Confessions of a Closet Romantic
Poppy
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Welcome to Confessions of a Closet Romantic, a sweet and sexy break in your day, where I curate the best romantic TV shows, romcoms, movies and sometimes books on a different theme each episode for your romantic pleasure.
I'm a writer and former film student, and I've loved romance all my life — those optimistic yet dramatic stories about sex, relationship, connection and love. I've always felt a bit ashamed about loving it so much... not anymore! Join me as I talk about my own experiences in romance while gathering clips and gushing over romantic movies and shows on all sorts of topics: from the romance of surfer culture, kink in romance and the popular friends-to-lovers trope, to groundbreaking modern adaptations of swoon-worthy classic novels. You'll learn about a lot about yourself and your deepest desires while falling in love with romantic stories, so every two weeks, I'll be your wildly enthusiastic companion to the wide variety of hopeful, compelling and sexy stories that this genre has to offer.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
6 days ago
Quick Look: the Trope-y Romcom Goodness of Love at First Sight
I'm not a snob when to comes to romantic tropes. I don't discriminate: the more outlandish the better, and I love them all. Every beat might be as familiar as the back of my hand, but my attitude is: bring it on again. It's even better when there are little refreshing updates to beloved romcom plots, like in the new Netflix movie Love at First Sight. This unimaginative title promises the most smarmy movie experience ever, but it turns out to be a tender, warmhearted, romantic story about different kinds of love, fate, and the bravery it takes to embrace it all.
(I tried to make this episode spoiler-free, but if you're good at picking up clues, you might want to watch the movie first).
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
For once a really good trailer that communicates the fun and irresistible romance of this movie but doesn't hint at the emotional plot points at the center of the story. Gold stars all around.
And for those who appreciate a really good spoiler synopsis (whoops, Oliver didn't miss his flight, Hadley joined him on his —insert googly heart eyes here in place of my brain).
The script is co-written by Jennifer E. Smith, based on her YA romance The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight. The entire cast is delightful.
I certainly don't agree with all opinions in this movie review, but one thing I do agree with: Haley Lu Richardson needs to star in more romcoms.
"Do people really meet and in moments simply know they're meant to be? New evidence suggests: Yes, they do." Psychology Today on the phenomenon of love at first sight.Support the show
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Sep 7, 2023
Romantic, Painterly Psychological Thrillers: The Essex Serpent/The Beguiled
Is it Halloween yet? If it's getting cooler where you live, too, let's brew some tea or pour some hot chocolate or hot cider and snuggle on the sofa with two of the most atmospheric, painterly, creepy yet oddly feminist and romantic movies I've ever seen. CW: brief references to marital physical abuse and graphic 19th century medical techniques.
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A ghostly figure, an escapee from the local asylum, a forced marriage to a violent lunatic, and an intrepid woman who insists on wearing trousers while she's solving the mysteries: this creepy limited series, based on the classic 19th century novel by Wilkie Collins, has it all. If you're into romantic suspense, don't miss The Woman in White. The 1948 version is a delicious, edge of your seat creepfest as well.
Oh this trailer for The Essex Serpent makes me want to start watching it all over again. Look at those mysterious, gorgeous, painterly shots! The music is so eerie and evocative, too. It's based on the award winning, best-selling novel by Sarah Perry.
Watching the trailer for The Beguiled made me realize that Colonel McBurney comes into the house carried by the women, and leaves the house the same way. The Beguiled is full of luscious symbolism and gorgeous fairytale shots that lull you into a false sense of security, which only ratchets up the suspense.
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Aug 24, 2023
Love Bomb: You Hurt My Feelings
I'm a huge fan of the films of Nicole Holofcener, and her latest is another lo-fi, funny, thoughtful story for anybody who's ever tried to make a romantic, platonic, sibling or parental relationship thrive. Is it ever okay to tell a little white lie to the people we love to spare their feelings? When is it okay to fib a little? Do blunt honesty, the unvarnished truth, or our brilliant but unsolicited opinions make people feel appreciated and loved, or is the truth a little more complicated?
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The intense intimacy, affectionate humor and heartache of You Hurt My Feelings is a gorgeous emotional smorgasbord.
An interview with writer/director Nicole Holofcener (not "holofcenter," as I said in the episode :(.
"The problems at the center of “You Hurt My Feelings” may seem insignificant from the outside, but when they happen to you, they’re seismic." A fantastic review of the film by Christy Lemire.
So exactly how should we give constructive criticism to someone we love? Some actionable tips here. Julia Louis Dreyfus does a beautiful job of acting out emotional flooding in this movie.
In case you have an artistic friend or lover: Pixar's 7 essential steps to giving creative feedback.
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Aug 10, 2023
Surf's Up: the Sensual Romance of Surfing
Ever since I first saw 1959's Gidget rerun on TV, I thought surfing and beach culture looked like the most fun you could have all summer. I might be an outsider still but my surf crush continues with every surfing movie or documentary that comes along, and the crazy-sexy fictional or real-life characters who make riding multi-story ocean waves look like a beach picnic. How could you not fall in love?
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies
*
The one and only Gidget, the story of the "beach generation." Moondoggie's right: there is no next best thing to love!
For many, Point Break (1991) with Keanu Reeves is the ultimate rush — and surfing movie. I prefer the technically impressive 2015 remake: it's an irresistible band of brothers story with romance and a bunch of gorgeous, knuckleheaded, uber-talented adrenaline junkies who have you rooting for them from word go. The trailer alone gives me a stomachache!
"This is more than about surfing — it's about the choices you make in life." Chasing Mavericks is a feel-good story about found family, the roles we're sometimes given, and the passions that make all of us tick.
Supposedly, it's a "teen drama" set in a surfing town in Australia, which is why I even started watching Surviving Summer, but I got sucked right into the clever script, acting, editing and gorgeous production values.
Blue Crush is the ultimate summer surf-and-sand romantic drama.
*Documentaries
*The Endless Summer (1966) is the granddaddy of surfing documentaries, and it's totally groovy.
The "girl gang" in the new 4-part documentary Surf Girls: Hawaii are barely into their 20s and yet so impressive, wildly talented and completely awesome.
The sound design, pacing and incredible surfing skills and photography on display in the multi-part documentary 100 Foot Wave keep you on the edge of your seat.
One version of the Ozaki Eight based on the Point Break remake. It's definitely one way to "honor the power of the ocean." But I'll need to celebrate the ocean from the shore, on a beach blanket.
Find surfing oral histories, podcasts, virtual tours and more at the Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center online.
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Jul 27, 2023
Romance Replay: Year Round Holiday Magic: The Bishop's Wife
Summer is kicking my butt, and I desperately need to chill. Let's celebrate Christmas in July and enjoy a replay of one of my favorite episodes, about one of my favorite classic holiday movies: the romantic and spiritual The Bishop's Wife, starring my movie boyfriend, the dashing and debonair Cary Grant.
This story is the gift that keeps on giving: what if a gorgeous angel came down to earth to answer a bishop's prayers for guidance, giving him not what he wants, but what he needs, while falling in love with his earthly wife, making her feel appreciated, and charming the whole community as well? I can watch this movie at any time of year--it's always comforting, bringing back the coziest feelings of the chilly winter holiday season.Support the show
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Jul 13, 2023
Reunited in Love
It's almost reunion season — translated into stories, that theme seems to always include unrequited love and crushes, frustrated ambition, embarrassing attempts to impress, reliving lost youth, and shattered dreams. Some are dramedy, some straight-up drama, but reunion movies have one thing in common: characters whose pasts collide with the present in endlessly fascinating ways. And the plots nearly always involve a search for connection, romantic or otherwise.
CW: explicit descriptions of sex acts, references to suicide, adult themes
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*TV Show
*
How to describe the first season of the anthology show The AfterParty?! Take one part Colombo, a dash of Magnum PI, a jigger of the most charming and cynical British whodunit, more than a smidge of Knives Out, the hilarious, streetwise, no-BS attitude of Tiffany Haddish set against an afterparty hosted by a celebrity for their high-school reunion, and you've got it.
*Movies
*
The dancing in the kitchen! The deep affection! The musical beds! Reminisces and lost hope! The Big Chill captured a mood and a time, and the soundtrack and ensemble of gorgeous, talented actors was a big part of that.
"We can go to the reunion and just pretend to be successful!" Their simple plan goes gloriously haywire in Romy and Michele's High School Reunion. Personally, I think this movie has become a modern classic thanks to the deliciously sarcastic Janine Garofalo, the daffy performances of Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow as Romy and Michele, and this interpretive dance scene. The soundtrack is a perfect time capsule as well.
The Royal Tenenbaums isn't nearly as precocious and precious as Wes Anderson's later films (which I happen to love) and maybe he's an acquired taste. But the quirky intellectual Tenenbaum children are supposedly influenced by characters in JD Salinger novels, and that makes them fascinating to me. I wouldn't want a reunion with this family, but they sure are interesting to watch.
This Is Where I Leave You starts with infidelity and siblings reuniting to mourn the death of their father, but that that doesn't prevent them from thrashing and fighting their way through some absurd, emotional situations. The script is subtle and quietly funny, leaning on the excellent ensemble cast to bring it home, and do they ever.
It reminds me of another excellent reunion film, The Family Stone, which takes place at Christmas, with siblings trading partners —unexpectedly of course, for maximum dramady.
