The question we're all asking each other isn't if we've watched One Day all the way through yet, but if we've all survived it.
The Netflix TV adaptation of the beloved bestselling novel by David Nicholls is sweet, sentimental, nostalgic. It follows the story of Dexter and Emma (played by Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod), who meet just after their graduation and begin an almost-always enduring friendship alongside an agonising will-they-or-won't they romance.
Fans can't get enough, and the emotions you feel by the end (and while watching) are undeniable.
As One Day drops on Netflix, she talks representation in rom-coms and the sticky subject of privilege.
Instead of spoiling the plot for the uninitiated, GLAMOUR is here to recommend two more absolutely essential love stories to stream this week if you're reeling from finishing One Day or just can't get enough of the swoon-worthy storylines. Just in time for Valentine's Day.
Past Lives
Dropping on Netflix this week on Thursday 15 February, Past Lives is without a doubt one of the best cinematic releases of 2023 (and was totally snubbed at the Oscar nominations, but that's another story).
Starring Greta Lee and Teo Yoo, directed by Celine Song, Past Lives tells the story of two kindred spirits Nora (Lee) and Hae Sung (Teo Yoo). They grow up together, but are ripped apart when Nora emigrates to the US. Years later, they reconnect in New York when Hae Sung visits, causing Nora to reconsider her connection to her heritage, her American husband and the person she left behind all those years ago.
While a star-crossed lovers story for sure, but Past Lives is much more than that. It navigates how immigrants feel about their identity, the “sliding doors” effect of our decisions and how love can manifest in myriad ways. Watch it.
Alice & Jack
The parallels between Alice & Jack and One Day are undeniable. Domhnall Gleeson (About Time) and Andrea Riseborough play two people who meet for one night and forge a strong connection. As ever, they struggle to find their way back together after certain events push them apart. We can feel the yearning already.
Channel 4's plot synopsis reads: “When Alice and Jack first meet they’re bound by a connection so powerful it seems nothing can break it, but will their path lead them to a place of happiness and togetherness? Or will life and their own emotional complexities get in the way?”
The supporting cast is also something to get excited about: both Sex Education's Aimee Lou Wood and Irish comedian/screenwriter Aisling Bea will also appear in Alice & Jack, helping to tell the story of another couple of angsty would-be soulmates. We are so there.
Alice & Jack will premiere on Channel 4 on Wednesday 14 February.
