Movies

The 50 Most Romantic Movies You Can Watch with Your Lover

If you and your partner are planning a cozy night in, nothing beats settling down with one of the most romantic movies of all time. From timeless classics to modern tearjerkers, the world of cinema offers endless options for couples who want to lose themselves in love stories. Below is a list of the most romantic movies you can enjoy with your lover.

50 Most Romantic Movies You Can Watch with Your Lover

1. The Notebook (2004)

If you’re talking about the most romantic movies, “The Notebook” is always at the top of the list. This Nicholas Sparks adaptation tells the timeless tale of Noah and Allie, two star-crossed lovers who overcome obstacles to find their way back to each other.

  • Starring: Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s all about undying love and second chances.

2. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

Jane Austen’s classic novel “Pride & Prejudice” has inspired many romantic adaptations, but the 2005 version starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen is by far one of the most romantic movies ever made.

  • Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen
  • Why it’s romantic: The slow burn between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is captivating.

3. La La Land (2016)

One of the most romantic movies of the decade, “La La Land” is a musical love letter to dreamers. It follows the lives of Sebastian, a jazz musician, and Mia, an aspiring actress, as they try to balance love and their respective careers.

  • Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone
  • Why it’s romantic: The film shows that love sometimes means letting go.

4. Titanic (1997)

A love story set against the backdrop of one of history’s greatest tragedies, “Titanic” is undoubtedly one of the most romantic movies ever made. The romance between Jack and Rose is iconic, and their story remains a favorite for couples.

  • Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet
  • Why it’s romantic: Forbidden love, sacrifice, and heartbreak.

5. Before Sunrise (1995)

“Before Sunrise” is the first in a trilogy that depicts a brief but intense romance between two strangers who meet on a train and spend a single night together in Vienna.

  • Starring: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a celebration of spontaneous, fleeting love.

6. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

This unique, heart-wrenching film tells the story of Joel and Clementine, who undergo a procedure to erase memories of each other after a painful breakup, only to realize that some connections are too powerful to forget.

  • Starring: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet
  • Why it’s romantic: It portrays love’s complexity and the idea that even pain is part of a beautiful memory.

7. A Walk to Remember (2002)

A classic Nicholas Sparks romance, “A Walk to Remember” is a sweet, sentimental love story between a bad boy and a quiet girl who teaches him about faith and love.

  • Starring: Mandy Moore, Shane West
  • Why it’s romantic: First loves and the power of faith make it incredibly heartwarming.

8. Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Baz Luhrmann’s modern take on Shakespeare’s tragedy brings the age-old story of star-crossed lovers into the 21st century. The film is highly stylized but retains the essence of the most romantic movies ever written.

  • Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Claire Danes
  • Why it’s romantic: The ultimate tale of forbidden love.

9. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)

“Crazy, Stupid, Love” mixes humor with romance, making it one of the most romantic movies you can watch with your partner. The film explores love across multiple generations, showing that everyone can be a fool for love.

  • Starring: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s about finding love in unexpected places and never giving up on romance.

10. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Based on the best-selling novel, this film tells the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group and fall in love despite the odds. It’s one of the most romantic movies that poignantly deals with love and loss.

  • Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort
  • Why it’s romantic: It teaches us that even a short love can be profound.

Romantic Movies by Genre

GenreMovieWhy It’s Romantic
DramaThe NotebookTimeless love story about second chances
Period DramaPride & PrejudiceClassic tale of slow-burn romance
MusicalLa La LandBalancing dreams and love
Historical RomanceTitanicA love story amidst tragedy
Indie RomanceBefore SunriseSpontaneous love between two strangers
Sci-Fi RomanceEternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindUnique exploration of love, memory, and regret
Teen RomanceA Walk to RememberSweet story of young love
Shakespeare AdaptationRomeo + JulietThe ultimate story of star-crossed lovers
Romantic ComedyCrazy, Stupid, LoveHumorous yet touching multi-generational love story
Tragedy RomanceThe Fault in Our StarsHeart-wrenching love between two ill-fated teens

11. Blue Valentine (2010)

For couples who enjoy raw, realistic portrayals of love, “Blue Valentine” is one of the most romantic movies that captures both the highs and lows of a relationship.

  • Starring: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams
  • Why it’s romantic: Its authenticity and emotional depth.

