Love And Basketball is a cult classic, with childhood sweethearts Monica and Quincy sharing an everlasting bond over the sport. A friendship turns into real love. And, yes, they make some mistakes along the way before finding the right time to be together.

But, as director Gina Prince-Bythewood explains to Shadow And Act about the film’s iconic sex scene, the whole thing is hinged on the coupld’s respect for one another.

“When we did it, I was very specific about what I wanted it to be,” she said. “It’s a girl’s first time, Monica’s first time, I wanted it to be the fantasy…I kind of wanted to give a blueprint for boys and girls of what to expect. I wanted the reality of it. Sanaa [Lathan] and Omar [Epps] were so dope in that scene, so protective of each other. They just gave the realness, especially just the looks that they were giving each other that said so much, which added organic humor to it which I loved.”

Let’s just ignore that he was two weeks away from the wedding when Monica finally made her move, yeah?

Longevity rating: 4/5

Jim and Michelle, American Pie

Jim loses his virginity to Michelle after prom. She isn’t the porn star of his dreams, but she’s quirky, and human, and believable. And, while they may seem mismatched, they’re destined to make it down the altar. Band geek and goofball for the win!

Longevity rating: 5/5

Sarah and Derek, Save The Last Dance

Best movie couples: which films portray healthy, romantic relationships? A therapist reveals all