The 25 Best Movies Like 'The Hating Game', Ranked By Fans
Photo: The Hating Game / Vertical Entertainment

The 25 Best Movies Like 'The Hating Game', Ranked By Fans

Jason Bancroft
March 29, 2024 25 items
Voting Rules
Vote on the movies that fans of 'The Hating Game' are sure to love.

Are you ready to dive into a world of witty banter, workplace dynamics, and surprise romance? If you're a fan of The Hating Game, get ready to add some new potential favorites to your watchlist. These films were chosen because they feature similar themes and tones to The Hating Game, offering a delightful mix of comedy, romance, and drama that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

In each of these movies, you'll find protagonists navigating the complexities of relationships and personal growth amidst the backdrop of their professional lives. From workplace rivalries to unexpected romances, these stories capture the essence of Sally Thorne's novel and its adaptation to the silver screen. The movies on this list have been compiled using votes from Rankers like you, ensuring that you're getting recommendations from fellow fans who know what makes a great film.

Take The Ugly Truth, for example, where Katherine Heigl's lovelorn TV producer clashes with Gerard Butler's opinionated TV celebrity in a battle of the sexes that turns into something more. Or consider Pride & Prejudice, which shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of a complex relationship between protagonists from different social backgrounds, evolving into romantic tension amidst societal expectations. You can find convenient “Where to Watch” buttons below each film for streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Max, Apple TV+, Hulu, Paramount+, and Disney+, among others.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Confessions of a Shopaholic and The Wedding Planner offer equally charming portrayals of protagonists facing personal and professional challenges while discovering the true meaning of love. So, whether you're in the mood for a classic romance or a modern-day comedy, there's something for everyone on this list.

Now, it's your turn to have a say. Vote up your favorite items on the list and help shape the rankings for fellow movie enthusiasts. Your votes can make all the difference in helping others discover their next favorite film. So, grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and let the movie marathon begin.

  • 1
    6 VOTES

    Margaret Tate (Sandra Bullock), a high-powered book editor, faces deportation to Canada and coerces her assistant, Andrew Paxton (Ryan Reynolds), into marrying her to avoid the situation. As they travel to Andrew's family home in Alaska for his grandmother's birthday, they navigate their fake relationship and confront their true feelings. Directed by Anne Fletcher, The Proposal finds humor in the complexities of modern relationships.

    The Proposal shares similarities with The Hating Game in its depiction of a contentious relationship between protagonists who initially clash but eventually develop feelings for each other. Both films feature elements of workplace dynamics and unforeseen romance, with witty banter and humorous situations driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories showcase characters that go through personal growth and self-discovery as they navigate their feelings amidst professional aspirations.

  • In The Ugly Truth, Abby Richter, a lovelorn TV producer, is reluctantly paired with opinionated TV celebrity Mike Chadway. As they clash over their differing views on relationships, their professional partnership turns into a battle of the sexes. Starring Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler, this romantic comedy explores themes of love, compatibility, and the complexities of modern dating dynamics.

    Similar to The Hating Game, The Ugly Truth delves into the dynamics of a contentious relationship between two protagonists with opposing views, ultimately leading to romantic tension. Both films feature protagonists who initially clash due to their differing perspectives, but gradually find common ground and develop feelings for each other. With witty banter and humorous situations, both movies offer a lighthearted exploration of workplace dynamics and heart-warming romance.

  • 3
    8 VOTES

    In the heart of Beverly Hills, high schooler Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) reigns as a self-proclaimed fashionista and matchmaker, navigating the tricky waters of adolescence while handling love interests and maintaining her social status. Alongside Cher is her best friend Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash), who aids in her various escapades. Directed by Amy Heckerling, Clueless cleverly taps into teenage angst and the complexities of young love.

    Clueless shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of complex relationships and romantic tension amidst witty banter and humorous situations. Additionally, both stories feature protagonists who initially clash but gradually find common ground and develop feelings for each other.

  • In Sweet Home Alabama, successful New York fashion designer Melanie Carmichael faces complications when her past in rural Alabama resurfaces, including her unresolved marriage to Jake Perry. As Melanie returns to her hometown, she navigates through old friendships and past love, leading to a journey of self-discovery and second chances. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, and Patrick Dempsey, this romantic comedy-drama examines the character's relationship with identity, forgiveness, and the importance of one's roots.

    Similar to The Hating Game, Sweet Home Alabama features a strong female protagonist grappling with conflicting emotions and romantic entanglements. Both films encompass the ideas of self-discovery and second chances, as the protagonists confront their pasts and navigate through surprising twists in their love lives. With a blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments, both movies offer an engaging portrayal of relationships and personal growth.