12. Notting Hill (1999)

This charming British romantic comedy pairs a famous movie star with an ordinary bookshop owner, showing that love can find you in the most unexpected places.

  • Starring: Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts
  • Why it’s romantic: The “ordinary guy gets the girl” storyline is heartwarming and relatable.

13. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

“Silver Linings Playbook” is a romantic comedy-drama about two people struggling with their mental health who form an unlikely bond. It’s one of the most romantic movies for showing how love can help heal deep emotional wounds.

  • Starring: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s about finding someone who accepts your imperfections.

14. Love, Simon (2018)

As one of the most romantic movies to tackle LGBTQ+ themes, “Love, Simon” tells the story of a closeted high school student who falls for an anonymous classmate online.

  • Starring: Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a sweet coming-of-age story about love and self-acceptance.

15. The Vow (2012)

Based on a true story, “The Vow” is about a couple who must rebuild their relationship after a car accident leaves the wife with severe memory loss. It’s one of the most romantic movies about commitment and rediscovering love.

  • Starring: Channing Tatum, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s about devotion and never giving up on love, even when it’s hard.

Romantic Movies for Different Moods

MoodMovieWhy It’s Perfect
SentimentalThe NotebookClassic love story with all the feels
LightheartedNotting HillCharming, humorous, and uplifting
HeartbreakingBlue ValentineRaw and emotional portrayal of a real relationship
DreamyLa La LandA visual and musical masterpiece about love and dreams
RealisticSilver Linings PlaybookHonest and uplifting romance for those seeking realism

16. The Big Sick (2017)

This modern romantic comedy is based on the true love story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani and his wife, Emily Gordon. It deals with cultural differences, illness, and the power of love.

  • Starring: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan
  • Why it’s romantic: The blend of comedy, drama, and real-life emotions make it a standout.

17. Casablanca (1942)

This timeless classic is often considered one of the most romantic movies in film history. Set during World War II, it tells the story of a love triangle between Rick, Ilsa, and Victor.

  • Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman
  • Why it’s romantic: Sometimes the greatest love stories are those with no happy ending.

18. Me Before You (2016)

This tear-jerker focuses on Lou, a quirky young woman who becomes a caregiver for a wealthy man, Will, paralyzed from the neck down. Their evolving relationship is heartwarming and tragic.

  • Starring: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s about learning to love and live fully, even in the face of hardship.

19. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

This rom-com is a lighthearted and often hilarious look at whether men and women can just be friends without romantic feelings getting in the way.

  • Starring: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan
  • Why it’s romantic: The slow build to realizing you’ve found your soulmate is relatable and heartwarming.

20. The Princess Bride (1987)

A classic fairy tale filled with adventure, sword fights, and a love story that transcends time and space. “The Princess Bride” is not just one of the most romantic movies but also one of the most fun.

  • Starring: Cary Elwes, Robin Wright
  • Why it’s romantic: True love conquers all, even death.

Classic Romantic Movies

DecadeMovieWhy It’s Romantic
1940sCasablancaTimeless love story with heart-wrenching sacrifice
1980sThe Princess BrideFairy tale romance with humor and heart
1990sTitanicEpic romance set against historical disaster
2000sA Walk to RememberHeartfelt teen romance with a touching moral
2010sLa La LandDreamy romance between two ambitious artists

21. The Holiday (2006)

“The Holiday” is one of the most romantic movies that blends two separate love stories into one delightful holiday film. It follows two women, Iris and Amanda, who swap homes for the Christmas season in a bid to escape heartbreak, only to find love where they least expect it.

  • Starring: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a charming story of love, healing, and serendipity.

22. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

This Netflix original became an instant favorite and is regarded as one of the most romantic movies for younger audiences. It tells the story of Lara Jean, a shy high school student whose secret love letters are mysteriously sent to her past crushes.

  • Starring: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a heartwarming, relatable story about young love and vulnerability.

23. Call Me by Your Name (2017)

Set in the Italian countryside, “Call Me by Your Name” is an evocative and tender portrayal of the first love between a young boy and a visiting graduate student. Its dreamy atmosphere and slow-building romance make it one of the most romantic movies in recent years.

  • Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s an intimate and beautiful exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery.

