Boundaries in Rom-Coms: The Good, The Bad, & The Uncomfortable

Rom-Com Rescue

Any takeaways from this episode?

We all say we know what boundaries are… but let’s be real: most of us weren’t taught how to actually set them—especially in relationships.

In this episode of RomCom Rescue, we’re breaking down the beautifully messy world of boundaries in romantic comedies. From the iconic (and sometimes problematic) classics to modern love stories that finally get it right, we’re unpacking how Hollywood has shaped our understanding of what’s romantic—and what’s actually just...a boundary issue.

🎬 We’re diving into:

• The early red flags in The Notebook 👀
• Creepy “romantic” gestures in Love Actually
• The absolute boundary dumpster fire that is Sixteen Candles
• Sneaky manipulation in My Best Friend’s Wedding
• And yes...we’re revisiting Crazy, Stupid, Love and The Big Sick for some surprisingly solid examples of what healthy can look like

Along the way, we answer:

• What are boundaries, really?
• Why are they so often misunderstood—or mislabeled as walls?
• How do boundaries protect emotional safety in relationships?
• What do healthy boundaries actually sound like in real life?

👯‍♀️ Join Kira Sabin, certified coach and healthy dating educator, and Dr. Isabelle Morley, licensed psychologist and EFT-certified couples therapist, for a real talk about love, safety, emotional autonomy, and how rom-coms have helped (and hurt) our understanding of healthy connection.

Come talk with us about your favorite rom-coms on instagram, tiktok, & youtube and Bluesky!
Get show notes, transcripts, and more information on at Rom-ComRescue.com