Movies that make me love my single life

I’ve lived alone for so long that I recently started booking my own hotel room—even when I’m traveling with friends or family. I know, solitude is shamelessly addictive: all that empty space suddenly starts to caress you (especially if you’re claustrophobic) and whisper tender words; you get used to doing everything your own way, stretching into every square meter, and breathing freely. “All that’s missing is a dog,” my best friend says sarcastically. To be clear, solitude shouldn’t be idealized—it can easily slip into loneliness. Our innate need for closeness and love is insatiable and shouldn’t be suppressed. On the other hand, it can be the most precious time to devote ourselves to our dreams, interests, and goals—to shape our lifestyle by our own rules and become who we’ve always wanted to be. Focused and undisturbed (which especially matters to those of us who fall in love fatally).

The holiday season is approaching, and we all know that at the heart of most feel-good movies lies the familiar message that romantic love is the ultimate goal and the key to happiness. But where are the films that make us feel good about being single—the ones that remind us that independence can be just as fun, freeing, and fulfilling? Last weekend, I rewatched the cult classic The First Wives Club (1996) and put together a list of films for those nights when we decide to stay home alone.

The Women (1939)

It all begins with gossip, intrigue, and rivalry—but The Women is so much more than that. At first, its characters are defined through the men in their lives, through marriage and social status, but they soon discover that real strength and happiness come from within—from self-confidence and mutual support. As the story unfolds, the film reveals something deeper: empowerment lies in women recognizing their own worth, supporting one another, and breaking free from false social expectations. George Cukor created a comedy-drama that was revolutionary for its time: the entire cast is female (yes, not a single man appears on screen), and the witty, sharp dialogue gives the film a truly distinctive tone

How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)

At first glance, this romantic comedy follows three young women who devise a plan to marry wealthy men—but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the real discovery isn’t about money at all, but about finding one’s own worth. Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, and Betty Grable embark on a journey of glamour, fun, and romance, filled with humor and moments that test their wit and adaptability. The film blends the charm, fashion, and dreamy allure of the 1950s with timeless themes of self-discovery, independence, and staying true to what you truly want in life.

The First Wives Club (1996)

Revenge is sweet—but transformation is even sweeter. Three friends, played by Goldie Hawn, Diane Keaton, and Bette Midler, reunite at the funeral of a mutual friend and realize that their husbands have all left them for younger women. Joining forces, they form The First Wives Club—a space where they support one another, plot bold and hilarious acts of revenge, and slowly reclaim control over their own lives. Through laughter, unexpected encounters, and shared adventures, their friendship deepens as they rediscover strength, confidence, and joy in their newfound freedom. Instead of a trailer, I’ll just leave my favorite final scene.

Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001)

Bridget Jones isn’t perfect—just like the rest of us—and that’s exactly why we love her. Trying to juggle work, friendships, and relationships, she stumbles, makes mistakes, and laughs at her own insecurities, while her diary becomes a space for recording her thoughts, plans, and small victories. Balancing a demanding boss, unpredictable friends, and messy love affairs, Bridget realizes that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. In the end, it doesn’t even matter who she ends up with—Bridget learns that being single isn’t a problem to solve, but an opportunity to love, accept, and celebrate herself, flaws and all, with humor, honesty, and the warmth that makes her unforgettable.

Legally Blonde (2001)

What happens when the world underestimates our intelligence just because we wear pink and high heels? This early-2000s cult comedy gave us not only countless unforgettable pop-culture quotes, but also a message about confidence and pushing beyond one’s own limits—in the most entertaining way possible. While enrolling in Harvard Law School to win back her ex, Elle discovers her own strength, intelligence, and inner worth—and wins everyone’s hearts in the process. It’s the perfect pick for a single weekend night, complete with a beauty mask and a glass of prosecco.

Eat Pray Love (2010)

After a painful divorce and losing her sense of purpose in everyday life, Elizabeth Gilbert (Julia Roberts) decides to embark on a journey of self-discovery—something most of us contemplate in our thirties. In Rome, she finds joy in simple pleasures and food that nourishes both body and soul; in an ashram in India, she learns to find inner peace through meditation and discipline; and in Bali, she encounters love and connection that ground her. The film reminds us that true happiness comes from reconnecting with ourselves and the world around us—and that each of us can find our own path.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

What happens when two women say “enough” and take the road that leads far from everyday limitations? The story follows Thelma and Louise, two friends who set out on what seems like a harmless weekend drive to escape the dullness of their daily lives—only to find themselves in a series of unpredictable and dangerous situations. What begins with a sense of frustration and confinement quickly turns into a liberating journey of friendship, self-discovery, and rebellion against social constraints. Ridley Scott’s feminist classic shows that freedom isn’t just about escaping the world—it’s about having the courage to live by your own rules

How to Be Single (2016)

New York is a city of endless possibilities, and the lives of single women are full of adventures, mistakes, and revelations. Alice, Lucy, Meg, and Robin each find their own ways to love, lose, laugh, and learn about themselves while balancing romance, career, nightlife, and a sense of independence. Through humor, honesty, and unexpected twists, the film reminds us that being single isn’t a problem to be “solved,” but a life phase to explore, enjoy, and use to discover our own strength.

La La Land (2016)

Under the bright lights of Los Angeles, Mia and Sebastian struggle to balance their dreams with reality, as love and ambition dance together in a perfectly orchestrated symphony of color, music, and emotion. The film captures both the joy and the pain of creation—the difficulty of following one’s passion in a world that constantly demands compromise, and the fleeting beauty of moments when dreams and love briefly intertwine. Damien Chazelle blends music, dance, and cinematic magic to show how self-belief, perseverance, and the courage to take risks shape both life and art, leaving us with a bittersweet smile and an unforgettable sense of nostalgia.

Frances Ha (2012)

It may not fall into the feel-good category, but it’s a film every single woman can relate to. Frances dances through life—sometimes clumsily, but always wholeheartedly. When her best friend Sophie decides to move out, Frances is confronted with feelings of loss and uncertainty, but also with the opportunity to discover who she is and what she truly wants. Through awkward encounters, improvised dance rehearsals, and small everyday struggles, she learns that growth comes from embracing one’s imperfections and having the courage to keep moving forward. With its black-and-white cinematography, introspective tone, and jazz soundtrack, Noah Baumbach has created a quiet masterpiece

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

A million girls would kill for this job. This cult fashion film—which is soon getting a sequel (we’re already excited after seeing the first glimpses during Paris Fashion Week)—was our window into the world of fashion: inspiring, glamorous, and at times merciless, making it one of the most authentic portrayals of working in the industry. Starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, it remains one of my favorite guilty pleasure movies to lift the mood—and a perfect excuse, like Andy, for not always having the time to maintain long-term relationships.