I'm so not the demographic for raunchy comedy like Zack and Miri Make a Porno but I laughed out loud throughout this movie. Elizabeth Banks and Seth Rogen do such a beautiful job of anchoring the amusingly outrageous friends to lovers plot in their affection, and eventual love, for each other.
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Jun 29, 2023
Quick Take: You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger
This minor Woody Allen film asks a really pertinent question for a romance podcast: do we fool ourselves by looking to the stars, horoscopes, psychics or fortune tellers to comfort and convince us that love is out there waiting for us? Or does this harmless belief in destiny help us survive a harsh and often cruel world? While possibly making us very annoying to friends and family? Gemma Jones is the sparkling center of this quietly humorous and often emotional movie about holding onto your own brand of spirituality and belief in unseen forces that just might influence your romantic future — as everyone else's romances crumble around you.
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As usual the trailer for You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger doesn't quite capture the playful, bright, sharp yet affectionate mood of this movie, and so much of that is due to its amazing actors.
"Experts say when accountability looks like individuals deciding whether they want to watch a movie or not, that isn't much justice at all." Excellent opinion piece on the complicated life of Woody Allen set against the cultural #metoo movement.
"I'm blue collar — I finish a movie, sit around for a couple of days, and think: what the hell am I doing? It's boring. And I start working on something else." Woody Allen answers reader questions for Time magazine.
A nice interview with Lucy Punch on developing the sex worker character Charmaine in the movie.
And finally, an interview with the amazing Gemma Jones on how she landed and developed her starring role — she was the emotional center in Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility, and she is very much the emotional center of this movie, too.Support the show
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Jun 15, 2023
LGBTQ Love: Supernova/The Prom
I'm taking a closer look at two emotional and exhilarating romantic LGBTQ love stories to celebrate Pride Month. These movies are very different in tone, but are equally heartwarming and visually exciting, with incredible performances. I laughed, I cried, I danced and sang along, and you can't ask for a better celebration than that.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Supernova has a quiet confidence that lulls you to its poignant, inevitable conclusion, but its melancholy sadness doesn't detract from the grace and beauty of its love story.
"We're from Broadway!" Enough said. An inclusive DIY prom hosted by Meryl Streep and an incredible cast with buckets of twinkle lights, rainbow tablecloths, and fabulous music and dancing? Who could resist? Here's your invitation to The Prom.
The Prom movie is top-notch frothy yet meaningful entertainment, from the direction and production to the music, lyrics, choreography and incredible performances. Here's more information on the writers, producers, full cast and crew of this impressive collaboration.
I can't get enough of this song.
Ariana DeBose has been making quite a name for herself on Broadway, too. She kicked off this year's Tony Awards with the most amazing, jaw-dropping opening performance.
Background on The Prom (the Broadway musical) with the story about the real student the movie and show are based on.Support the show
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Jun 1, 2023
Raunchy Medieval Romcom: The Little Hours
It's difficult to describe the tone of this bawdy, outrageously gigglesome medieval romcom: it's played straight, for laughs, while deeply subversive, satirical and quietly hilarious, just like its 14th century source material, The Decameron. The brilliant comic acting and directing maximize the satire, connecting ancient social norms with current religious, sexual and gender politics. The result is quietly magnificent. CW: kink and sex, religious satire
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Y'all! I cannot tell you how many times I've reread the Elizabeth Lowell medieval romance trilogy series. "Simon the Loyal has vowed never to love, for love makes a warrior weak..."
The Decameron, Vols. I & II (English translation) are available free as downloadable ebooks on Project Gutenberg.
Decameron Web, a project maintained by Brown University, is chock-full of interesting facts about the book and its text: its inspiration, the Italian culture surrounding author Giovanni Boccaccio, the motifs and themes of the allegory, and a fascinating look at sex and the clergy during medieval history.
This corny Virgin Territory trailer emphasizes the bawdy farce and clergy gone wild of this 2007 romcom, also based on The Decameron. It looks like a soft porno about the Black Death, but seems equally randy if that's your mood.
As usual The Little Hours trailer really doesn't capture the complex tone of this movie, so let's take a look at a few scenes.
John C Reilly's face throughout this scene makes the whole thing. Well that, and Dave Franco's innocent yet hilarious way of describing 69 and jizz kink to a priest.
Parts of this movie could be described as Sisters Behaving Badly and no one behaves worse than Aubrey Plaza in a habit. She's a reluctant, eye-rolling bride of Christ in the most hilariously inappropriate way in this scene, poking fun at cloistered clergy's isolation, sexual repression and fear of the secular world in medieval culture.
A fun interview with Seth Meyers and Dave Franco where he describes his wife Alison Brie's reaction to his threesome scene in the movie. Oh yes ladies and gentlemen, it's a hot one. Very little consent, sadly, but very hot.Support the show
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May 18, 2023
Bros-mance
Bros was a bit of a box office disappointment, but it's a fabulously funny, honest and sexy gay romcom. Fire Island may have gotten there first by also showcasing an entirely LGBTQ cast, but when it's about romcoms this good, everybody's a winner. We're finally hearing different voices in Hollywood (not enough), and seeing a diversity of people (not enough, but going in the right direction) experiencing on-screen romance and love, and it's about damn time.
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Fire Island is another funny, sexy and pioneering gay romcom. I covered it last year.
At last! A really fantastic trailer that captures the vibe of the movie!
Billy Eichner talking about how he came to write this movie.
The anatomy of that hilarious picnic in the park scene.
How Sleepless in Seattle influenced the Bros movie score.Support the show
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May 4, 2023
Sexy Dad Bod: the Evolution of George Clooney
What more could be said about witty, gorgeous George Clooney? For a long time now, George has been a worthy modern day Cary Grant, with all of the bantering sexy suave of that classic film icon. But I've noticed in more recent roles that George is moving into his rumpled cargo shorts phase (with just the slightest potbelly, still ridiculously attractive) as he adds more and more father figure roles to his hot little filmography.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies*
This vintage trailer makes Room for One More sound like a sexually charged romp with the parents of a family of young kids, which it really isn't (thankfully). Though a desperate Cary Grant craving alone time with his wife for some private adult fun is quite the subtle and sexy subplot.
There's some icky sexist late 1950s patriarchal stuff in Houseboat but it doesn't take away from the chemistry between luminous Sophia Loren and gorgeous Cary Grant, who fall for each other as they team up to care for his…
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Apr 20, 2023
Breakups and Makeups: High Fidelity/Rye Lane
The only romantic breakups I "enjoy" are fictional ones, especially if the couple makes up after learning something valuable about themselves and their partner. Nothing better than romantic reconciliation, but sometimes the healthiest outcome is going our separate ways, and we often discover that our best romance is with ourselves. Romcom realizations like these are much easier and neater to achieve on film, and that's probably why I love screen stories like these.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com/
*Movies*
Begin Again is a quiet little film about artistic integrity and one woman's awakening to the romance she has cultivated with herself--- and who doesn't love Adam Levine in one of his first film roles as Keira Knightley's rockstar boyfriend?
It's hard to believe that the writer of Thor: Love and Thunder (Jennifer Kaytin Robinson) wrote and directed the sweet, warm Someone Great. I fell in love with Gina Rodriguez in this movie, and the trio of leads turn this into a…
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Apr 6, 2023
Beautiful Survivor: Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields
Warning: major gushing ahead! In this episode, I'm taking a look at the new two-part documentary Pretty Baby, all about the life and career of Brooke Shields. I think it's safe to say she was my first girl crush, and I still adore her. She's had a charmed but often difficult life, full of exploitation and some abuse, and has come out on the other side with her intelligence, sense of humor and groundedness intact. She's a survivor, and for that I admire the hell out of her. CW: emotional trauma, abuse of power, alcoholism, sexual assault.
http://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The trailer for the Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields documentary on Hulu.
Brooke Shields tells Vogue the story behind her iconic 1980s Calvin Klein Jeans ad campaign.
Yes it's corny but I really enjoyed Suddenly Susan
How I loved and adored Lipstick Jungle and will never get over its cancellation. Never!
Brooke Shields' book, Down Came the Rain, is about her experience with postpartum depression. She has als…
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Mar 23, 2023
Connecting the Dots: Planet Sex with Cara Delevingne
You know what would be fun? A trip to a planet where women's pleasure is a priority, and the fluidity of relationship styles, sexual orientations and identities is embraced at all times! In other words, let's journey into the candid documentary series Planet Sex with Cara Delevingne, hosted by the supermodel turned actress and LGBTQ+ icon, documenting her personal and educational exploration of all things surrounding identity, sexual pleasure, romantic connection and why we feel how we feel as sexual beings.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The official trailer for Planet Sex on Hulu.
"Doing the show just opened me up to so much... Advocating is one thing, but being a part of the community and enjoying and celebrating your own queerness is different. I feel like I did that for the first time, and it was amazing...And it’s not just being queer; it’s being proud of who you are as a person, no matter how you define yourself." Excellent interview with Cara Delevingne in…
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Mar 9, 2023
Romantic Heartache & Lessons of Love 2: Hadestown/Ironweed/The Red Shoes
It's part two of our exploration of sad romances. This time, we look at the Tony award-winning Broadway musical Hadestown, which is--like Moulin Rouge--based on the ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. I look at another ill-fated Depression-era love story, Ironweed, and another tragic art vs. romantic love story, The Red Shoes. And Oz, The Relationship Coach, stops by to give us some tips on handling heartbreak. All I can say is: have tissues nearby.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Guests*
Follow Mariah Cotnoir on Twitter and Instagram @marcoots
Oscar Adrian is a relationship coach specializing in relationship break ups. Follow him on Twitter and get his post break up roadmap here.