  • In London, Bridget Jones navigates her love life and career while filling her diary with humorous observations and confessions. Her romantic entanglements with two men, Mark Darcy and Daniel Cleaver, lead to a whirlwind of dilemmas. Starring Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, and Hugh Grant, Bridget Jones's Diary explores ideas of self-discovery, love, and societal expectations.

    Similar to The Hating Game, Bridget Jones's Diary follows a protagonist navigating the complexities of relationships and professional aspirations. Both films feature strong character development and witty dialogue, offering audiences a charming tale of romance amidst workplace dynamics. Despite their initial conflicts, the protagonists in both movies find themselves drawn to each other, leading to romantic developments.

  • Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson), a journalist, bets she can make a man fall in love with her and then drive him away within 10 days, while advertising executive Benjamin Barry (Matthew McConaughey) bets he can make a woman fall in love with him in the same timeframe. As they each pursue their agendas, they find themselves falling for each other despite their initial intentions. Directed by Donald Petrie, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days explores the complexities of romantic relationships.

    How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of protagonists engaged in a dynamic that evolves into an intense romance. Both films feature elements of workplace rivalry and witty banter, driving the narrative forward amidst humorous situations. Additionally, both stories contain characters confronting their true feelings amidst professional aspirations.

  • In the heart of 19th-century England, the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) clashes with the proud and enigmatic Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) amidst the backdrop of social class and family expectations. Directed by Joe Wright, Pride & Prejudice is an adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel about the complexities of romance and familial duty. 

    Pride & Prejudice shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of a relationship between protagonists from different social backgrounds, initially marked by animosity but evolving into romantic suspense. Both stories delve into ideas of personal growth and self-discovery amidst societal expectations, with witty dialogue and subtle chemistry driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both films offer a charming portrayal of romance amidst workplace or societal dynamics.

  • Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher), an aspiring journalist, grapples with a crippling addiction to shopping and mounting debt while navigating the world of fashion journalism in New York City. Directed by P.J. Hogan, Confessions of a Shopaholic examines topics of consumerism, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness as Rebecca learns valuable lessons about life, love, and financial responsibility. 

    Confessions of a Shopaholic shares similarities with The Hating Game in portraying a protagonist facing personal and professional challenges while navigating the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Both films feature elements of workplace dynamics and unexpected romance amidst witty banter and humorous situations, with characters learning and growing through their experiences. Additionally, both stories offer a lighthearted yet insightful exploration of human nature and the pursuit of happiness.

  • Marisa Ventura (Jennifer Lopez), a single mother working as a maid at a luxurious Manhattan hotel, finds herself thrust into the world of high society when a wealthy politician mistakes her for a guest. Directed by Wayne Wang, Maid in Manhattan's characters deal with a sense of identity, class, and the power of love as Marisa and her unlikely suitor navigate the challenges of their differing social statuses and personal aspirations.

    Maid in Manhattan shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of protagonists who find themselves drawn to each other amidst unexpected circumstances. Additionally, both stories offer a heartwarming portrayal of love overcoming obstacles and transcending social barriers.

  • 10
    3 VOTES

    In Bride Wars, best friends Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Liv (Kate Hudson) find their lifelong friendship tested when they accidentally schedule their weddings on the same day at the same venue. Emma and Liv must navigate the challenges of wedding planning and their strained relationship. 

    Bride Wars shares similarities with The Hating Game in its depiction of a contentious relationship between protagonists. Both films explore competition and unexpected conflict amidst strong emotional bonds, with humor and heartfelt moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer insights into the complexities of human relationships and the importance of communication and understanding.

  • 11
    3 VOTES

    In the romantic comedy 27 Dresses, perennial bridesmaid Jane Nichols (Katherine Heigl) finds herself always the bridesmaid but never the bride as she navigates her sister's wedding while juggling her own unrequited love for her boss. Directed by Anne Fletcher, the film explores love, selflessness, and the search for happiness as Jane confronts her feelings and learns valuable lessons about life and love. 

    27 Dresses shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of a protagonist navigating the complexities of romantic relationships while facing challenges in both personal and professional spheres. Both films explore themes of unrequited love, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness amidst the backdrop of wedding-related drama, with humor and heartfelt moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a charming portrayal of romance amidst the ups and downs of life.

  • In the romantic comedy-drama Crazy, Stupid, Love., recently divorced Cal Weaver (Steve Carell) seeks guidance in the art of seduction from smooth-talking ladies' man Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), leading to lessons about love and relationships for both men. Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, the film features the topics of love, fidelity, and the complexities of modern romance as Cal, Jacob, and a cast of interconnected characters navigate the ups and downs of their romantic lives. 

