

Love Factually
Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel
We're just two professors standing in front of a rom-com, asking it to be the subject of our podcast. Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel explain what your favorite romantic films get right -- and wrong -- about the science of romance.
Because it's time for scientists to take Ryan Gosling as seriously as you do.
Because it's time for scientists to take Ryan Gosling as seriously as you do.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 14, 2024 • 48min
Before Sunrise (1995)
The hosts dive into the romantic dynamics of 'Before Sunrise,' exploring how attachment bonds quickly form. They discuss how self-disclosure and deeper conversations foster intimacy between Jesse and Céline. High neuroticism is examined in relation to relationship satisfaction, revealing its emotional impact. The importance of emotional bids and playful banter in deepening connections is highlighted. Additionally, intersections of feminism and romantic expectations are analyzed, showcasing the complexities of love, vulnerability, and honesty.

Oct 7, 2024 • 51min
Challengers (2024)
How do people compete to win someone’s affections? What are the less obvious reasons that people have sex? How do relationships and power intersect? Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers provides ample opportunity for Paul and Eli to examine these and other sexy topics. For show notes, click here. Hosted, produced, and edited by Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel. Music by Andrew Fraker and Sons Artwork by Katie Keil

11 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 51min
Clueless (1995)
Dive into the charm of a classic 90s film where romance meets comedy. Discover how attraction shapes and reshapes in unexpected ways, with themes drawn from classic literature. Explore the ethics of matchmaking and the evolution of romantic preferences beyond mere looks. Unwrap social hierarchies influencing relationships and how nostalgia interacts with modern values. There's humor and deep social commentary nestled within the light-hearted antics, making for a thoughtful journey into love and its complexities.

Sep 25, 2024 • 47min
La La Land (2016)
The hosts explore romantic preferences and the challenges of balancing career and relationships, all through the lens of 'La La Land.' They delve into unique narrative techniques that mirror the evolution of Mia and Sebastian's love story. The discussion includes attachment theory, highlighting how mutual support enhances connections. Themes of ambition, gender roles, and the complexities of romantic dynamics are examined, alongside a vibrant review celebrating the film's artistry and emotional depth.

Sep 25, 2024 • 45min
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Dive into the timeless themes of friendship and romance in a classic rom-com. Explore how Harry and Sally's relationship evolves over twelve years, challenging stereotypes about men and women being friends. Delve into the intriguing concept of the 'orgasm gap' and discuss the complexities of commitment in relationships. The hosts humorously uncover motivated reasoning in love and analyze modern online dating's impact on genuine connections. With insights on infidelity, this discussion weaves together the intricacies of love and connection.

Sep 4, 2024 • 2min
Love Factually Trailer
Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel are two professors who use psychological science to explain what your favorite romantic films get right -- and wrong -- about attraction and relationships.