“You can take the girl out of the honky tonk, but you can’t take the honky tonk out of the girl”

Sweet Home Alabama (2002) stars Reese Witherspoon as Melanie Smooter, an up and coming New York fashion designer who has reinvented herself, trying to forget her southern past. She’s engaged to marry a New York politician, Andrew, played by Patrick Dempsey. She finds herself having to revisit her past in order to create her new future, in doing that she reunites with her first love, Jake, played by Josh Lucas.

I loved this movie! It gave me a level of comfort that not all movies can achieve. The movie is not a revolutionary rom com, but it is a sweet movie that makes you feel the authentic southern charm. 

Both of the male leads were so likable, and that’s what makes it hard as a viewer when Melanie has to make a decision. But ultimately she chooses the person that you are rooting for, and it makes the southern in me happy. 

Sweet Home Alabama did a perfect job of mixing romance with comedy. So many lines and scenes made me laugh, and others scenes made me want to cry for the main characters. I love the idea that someone could end up with their first love. One of my favorite quotes from the movie is, “you’re the first boy I ever kissed, Jake, and I want you to be the last.” 

While I too think it could be fun to move to New York City, I think this movie sheds a good light on not forgetting your hometown past. There’s nothing wrong with growing, but it’s always important to recognize your roots. 

I rate this movie a 5 out of 5 hearts. A perfect southern rom com that is a great light hearted watch!

Love, Haley