*Show*
The incredible original Broadway cast recording of Hadestown
Clips from the Broadway show Hadestown.
The Hadestown cast performs a lo-fi NPR Tiny Desk Concert.
A wonderful animatic on the song "Any Way the Wind Blows" from Hadestown
*Movies*
Get your Kleenex out: the Ironweed…
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Feb 23, 2023
Romantic Heartache & Lessons of Love 1: Moulin Rouge
Sometimes all you want is a good cathartic cry, especially if it's over love and heartbreak. In this two-part episode, I'm joined by romance writer and fellow heartache aficionado Mariah Cotnoir to explore two tragic love stories full of romance, beauty and much-needed personal growth. We've all been there —if we're lucky —and despite the pain, romance is still the best game in town, whether in lived experience or the movies.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Follow Mariah on Twitter and Instagram @marcoots
The classic Moulin Rouge trailer.
KT Hawbaker article about Moulin Rouge's roots in ancient mythology.
Another fantastic movie about the tragic sacrifices often required of an artistic life, especially for women, is The Red Shoes (1948). This lush Technicolor film is peak classic Hollywood romance. Watch the full movie here.
More about the Bohemian movement throughout history.
The fascinating background of the Nature Boy song.
A love story to rival all others…
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Feb 9, 2023
A Different Valentine: the Romantic Drama of Dating Shows with Every Rom Com
I'm back with fresh episodes featuring slightly offbeat romance, just in time for Valentine's Day :-) First up, a conversation with Jennifer Howell, the producer and cohost of the Every Rom Com podcast about the romance, drama and fun of reality dating shows. She's obsessed with them and I'm not at all, so exploring the format and culture of these shows was fascinating. And I learned that we both think intellectuals are hotter than gym rats (they really are).
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Jennifer cohosts the smart Every Rom Com podcast, which takes a look at a wide range of rom coms and romantic movies through fun facts, trivia, a feminist perspective and bubbly spontaneous conversation. You can find their archive, including our discussion of the classic movie White Christmas and their discussion of the movie Singles, here.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @everyromcom and Twitter @everyromcompod
*Shows:
**Love Connection**
**Elimidate**
**Love Island**
**Are You…
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Jan 26, 2023
Romance Rerun: Romance After Dark
My final rerun this month is one of the spiciest episodes I've ever done — it's story time for adults. So if you like your romance sizzling hot and kinky, put the earbuds in and enjoy!Support the show
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Jan 12, 2023
Romance Rewind: Bedroom Therapy
I'm taking a tiny break this month to plan ahead and I'm re-running some of my favorite episodes from last year. First up, Bedroom Therapy, featuring the sexy and heartwarming movies Good Luck to You, Leo Grande and The Sessions (check out the original episode for more information on my guests and show notes).
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Dec 29, 2022
Quick Take: How to Please a Woman
I am starting the year as I mean to go on, celebrating another mainstream movie, much like Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, that is focused on womens' capabilities, wishes, desires and pleasures. And not as a subplot, but central to the action. I think it's a very auspicious start to the new year. May this tiny trend continue!
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
It's their job to iron and mop and give orgasms—in whatever order the customer demands. Luckily none of this is illegal. They checked. The ensemble acting of How to Please a Woman is one of the best aspects of this sweet little ride of a movie.
I think this review gets it right—a solid three stars. This movie might not be about the most earth-shattering sex, the most titillating banter or Instagram-perfect moments, but it is about seeking out the sex life you deserve, in any form, starting right where are you are.
I was a bit unfair to The Full Monty in this episode —it's a similar enjoyment for sure, but there'…
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Dec 15, 2022
Year-Round Holiday Magic: The Bishop's Wife
So many holiday films in my rotation every year, and my favorites tend to be classic movies: absorbing emotional stories full of romantic, platonic and familial love, redemption arcs, and endings with joy and hope. The Bishop's Wife (1947) has it all, and it's a movie I watch throughout the year when I need comfort or inspiration. And you can't beat Cary Grant as an angel in a well-cut suit.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
More about The Bishop's Wife director, writer, cast and crew.
A few fun behind the scenes pictures from my two favorite classic Christmas movies from Sister Celluloid.
OK this is the most bonkers vintage trailer I think I've ever seen. But you do get to see Cary Grant, David Niven and Loretta Young running around the film lot, so that's fun.
A sweet exploration into why this movie is an underrated Christmas classic.
If you don't mind ads, you can watch the full The Bishop's Wife movie here. A Christmas miracle!Support the show
If you enjoyed this…
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Dec 1, 2022
A Musical for the Lovelorn: Cyrano
"Yes, I'm in love. I dare." Oh this movie. I'm sobbing at the drop of a hat lately, and it turns out that a heart in love and cracked wide open is the perfect foil for Joe Wright's glorious, lush, emotional film, Cyrano. This sung-through musical makes the prettiest lovelorn cocoon, and Peter Dinklage and Haley Bennett are a revelation.
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The rich, romantic look of the Cyrano movie is just as compelling as the lyrical choreography, music and acting.
The main cast and director on the making of Cyrano. I am now truly, madly, deeply in love with Peter Dinklage, especially for his emotional singing, and Haley Bennett embodies pure passion and love as Roxanne. She even cries beautifully.
An interesting glimpse into the creative process of director Joe Wright, and what inspired him to adapt the Cyrano stage musical for the screen.
But what about that ending?
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Nov 17, 2022
Quick Take: Kevin Can F... Himself
This dramedy-within-a-sitcom show is all about settling in life, marriage and relationships, especially romantic relationships, and then waking up to who you are and what you really want and need. I can't stop thinking about it, Annie Murphy's performance, the way it's structured and written — and that manic intrusive laugh track, which can just get the f.... outta here.
Kevin Can F... Himself isn't just a PG-rated title, but a symbol of a character who struggles to express her deepest, most troubling emotions about how her life has turned out —until the moment she decides that her dead marriage and small-town working class life isn't going to be the sum total of who she is.
I know it's called Everybody Loves Raymond but I've always called it Everyone Loves Raymond and apparently I can't stop now. I actually find it very very funny, a sort of laugh-until-you-cry —with recognition — show. Even when the stereotypes chafe, there is so much truth in them.
Fleabag is the most ori…
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Nov 3, 2022
Dating Romcoms: He's Just Not That Into You/How to Be Single
If you're the one person on the planet who hasn't heard: I've been on dating apps, and wow, I need to process. Let's do it together, shall we?! There's nothing more amusing than a dating romcom full of romantic disaster, then sweet gooey love at the end. Or that invigorating enemies-to-lovers story to get you in the mood to dive back into your matches. Or not.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
"Not surprisingly, men were more likely than women to rate hooking up as the reason they used dating apps, but they were also slightly more likely than women to say they used the apps to look for love." Are Dating Apps Better at Finding Love or Sex?
Ah, yes, that old playground for our anxieties, a.k.a. the love lab: How to Make Dating Apps Work for You.
*Movies
*First came the book, then the movie. He's Just Not That Into You has become a focusing romantic philosophy of mine, and has saved me plenty of heartache, too.
*
*I'm not particularly concerned if Die Hard is or isn't a Ch…
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Oct 20, 2022
Romances We Love: Juno/Before Midnight
From time to time, I like to ask people about the romances they love best, the stories that changed their lives or made them think about love and connection a bit differently. After meeting Danielle and Wolfgang from the Hello, I'm Listening podcast, I immediately wanted to ask them this question. Turns out that we all love a good coming-of-age story —plus their real-life romance started out with a meet cute, too, so I liked them immediately.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Wolfgang and Danielle talk about everything from how they met and relationships to mental health and trauma in their podcast Hello, I'm Listening. It's like a delightful and intimate chitchat with friends.
Named one of the American Film Institute's Top 100 American Films, The Philadelphia Story (1940) is also one of the best romantic comedies from the first golden era of romcoms. Awarded an Oscar for Best Screenplay, this story of a rich privileged East Coast woman learning hard truths about hersel…
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Oct 6, 2022
Second Chance Romance Part Two
I'm concluding my second-anniversary celebration with another second-chance romance episode, featuring movies about finding romance later in life, especially after sadness and disappointment. This theme is one of my favorites, especially as I get older and wade back into the dating pool. It's a funny and bizarre experience at times, but these movies give me hope that my second chance is out there—if only for two hours.
*Movies*
The Face of Love is described as a "psychological romance" and it's hard to describe its emotional tone: dramatic longing, new romance elation and bittersweet melancholy combined. In other words, my idea of perfect romance right now. I believe they did love each other, even if it was based on shifting emotional sands — you'll have to tell me if you agree. Warning: this is not exactly an HEA, but the journey is beautiful.
The Love Punch is the most ridiculous but adorable British farce set in motion after a divorced middle-aged couple, played by Emma Thomp…
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Sep 22, 2022
Second Chance Romance Part One
I'm celebrating the second anniversary of this podcast with a two-part episode on one of my favorite romantic tropes, second-chance romance. In this case, it's finding love, sex and connection at a later age or after romantic or sexual disappointment. Older and wiser has never felt more hopeful as I'm talking with retired sex therapist and erotic romance writer Dr. Donna Jennings a.k.a. Dr. J, getting her tips for navigating healthy sexuality at any age. CW: this is a spicy, explicit episode, full of NSFW sensual sex talk.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Dr. J creates "sex-positive content to empower the sexually curious." Find links to her writing and newsletter here. And listen to replays of her Twitter Sexuality Space recordings, including the one about Netflix's How to Build a Sex Room featuring ReSpark Pleasure Rooms.
