The best rom-coms to heal a broken heart are Bridget Jones’s Diary, Legally Blonde and The Holiday, according to a poll.

Research among 2,000 adults also revealed The Wedding Singer and Bridesmaids can provide comfort after a split.

Other classics to make the top 10 included the star studded Crazy Stupid Love and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.

It also emerged 28% have been involved in a rom com-like romance, and one in 10 (11%) even believe such films has changed their expectations on relationships.

Bridget Jones's Diary is the most-watched film during a breakup
Bridget Jones's Diary is the most-watched film during a breakup

The research was commissioned by Costa Coffee, which has teamed up with Odeon to show the top three rom coms this autumn with a free drink from the brand.

Julia Foye, spokesperson for the coffee chain, which commissioned the research, says: “Clearly, watching rom-coms where the main characters move on can help people heal.

“Our research has shown that these films can have a real positive impact and not only be relatable but put a smile on faces too.

“While some are more realistic than others in the plot, it was interesting to find how effective they were in getting viewers to shed a tear or two, then move on."

More than six in 10 (63%) respondents had experienced heartbreak before, with 32% of those feeling empowered by rom coms having watched them following a breakup.

And 62% believed romantic comedies could have a positive emotional impact on the healing process.

Just over two in 10 Brits admit to crying real tears when watching a rom com
Just over two in 10 Brits admit to crying real tears when watching a rom com

Providing escapism, getting you laughing again and being relatable were the top reasons such films were seen as having such a positive influence.

Despite 53% believing relationship portrayals in these movies are unrealistic, 28% have still compared their own with them.

Such is the enjoyment of their favourites of the genre, 46% know the plot inside out and 26% have rewatched it more than they'd like to admit.

And 22% still frequently cry real tears when watching them according to the OnePoll data.

The humour, the resolution with a happy ending and watching the personal growth of a character were seen as the best elements of rom-coms.

Sandra Ferreira, from Costa, which is expanding its range of Maple Hazel drinks, added: "This Autumn, we are on a mission to encourage the nation to move on from old routines and habits and try something new."

TOP 10 ROM-COMS TO HELP OVERCOME A HEARTBREAK:

  1. Bridget Jones' Diary
  2. Legally Blonde
  3. The Holiday
  4. Bridesmaids
  5. My Best Friend's Wedding
  6. Crazy, Stupid, Love
  7. The Wedding Singer
  8. How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days
  9. Eat, Pray, Love
  10. The First Wives Club