Top Romance Movies Since 2010: A Guide to Love Stories on Screen - Movie Outlines - Backstage, Briefs, Movie reviews and ratings by Film Critic

Dive Deep into the World of Romance Movies: Your Ultimate Guide

Romance movies offer warmth. But the genre can feel overwhelming. So many clichés and predictable plots exist. Don't worry, movie lovers! We will simplify things. Let’s uncover what makes a romance film truly special.

Unveiling the Titans: Top Romantic Movies of All Time

When asked, "What is the top romance movie?" prepare for debate. Opinions vary like pizza toppings. Yet, some films stand out consistently in discussions. Let’s look at a few giants that captivate audiences.

Titanic (1997): No surprise here. Titanic tops the lists. This epic is 3 hours and 14 minutes long. It's more than a love story; it's part of our culture. Rose (Kate Winslet) and Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) fall in love aboard the Titanic. The ending remains known, and the romance is iconic. Class differences play a role too, adding depth. The tragic finale will move you to tears. With an IMDb rating of 7.9 from 1.3 million voters, audience connection is clear. Let’s also mention its box office success. It is a true blockbuster romance.
Pretty Woman (1990): A Cinderella story, but with flair. Julia Roberts plays Vivian, a charming sex worker. She meets rich businessman Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere. What starts transactional becomes real love. Pretty Woman mixes humor and style beautifully. It has unforgettable moments. IMDb gives it a 7.1 rating with over 382K votes. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a shopping spree montage?
Armageddon (1998): Yes, Armageddon has romance! It’s a disaster film about an asteroid threatening Earth. Yet, at its core lies a father's love. Harry Stamper (Bruce Willis) helps his daughter Grace (Liv Tyler) be with A.J. (Ben Affleck). Harry's sacrifice defines true love, despite the chaos. With a 6.7 rating on IMDb and over 463K votes, love prevails even during disasters.
Avatar (2009): Blue aliens and romance. James Cameron delivers again! Avatar features Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana). They fall in love amid a rich sci-fi backdrop. Their bond is both physical and emotional. These characters connect deeply with Pandora. Audiences responded positively, giving it a solid 7.9 IMDb rating from 1.4 million votes.
Notting Hill (1999): Hugh Grant shines here with charm. Julia Roberts plays a self-aware version of herself in this classic British rom-com. William Thacker (Grant) runs a bookstore and falls for global superstar Anna Scott (Roberts). Their unlikely romance captivates amid London charm. It blends wit and warmth perfectly.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005): Romance meets action! Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie star as assassin spouses unaware of each other's work. When tasked to kill one another, their chemistry ignites. Mr. & Mrs. Smith mixes excitement with romance effortlessly.
City of Angels (1998): Nicolas Cage plays an angel. He falls for Meg Ryan's character, Maggie, a surgeon. City of Angels is bittersweet and ethereal. Seth (Cage) chooses humanity to experience love with Maggie. This tale is about sacrifice and love's fleeting nature, sure to evoke emotions.
The Notebook (2004): Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams star in this modern classic. The Notebook tells Noah's story (Gosling), a passionate lower-class man, and Allie (McAdams), an heiress. They share a summer romance that defies societal norms. It explores enduring love, second chances, and heartfelt letters.

Other notable films in romance discussions are Doctor Zhivago, Ever After, It's a Wonderful Life, Sleepless in Seattle, and Casablanca. It’s diverse and shows romantic tales in many styles, from epics to modern tales.

Netflix and Chill? Top Romantic Movies Streaming Now

Netflix is perfect for cozy nights and offers countless romance movies. But how do you choose? Let’s review our top Netflix picks.

13 Going on 30 (2004): Jennifer Garner dazzles in this body-swap comedy. Jenna Rink wakes up as an adult after wishing to be "thirty, flirty, and thriving." Navigating life and rekindling feelings for childhood friend Matt (Mark Ruffalo) is heartwarming.
Always Be My Maybe (2019): Ali Wong and Randall Park light up the screen in this Netflix release. Childhood sweethearts Sasha and Marcus reconnect when Sasha returns home as a celebrity chef. The film is funny, culturally rich, and features a memorable Keanu Reeves cameo.
Blue Jay (2017): For indie lovers, Blue Jay is essential viewing. Mark Duplass and Sarah Paulson star in this black-and-white film about reconnecting former high school sweethearts. It captures the complexity of past loves excellently.
Carol (2015): Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara shine in this emotional period piece. Set in 1950s New York, Carol dives into a forbidden love between Carol Aird (Blanchett) and young clerk Therese Belivet (Mara). It's visually stunning with a poignant narrative.
Definitely, Maybe (2008): Ryan Reynolds brings charm in this clever rom-com told through flashbacks. Will Hayes (Reynolds) shares his romantic past with his daughter, making her guess who her mother is among the stories.
Duck Butter (2018): Looking for something different? Duck Butter explores quick emotional connections. Two women, Naima and Sergio, aim to deepen intimacy in 24 hours by having sex hourly.
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020): This film blends humor and romance with absurdity. Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams portray Icelandic musicians chasing Eurovision dreams. It's a quirky love story that surprises with its feel-good vibe.
The Age of Adaline: Blake Lively captivates in this fantasy romance about Adaline Bowman, who becomes ageless after an accident. After many years alone, she meets someone who challenges her perspective on love and life.
Purple Hearts:A recent Netflix rom-com about love amidst obstacles awaits viewers.
hit,Purple Hearts: This story follows Cassie, a musician, and Luke, a Marine. They enter a marriage of convenience. It blossoms into something real. This contemporary romance focuses on personal growth and overcoming differences.
The Tearsmith: The Tearsmith is based on the popular novel. It is an Italian drama. It follows Nica and Rigel, two orphans adopted together. Their relationship evolves from hostility to passionate love. Gothic, atmospheric, and full of brooding romance.
Hit Man: Glen Powell and Adria Arjona star in this darkly comedic rom-com. A philosophy professor works as a fake hitman. He gets involved with a client who may be his perfect match. Smart, sexy, and surprisingly funny, it blends romance with crime.
Anyone But You: Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell return! This rom-com offers pure escapism. Bea and Ben pretend to be a couple at a destination wedding. Predictable? Perhaps. However, it is entertaining and charming. A classic setup with undeniable chemistry.

