Top 5 films for a non‑traditional Valentine's Day: breaking away from cliche romance

First on the list is "Good Strangers", a recent release that puts Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal at centre stage. The storyline progresses slowly, with the beauty of the film residing in its striking cinematography and magnetic acting. The narrative cleverly blends reality and illusion, creating an uncertainty of what's real and what isn't. Whilst a romantic-physical relationship does evolve between the characters, it's far from stereotypical romance. Instead, the storyline explores grief, subtly accentuated by the moving "Power of Love" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood. "Good Strangers" is sure to take the edge off any unrealistic romantic expectations.

"No Offense", starring Jennifer Lawrence, brings a light-hearted choice to this list. This comedy juggles romantic comedy clichés in a fun and engaging way (available on HBO Max). The plot revolves around a paid-for relationship between a shy rich boy and Maddie, delicately sprinkling moments of slapstick humour throughout. It's not a film where you're hoping for the relationship to survive. Instead, it skilfully presents a humorous and fun-filled narrative for everyone to enjoy.

Park Chan-Wook's film "The Handmaiden" stands out as the most erotic of the selection thus far. But does it leave you with a romantic flutter? This Korean production expertly marries themes of physicality, revenge, and mystery in a dramatic three-act play lasting for almost 2.5 hours. The film exposes a sinister world of pain, betrayal, and desire, making it a spellbinding anti-Valentine's choice.

"Dead Poets Society", despite being an old classic starring Robin Williams, doesn't immediately come to mind as a Valentine's Day film. Yet with Taylor Swift's newly announced album, "The Tortured Poets Department", drawing inspiration from its title, it's a fitting choice for this unconventional list. Whether it's your first time watching or a long-awaited revisit, this intense academy-themed work makes for an intriguing pick.

Finally, "Lighthouse", directed by Robert Eggers, defines an anti-Valentine's film. In striking black and white, with only two actors in an unusual format, it's not your typical viewing experience. It delves deep into odious masculinity, solitude, intoxication, and mythological metaphors set in limited locations. Certainly a film that doesn't nurture romantic feelings...or does it?