Summary

• Romance movies in the 2000s brought a sense of novelty and realism to the genre, defying convention while still telling relatable love stories.
• The era saw a shift towards exploring complex and multifaceted relationships, broadening the spectrum of romantic experiences on-screen.
• The romantic movies of the 2000s brought a more diverse and inclusive cast of characters to the forefront of the genre.

While romance movies have existed for centuries, the 2000s marked a distinct shift for the genre, generating many films that would go on to become classics. While the '90s featured romance hits like Sleepless in Seattle and Ghost, the early 2000s added a touch of novelty and realism. These films defied convention but remained grounded in relatable storytelling, a fundamental element in the quest for a happy ending.

The 2000s also witnessed a shift toward more complex and multifaceted relationships in romantic cinema. While the '90s primarily focused on traditional heteronormative love stories, the 2000s introduced more unconventional love stories and pairings. Films like Brokeback Mountain and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind challenged the genre's boundaries and opened doors to a broader spectrum of romantic experiences. While numerous romance movies from the 2000s are considered great, several of them stand out as the best of the decade.

15 The Notebook (2004)

A certified tearjerker, The Notebook is a classic romance film that has captivated romantic and reserved audiences. Adapting Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same name, it quickly became the quintessential date movie for mid-2000s teens. Set in 1940s South Carolina, the story revolves around the love between working-class Noah (Ryan Gosling) and the wealthy and privileged Allie (Rachel McAdams). Despite societal pressures trying to keep them apart, their love evolves from youthful infatuation to a deep, ionate romance that spans decades.

14 Amélie (2001)

Amélie is one of the most feel-good movies of all time. Chock-full of stylistic visuals, it became a global hit in the early 2000s. Starring Audrey Tautou, this charming romantic comedy tells the story of the eponymous character who selflessly improves others' lives while overlooking her own romantic aspirations. It serves as a gateway to the whimsical world of French cinema, offering a much-needed alternative to mainstream Hollywood romance. Amélie's complex relationship with Nino (Mathieu Kassovitz) is at the heart of the story, which raises questions about whether she'll seize the opportunity to pursue love.

13 Before Sunset (2004)

Set nine years after the events of Before Sunrise, Before Sunset reacquaints Jesse and Céline as they walk through the picturesque streets Paris, engaging in profound conversations about life, love, sex, and the cultural differences that shape their identities. Rather than being a conventional sequel, the film resembles a serendipitous reunion between old friends. It's sprinkled with moments of innocent flirtation, bittersweet reminiscences, and hopes for the future. The film’s uncomplicated style delivers a feeling of intimacy, with the dynamic between the two protagonists driving forth the narrative. Watching the Before movies in order will offer a realistic portrayal of an uncommon scenario.

12 Chocolat (2000)

More than just a romance, Chocolat is a rich story about friendship, second chances, and life's unpredictable journey. Vianne, accompanied by her daughter Anouk, seeks refuge in a quaint town in the hills of in the hopes of escaping her past. Along the way, she encounters a mysterious man, sparking a complex web of emotions. While this is no conventional romance, the underlying themes shine brightly. Chocolat's unique message about enjoying the sensual pleasures of life has made it one of the best romance movies of the 2000s.

11 P.S. I Love You (2007)

In the early 2000s, P.S. I Love You emerged as a standout romance film due to its emotional resonance and heartfelt message. Gerard Butler and Hilary Swank — who play Gerry and Holly — deliver performances that make the love between the two characters feel palpable. The film's narrative, revolving around love enduring beyond death, leaves a strong impression that lasts far beyond its release. Gerry's heartfelt posthumous letters to Holly, offering solace and promoting personal growth, serve as a central theme. P.S. I Love You remains an enduring classic, celebrated for its portrayal of love's transcendent power and resilience in the face of loss.

10 Brown Sugar (2002)

In the early 2000s, Brown Sugar was a notable romance film, exploring the intricate dynamics of two childhood friends brought together by their shared ion for hip-hop. Taye Diggs and Sanaa Lathan's on-screen chemistry is strong and endearing as they navigate the complexities of transitioning from friendship to romance. Often compared to When Harry Met Sally, this film has enough charm to be considered great in its own right. It offers a refreshing take on the friends-to-lovers trope, enhanced by a remarkable soundtrack and a legendary cast.

9 Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain tells a story of forbidden love, and Brokeback Mountain's narrative is made better by many great quotes. Set in the summer of 1963, the film chronicles the ionate connection that blossoms between two cowboys — Ennis Del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist (Jake Gyllenhaal) — as they tend to sheep in the Wyoming mountains. Their intimate relationship, initially born out of confusion and hesitancy, becomes a profound bond. However, their love is relentlessly challenged by societal expectations and the obligations of their marriages. The film offers an intimate window into the lives of two men united by love but torn apart by the constraints of their era.

8 Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (2004)

Directed by Michel Gondry and starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind explores the wrong person, right time trope in a setting where the erasure of painful memories is as routine as a dental appointment. Joel's chance encounter with Clementine at a beach sparks an intriguing, complex, and unconventional love story. The film's eccentric narrative and mind-bending visuals are harmoniously intertwined by the genuine warmth exuded by both characters. This cinematic masterpiece challenges conventional romance tropes and invites one to reevaluate their past relationships.

7 Atonement (2007)

Atonement, adapted from Ian McEwan's novel, distinguishes itself as a poignant mystery drama with a deep level of emotional intimacy that transforms it into a captivating romance film. The story revolves around Cecilia Tallis and Robbie Turner, whose love faces turmoil due to a shattering confession by Cecilia's sister, Briony. Separated for years, their story unfolds through Briony's novel, serving as her act of atonement for past transgressions. This emotionally charged romance examines the potential for vengeance when love is threatened, which adds a layer to the sense of urgency and ion. Atonement is easily one of the most impactful romances of the 2000s.

6 Love And Basketball (2000)

Love and Basketball features the perfect pairing of Sanaa Lathan as Monica Wright and Omar Epps as Quincy McCall. It intertwines the characters' shared love for basketball since childhood with a charming tale of young love maturing over time. Diverging paths pull the pair apart as they pursue professional basketball careers, with Quincy's ascent to stardom contrasting Monica's struggle for playing time. What sets this film apart is its avoidance of common romance tropes. It offers a refreshingly realistic perspective on love. Notably, Love and Basketball features two Black leads, contributing to its cultural impact by showcasing inclusivity, which was less common at the turn of the century.