Like any movie genre, romance is filled with fantastic and terrible films, but when a movie is truly amazing, it can sweep any viewer off their feet, even the most cynical romantics. The following films are some of the most persuasive and irable films about love and romance. These movies have become staples in their genre and are necessary watching for any romance fan.
What makes a romance film so great is the mix of romance and plot. While audiences may think a romance movie will only have a focus on love, the best ones actually include a solid balance of romantic situations and normal plot and character development. Furthermore, the greatest romance movies are not always happy. Although some have happy endings, others will leave you wondering how to go on with the rest of the day. Overall, the most epic love stories in movies can range in their emotions and motives, and in this way, all ten of the following films have stolen audiences' hearts and potentially stomped on them too.
10 About Time
Though it isn't as well known as other romance films, the goodness of About Time definitely cannot be diminished by its popularity. Starring Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams, the movie follows a man who discovers that he can time travel and uses this power to improve his life, namely by getting a girlfriend. However, he soon learns that his ability can't save him from all the bad things that could happen in life. This film stands out because of its unique sci-fi concept, its sunny ambiance, and the sweet love between Gleeson and McAdams. The way the pair overcomes life's normal adversities is relatable to anyone who watches it.
9 Before Sunrise Trilogy
If a romance movie becomes a trilogy, does that make it one of the best romance films of all time? Before Sunrise is a 1995 movie starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy as two young people in Europe who spark a connection on a train and spend one perfect evening together. The film inspired two others, Before Sunset and Before Midnight, both of which see the couple reunited. The Before trilogy offers intense chemistry between its two actors and a feeling of melancholy as the audience knows it's a right person, wrong time romance movie. The intimate setting and scenario of these films make them a vulnerable yet satisfying watch.
8 The Princess Bride
Although many might not consider The Princess Bride a romance movie, the 1987 fantasy would certainly beat out other romance films in the love department. The film follows Cary Elwes' Westley, a young man who falls in love with Princess Buttercup (played by Robin Wright), but must overcome various obstacles so they may be together. With a fairy tale backdrop, hilarious comedy, and many iconic moments, The Princess Bride is a dynamic and well-rounded story that all begins because of romance. Westley's loyalty and love for Buttercup will no doubt warm anyone's heart.
7 If Beale Street Could Talk
Despite being a tearjerker romance movie, If Beale Street Could Talk is a perfect example of a love story that has its joys and its heartbreaks. Based on the James Baldwin novel of the same name, the film depicts the relationship between Tish and Fonny, childhood best friends who fall in love. The problem is, Fonny is accused of a crime he didn't commit, and the couple must then overcome this horrifying obstacle. In true Baldwin fashion, this story is innately human and will hit hard with any audience member. Watching the pair's love story unfold and overcome makes all the pain worth it.
6 La La Land
For audiences who want a realistic romance that may not have the happiest ending, La La Land is the perfect choice. The movie stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as two struggling artists whose ions both bring them together and tear them apart. Not only does the film have a magical, Hollywood feel to it, but it's also beautiful to look at, full of music, and dripping in heartbreak. Audiences are sure to feel a whole range of emotions watching this film and will wish their world looked as colorful. Plus, Gosling and Stone have a miraculous connection that makes their love easy to believe.
5 Moonlight
While Moonlight has many focuses apart from love, this movie definitely stands out for the aspects of romance it shows. Moonlight tells the story of Mahershala Ali's Chiron by exploring three different parts of his life. The movie focuses on sexuality and masculinity, leading to important parts about love that may not be as common in regular romance films. In particular, Chiron's relationship with his childhood friend shows the intricate ways people can love each other and hurt each other at the same time. Overall, the film is a heartbreaking but beautiful look at growing up, accepting oneself, and letting people into your life even as they change.
4 Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Although the romance genre includes many stereotypical stories, the best romance films go beyond what is expected. For example, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a French queer love story following Adèle Haenel as Héloïse and Noémie Merlant as Marianne. Set in the 18th century, Marianne is a painter commissioned to create a portrait of aristocrat Héloïse, and as the women get to know each other, they fall into a ionate love affair. Aside from being romantic and intimate, the film also tackles serious topics concerning women's rights. All in all, the film is moving even as it depicts a scenario that no longer occurs in the modern day.
3 Pride and Prejudice
It's likely that anyone who is a fan of romance has seen or at least heard of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. In particular, the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie adapation starring Keira Knightley and Matthew McFayden continues to bewitch audiences even decades later. Pride and Prejudice is about the slow-burn love between Lizzie and Mr. Darcy. Although Mr. Darcy seems pompous and rude, Lizzie can't help but be intrigued by him and vice versa. With a lovely 19th-century setting that includes billowing white dresses and running through the rain, this film is undeniably romantic. Plus, its witty dialogue and amazing performances make it a great watch even for viewers not looking for romance.
2 Love Actually
Sometimes one romance isn't enough. A holiday classic, Love Actually is a film completely centered on romance and relationships. With a large, star-studded cast, the film follows a series of couples during the Christmas season who are all linked, though they don't realize it. Each romance in the film is different from the others and always subverts expectations. For those who have seen Love Actually, it is an automatic classic because of its hilarity and heartwarming qualities. Those who love romance most definitely need to see this film whether it's the holiday season or not.
1 When Harry Met Sally
Quirky, sweet, and plenty sarcastic, When Harry Met Sally is an iconic and beloved romance classic. Starting with a drive to New York after college graduation, Billy Crystal's Harry and Meg Ryan's Sally have an undeniable connection that can be translated as hatred or love. Over the years, the two continue to through each other's lives until it becomes natural that they become best friends and potentially something more. This film has its own particular ambiance that is funny, romantic, and grounded in real life. When Harry Met Sally still holds up today, especially for those who love Gilmore Girls, New York in autumn, and 1980s fashion.
Although there are endless romance movies existing in the media space, these films are definitely the best of the best. They combine real life with the sweetness of romance, offer unique and interesting characters, and give audiences the chance to experience different forms of love that range from pure happiness to bleak heartbreak. Even those who hate romance are sure to find at least one film on this list that will make their heart beat just a little bit faster.