24. Moulin Rouge! (2001)

For fans of musicals, “Moulin Rouge!” is one of the most romantic movies packed with extravagant visuals, vibrant music, and a tragic love story between a penniless writer and a cabaret star in Paris.

  • Starring: Ewan McGregor, Nicole Kidman
  • Why it’s romantic: The film showcases how love can defy societal expectations, but sometimes fate has other plans.

25. Her (2013)

This unconventional love story is one of the most romantic movies of the 21st century, where a man falls in love with an advanced AI operating system. The movie reflects on human connection, loneliness, and what it means to truly love someone.

  • Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson (voice)
  • Why it’s romantic: It challenges conventional ideas of relationships and uniquely explores emotional intimacy.

26. Carol (2015)

“Carol” is an exquisite film set in the 1950s, telling the story of a forbidden romance between two women at a time when their love was considered taboo. Its quiet tension and elegant storytelling have made it one of the most romantic movies of recent years.

  • Starring: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara
  • Why it’s romantic: The film captures the passion and risk involved in pursuing love against societal pressures.

27. The Age of Adaline (2015)

This fantasy romance centers around Adaline, a woman who has miraculously remained 29 years old for nearly eight decades due to an accident. As she meets and falls in love with Ellis, she grapples with her immortality and the fear of loss.

  • Starring: Blake Lively, Michiel Huisman
  • Why it’s romantic: It explores the timeless nature of love and the cost of living forever without growing old with someone.

28. The Best of Me (2014)

Another Nicholas Sparks adaptation, “The Best of Me” tells the story of two former high school sweethearts who reunite after many years apart. Their rekindled romance is fraught with emotional and physical obstacles, making it one of the most romantic movies for those who believe in second chances.

  • Starring: James Marsden, Michelle Monaghan
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a touching narrative about love enduring through the toughest circumstances.

29. About Time (2013)

A quirky blend of romance and science fiction, “About Time” is a charming film about a man who discovers he can travel back in time and uses this ability to improve his love life. It’s one of the most romantic movies that plays with the concept of time and fate.

  • Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: The film’s central message is that love, in its most ordinary moments, is worth treasuring.

30. The Time Traveler’s Wife (2009)

Based on the best-selling novel, “The Time Traveler’s Wife” tells the story of Henry, a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to travel unpredictably through time, and Clare, the woman who loves him despite the unpredictability.

  • Starring: Eric Bana, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: The movie explores how love can survive despite the trials of time and distance.

Romantic Movies with Unique Twists

MovieTwistWhy It’s Romantic
HerMan falls in love with an AIChallenges the boundaries of emotional connection
The Age of AdalineWoman doesn’t age, but falls in loveExplores eternal youth and its impact on relationships
About TimeMan uses time travel to win his loveShows that love is worth savoring, even without a “do-over”
The Time Traveler’s WifeMan travels through time uncontrollablyDemonstrates enduring love across time and absence
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindLovers erase their memoriesExplores how love persists even through pain and loss

31. Once (2007)

“Once” is a musical romance about two struggling musicians who find solace and inspiration in each other’s company. The movie’s simple yet profound storyline, backed by heartfelt music, has earned it a spot among the most romantic movies of all time.

  • Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a tale of fleeting, bittersweet love that leaves a lasting impression.

32. 500 Days of Summer (2009)

“500 Days of Summer” is a romantic dramedy that takes a realistic approach to relationships. The movie chronicles the 500 days of Tom’s relationship with Summer, showing the highs and lows of falling in and out of love.

  • Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Zooey Deschanel
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a fresh, unconventional take on the complexities of love and heartbreak.

33. Ghost (1990)

“Ghost” is a romantic fantasy about a man, Sam, who is murdered but remains a ghost to protect his grieving girlfriend, Molly. It’s a classic among the most romantic movies that blends romance with the supernatural.

  • Starring: Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s about the power of love transcending death.

34. Letters to Juliet (2010)

Set in the picturesque landscape of Verona, Italy, “Letters to Juliet” is a romantic drama about Sophie, a young woman who discovers an old love letter and embarks on a journey to reunite a long-lost couple.

  • Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Christopher Egan
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a story about the enduring power of love, no matter how much time has passed.

