“IF YOU’RE A bird, I’m a bird.”

The Notebook was released 10 years ago today – we know, when did we all get so old? The romantic drama, based on a book by Nicholas Sparks, still has a firm place in the hearts of women all across the world.

But how? The answers are very simple.

1. It’s a weepy for the ages

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Every generation needs a good weepy. The ’90s had Titanic, the ’00s had The Notebook. IT JUST MAKES SENSE.

2. The chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams

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Their on-screen love translated into a real-life relationship that lasted two years. When they broke up, Ryan reportedly said:

I mean, God bless The Notebook. It introduced me to one of the great loves of my life. But people do Rachel and me a disservice by assuming we were anything like the people in that movie. Rachel and my love story is a hell of a lot more romantic than that.

*swoon*

The DVD even had a whole featurette centred around their chemistry. We kid you not.

3. The story is still inspiring couples today

Just look at these gorgeous engagement photos inspired by the film. CUTE.

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4. That kiss scene

Ah god.

At the 2005 MTV Movie Awards, Rachel and Ryan recreated the kiss, to the delight of Notebook fans.

5. Ryan Gosling

The Notebook was the film that helped propel Ryan Gosling into the female consciousness.

Matt Sayles / PA Wire Matt Sayles / PA Wire / PA Wire

For that, we thank The Notebook. Thank you so much.

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Oh! Good lord. How did that get there? What a terrible, terrible mistake.

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