Buzz
While Valentine's Day is for your significant other, February 13 is all about your closest friends. Galentine's Day, a tradition rooted in modern pop culture—specifically, a 2010 episode of the iconic series Parks and Recreation—sees Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) showering her friends with waffles and thoughtful gifts.
This celebration has grown into a beloved tradition, and rightly so. As Knope famously put it, it's a time for "women uplifting women," a sentiment that resonates even more alongside the often complicated holiday of romantic love. To help you cherish the incredible women in your life, I've curated a list of films perfect for a Galentine's Day movie night. From timeless favorites to hidden gems, all are available to stream or rent digitally. So, grab your closest friends, some popcorn, and enjoy the celebration.
Boys on the Side (1995)
A mismatched group (Whoopi Goldberg, Drew Barrymore, and Mary-Louise Parker) embarks on a cross-country journey from New York City to Los Angeles, only to find themselves stranded in Tucson, Arizona, due to a medical emergency. With a soundtrack highlighting iconic '90s female artists and a cameo by Matthew McConaughey, this heartfelt comedy explores the idea that friends can be the family we choose.
Where to stream: Plex
Whip It (2009)
Drew Barrymore steps behind the camera for her directorial debut in this uplifting story of a young woman, raised by a beauty queen, who discovers her true community in a roller derby squad. The film boasts a stellar ensemble, including Elliot Page, Kristen Wiig, Alia Shawkat, Eve, and Juliette Lewis.
Where to stream: Cinemax, Digital rental
Troop Beverly Hills (1989)
Discussions about a follow-up to this beloved '80s gem, which follows a pampered socialite (Shelly Long) as she takes charge of her daughter's Wilderness Girls troop, have surfaced, but the original remains unmatched. The film also marks the acting debut of indie artist Jenny Lewis, who nods to it in her music video "She's Not Me."
Where to stream: Digital rental
Girls Trip (2017)
This laugh-out-loud comedy, starring Tiffany Haddish in a breakout role, follows a self-help author who reunites with her old friends (the Flossy Posse) for a wild weekend in New Orleans. Packed with unforgettable moments, including a zip-lining scene you won't soon forget, it's a celebration of friendship and fun.
A League of Their Own (1992)
While Tom Hanks was prominently featured in the promotional campaign for this film about the inaugural women's professional baseball league, it's Geena Davis, Rosie O'Donnell, Lori Petty, and Madonna who truly bring the story to life with their heartfelt performances.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Booksmart (2019)
On their final day of high school, two academically driven friends (Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever) attempt to experience all the fun they missed out on over four years in a single night, leading to uproarious outcomes. While it’s tempting to call this a female version of Superbad, it stands out for its wit and heartfelt sincerity.
Where to stream: YouTube, Digital rental
Lady Bird (2017)
Beanie Feldstein also shines in Greta Gerwig’s directorial debut, portraying the best friend of the protagonist, Lady Bird (Saoirse Ronan). The film follows a 17-year-old Catholic school student navigating the complexities of adolescence in Sacramento, a place she dreams of escaping. With its blend of humor and authenticity, this Oscar-nominated movie proves Gerwig’s talent as a filmmaker long before her work on Barbie.
Where to stream: Netflix, Paramount+ with Showtime, Digital rental
The Trouble with Angels (1966)
This '60s comedy follows two mischievous Catholic schoolgirls who constantly challenge their progressive Mother Superior and the convent’s nuns. A tale of rebellion and self-discovery, it mirrors Lady Bird in finding humor and camaraderie in unexpected places.
Where to stream: Digital rental
9 to 5 (1980)
Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda star as three office workers who plot to take down their despicable, chauvinistic boss. The film not only smashed box office records for female-led productions but also forged a lasting bond among its leading ladies.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Clueless (1995)
This '90s adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma centers on Cher, a seemingly shallow teenager who discovers purpose in playing matchmaker for her teachers and peers—yet struggles to find her own romantic happiness. With a cast of rising stars, including the timeless Paul Rudd, Clueless redefined the teen genre by blending wit with emotional depth.
Where to stream: Paramount+ with Showtime, Digital rental
The Joy Luck Club (1993)
Adapted from the best-selling novel, this film’s title highlights four Chinese immigrants in San Francisco who gather to play mahjong and share stories about their daughters. A touching exploration of cultural and generational divides, it stands as one of the first modern films with a predominantly Asian-American cast.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Now and Then (1995)
Likely a staple of your childhood sleepovers, this film mirrors the male-centric Stand by Me, with an adult narrator reminiscing about a pivotal summer that transformed her and her three friends’ lives, while also revisiting their present-day selves to reflect on their journeys.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Real Women Have Curves (2002)
America Ferrera stars in her breakout role in this heartfelt dramedy, portraying a young woman in East Los Angeles striving to break free from her domineering mother and carve out her own identity. In an iconic moment, she empowers her coworkers at her mother’s garment factory to embrace their individuality.
Where to stream: Max, Digital rental
