In the Middle Ages, European folklore and fairy tales continued to shape the narrative of romantic relationships. Stories like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty and the Beast introduced the concept of courtly love, emphasizing the adoration and worship of a lady from afar. These tales often featured a heroic male protagonist who would overcome incredible obstacles to win the heart of his beloved.

The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of iconic on-screen couples, such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, or Marlon Brando and Sophia Loren. These power couples captivated audiences with their on-screen chemistry and off-screen romances, further blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Movies and television shows like Crazy Rich Asians (2018), To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018), and The Big Sick (2017) have celebrated diverse cultures, identities, and experiences. These stories often blend traditional romantic comedy elements with nuanced explorations of family, community, and social expectations.

The 1990s saw the emergence of new romantic comedy sub-genres, such as the "meet-cute" and "friends-to-lovers" tropes. Movies like Sleepless in Seattle (1993), Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), and My Best Friend's Wedding (1997) popularized these storylines, which continue to influence romantic comedies today.