The Proposal, a modern romantic comedy

Director Anne Fletcher delivered a charm bomb in this sleek modern rom-com that proved the genre still had surprises up its sleeve.

Sandrah Bullock and Ryan Reynolds exude a chemistry so effervescent, it seems alchemical. Their fast-paced sparring and slow-burning surrender to affection renewed my faith in Hollywood's most reliable formula.

Set against the soft hues and aspirational prosperty of Manhattan's publishing elite, Fletcher balances fish-out-of-water hijinks and meaningful deconstruction of emotionally closed-off "types". She understands romance a little deeper.

Bullock seamlessly pivots between brash boss bitch and vulnerable soul, a fine-tuned character journey. Reynolds likewise peels back macho tropes to reveal care and nuance within. Their contrasts drew laughs; their commonalities warmed hearts.

Fletcher springs just the right story beats with impeccable comedic timing but real, earned warmth. You believe in these characters' transformation because she understands intimacy's roots in friendship, not heat alone.

A rare modern rom-com that feels fresh and truthful while delivering belly laughs and fantasies of finding belonging within unlikely places. Fletcher is a master, and rom-coms' brightest hope. Audiences of all stripes can feel nourished here.

Scored a healthy $164 million at the global box office against a $40 million budget, proving romantic comedies still have commercial potential when crafted well.

Bullock received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – acknowledging her pitch perfect comedic timing and ability to anchor a crowd-pleasing hit.

Wins included AARP Movies for Grownups awards for Best Grownup Love Story.