ICYMI, check out my episodes on Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, How to Build a Sex Room and kinky romance.
Dr. J talks about the power of erotica for…
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Sep 8, 2022
Quick Take: How to Build a Sex Room
It's a NSFW, shame-free look at relationship and healthy sexual desires to celebrate the second anniversary of this podcast! I've grown along with this show, and I fully embrace the wide range of fantasies and desires represented in sex-positive romances, romantic movies, and TV shows — like How to Build a Sex Room on Netflix. I can't say enough about how lighthearted, fun, empowering, sexy and surprising this show is.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Romance After Dark is the episode where I explore my newfound love of kink in romance. There are some sexy, sizzling hot read-alouds in this episode too.
Learning from Romance Part One is the episode where I talk about discovering new aspects of my sexuality thanks to the romance genre.
How to Build a Sex Room takes you on a journey not only through private fantasies and desires and ways to stimulate them, but lots of fascinating relationship dynamics, too. All credit to the casting director on this show and to the produ…
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Aug 25, 2022
Adapting Austen: Netflix's Persuasion with Romancing the Story
Apparently I'm one of the few people on the globe who enjoyed Netflix's Persuasion with Dakota Johnson :) I take a deep dive into this adaptation with Sarah Gamez, romance writer, filmmaker and host of Romancing the Story podcast. We chew over what the filmmakers got right and perhaps got wrong in this version. And I confess that pretty much any Jane Austen adaptation is a good adaptation for me as long as it's billed the right way.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Sarah Gamez hosts the wonderful Romancing the Story: Writing Romance, Storytelling, and Business of Books podcast featuring interviews with authors and entrepreneurs discussing "storytelling structure, self-publishing must-haves, and developing narratives, while exploring different genres and medias as well as romance. After all, every story is a love story." Sarah is a marvelous interviewer and her wide-ranging discussions are fascinating.
Tony-nominated British theater director Carrie Cracknell directed this…
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Aug 11, 2022
Advice Romance Part 2: The Truth About Cats and Dogs/The Ex Talk
It's more fictional and real-life advice in this action-packed episode! Isabelle Popp, a contributor to BookRiot, stops by to talk about her recent essay about romance novels, and Carly Lane, pop culture critic and "romance nerd" for Collider, Vulture and Paste Magazine, explores her upcoming book A Regency Guide to Modern Life. We'll revisit the vintage romcom The Truth About Cats and Dogs, a Cyrano retelling set against the backdrop of a pet-advice show, and take a peek at The Ex Talk, a contemporary fake dating romance about a relationship advice radio show.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*
Writers/Guests*
You Are Never Too Late to Start Fucking is the best kind of advice: empowering, supportive, never prescriptive but inspiring and hopeful. Girl on the Net writes the most honest, vulnerable yet hilariously funny sex positive posts and produces sizzling hot female-gaze audio porn. This essay is required reading for people over a certain age who are launching themsel…
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Jul 28, 2022
Advice Romance Part 1: Romance Road Test
In the next couple of episodes I take a look at advice romance: fictional advice in a contemporary romance and a romcom set at radio stations, real life online advice, and a smart, funny new podcast called Romance Road Test.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
What will pull these couples closer together--or push them apart? In Romance Road Test, good friends Kristen Meinzer and Jolenta Greenberg put romance hacks to the test in their marriages.
The show is a spin-off of their long-running, popular By the Book podcast. How to Be Fine: What We Learned from Living by the Rules of 50 Self-Help Books synthesizes lessons learned from hosting the show.
Here's a nice round up of some of the best female online advice columnists in modern times. Not all of the columns are still running, and some have changed hands, but the archives are a treasure trove. Bye-bye Dear Abby.
"I implore you to do everything you can to connect yourself to peers and professionals who will offer you supp…
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Jul 14, 2022
Bedroom Therapy: Good Luck to You, Leo Grande/The Sessions
Sometimes what you need is a deeper connection, some bedroom therapy, a sexual experience full of healing. And sometimes that means going to the experts — at least those skillfully played by actors. I'm joined by friend of the podcast Diana and former sex worker John S. to help break down fantasy vs. reality and explore these fictional journeys to sexual fulfillment.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
I think anyone over a certain age who still desires healthy sexual experiences will feel the bittersweet emotional journey of Good Luck to You, Leo Grande right down to their soul. It's an intimate chamber piece that packs a quiet emotional punch. The incredible performances by Emma Thompson and Daryl McCormack give this movie its emotional force.
It's hard to describe the funny, touching and uplifting emotional tone of The Sessions but there isn't a drop of pity to be found anywhere. The performances byJohn Hawkes, Helen Hunt and William H Macy aren't showy but they're exc…
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Jun 30, 2022
Quick Take: Fire Island
Happy Pride Month! Squeaking just under the wire with a quick take on this frothy, fun gay retelling of Pride and Prejudice, set in that historic LGBTQ+ summer destination, Fire Island in New York. What a sunny, cute, romantic romp of a romcom this is!
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
There's more than a touch of Boogie Nights in the look of Fire Island.
Joel Kim Booster talked to Variety about how the movie was developed. His favorite romcoms are My Best Friend's Wedding and Clueless, so the guy knew how to put together a solid retelling.
Here's a taste of Joel Kim Booster's stand up. He's adorable, even when he's making fun of difficult topics.
Fire Island’s queer literary history is fascinating, starting with Oscar Wilde visiting Cherry Grove in the late 19th century.
Fire Island has a National Seashore and here is a bit more about its fascinating history stretching back to the 1700s. It has a few structures on the National Register of Historic Places, and a long…
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Jun 16, 2022
Hot for Teacher: Romance in Academia
School's out for summer! I was a nerd and school and libraries were my happy places. Intellectualism, books and words were my religion. So it's no surprise that I'm a sucker for romances set in academia. The age gap and power difference tropes can be difficult to handle well but some romances manage to walk that fine line while bringing all of the absurd humor and steamy romance.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*MOVIES*
Passionflix ("we find the most passionate content to satisfy our viewers") is like the Hallmark Channel for those who like their romance spicy and steamy. They adapt best-selling romance novels into original content and since the company is run by a woman and the films are mostly written and directed by women, movies that emphasize the female gaze are their specialty.
This trailer for Gabriel's Inferno is like a mini-telenovela, in all the best ways. Have an icy drink nearby.
There's more than a touch of Jane Austen's Emma, that novel of "young hubris…
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Jun 2, 2022
YA Nerds in Love: Along for the Ride/Dash and Lily/Never Have I Ever
I'm tired of the grown-up world! Give me whipsmart, funny teens having adventures, falling in love and exploring how to navigate young adulthood — teaching the grown-ups in their lives a few lessons along the way. They're the inspiration I need right now.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Along for the Ride is the most warm-hearted, tender story about one of the biggest milestones in a teen's life. It's based on the best-selling novel by Sarah Dessen and written by screenwriter Sofia Alvarez, who also adapted the YA novel To All the Boys I've Loved Before for the screen.
Yeah I'm all grown up but I was thoroughly sucked into the story of Dash and Lily. The clue treasure hunt! The diary entries! Dash's distraction from his lonely Christmas! Lily finding her intellectual equal! The will they or won't they like each other in person! This is my idea of a perfect holiday story.
Sex Education has gotten a green light for a fourth season, which is good news because I feel lik…
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May 19, 2022
Quick Take: Gentleman Jack
An announcement, and a quick take on the BBC/HBO co-production Gentleman Jack. This show is regency-adjacent romance reimagined, reflecting sexual identities hidden at the time, turning the period into an era where all love stories were represented and accepted. From the production and writing to the ensemble acting, it's thrilling delight.
If you'd like to leave a review or support the show with a tip, visit the top menu at
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
I'm only partway through S1 so this Gentleman Jack trailer thrills me down to my toes. I can't wait to see Anne find love and come into her own as a talented industrialist landowner. You can binge the complete S1 on Amazon Prime, Hulu and HBOMax. S2 is airing right now on HBOMax.
More on the fascinating life of Anne Lister who lived in Halifax, West Yorkshire "... tucked into the foothills of the Pennine mountains in the north of England, the location of such well-known and beloved stories as Wuthering Heights, Jane E…
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May 5, 2022
Sexy Mythological Retellings: Neon Gods/Mighty Aphrodite/Wonder Woman
We're going way back to ancient myths in this episode, taking a look at some books and movies that reimagine these eternal, compelling stories in a sexy-modern, romantic and exciting way.
Thanks to my special guest--listener and writer Mariah--for gushing with me yet again on this episode. You're the best!
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Books
*
Neon Gods is the spectacular Book 1 in the Dark Olympus series by Katee Robert. Electric Idol is the fabulous Book 2, and the third book of the four-book series, Wicked Beauty, will be published next month. I'm beyond excited.
This episode included an excerpt from Stephen Fry's fantastic Mythos audiobook. It's a collection of Greek myths, retold by the beloved British writer, actor and comedian.
*Movies/TV Shows
*Joseph Campbell's The Power of Myth is a classic book and TV show, and both are well worth the time.
