As far as romantic comedies go, this is "As Good as it Gets"

Rating: Null/10 (10 November 1999)

Throw out all of your `classics'. No Cary Grant movie can compare with the subtle beauty and outrageous humor of this gem. The plot seems more than a bit insane, but then again so does the main character. Melvin Udall (the incomparable Jack Nicholson) is a mean, obsessive-compulsive, old crank who's life is turned around by his gay neighbor Simon (the excellent Greg Kinnear) and his favorite waitress (the radiant Helen Hunt). This trio of actors perfectly fill out James L. Brooks and Mark Andrus' heartfelt screenplay. While the direction may not be breathtaking, Brooks' simplistic style is felt throughout the movie. Also Hans Zimmer's playful sweet score is a wonderful addition to this film, contributing to the mood without being conspicuous. However the characters and the actors that portray them are the real reason to see this movie.
Nicholson's Melvin Udall may live on to be the most famous film character of the 90's. His disgusting sense of humor and bigotry somehow reconcile believably with his underlying sweetness and vulnerability. I guess that sort of thing just happens naturally when you are as talented as Jack Nicholson. Helen Hunt's Carol is a wonderful, subtle, beautiful character. Her natural charm, beauty, and humor is reminiscent of Meg Ryan, only better. Carol is a wonderful representation of the modern supermom that attempts to be as good a person as she can to everyone, and that makes her a little stressed out when it comes to relationships. It is no wonder that she touches the heart of Melvin because she touches the heart of the audience as well. Kinnear's Simon Bishop is the weakest of the three links, but he holds his own admirably. Kinnear's film career was saved by this movie and rightfully so. His monologue about seeing someone's humanity in just one instant is one of the movie's most memorable moments. He also provides a realistic, non-caricatured portrayal of a gay man.

I will not spoil the story for those who have not seen it, but I will say that every time I see this movie, the wonderful, cathartic feeling that the ending provides is one of the most delightful movie experiences ever. In short, if you haven't seen it, then I suggest that you do as soon as you can. This is the greatest romantic comedy ever. It reaches out to the Melvin in all of us and tells us to open up, be ourselves, and most of all share your life with someone you love.