Second-lead syndrome

What's a romcom without an unhinged friend, a non-judgy flatmate, or a backslapping bromance? These 10 romcom leads couldn't ask for better hype-buddies. Happy Palentine's Day

- Taranna Khetpal

Joanna, About Time (2013). We loved Vanessa Kirby from the start. Her casually unhinged Joanna isn't just a friend, she's a gatekeeper. Joanna screens Mary's (Rachel McAdams's) suitors before they waste her time. She's why Mary never walks into a blind date alone. Joanna is already there, reading the room, spotting red flags, and stepping in as the designated rejector. Don't we all need her?

Shazzer, Jude & Tom, Bridget Jones's Diary (2001). The Greek chorus of bad advice. The trio convinces Bridg (Renee Zellweger) that she's better off with the sexy rake, not the stable crush. They show up for her, even when her homecooked dinner is a blue disaster. Shazzer brings a charcuterie board of profanity to every meeting. Jude either offers affirmation, or has a meltdown over a guy. Tom drinks every problem away. They like her: "Just as you are".