    Crazy, Stupid, Love. shares similarities with The Hating Game in its exploration of the intricacies of romantic relationships and the connections that form between characters from different walks of life. Both films delve into the ideas of personal growth, fidelity, and the pursuit of happiness amidst the complexities of modern romance, with humor and genuine emotion driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a compelling portrayal of love in all its forms, from initial attraction to deeper emotional connections.

  • 13
    4 VOTES

    In the romantic comedy Notting Hill, bookstore owner Will Thacker (Hugh Grant) finds his ordinary life turned upside down when he crosses paths with famous actress Anna Scott (Julia Roberts). Directed by Roger Michell, the film examines the ideas of fame, love, and the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the spotlight as Will and Anna navigate the complexities of their unlikely romance amidst media scrutiny and personal insecurities. 

    Notting Hill shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of a romance between protagonists from vastly different backgrounds, highlighting the challenges and complexities of navigating relationships amidst external pressures. Both stories offer a lighthearted yet insightful look into the dynamics of human relationships and the pursuit of happiness.

  • In The Wedding Planner, ambitious wedding planner Mary Fiore (Jennifer Lopez) finds her professional life complicated when she falls for the groom of her latest client. Directed by Adam Shankman, this romantic comedy focuses on love, destiny, and the importance of following one's heart as Mary navigates the challenges of balancing her career aspirations with her newfound feelings for a forbidden love interest. 

    The Wedding Planner shares similarities with The Hating Game in its depiction of a protagonist torn between professional ambitions and romantic feelings, leading to complicated interpersonal dynamics. Both films explore themes of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness amidst professional challenges, with humor and heartfelt moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer insights into the complexities of human emotions and the choices we make in matters of the heart.

  • In the comedy Legally Blonde, bubbly sorority girl Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) enrolls in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend and discovers her true potential as a legal powerhouse. Directed by Robert Luketic, the film explores themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and breaking stereotypes as Elle defies expectations and proves her worth in the competitive world of law. 

    Legally Blonde shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of a determined protagonist navigating a challenging environment to prove herself and achieve her goals. Both films explore themes of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of success amidst unexpected circumstances, with humor and heartwarming moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a refreshing take on female empowerment and the importance of staying true to oneself.

  • In the romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally..., Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) navigate the complexities of friendship and romance over the course of several years, grappling with the age-old question of whether men and women can truly be just friends. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film thoughtfully reflects on love, timing, and the evolution of relationships as Harry and Sally confront their feelings and the realities of growing older. 

    When Harry Met Sally... shares similarities with The Hating Game in its exploration of the evolving dynamics between two protagonists who initially start off as acquaintances but eventually realize their deeper feelings for each other. Both films look at how timing, compatibility, and unpredictability can impact love, with witty banter and heartfelt moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a timeless portrayal of romance and the enduring power of human connection amidst life's ups and downs.

  • Failure to Launch
    Photo: Failure to Launch

    In the romantic comedy Failure to Launch, Tripp (Matthew McConaughey) is a 35-year-old man who still lives with his parents. His parents hire Paula (Sarah Jessica Parker) to date him and motivate him to move out, but their plan takes an unexpected turn as genuine feelings develop. Directed by Tom Dey, the film looks at the characters' ideas of independence, love, and personal growth as Tripp and Paula navigate their evolving relationship amidst comedic mishaps.

    Both Failure to Launch and The Hating Game feature protagonists dealing with issues in their personal and professional lives. While Failure to Launch focuses more on personal independence and maturity, like The Hating Game, it also portrays a developing romance amidst unconventional circumstances. Both films offer humor and heartwarming moments as the protagonists navigate their feelings and overcome obstacles to find happiness.

  • 18
    0 VOTES

    In the romantic comedy Runaway Bride, small-town journalist Ike Graham (Richard Gere) travels to Hale, Maryland, to write an exposé on Maggie Carpenter (Julia Roberts), a woman notorious for leaving multiple grooms at the altar. Directed by Garry Marshall, the film explores themes of commitment, authenticity, and the search for true love as Ike and Maggie confront their fears and insecurities while navigating their complicated relationship. 

    Runaway Bride shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of protagonists grappling with issues of trust, vulnerability, and the fear of commitment. Both films delve into themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness amidst romantic entanglements, with humor and heartfelt moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a heartwarming exploration of love's ability to overcome obstacles and transform lives.

  • In the romantic comedy Life as We Know It, Holly Berenson (Katherine Heigl) and Eric Messer (Josh Duhamel) find themselves thrust into parenthood when they become the guardians of their mutual friends' orphaned daughter. Directed by Greg Berlanti, the film explores ideas of love, family, and responsibilities as Holly and Eric navigate the challenges of co-parenting while dealing with their own unresolved feelings. 