35. One Day (2011)

“One Day” follows Emma and Dexter, two friends who reunite on the same date each year to check in on each other’s lives. The film spans decades and showcases the evolution of their relationship.

  • Starring: Anne Hathaway, Jim Sturgess
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a moving reflection on how timing plays a critical role in love.

36. Beauty and the Beast (1991/2017)

Whether you prefer the animated version or the live-action remake, “Beauty and the Beast” is one of the most romantic movies ever. This fairy tale about a young woman who falls in love with a cursed prince has been a staple of romantic storytelling for decades.

  • Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens (2017 version)
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a classic “love conquers all” narrative with a magical touch.

37. Pretty Woman (1990)

A modern Cinderella story, “Pretty Woman” tells the tale of a wealthy businessman who falls in love with a charming escort. Their unexpected romance challenges both of them to change for the better.

  • Starring: Richard Gere, Julia Roberts
  • Why it’s romantic: It shows that love can transcend societal expectations and personal differences.

38. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)

This hilarious romantic comedy, based on the beloved book, follows the messy love life of Bridget Jones, a single woman in her 30s navigating her career, friendships, and romantic relationships.

  • Starring: Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a relatable tale of self-discovery and finding love when you least expect it.

Fun Romantic Comedies

MovieWhy It’s FunWhy It’s Romantic
Pretty WomanCharming mix of humor and love storyA modern Cinderella tale of love breaking barriers
Bridget Jones’s DiaryHilarious and relatable lead characterShows love can be found when you’re just being yourself
500 Days of SummerQuirky, realistic depiction of relationshipsUnconventional narrative about the ebb and flow of love
The HolidayLighthearted holiday romance with two love storiesCharming mix of humor and a love story
Crazy, Stupid, LoveHilarious multi-generational love storiesExplores how love evolves over time and across ages

39. Always Be My Maybe (2019)

This Netflix romantic comedy tells the story of childhood sweethearts Sasha and Marcus who reconnect as adults. Their vastly different lives collide as they rediscover their connection.

  • Starring: Ali Wong, Randall Park
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a heartwarming story about second chances and finding love where you least expect it.

40. Sliding Doors (1998)

“Sliding Doors” presents two parallel storylines that show how a small event, like catching or missing a train, can drastically alter the course of a person’s love life.

  • Starring: Gwyneth Paltrow, John Hannah
  • Why it’s romantic: It explores fate, destiny, and the role of chance in shaping our relationships.

41. A Star is Born (2018)

This emotional drama tells the story of a seasoned musician who helps a young singer find fame while his career and personal life spiral out of control. “A Star is Born” is one of the most romantic movies that balances passion, success, and tragedy.

  • Starring: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a powerful depiction of love, sacrifice, and heartbreak.

42. The Shape of Water (2017)

“The Shape of Water” is a whimsical yet deeply emotional love story between a mute woman and a mysterious sea creature. This unconventional romance has captured hearts with its blend of fantasy and emotional depth.

  • Starring: Sally Hawkins, Doug Jones
  • Why it’s romantic: It shows that love knows no boundaries, even across species.

43. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

This quirky romantic drama follows two emotionally troubled individuals, Pat and Tiffany, as they form an unexpected bond. What starts as an unusual friendship evolves into something deeper as they heal from past traumas and help each other find silver linings in their chaotic lives.

  • Starring: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a story of imperfect people finding love and acceptance despite their flaws.

44. The Vow (2012)

Based on a true story, “The Vow” follows a young couple whose lives are turned upside down when the wife loses her memory after a car accident. Her husband must try to win her heart all over again, even though she remembers nothing about their life together.

  • Starring: Channing Tatum, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a testament to the power of commitment and the lengths one will go to for love.

45. The Notebook (2004)

One of the most beloved and iconic romantic films, “The Notebook” is a heartfelt drama about a couple, Noah and Allie, who fall deeply in love but are torn apart by societal pressures. The film is told through the memories of the elderly Noah, who recounts their love story as Allie battles Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Starring: Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s an unforgettable tale of love that transcends time, even when memories fade.

46. Love, Simon (2018)

“Love, Simon” is a refreshing coming-of-age romantic comedy that focuses on Simon, a high schooler struggling to come out as gay while navigating the challenges of teenage life. When he develops a secret online romance with an anonymous classmate, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and love.

