by Ashley Onorato, CDM major

Valentine’s Day comes around every year. It is a special day to share and appreciate with the one you love. Of course, love doesn't stop after the 14^th. It's the gift that keeps on giving (or so we hope). Another gift that keeps on giving is entertainment. With thousands of movies and tv shows, how does one choose what to watch during those netflix and chills with their sweetheart? I’ve compiled a list of the best couples in modern tv and film that you and your valentine could learn a lil something from. Just ended a bad relationship? Single? Still got you covered.

1. Ygritte and Jon Snow: Game of Thrones

Ygritte and Jon have a rocky start to their relationship, with her being held captive by Jon after he attacks her watchpost. The tables soon turn as she leads Jon back to her home base where he is met with anger from her people, the Wildlings. But their relationship continues anyway, and they set foot towards “The Wall.” After an attack by White Walkers, they are forced to climb the wall quicker than anticipated. During this feat, Ygritte creates a crack in the wall that sends several plummeting to their deaths. Seconds away from losing grip, Jon saves both of them and they make it to the top. What’s more romantic than being saved by the one you love? How about a kiss on a 700-foot wall of ice? Their love is inseparable, adventurous and unfortunately short lived. But no worries, the actors are married in real life!  

Quote:

 "If we die, we'll die, but first, we'll live."

―Ygritte to Jon Snow

2. Jim Halpert and Pam Beasley: The Office

Jim and Pam have one of the most infamous tv relationships to date. Starting off as best friends, their relationship blossomed into what everyone hopes for. It’s funny, playful, and loyal. But the best part about their relationship is the realness. Between past exes, new jobs, midlife crises, marriage, kids, and all the other ups and downs, they stay true to themselves and supportive of each other. That’s more than we could ever ask for.

Quote:

 "When you're a kid, you assume your parents are soulmates. My kids are gonna be right about that."

―Pam Beasley

3. Princess Bubblegum and Marceline: Adventure Time

This relationship was a long time coming. In fact, it did not get to truly blossom until the series finale. Either way, PB and Marceline's relationship throughout the show was rocky, often with snarky remarks, but still always there when either was in a pickle. As their relationship develops, we watch them make each other better people, and eventually become the best of friends. It is not until the very last episode that they reveal their true feelings for each other and their relationship becomes the truth. It can be hard growing up knowing you’re different, which both of these characters experienced in their own ways. They learn they are stronger together, and together they are at last.

Quote:

“Even back when we weren't talking, I was so afraid something bad would happen to you, and I wouldn't be there to protect you, and... I don't wanna lose you again.”

―Marceline to Princess Bubblegum

Worst Relationship: Michael Scott and Jan Levinson: The Office

These two are the exact opposite of what a relationship should look like. Fighting, manipulation, tension, and more keep these two far from being the ideal pair. Not to mention, all of their worst fights are done in front of guests at their dinner party. There is no one to blame for their problems as both create them. Jan makes Michael sleep at the end of her bed because of “space issues” and Michael won’t take down his Saint Pauli Girl Beer sign that Jan hates. Both of them are toxic to each other, and I'd much rather be single on Valentine’s Day than end up in a relationship as awful as theirs.

Quote:

“Hey, Jan. It's me, Michael. I'm just calling to say that I think we need a little break, permanently. And, uh, I know everybody says this, but I-I wanna remain friends. Or at least business associates who get along. Oh, just so you know, it's not me, it's you.”

―Michael to Jan

Best Friends: Bill, Beverly, Eddie, Richie, Ben, Mike, and Stanley: It and It Chapter 2

 These seven friends are the best you could ever ask for. These guys have been through the absolute worst you could imagine and stick together through it all. Friendship is actually what gives them the ability to escape their worst nightmares, literally. Without giving any spoilers, this group has defeated bullies, abusive relationships, loss, and of course Pennywise. But it is through all of this hardship that their friendship grows stronger.

Quote:

“There aren’t any such things as good friends or bad friends. Maybe there are just friends, people who stand by you when you’re hurt and who help you not feel so lonely. Maybe they’re always worth being scared for, and hoping for, and living for. Maybe worth dying for too, if that’s what has to be. No good friends. No bad friends. Only people you want, need to be with, people who build their houses in your heart.”

―Bill

So, no matter where you end up on Valentine’s Day, just remember there are ups and downs to every relationship. We don’t need to strive towards perfection, but rather do the best we can and stay true to who we are.