    Life as We Know It shares similarities with The Hating Game in its depiction of protagonists thrown into unexpected circumstances that test their personal and emotional boundaries. Both films showcase topics of growth, reconciliation, and the complexities of relationships amidst challenging situations, with humor and genuine emotion driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer insights into the transformative power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.

    0 votes
  • In the romantic comedy-drama He's Just Not That Into You, a group of interconnected individuals in Baltimore navigate the complexities of modern romance, from missed connections and unrequited love to infidelity and commitment issues. Directed by Ken Kwapis, the film reflects on how communication and the search for meaningful connections in a digital age can be incredibly difficult. 

    He's Just Not That Into You shares similarities with The Hating Game in its exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and the misunderstandings that arise in matters of the heart. Both films delve into themes of attraction, compatibility, and emotional honesty amidst the complexities of romantic dynamics, with humor and genuine emotion driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a poignant reflection on the challenges of navigating love and finding one's true path to happiness.

  • In the romantic comedy Two Weeks Notice, Lucy Kelson (Sandra Bullock) is a dedicated attorney who quits her job as chief counsel for a real estate tycoon, George Wade (Hugh Grant), but agrees to stay on for two weeks to train her replacement. Directed by Marc Lawrence, the film's characters deal with their career, love lives, and personal integrity as Lucy and George navigate their complicated professional and personal relationship.

    Both Two Weeks Notice and The Hating Game revolve around protagonists working in corporate environments where they develop complex relationships with their colleagues. While Two Weeks Notice focuses more on the professional aspect, it also delves into the romantic tension between the main characters, similar to the dynamic between Lucy and Joshua in The Hating Game. Both films offer a blend of comedy and romance as the protagonists navigate their feelings and professional challenges.

  • Leap Year
    Photo: Leap Year / Universal Pictures
    22
    0 VOTES

    In the romantic comedy Leap Year, Anna Brady (Amy Adams) travels to Ireland to propose to her boyfriend on Leap Day, only to find herself stranded in the countryside and reliant on the help of surly innkeeper Declan O'Callaghan (Matthew Goode). Directed by Anand Tucker, the film explores themes of destiny, adventure, and the unexpected journey of self-discovery as Anna and Declan embark on a road trip across Ireland. 

    Leap Year shares similarities with The Hating Game in its portrayal of protagonists thrown together by circumstance who embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Both films explore themes of romance, cultural differences, and the transformative power of love, with humor and heartwarming moments driving the narrative forward. Additionally, both stories offer a charming exploration of human connection and the importance of taking leaps of faith in pursuit of happiness.

  • 23
    0 VOTES

    In the classic comedy Groundhog Day, weatherman Phil Connors (Bill Murray) finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. As he experiences the same events repeatedly, Phil undergoes personal growth and learns to appreciate life and love. Directed by Harold Ramis, the film explores themes of redemption, self-improvement, and the power of human connection.

    Both Groundhog Day and The Hating Game involve protagonists experiencing personal growth and transformation over time. While Groundhog Day focuses more on Phil's individual journey, similar to the character development in The Hating Game, it also touches upon themes of love and interpersonal relationships. Both films offer a blend of comedy and introspection as the protagonists confront their inner conflicts and strive for personal fulfillment.

  • Palm Springs
    Photo: Hulu
    24
    1 VOTES

    In the romantic comedy Palm Springs, Nyles (Andy Samberg) and Sarah (Cristin Milioti) find themselves stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again at a wedding in Palm Springs. As they navigate the surreal situation together, they develop a deep connection and explore the meaning of life and love. Directed by Max Barbakow, the film blends elements of comedy, romance, and existentialism.

    Both Palm Springs and The Hating Game involve protagonists facing unexpected circumstances that challenge their perspectives on life and relationships. While Palm Springs explores the existential themes of the time loop, similar to the professional challenges Lucy and Joshua face in The Hating Game, it also delves into the emotional connection between the main characters. Both films offer a mix of humor and thought-provoking moments as the protagonists navigate their experiences and search for meaning.

  • In the romantic comedy Definitely, Maybe, Will Hayes (Ryan Reynolds) recounts his romantic history to his daughter, Maya (Abigail Breslin), concealing the identities of the women he dated. As Maya tries to figure out which woman became her mother, Will revisits his past relationships with three different women, played by Isla Fisher, Rachel Weisz, and Elizabeth Banks. Directed by Adam Brooks, the film explores topics of love, timing, and the complexities of romantic relationships.

    Both Definitely, Maybe and The Hating Game involve protagonists reflecting on past romantic experiences while navigating their present circumstances. While Definitely, Maybe focuses on Will's journey to find love, similar to Lucy and Joshua's evolving relationship in The Hating Game, it also explores themes of personal growth and self-discovery. Both films offer a blend of humor and heartfelt moments as the protagonists search for happiness in matters of the heart.