What is An Affair to Remember Month?
An Affair to Remember Month, celebrated annually in February in the United States, is a tribute to one of Hollywood’s most iconic love stories, the 1957 film An Affair to Remember starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. The month invites fans of classic romance films to celebrate the enduring themes of love, fate, and second chances as portrayed in the movie. As February is also the month of Valentine’s Day, this celebration aligns perfectly with the spirit of romance, offering a nostalgic reflection on the magic of timeless love stories.
This month is dedicated to honoring not just the film itself but also the lasting impact that romantic movies have on pop culture, relationships, and how people view love and destiny.
History and Origin
An Affair to Remember was released in 1957 and quickly became a classic in the romance genre, often listed among the most romantic films of all time. Directed by Leo McCarey, the film tells the story of two strangers who meet on a cruise, fall in love, and plan to reunite six months later at the top of the Empire State Building, only to face unforeseen obstacles. The movie’s enduring popularity inspired the creation of An Affair to Remember Month, a time to celebrate the film’s themes of hope, resilience in love, and the belief in destiny.
Although it’s unclear exactly when the month-long celebration started, its roots lie in the cultural appreciation for timeless love stories that continue to captivate audiences decades after their release.
Who Celebrates An Affair to Remember Month?
- Classic Film Fans: Movie lovers and fans of classic Hollywood films celebrate by watching An Affair to Remember and other romantic classics from the golden age of cinema.
- Couples: Many couples use this month to rekindle their romance by planning special dates inspired by the themes of love, fate, and unforgettable moments in the film.
- Romantic Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy celebrating love and nostalgia take part by organizing movie nights, discussing iconic romantic moments in film, and reflecting on personal love stories.
- Film Historians and Critics: Film scholars and critics often observe the month by discussing the cultural significance of An Affair to Remember and its influence on modern romance films.
- Valentine’s Day Celebrants: Many people combine their Valentine’s Day celebrations with An Affair to Remember Month by planning romantic activities that echo the film’s memorable moments.
Slogans and Themes
An Affair to Remember Month centers around themes of romance, destiny, and unforgettable love. Slogans like “A Love Worth Waiting For” and “Destined for Romance” highlight the powerful connection between two people that transcends time and circumstances, as portrayed in the film. The month encourages people to reflect on their own love stories, believe in second chances, and celebrate the magic of enduring romance.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors:
- Red, representing passion and romance, fitting for the timeless love story portrayed in the film.
- Gold, symbolizing the elegance and classic glamour of Hollywood’s golden age.
- Black and white, reflecting the vintage, nostalgic feel of the classic film era.
- Symbols:
- Empire State Building, representing the iconic meeting place in the film, symbolizing love, hope, and destiny.
- Rose, a symbol of love, beauty, and the romance that blossoms in unforgettable love stories.
- Heart, representing eternal love and the emotional depth found in relationships that stand the test of time.
- Patterns:
- Skyline patterns, symbolizing the grand, cinematic moments of love, with a nod to the famous New York City setting in the film.
- Elegant script fonts, representing the timeless and classic feel of romance stories.
- Swirling, delicate motifs, echoing the sentimentality and beauty of the film’s most emotional scenes.
Most Used Hashtags
- #AnAffairToRememberMonth
- #ClassicRomance
- #TimelessLove
- #OldHollywoodRomance
- #RomanceInFilm
How to Celebrate An Affair to Remember Month
- Watch An Affair to Remember: Celebrate by watching or rewatching this classic film with a loved one. Make it a romantic evening by pairing the film with a special dinner or movie marathon of other classic romances.
- Recreate a Memorable Date: Take inspiration from the film and plan a romantic date inspired by its themes, such as visiting a landmark, watching the sunset, or enjoying a nostalgic, intimate dinner.
- Discuss Classic Romance Films: Host a virtual or in-person discussion group with friends to talk about the impact of An Affair to Remember and other romantic movies, sharing your favorite scenes and memories.
- Visit Iconic Film Locations: If possible, visit famous landmarks from the film, such as the Empire State Building, to experience the magic of classic movie settings firsthand.
- Write a Love Letter: Inspired by the film’s emotional depth, write a heartfelt letter to your partner, reminiscing on your own “affair to remember” and the moments that have made your relationship special.
- Share Memories on Social Media: Use the month’s hashtags to post about your favorite moments from An Affair to Remember or share personal stories of romantic encounters and second chances.
Why is An Affair to Remember Month Important?
An Affair to Remember Month is important because it reminds us of the power of love stories and their ability to inspire, uplift, and connect people across generations. The timeless themes of love, fate, and resilience resonate deeply with audiences, showing that true love often endures against all odds. Celebrating this month provides an opportunity for couples to reflect on their relationships, rekindle their romance, and embrace the idea that great love stories are not just for the movies but can be part of real life, too.
By honoring this classic film, the month also preserves the legacy of old Hollywood and its influence on how romance is portrayed in cinema today.