Valentine’s Day is near and it’s time to come up with something romantic – fast- that doesn’t break the bank. Fancy dinners and events are lovely but sometimes spending a night in can make a more lasting impression. If you are like me, and prefer something a little more adventurous than the typical love story, check out my top three picks for a nerdy evening at home.

Love Movies for the Nerd in Your Life

Warm Bodies

It’s the classic love story- undead boy meets girl and falls in love but struggles with their relationship in a dangerous world. No, it’s not Twilight, it’s Warm Bodies, the only zombie love story of its kind. It’s exciting and funny with a twist, unlike any zombie movie I’ve seen. I know movies can give unrealistic expectations about changing people but this is the situation it’s probably best for.

Love and Monsters

Again, not your typical love story and it starts out with a seemingly obvious plot about a boy fueled by love and willing to take on a world full of monsters for the main girl . It turns into a kind of coming of age adventure where the main character learns maybe he had people that loved him all along but had to find himself first. It ends hopeful but the real love story is about the boy and a really cute dog which is what we all really need.

Scott Pilgrim Versus the World

I realize no one will think this is romantic except me but it’s my favorite movie so it makes the cut. Funny, quirky, with great actors/characters, Scott Pilgrim is the story of Scott who is a bit of a jerk (has the tendency to date and ghost) but meets the girl of his dreams (and sometimes inter-dimensional travel) who also has some dating baggage that comes back to haunt her and fight Scott. Despite the ridiculousness of the story, Scott does develop as a character and faces his own demons (literally) to heal and have a healthy relationship. Plus, the gaming humor is noice.

Don’t Forget the Movie Munchies

Grab your favorite candy and some popcorn before the movie or try something a little fancier. My husband and I like making charcuterie boards together. It becomes a little creative project between the two of us and it’s great to nibble on during the movie. Check out some of my favorite items from Trader Joe’s for ideas below:

– Gyoza

– Egg rolls

– Chocolate Covered Almonds

– Cheese (Goat Cheese with Fine Herbs or Spanish Cheese Tapas Sampler)

– Gourmet Deli Selection (Calabrese Salame, Prosciutto, Capolcollo)

– Cherries

– Sliced Peaches

– Crackers

– Fresh Baked French Bread

– Artichoke dip