As Valentine’s Day draws near, there’s no better way to celebrate love than with the perfect selection of films. For Anna Silverman, an actress with a passion for the depth and beauty of love stories, the right movie is an invitation into a world of romance, heartache, and the delicate dance of human connection. Below, Anna shares her personal picks—five films that have inspired her vision of love, each one offering something unique for your heart this Valentine’s Day.
1. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
When you think of romance, Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly comes to mind—carefree yet complex, charming yet longing. Breakfast at Tiffany’s is a film that captures love as an intricate blend of hope and loneliness. “Holly taught me that love isn’t just about romance but also about self-discovery and vulnerability,” Anna says. Set against the iconic backdrop of New York City, it’s a timeless reminder that love often begins when you let go of expectations and embrace the unpredictable journey of the heart.
2. The Notebook (2004)
There’s a reason The Notebook is a favorite for so many—it’s raw, it’s passionate, and it’s undeniably real. Anna reflects on the story of Noah and Allie: “Their love shows us that love isn’t just about finding someone who fits perfectly into our lives; it’s about fighting for them even when life wants to pull you apart.” The powerful commitment shown in this film resonates deeply, teaching us that true love is not just found, it’s chosen—again and again.
3. La La Land (2016)
For Anna, La La Land is more than just a musical; it’s a meditation on dreams and love. “The beauty of La La Land lies in its complexity—love and passion aren’t always enough to keep two people together. Sometimes, the hardest thing is letting go, even when your hearts still beat for each other.” The heartbreak in Mia and Sebastian’s story lingers long after the final note. This film is for anyone who’s ever struggled to balance their dreams with the relationships they cherish, and for those who understand that love sometimes means walking different paths.
4. Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Jane Austen’s classic tale is the epitome of slow-burning romance. Anna says, “Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are the ultimate symbol of how love can bloom from pride and misunderstandings. Their story reminds me that sometimes love is not just about the perfect match, but about mutual respect and understanding, especially when it seems impossible.” Pride and Prejudice is a reminder of how love often requires patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to break down walls—even when we think we know everything about someone.
5. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Finally, Anna reflects on a film that is equal parts heart-wrenching and mind-bending. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind takes us through the chaos of erasing memories of a past lover, asking the question: Can you ever truly forget someone you loved? “This movie speaks to the messy side of love,” Anna shares. “It’s not always easy or neat, but even in heartbreak, we find beauty. The film teaches me that love is an intricate dance between loss and discovery, and sometimes we need to go through pain to realize how much something—or someone—meant.”