I don't watch a lot of movies based on comic book characters, but I was absolutely stunned at how compelling and…
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Apr 21, 2022
The Romcoms of Richard Curtis
Richard Curtis romcoms are canon, and I've touched on them before, but now I'm joined by a special guest, Joe of the Right in the Schoolies podcast, to try to tease out why they work so well, and talk about the differences in UK and US romance and romcom humor. Let's dig in!
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Joe is a complete delight. You can follow him on Twitter and Facebook and listen to his fabulous podcast Right in the Schoolies here.
I first fell in love with Catherine Cohen's modern idiosyncratic poetry, but never got to experience her weekly cabaret show in New York. That poetry vibe — along with hilarious songs and comedy —are captured in her new Netflix special, The Twist…? She's Gorgeous. I had a big goofy grin on my face the entire time I was watching it.
*Movies/TV Shows
*I first saw* *Four Weddings and a Funeral in London, and its warm, affectionate humor and found family tropes remind me of a very special time in my life.
Notting Hill isn't Richard…
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Apr 7, 2022
Slowburn Romance: Bridgerton/Sanditon/Bright Star
My favorite costume dramas of last year are back with sophomore seasons, and they're the slowest of slowburns. Will Charlotte get over the loss of Sidney and finally find someone in Sanditon who appreciates her? Will Anthony Bridgerton marry for love or family? I've thrown in one of my favorite slowburn screen romances, inspired by the love of poet John Keats for artist Fanny Brawne. This is slow but incendiary love — the opposite of instalove, but sexy and romantic all the same. (CW: film clips contain spoilers!)
Many thanks to Kristina, JM and Jack for buying me a coffee and supporting the show. If you like what you hear and want to support the show, send me a little tip here.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies/TV Shows
*
Bridgerton has been a runaway hit on Netflix for good reason: excellent direction, crisp editing, emotional scripts, stunning costumes and sets, exceptional ensemble acting, incredible pop/classical music, and a wonderfully diverse cast. Oh an…
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Mar 24, 2022
Historical Romance Badassery
To celebrate Women's History Month, I'm highlighting favorite real and fictional badasses. Warning: I mention the word badass many, many times in this episode. Clearly I love me a bit of badassery. Women worthy of official biographies and iconoclastic female characters in historical romances all provide ready-made inspiration. I need as much of that as I can get.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Virginia Woolf's house on Gordon Square (4th picture in right sidebar). She had many gatherings of the Bloomsbury Group in that house. See the windows with the balcony in front? I sat in that room as an inaugural student in the Gender Studies program at University of London. One of my favorite memories ever.
Mariah mentioned the gender non-conforming writer and performance artist Alok Vaid-Menon
*Books
*For me there is nothing like reading about someone's life through their diaries. Virginia Woolf was a dedicated diarist who documented the fascinating people, work and relation…
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Mar 10, 2022
Brave Romcomedy
I'm celebrating International Women's Day with a round up of comedy badassery by Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Jenny Slate, Rose Matafeo, and Iliza Shlesinger. Whether it's a romcom movie, TV show, blog, book, or live special, these writers are funny, raunchy, honest and real when talking about their lived experiences. They're badass inspiration. (CW: lots and lots of profanity, mentions of body image, brief mention of drug use, and lots of juicy sex talk.)
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
This episode featured a section from "Bring Me Tequila and Your Dick" an audio porn story from the smart, sexy, funny, real and really kinky Girl on the Net.
*Movies/Comedy Specials/Audiobooks
*
Ali Wong has never been better in her hilarious Netflix comedy special Don Wong. Baby Cobra is also wet-the-pants funny. Just me?!
The friends to lovers trope in Always Be My Maybe is so heartwarming. Ali Wong's chemistry and banter with Randall Park is smart and delicious.
Michelle Buteau has hilar…
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Feb 24, 2022
Love & Romance Over 40: Part 2
I'm really starting to feel that cultural and romantic invisibility cloak that covers women of a certain age. Luckily, there are a few aspirational, sometimes inspiring TV shows and movies that feature people over the age of 40 romancing each other and getting it on — even if it seems that you need to have a beautiful face, well-placed wrinkles and a near-perfect body to deserve the same.
CW: talk of anti-body positivity and toxic Hollywood and cultural beauty standards.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
This podcast will always be free, but if you want to send me a tip to keep this labor of love going, I would greatly appreciate it!
*Guests*
You can find the full essay "On Bodies" here and follow the brilliant writer Kristina on Twitter.
Taffeta V. is a true Renaissance woman -- she is a semi-retired costume designer, wardrobe mistress, writer and host of two cool podcasts among other things. You can find her on Twitter.
Jack Badelaire studied film and has written m…
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Feb 10, 2022
Love in Disguise
A distilled, potent, curated, intensely romantic relationship might not always be possible in life, but it's certainly a staple of classic and modern romantic stories. The exquisite romances in today's episode happen through love letters, physical disguise, and boyfriends for the night--or the moment. They're sexy, passionate and all about the heart's deepest desires that emerge only when love is in disguise.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
"Companionship is a big deal for a lot of people, even before the pandemic," says sex worker Chel, who offers the girlfriend experience with "nerdy girl-next-door chitchat and role-play ranging from sweet and steamy to kinky and even dark." She's featured in a fascinating recent profile by erotica writer Guy White.
Novelist and writer Suzanna Lundale tweets some of the most amazing VSS (Very Short Stories).
*Movies*
Steve Martin turns Roxanne into the most heartfelt, vulnerable, funny and clever story about a lovable man who believ…
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Jan 27, 2022
Mod Classic! Jane Austen
This former literary snob confesses that — at least right now — I prefer watching Austen to reading Austen. I need streamlined, quick banter, a snappy pace. Luckily, there are a ton of adaptations, retellings and inspired by Austen books and films to last quite a while. Vanessa King, author of A Certain Appeal, the Pride and Prejudice-inspired story set at a New York burlesque club, stops by to talk about why she decided to modernize Austen. And listener Mariah joins me to explore the 2005 Pride and Prejudice with its subtle updates to the classic story. Grab a cozy throw and pull up a chair. How do you take your tea?
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The performance of the audiobook of A Certain Appeal by Julia Whelan brings this bright, modern Pride and Prejudice reset to life. Darcy is the hottest, sexiest thing ever here--as good a lover as we'd always hoped he'd be.
The final sequence of the 2005 Pride and Prejudice is pitch perfect in every way: the pacing, the…
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Jan 13, 2022
Learning from Romance: Part 3
The lessons keep on coming! In this final episode in my miniseries on what I've learned from romance, I encounter...monster erotica. I'm tardy to the party, so giggle along with me as I explore my "first-won't-be-last" monster fucking romance, and listen to an excerpt from an erotic monster story--full of tentacle sex--by guest author VB Beringer.
*Books*
A Lady of Rooksgrave Manor is Book 1 in the short Tempting Monsters series. It's sweet, hot, steamy, intriguing and tender, all at once, which makes it the perfect intro to monster erotica. It's available on Kindle Unlimited.
Guest writer VB Beringer specializes in fantasy, science-fiction and other erotica sub-genres. He read an excerpt from "Night Fever" from The Rift Walker erotic action-adventure series, available on Medium. Find links to his writing here. He creates custom erotica, people!
*TV Shows
*
There are two seasons of the sweetly kinky Bonding on Netflix and this show could not be more sex positive about BDSM while al…
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Dec 30, 2021
Learning from Romance: Part 2
My year of reading romances has modeled so many good things for me, especially stories with the family of choice trope. We're not all lucky enough to be raised in an emotionally healthy family, so reading about how loving, supportive people show up for the people they care about can be a healing experience.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Lauren is a fellow member of the Heaving Bosoms podcast Facebook page, and we share a love of many of the same romances. She was so much fun to talk to--thanks Lauren!
Fran writes the most witty, romance-related epigrammatic tweets.
There are a lot of other interesting tropes linked from the Family of Choice trope page at TVTropes.org.
*Books
*
The rock bands in the VIP series by Kristen Callihan and the Dirtshine rockstar series by Roxy Noir are some of the best families of choice romances I've ever read. Fall is my favorite book, but both series feature intersecting, emotionally rich, sexy steamy stories about the realities of life…
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Dec 16, 2021
Classic Holiday Romance
'Tis the season for my much-loved, annual classic holiday movie marathon. For me, film is richer in B&W, and you can't beat classic holiday movies for stirring inspirational monologues and heartwarming affection, love and romance. (CW: for a few mentions of suicide).
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Music in this episode:
Jazzy Bells by Dee Yan-Key is used courtesy of a Creative Commons license from the Free Music Archives. The sleigh bells sound effect is courtesy of a Creative Commons license from freesound.org.
*Movies
*Christmas in Connecticut has so many funny and charming moments.
The Man Who Came to Dinner is stagey and delightfully over-the-top. Here's the Christmas Eve scene when Lorraine Sheldon discovers that she's been pranked and didn't actually get engaged to a lord.
Here's the whole sequence leading up to That Phone Call in It's a Wonderful Life. The rotary phones! The 78 records! People looking dignified and dressing up! Plus the sweet authentic senti…
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Dec 2, 2021
Learning from Romance: Part 1
I've made some surprising discoveries about myself while reading romances this year. The wave of positivity, love, respect and acceptance for all sorts of fictional characters in these stories has encouraged me to love and accept myself, and even discover new aspects of my sexuality.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
GLAAD has really useful definitions for the entire asexual spectrum, including demisexuality. Come to think of it, I just might be aceflux, too.
