before” series. When American tourist Jesse meets a student named Céline on a train departing Budapest, the pair strike a connection… and she decides to get off the train with him in Vienna. Meandering but meaningful conversation follows, with them wandering around the city, recounting past experiences and engaging in verbal roleplay. Co-stars Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy actually contributed numerous rewrites to this script and it paid off, as the couple’s growing relationship is utterly convincing. The actors’ masterful handling of the dialogue bolsters the characters’ back-and-forth, which is understated and thought-provoking all at the same time.

It should come as no surprise that an adaptation of this classic Jane Austen novel is chock-full of charm and wit. This 2005 film finds protagonist Elizabeth gradually falling for her stuck-up acquaintance Mr. Darcy, and it’s truly satisfying to witness. The pair aren’t exactly fond of one another when they first meet, which makes for an amusing battle of words. But things get even more verbally charged after Elizabeth learns that Darcy has been speaking ill of her family. Yet through every stage of the pair’s relationship, their jabs, passive-aggressive comments, and elaborate confessions are aptly timed and endlessly entertaining.

This 1999 romantic comedy was incredibly successful upon release. We’d say the irresistible rapport between its central couple had a little something to do with that. Hugh Grant plays Will, a bookstore owner in the titular London neighborhood. When he gets a visit from a Hollywood superstar named Anna, played by Julia Roberts, everything changes. His nervous chatter is both painfully awkward and deeply endearing, and it perfectly plays off her guarded-but-bold demeanor. Their relationship spans many months, and they go through their share of rejections, betrayals, and intimate moments. But their conversations, whether charmingly bumbling or downright soul-baring, are always riveting.

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

Loretta Castorini & Ronny Cammareri, “Moonstruck” (1987)
There’s No Shortage of Hilarious Lines in This Film Where Cher & Nicolas Cage Play New Yorkers Having an Affair

Erica Barry & Harry Sanborn, “Something’s Gotta Give” (2003)
It’s Clear that This Couple Is More Than a Match For Each Other

Alyssa Jones & Holden McNeil, “Chasing Amy” (1997)
Some Interesting Conversations Take Place When a Lesbian & A Straight Man Fall For Each Other

Kathleen Kelly & Joe Fox, “You’ve Got Mail” (1998)
They’re Online-Dating, IRL Business Rivals, and Always Charming

When it comes to movies with good conversation, few come close to this rom-com from screenwriter Nora Ephron. After graduating from college, Harry and Sally trade barbs during their drive from Chicago to New York City. Tackling topics like whether men and women can be friends with no romantic interference, the two disagree and bother each other to no end — and it’s great. Just as important, however, are the talks they have as they run into each other over the next twelve years. With their dialogue shedding a humorous light on intimacy and relationships, the couple shares some truly iconic moments. Ephron was a master of romantic banter, and this duo is definitely among her finest creations.