Bridget Jones' Diary and Dirty Dancing are among the top romantic comedy films that have had the biggest impact on real-life couples, a survey has found.
The research, of 2,000 adults, found that 35% regularly indulge in a rom-com, with 29% having quoted a classic movie line to their partner.
And 23% have related a scene from a movie to a situation in their own relationship – with more than a fifth (22%) spotting cracks in their relationship after watching a movie.
Four in ten get more satisfaction from watching a rom-com than they do from their partner – and 27% have had disagreements with a loved one that have been influenced by a romantic film.
One in seven (15%) have even ended a relationship after watching a rom-com, while a further 13% have been influenced to cheat on their partner.
As a result, almost half (46%) criticise films like Notting Hill and Pretty Woman for depicting unrealistic views of what a relationship should be like.
But just 29% of those polled believe rom-coms to be an accurate portrayal of a real-life relationship.
It also emerged 30% feel pressured to change in order to fit the image of a character played by an A-list star – with 34% copying or imitating the actions of characters made famous by actors such as Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
Behavioural psychologist and relationship expert Jo Hemming, who is working with Pluto TV, which commissioned the research to launch its “Bad Romance” channel, said: “It's interesting to see how people's favourite romantic films can reflect their relationship preferences and personality.
“It's a great way to gain insight into what makes someone tick in love and relationships.
“There's no doubt that we take watching our romantic movies seriously.
“And with 29% reporting they have quoted a classic romantic line to their own partner, and 23% reporting a situation in their own life was mirrored from a scene in a movie, romantic films have a memorable and considerable influence on our relationships in many ways.
“However, while movies have a profound impact on our relationships, we must always look inward and decide what works best for us.
“So, while holding a boombox above your head blaring “In Your Eyes”, or turning up unannounced at your love interest's doorstep with 13 cue cards, may seem romantic in the movies, this may not work for all relationships and problems.”
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found that the 1997 blockbuster hit, Titanic, starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, topped the list of movies that had the greatest impact on real-life couples.
But almost a tenth of those polled (7%) admit to changing the channel when a romantic comedy film is on.
Jo Hemming added: “One of the joys of romantic movies is their comfort and reassurance – and, with few differing plotlines, we watch them for escapism and entertainment.
“It's no surprise familiar and beloved blockbuster epics of years gone by, such as Bridget Jones' Diary, Titanic, and Dirty Dancing, have the most influence on our relationships.”
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