So what does it mean to be sapiosexual? Oh, this is me as well — if your brain is sexy to me, then you're super hot.
"Sex can be anything: Just kissing; having a long, erotically charged conversation...as long as you’ve got consent, and no unwanted pain, you can roll around like puppies.” The secret to great sex.
I mean, I have eyeballs and can see that David Gandy is hotter than the surface of the sun. But what is his mind like? And is he kind? Does he love on puppies? Help older ladies carry their grocerie…
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Nov 18, 2021
Royally Romantic
It's the Anglophile edition of the podcast, where I claim to "not be into royalty all that much," and then immediately prove myself wrong. Fake kingdoms in mountainous areas of Europe, fake royalty who always seem to speak with a British accent, commoners lifted from their humdrum, working-class lives as a metaphoric crown is placed on their heads: I might giggle uncontrollably over the contrivances, but I'll watch and read it all.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
My bestie, Charles, Prince of Wales, lives quite the charmed life.
*Movies*
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett* *is a classic of children's literature. It was adapted into a memorable 1939 movie called The Little Princess starring Shirley Temple as the plucky young heroine Sara Crewe.
The Victorian novel The Secret Garden, also by Burnett, was adapted into a wonderful 1949 movie starring Margaret O'Brien.
The Hallmark royal holiday movies are frequently re-run around Christmas on streaming or cabl…
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Nov 4, 2021
Romance After Dark
My current fantasy bedroom is full of steam & kink. I'm in the mood, people, so let's read-aloud from some of the hottest, kinkiest romances I've ever read! It's hard to find this level of heat, consent, care AND happy-ever-after on screen, but romance writers have got you covered.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Psychology of Sexual Kink at The Swaddle is a must read.
The National Coalition for Sexual Freedom is a nonprofit membership organization that advocates for consenting adults in the kink and non-monogamy lifestyles by fighting discrimination and persecution.
In case you were curious: Vice lists the top five kinks in the US. And here are the results of a 2015 survey of sexual diversity in the US.
*Clips
*I love the Netflix show* *Easy for so many reasons, but mostly because it's chock full of humor, relatable relationship issues and sex positivity. The writing is smart, and the ensemble cast is fantastic, too.
Calling all musical theater geeks: Schmigado…
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Oct 21, 2021
Bad Boys & Gentle Villains
Does a bad boy or villain hero give you a bit of a thrill? A little tingle? Dark romance unsettles me, but there's something reassuring and protective in the gentle villain/noble demon, who chooses any means to the end of protecting you from hurt and harm. They'll burn down the world for you when needed--and what's not to love about that?
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
More on the Morality Pet and Morality Chain tropes at tvtropes.org. Every aspect of these story tropes fascinates me and I can spend hours following the links on this site.
You can find my guest listener Monique at the fantastic Her Entrepreneurial Spirit podcast.
*Movies/TV Shows
*
Watching the characters in Dangerous Liaisons out-evil each other is delicious up to a point, but it ends with most of the players' lives in tatters.
The Talented Mr. Ripley with its glamorous 1950s Italian setting, is so charming at first: you watch rich, beautiful young people living an indulgent, luxurious lifestyle. But…
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Oct 7, 2021
Calling Every Body: the Radical Romance of Shrill/This Way Up/Dietland
These funny, sharp TV shows written by women knock fat- and mental illness shaming on its behind, and tell stories of hard-won self-acceptance instead. It's about embracing our deepest desires and the person we are, not who They say we should be. It's about romancing yourself. *CW*:* mentions of body shaming, anti-fat bias, mental illness, and briefly, abortion, weight loss and suicide ideation.*
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
I paraphrased the gorgeous Mary Oliver poem, The Summer Day.
The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance fights the discrimination that one third of the world experiences on a daily basis.
*TV Shows
**Shrill* is one of the most joyous TV shows about anti-fat bias and body acceptance that I've ever seen. It's fun but also smart and thoughtful, and much of that is due to the charming performance of Aidy Bryant as Annie. The show is produced by Elizabeth Banks and Lorne Michaels, so funny rules, but always with that trademark light touch an…
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Sep 23, 2021
Goodbye Romance Shame, Part 2
It's the first anniversary of this podcast! Turns out, I'm even more in love with romantic TV shows, movies and books one year on. And still feel no shame--mostly--crushing on romance. So in support and love for the genre, let's revisit some of the lushest, most romantic, and rom com funny movie scenes evah. Cue the gushing.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies/TV Shows*
The scenes featured in this episode are from just a few of my all-time favorite romantic movies & shows:
Outlander, especially the first season, is a must for anyone who loves stirring, romantic epics. It's based on the massive series of adventure romance books by Diana Gabaldon.
The "official" trailer for Something's Gotta Give says nothing about the sweet, sexy honesty of the age & sex positive romance between Harry Sanborn and Erica Barry, played by Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. Any Nancy Meyers rom com is a must see.
What more can I say about this classic, groundbreaking rom com? It's in my…
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Sep 9, 2021
Dear Darling: the Romance of Letters & Messages
There's nothing more intimate than a letter, card, text or message written for your eyes only. The epistolary novel has been popular for centuries, and romantic stories using this device can feel like the best kind of eavesdropping.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies/TV Shows
*The script for* **Love & Friendship* takes Jane Austen's epistolary novel Lady Susan to new heights. I always call this director "Will Stillman" but it's Whit.*
**84 Charing Cross Road** *will always have a special place in my heart. The book and movie are delightful.
*Daddy Long Legs** *has it all: So playful and Parisian! The costumes! The music! Slightly inappropriate with the age-difference trope!
*
*Kevin Bacon plays the titular character* *in* I Love Dick** *and the whole thing is a visually fascinating, messy, complicated look at desire.*
*I find most Hallmark movies insipid, but the lead actors' chemistry, locations and script for *Her Pen Pal *made it super enjoyable.
*Books*
Yo…
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Aug 26, 2021
The Sweet, Sexy Cinnamon Roll
The sweet, sexy romantic cinnamon roll: there's no better hero in all of Romancelandia. Let's explore this gooey hearted, tender fictional confection and why this character brings all the feels.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Onion article that inspired the whole thing.
*Movies/TV Shows
*Ashton Kutcher was a sweet doofus in That 70s Show and he grew up to be the hot cinnamon roll of No Strings Attached.
The opposites-attract romance of Long Shot only works because of the sweet, relatable cinnamon roll that is Seth Rogen.
You only have to see a few scenes from Ted Lasso to get the quirky, gooey, warmhearted charm of this series.
Bill Hader is the best cinnamon roll ever in Trainwreck.
Hugh Grant and his group of kind-hearted friends in Notting Hill qualify as one huge cinnamon roll.
The 40 Year Old Virgin has the usual Judd Apatow bro excesses, but cinematic cinnamon rolls Steve Carell, Seth Rogen and Paul Rudd keep things mostly tender and sweet.
Luke Wilson…
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Aug 12, 2021
Love in Unexpected Places: Her/City of Angels/ Tangled Wires
Intimacy and love can be found in the most unexpected places. In sci-fi and fantasy-tinged romance, that means online, offline, synthetic or organic, from a lab, with creatures on earth or heaven above. Open hearts find love everywhere.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies/TV Show*
Her inspires so many questions: what is true intimacy? Is love chemistry, an accident of fate or a created experience? It's visually interesting, the sound design is stunning, the acting is superb, and the script is thought-provoking. Its multi-talented director Spike Jonze won an Academy Award for the screenplay. Many have taken a stab at analyzing this intriguing movie.
City of Angels is based on the 1987 Wim Wenders film Wings of Desire. It's a much less complex, but still beautiful--if tragic--love story. Meg Ryan was in her prime, and Nicolas Cage was never better (excepting Moonstruck of course).
I wrote a whole college paper on Wings of Desire. There's so much to unpack in this be…
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Jul 29, 2021
Bodyguard Romance: The Bodyguard/Girl Gone Viral/Dangerous Beauty
Sometimes all I want in this world is strong arms around me, someone who has my back, and a soft place to fall. That's when I pull out a good bodyguard romance. Nothing in the world makes me feel safer than these stories. They've got me dreaming of an avenger, a 24/7 personal protection officer of my very own.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movie*
The Bodyguard (1992) is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think "bodyguard romance." It looks a bit clunky to my eyes now, but the chemistry between Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston is an eternal flame.
*Books*
Goodreads has a great round-up of bodyguard romances to get you started. If you're like me and don't enjoy suspense and violence with your romance, definitely read the reviews of these books first before you go in.
Girl Gone Viral, part of the short Modern Love series, is about two vulnerable people finding love and security in each other. Family and mental health issues are woven so skillfully t…
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Jul 15, 2021
Romantic Capers: Murder Mystery/The Lovebirds/Date Night
There's nothing like the bubbly fun, clever banter and twisty plots of a romantic caper movie*. It's just the thing when you crave romance and sexy flirting in beautiful settings, plus a dash of gentle mystery and mild suspense. *Episode contains spoilers. Lots.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies:
*
The Lady Vanishes is a comfort re-watch for me, even though I know whodunit. The central romance is so charming.
The Thin Man and its sequels are delightful from start to finish. Nick and Nora Charles are the ultimate married-couple energy to me. Made more than 80 years ago and still bright and fun.