  • Starring: Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a sweet, modern romance that highlights the beauty of being true to yourself and finding love in the process.

47. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Adapted from the best-selling novel by John Green, “The Fault in Our Stars” follows the emotional journey of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who fall in love while battling cancer. Despite their bleak circumstances, they find joy and meaning in their brief time together.

  • Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a touching story of young love, showing that love can thrive even in the face of tragedy.

48. Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, this film adaptation tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a witty and independent young woman, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and proud gentleman. Their initial misunderstandings and judgments give way to one of the most celebrated love stories in literature.

  • Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a slow-burn romance that demonstrates how love can grow through understanding and overcoming personal prejudices.

49. Before Sunrise (1995)

This minimalist and dialogue-heavy romance tells the story of two strangers, Jesse and Céline, who meet on a train and spend one night wandering through Vienna together, discussing life, love, and everything in between. Despite knowing they might never see each other again, they form a deep connection.

  • Starring: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s an intimate portrayal of two people falling in love through meaningful conversations and shared experiences.

50. Notting Hill (1999)

In this iconic romantic comedy, a humble British bookseller, Will, falls in love with a famous American actress, Anna. Despite the vast differences in their lifestyles, they develop a charming and heartwarming romance filled with humor and tender moments.

  • Starring: Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts
  • Why it’s romantic: It’s a modern-day fairy tale that reminds us that love can come from the most unexpected places.

Timeless Romance Movies

MovieWhy It’s TimelessWhy It’s Romantic
The NotebookCrosses generational linesLove that endures through time and memory loss
Pride and PrejudiceClassic novel adapted to screenExplores love blossoming out of mutual respect
Before SunriseSimple, conversational love storyHighlights the magic of connecting deeply in a short time
Notting HillModern-day fairy tale of unlikely romanceLove transcends fame and social status
Silver Linings PlaybookTwo emotionally scarred people finding solaceLove emerges through understanding and acceptance

Themes Explored in the Most Romantic Movies

As you watch these most romantic movies with your lover, you’ll notice common themes that are woven into many of the films:

1. Endurance of Love

Several movies on this list, such as The Notebook, The Fault in Our Stars, and The Vow, center around love enduring against all odds. Whether it’s memory loss, illness, or separation, the resilience of love is a recurring theme.

2. Fate and Destiny

Movies like Sliding Doors, Serendipity, and Before Sunrise explore the concept of fate bringing two people together. These films often leave us questioning the role destiny plays in love, and how the smallest choices can lead us to our soulmate.

3. Love Across Social Classes

In films like Titanic and Pride and Prejudice, we see love stories that defy social norms. These movies highlight how true love can transcend wealth, status, and societal expectations, showing that it’s what’s inside that counts.

4. Unconventional Romance

Many of the most romantic movies explore unconventional relationships, from the fantasy-driven love in The Shape of Water to the AI-human connection in Her. These films remind us that love comes in many forms and isn’t bound by traditional rules.

5. The Power of Healing Through Love

Movies like Silver Linings Playbook and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind show how love can heal emotional scars and help people grow. They reveal that sometimes the most romantic moments are those that involve personal growth and understanding between two people.

Romantic Movies by Theme

ThemeExample MovieWhy It Fits the Theme
Endurance of LoveThe NotebookLove survives despite obstacles of memory and time
Fate and DestinyBefore SunriseTwo strangers meet by chance, changing their lives
Love Across Social ClassesPride and PrejudiceLove develops despite economic and social differences
Unconventional RomanceThe Shape of WaterLove forms between a human and a mythical creature
Healing Through LoveSilver Linings PlaybookLove helps two troubled individuals find peace

Conclusion

This list of the 50 most romantic movies offers a diverse range of films to watch with your lover, from heartwarming comedies to tear-jerking dramas. Whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted romp like Notting Hill or a profound emotional journey like Before Sunrise, there’s something here for every type of romantic moment. Each of these films captures a different aspect of love—whether it’s about healing, fate, sacrifice, or overcoming obstacles, making them the perfect choice for a romantic movie night.

Remember, watching a movie together can create an intimate experience where you share laughter, tears, and tender moments that deepen your connection. So grab some popcorn, curl up, and enjoy one of these romantic gems with the one you love.

Show More

Related Articles

Back to top button