Charade has been called the best Hitchcock film that he didn't direct, and I agree. I don't know what's more appealing: the plot, the Paris setting, Cary Grant's handsome humor or Audrey Hepburn's beauty and stunning costumes.
The gorgeous French Riviera settings of Murder Mystery and To Catch a Thief are worth the watch alone, but the plots and champagne-bubble fun will w…
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Jul 1, 2021
Romantic Recycling: When Harry Met Sally/Groundhog Day
Many contemporary romances are based on, or inspired by, rom-com movies. Turns out recycling romance is good for the narrative arc--and heart as well.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Vulture roundup that inspired it all.
*Movies
*Groundhog Day is classic for a reason.
10 moments from When Harry Met Sally. I said that Harry and Sally don't marry anyone else during the movie, but always forget Harry's ex-wife.
About Time is a lushly romantic story with a gorgeous HEA.
Sliding Doors is mostly fun and romantic but there are some serious themes as well (just fyi).
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days isn't one of my favorite rom coms--it seems a bit mean at times--but apparently I love this plot in recycled form (see below).
*Books
**People We Meet on Vacation**: *the narrative arc of this story, told in flashback, takes you through ten annual vacations and miles of emotional history between friends-to-lovers Poppy & Alex. Affectionate, sexy & compelling.
*In a Holidaze*…
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Jun 17, 2021
The Romance of Rock
Music romances and seduces listeners, sometimes gently and sometimes with a rough, dirty, driving, relentless hot beat. That kind of romance rocks, and its rockstars are sex on legs.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Music
*
"Energy" by Scott Holmes Music & "Unashamed Ballad" by Learning Music, used with a Creative Commons license from freemusicarchive.org
Pink is one of the biggest badasses in rock. Her video for So What is classic. The concert documentary Pink: All I Know So Far follows her & her family on a European tour ending with 2 sold-out shows at Wembley.
I always call this Marshall Crenshaw album Flag Day, but it's Field Day. Whenever You're On My Mind is one of my favorite songs. Cutie.
*Rockstar Romances:
*
Goodreads has excellent round-ups of romances featuring male & female rockers.
The VIP series by Kristen Callihan follows a hit band that's survived rockstar drama as family. It's full of charismatic characters, rich details and some of the hottest ro…
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Jun 3, 2021
Sex Positivity: Easy/The Overnight/The Intimacy Experiment
I crave more sex- and age-positivity, a wider range of human sexuality and relationship, in the romantic TV shows and movies that I watch now. Romance novels have always done a great job at representing shame-free sexuality, desire, and fantasy. But the Netflix series Easy and the movie The Overnight also get it right.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Salt-n-Pepa Let's Talk About Sex. The late 80s-early 90s style in this video! It dates from 1991 and wow, things were different back then. But the ladies got it goin' on: let's talk about it.
A good, brief definition of the different types of human sexuality. I love that they point out that sexuality can change throughout your life.
Britannica has a fascinating worldwide sociological overview of human sexuality. There's even a good section on solo sex :)
What it means to be on the asexual spectrum.
It's possible to have hot sex and intimacy without intercourse. Here's an excellent article full of ideas on how to go about…
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May 20, 2021
Sporty Romance
Romances about people at the height of their physical prowess in pro sports finding love with a partner who matches their wit and talents is a bit unfair to us mere mortals. But I'll live vicariously through these stories all day long.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Eileen Brennan and Goldie Hawn are comic gold in Private Benjamin.
The incredible haka from Rugby World Cup 2011.
That serving contest in Wimbledon. The plot is charming and the performances and chemistry of Kirsten Dunst and Paul Bettany make it worthwhile.
The book roundups by Book Riot and Goodreads are full of sport romances of all types.
*Hockey romances *
I read from Man Down, part of the irresistible Rookie Rebels hockey series by Kate Meader. Her Chicago Rebels hockey series is also fantastic.
I also read from Always Only You, Book 2 in the Bergman Brothers series by Chloe Liese. This story is my favorite, and this romance series is easily one of my favorites ever.
Heated Rivalry is a M/M roma…
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May 6, 2021
Romantic Belonging
Found family, partners, true-blue friends: it's all about the groups of people who claim us, warm our hearts, and have our backs no matter what, who help us feel that we belong.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Remember the TV show Queer as Folk? It originated in the UK, and there was a US version too. Its group of friends fits this trope so well. My high school crush/date came out to me on prom night so I felt a bit like Daphne in this clip: happy and proud for him, but a bit disappointed, too. The TV show Friends is all about this trope, too, of course.
My BFF loves motorcycle club romances, which embody this trope as well.
All the Tropes on band of brothers is great, and tvtropes.org also explores a band of brothers trope off-shoot called True Companions.
Four Weddings and a Funeral is still charming and touching, with one of the best “we belong together” found-family examples in any rom-com.
Bromance Book Club is the first book in the Bromance Book Club series…
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Apr 22, 2021
Romantic Banter
Banter is the best kind of romantic conversation, full of wit and emotional tension, leaving clues for us about how the couple really feels about each other. The best banter strip teases for our brain. It's verbal foreplay for the hot action to come. It's all about the juicy, sexy romantic banter in this episode.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
After I said the word aloud, something didn't sound right, so I looked it up and it's pronounced Yah-KUZ-ah. Sigh. Apologies to my Japanese listeners--but it gives me an excuse to bring up Drunken Angel, a fascinating 1948 yakuza film directed by one of my favorite filmmakers, Akira Kurosawa.
If you've never seen a Spencer Tracy/Katherine Hepburn movie, you can't go wrong with Adam's Rib. Everything about it is perfection: the script, the acting, the plot and the fabulous costumes and sets. It was made in 1949 and still feels fresh. Plus I have a weird thing for that cozy kitchen in their apartment.
Destination Wedding is one of…
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Apr 8, 2021
The Romance Spectrum: The Kiss Quotient/The Bride Test/Doc Martin
Human beings exist on a spectrum of diversity and differences, and romances that reflect that are touching my heart lately. The widest range of life experiences represented in stories can only be a good thing. Being seen and accepted, not treated as an exception, is inspiring. It's all part of the flow of life.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
April 2 was World Autism Awareness Day, and April is National Autism Awareness Month in the US. Audible has a fantastic roundup of audiobooks in all genres that celebrate neuro difference and diversity.
Interesting article in Forbes on disability representation in film.
I call Michael, the hero of The Kiss Quotient, a cinnamon roll in this episode and realized not everyone's familiar with the character labels of Romancelandia. There are so many I still don't know :) A cinnamon roll hero is the sweetest, kindest, most supportive, all around nicest person to a heroine. Here's a great roundup of books featuring cinnamon roll heroes.…
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Mar 25, 2021
Intimate Worlds: You've Got Mail/Love Lettering
Some of my favorite romantic stories create intimate worlds where true, vulnerable, heartfelt things can be said--and done. Sometimes it takes half the story to get there, sometimes it takes most of the story, but it's always worth the wait for that magic moment when characters finally bare their hearts.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Original vintage trailer for The Shop Around the Corner. Oh, the charm.
Nora Ephron followed the original first date scene very closely in her remake, You've Got Mail. Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullavan were very good friends in real life and Jimmy carried a tiny torch for her for a long time. Thinking that's why they're so adorable together in this movie!
The trailer for You've Got Mail. It doesn't do this movie justice. At all. See it!
Love Lettering by Kate Clayborn is worth the read in any format, but the audiobook, performed by Nicol Zanzarella, is sublime.
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Mar 11, 2021
Romantic Longing: 500 Days of Summer/La La Land
Unrequited love, "the timing's wrong" coupling, enemies to friends, friends to lovers, and then sometimes back to friends. What are these relationships about? Does chemistry even need a category? Some unforgettable romantic movies pin down that bittersweet, undeniable connection.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Change the World and Change Your Mind are the soundtrack to this episode. Yep, I'm an idealist.
F*eatured in order:
*500 Days of Summer
*
*When Harry Met Sally
The Age of Innocence
La La Land
The Red Shoes is a glorious, groundbreaking visual trip of a movie that explores how love and romance connect with the artistic process.
Made of Honor
Sex and the City
The Broken Hearts Gallery
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Feb 25, 2021
Choose Your Own Trope Adventure
Most romance makes me feel warm, optimistic and hopeful. But sometimes hot and kinky is what you need. A touch of BDSM. Sex with an alien. The wild fantasies of some contemporary romances practically catch fire on the page. And sometimes non-fancy hot sex with good communication and a considerate fictional character who appeals to you does the trick. It's risk-free, shame-free pretend in this episode, in any flavor you want. Vanilla? I'm here to support it all.
Confessions of a Closet Romantic
If you like exploring story forms in any genre, TV Tropes is the place to be online. Plan on a week--or at least being late for dinner.
*Book excerpts in order:*
Savor You from the Fusion series by Kristen Proby. This whole series is on fire, especially in audiobook.
An Indecent Proposal from the O'Malleys series by Katee Robert. Haven't read the whole series yet, but oh I'm going to get to it. If you like your romances hot and spicy with a bit of kink, Katee Robert is your one-stop shop.
B…
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Feb 11, 2021
Love, Sex and Romance - After 40 Edition
I've been having fun reading a ton of contemporary romances featuring buff young things getting it on. But it's time to get real: which means ageless love, with plenty of imperfection, wisdom and fun thrown in. It's romance full of humor, honesty, acceptance and kindness. The sexiest combo I know.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Heaving Bosoms podcast features different romance novels that best friends Erin and Melody have enjoyed--or just have opinions about. Hysterical, smart opinions.
At Home in Mitford
Movies/TV Shows mentioned:
Something's Gotta Give
Our Souls at Night
Book Club
Grace and Frankie
State of the Union
Geraldine bags Johnny Depp!! in this Vicar of Dibley special.
It's Complicated
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Jan 28, 2021
Tardy to the Alpha Party: Fifty Shades/Crazy Rich Asians
It's all about the alpha male today. Because he likes it that way, and dammit, makes me like it too. Plus, nobody ties a sexier Windsor knot than Jamie Dornan as Christian Grey.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Is it hot in here? The official, and super steamy, Fifty Shades of Grey trailer.
And then, it gets Fifty Shades Darker.
Crazy Rich Asians trailer.
The Romcomathon podcast episode on Crazy Rich Asians.Support the show
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Jan 14, 2021
The New Ton: Bridgerton & Sanditon
Who knew that Empire-waist dresses, waistcoats, cravats and women discovering their own power could be so sexy? Well, fans of Regency romance know. It's all about the debs and the Dukes in this episode. These two shows are the place to start your new, fresh, modern costume drama love affair.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Fascinating interview with Bridgerton showrunner Chris Van Dusen. He talks about adapting the books, the mostly female writers' room, the female gaze throughout and a controversial sex scene.
The Duke and Daphne's first dance. With all kinds of fireworks.
Every costume drama dance scene is the best dance scene to me, but Oh This Dance. It's worth watching the entire season of Sanditon for this moment.
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Dec 31, 2020
The Comfort of Corny Romance
Nothing wrong with indulging in slightly corny and comforting romantic movies. I talk about a bunch of my favorites in this episode, chock full of cheese (the tasty romantic kind).
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Movies mentioned:*
The screwball comedy I featured is His Girl Friday (1940) starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell. What a chemistry set!
The Holiday
The Lake House
Message in a Bottle
Leap Year
The Proposal
Grease 2
Blue Lagoon
Bridges of Madison County
Only You
Ever After
Compilation clip from Endless Love (1981)
The movie is based on the book Endless Love, the best-selling Salinger-esque novel by Scott Spencer. One of my favorite books of the 80s.
A fun royal Hallmark holiday movie, Christmas at the Palace.
Not romantic but so touching: November Christmas is one of the best Hallmark holiday movies ever. Have a hanky ready.
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Dec 17, 2020
A Cozy, Humorous Holiday: Little Women/The Family Stone
The March and Stone families give us the cozy, faithful and often funny holiday we all need this year.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Trailers:
*
Little Women (1933)
Little Women (1949)
Little Women (1994)
Little Women (2019)
The Family Stone
Download the *Little Women ebook* at Project Gutenberg
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Dec 3, 2020
Grand Romantic Gestures & the Little Things
This episode is about one of my favorite romantic tropes of all time: the grand--or small but meaningful--romantic gesture.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Stream NBC's Lipstick Jungle here
The Age of Innocence trailer
Elizabeth's thank you to Darcy and the second proposal scene from the 1995 BBC Pride & Prejudice
The breathtaking glider scene from Fifty Shades of Grey. One Last Night by Vaults is on constant repeat lately, and I can picture every moment of this scene when I hear it.
Go sailing with Christian and Ana. BTW, spoiler: he's going to buy you that vintage Tudor mansion later. Yeah, now that's a grand gesture.Support the show
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Nov 19, 2020
Tale of Woe: the Heartbreak and Happiness of Jane Eyre
In this episode I talk about one of the best filmed versions of the classic novel Jane Eyre: the 2011 romantic movie with Michael Fassbender and Mia Wasikowska. In my humble opinion, ahem.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
<p>Project Gutenberg, a library of more than 60,000 free e-books!</p>
<p>The Mr. Rochester book.</p>
<p>The second fireside conversation between Mr. Rochester and Jane.</p>
<p>The proposal scene. Passion played out in the woods and/or nature! Always a winner! See also The Grabby Kiss episode. Mia breaks my heart each time I watch this scene.</p>
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Nov 5, 2020
Chilly, Twisted Love: Rebecca
In this episode, I talk about the classic romantic suspense novel Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier and the sexy 2020 Netflix adaptation.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
<p>The full Alfred Hitchcock version of Rebecca from 1940.</p>
<p>The 2020 Netflix Rebecca trailer.</p>
<p>The Rebecca episode from A Novel Adaptation.</p>Support the show
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Oct 30, 2020
Can't Stop Extra: the Gutsy Rom-Com The Duchess
In this episode, I talk about the hilarious, often crude new Netflix rom-com series The Duchess starring comedian/actress/writer Katherine Ryan.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
<p>A lot of the material for The Duchess seems to have been inspired by this Katherine Ryan Netflix special.</p>Support the show
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Oct 29, 2020
Come for the Suspense, Stay for the Romance: Death Comes to Pemberley & The Scapegoat
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Death Comes to Pemberley trailer. Anna Maxwell Martin is one of my favorite Elizabeths, too.
It's based on a book by P.D. James
The Scapegoat trailer
The Scapegoat book by Daphne du Maurier
The foreplay to the train make-out clip from North by Northwest
Notorious, full movie. That Scene comes right at the end.Support the show
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Oct 22, 2020
Slightly Scary Romance: The Woman in White
In this episode I talk about the visually stunning 2018 miniseries The Woman in White, a creepy romantic mystery perfect for Halloween.
http://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
Where to stream The Woman in White
2018 WiW miniseries trailer and fantastic "sizzle reel"
1948 WiW movie trailer
Trailer for the dark and sometimes humorous Sleepy HollowSupport the show
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Oct 15, 2020
Romantic Rewinds and Binges: Outlander/A Discovery of Witches
In this episode I talk about my latest binges and obsessive romance rewinds, Outlander and A Discovery of Witches, and try to answer the question: am I going nuts?
http://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
*Outlander** S1 trailer**
*
*A Discovery of Witches **S1 trailer**. *That Kiss comes right at the end.
*All Souls Trilogy books**.
*
*The **article** I mention.
*
*Another fun **article** on the topic.
*
*Music mentioned in the Confessional:*
Lissie's amazing cover of Go Your Own Way
I Found by Amber Run
Never Gonna Dance by Fred Astaire, from one of my favorite Astaire/Rogers movies.
You Go to My Head by Frank Sinatra. He practically makes love to every vowel in this song.
You're the Best Thing by The Style Council
More Than This by Roxy Music
Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel
Suite: Judy Blue Eyes by Crosby, Stills & Nash
Stardust by Nat King Cole. The best version of this song, ever.
The Mayor of Simpleton by XTC
Jungle Love by Steve Miller Band
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Oct 9, 2020
Can't Stop Extra: Unrequited Love, Sherlock Style
In this extra episode, I talk about one of my favorite tiny romantic moments in the clever detective drama Sherlock.
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Christmas Scene (tag says "dearest Sherlock" not "Merry Christmas, Sherlock," even better): https://youtu.be/ulYsQ7-w4PU
A fun video compilation of some of the best Sherlock moments: https://youtu.be/OJ8eQZLcfXASupport the show
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Oct 1, 2020
All the Words Romance/Before Sunrise, Before Sunset & Destination Wedding
In this episode, I talk about some of the wordiest rom coms ever, and why I can't get enough of these romances.
Show notes at: http://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
This clip from Destination Wedding is the scene just prior to the one I discuss in this episode. You say puma, I say mountain lion, it's all hysterical: https://youtu.be/ICVNRU90Z-Q
The Q&A scene from Before Sunrise: https://youtu.be/sbwzV4cN90I
And the stop the car scene from Before Sunset: https://youtu.be/TUbgKkn9qFw
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Sep 25, 2020
Can't Stop Extra: The Last Tycoon/The Matt Bomer Experience
In this extra episode, I continue talking about the actor Matt Bomer, because I can't get enough of his performance in The Last Tycoon. Someone, rescue me…
https://www.confessionsofaclosetromantic.com
The Last Tycoon trailer: https://youtu.be/KnRIv-QNtjg
Pure glamor: https://condenaststore.com/featured/norma-shearer-and-irving-thalberg-in-a-garden-edward-steichen.html?product=poster
Oh, this picture: https://artsmeme.com/2009/01/15/jewish-prince-of-hollywood/
More about F. Scott Fitzgerald and Thalberg in Hollywood: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/11/16/slow-fade-arthur-krystalSupport the show
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Sep 18, 2020
The Grabby Kiss/Becoming Jane
In this episode I talk about some of my favorite visual romantic tropes— like a grab and a kiss and passion in the woods, used so well in the movie Becoming Jane.
Becoming Jane movie trailer: https://youtu.be/qmd-ej9Hx20
That Dance: https://youtu.be/mXoa7RcYT8M
Emma proposal scene: https://youtu.be/LTgOLHxQ9mM
More about Jane Austen's early life: https://www.notablebiographies.com/An-Ba/Austen-Jane.htmlSupport the show
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Sep 4, 2020
Chemical Hearts: Back to Senior Year
I'm revisiting the romantic ups and downs of senior year on this episode with the help of a fantastic new movie called Chemical Hearts.Support the show
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Sep 1, 2020
Goodbye Romance Shame/Mr Malcolm's List
I'm finally saying goodbye to shame about loving romance, and talking about the book Mr. Malcolm's List.
Show notes at confessionsofaclosetromantic.comSupport the show
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