For more romantic films, check out An Affair to Remember, Queen Bees, Holiday in the Wild, and Spanglish. Netflix offers a romance for every mood.

What Makes a Love Story Beautiful?

The million-dollar question is, what makes a love story beautiful? It is subjective. Some films consistently evoke strong feelings. Good Housekeeping compiled a list of 50 films that quicken hearts, a great starting point.

Beauty and the Beast (1946): Jean Cocteau's surreal masterpiece is a timeless French classic. It is visually stunning and emotionally resonant. It shows that true beauty lies within.
Love & Basketball (2000): Gina Prince-Bythewood's debut is a slam dunk. Monica and Quincy's love for basketball and each other is explored through childhood to adulthood. It is a powerful portrayal of ambition, passion, and lasting love.
Call Me by Your Name (2017): Luca Guadagnino's Italian romance feels like poetry. Elio and Oliver's summer affair is sensual and heartbreaking. This unforgettable film lingers long after credits roll.
Vertigo (1958): Alfred Hitchcock presents romance in Vertigo. This psychological thriller explores obsession. James Stewart's Scottie Ferguson becomes fixated on Madeleine. It reveals desire and illusion's darker sides.
La La Land (2016): Damien Chazelle's musical is vibrant and bittersweet. Mia and Sebastian’s romance intertwines with art ambitions. It is visually dazzling, about choices and paths not taken.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004): Charlie Kaufman's original exploration immerses in love and memory. Joel and Clementine erase each other after a breakup. Their fragmented love story refuses to be forgotten.
Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994): This British classic charms with wit and heartfelt moments. Charles and Carrie’s romance unfolds over social events. It delights viewers, staying an enduring favorite.
Out of Sight (1998): Steven Soderbergh's stylish crime romance entertains. Jack Foley, a charming bank robber, finds connection with U.S. Marshal Karen Sisco, creating crackling chemistry.

Greatest Love Story Ever Told? The Debate Rages On

The search for the "greatest love story movie" sparks endless debate. What constitutes "greatest"? Is it emotional depth or sheer romantic impact? Here are some contenders.

Casablanca (1942): A timeless classic for sure. Good Housekeeping lists it for good reason. Rick and Ilsa's wartime love story epitomizes sacrifice and unforgettable romance.
The Notebook (2004): Once more, this film shines. Good Housekeeping highlights it due to emotional weight and enduring love.
Pride & Prejudice (2005): A perfect adaptation of Jane Austen. Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen's chemistry sparks as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. The witty banter and social barriers enhance this satisfying story.
One Day (2011): Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess star as Emma and Dexter. Their story unfolds on the same day yearly over two decades. It portrays friendship and missed opportunities with realism.
The Sound of Music (1965): Musical romance perfection captures hearts. Maria and Captain von Trapp's love story thrives in pre-World War II Austria. Iconic songs uplift audiences.
All of Us Strangers (2023): Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal star in this complex, emotional film. It explores loneliness and connection, grief, family, and unexpected love.
Love Jones (1997): A cult classic for good reason. Good Housekeeping includes this stylish romantic drama. Darius and Nina's passionate love story captures modern romance nuances.

Other films discussed as having "greatest love stories" include Say Anything, Jerry Maguire, and If Only. Ultimately, the "greatest" love story connects deeply with you.

Box Office Smashing Romance: Most Successful Romance Movies

Romance can be profitable! Some films dominate the box office. Unsurprisingly, Titanic reigns supreme as the highest-grossing romance film, earning over $2.2 billion globally.

Beyond Titanic, rom-coms also perform well. Consider these hits:

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002): Independent film turned phenomenon. This rom-com about Toula, a Greek-American woman, falls for a non-Greek man. It became a massive sleeper hit.
What Women Want (2000): Mel Gibson stars in this rom-com! Nick Marshall hears women's thoughts. He uses it to his advantage in career and love life.
Hitch (2005): Will Smith shines as a dating guru. Hitch offers charm and humor as he helps men win over women, yet falls for a cynical columnist.
Pretty Woman (1990): Another hit! Its lasting popularity cemented Julia Roberts's status as a rom-com queen and made it a box office success.
There's Something About Mary (1998): Stiller and Diaz deliver a funny yet sweet rom-com. Ted goes to great lengths to win back Mary from high school.
Crazy Rich Asians (2018): Groundbreaking and commercially successful. This lavish rom-com tells of Rachel Chu's travels to meet her boyfriend's wealthy family.
The Proposal (2009): Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds star in a classic fake-relationship rom-com. Margaret forces Andrew to pretend to be her fiancé.
Sex and the City (2008): The beloved TV series adapted to film. Continuing Carrie and Mr. Big's tumultuous relationship, it was a huge box office hit.

Laughing in Love: Best Rom-Coms of All Time

Rom-coms delightfully blend romance and humor.

With humor, rom-coms are a staple for movie nights. What are the best? Let's explore some rom-com royalty.

When Harry Met Sally... (1989): Nora Ephron and Rob Reiner worked together. When Harry Met Sally... is often called the perfect rom-com. Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) debate friendships between men and women. It's witty, insightful, and that diner scene is iconic.
500 Days of Summer (2009): A modern, unconventional rom-com. 500 Days of Summer is Tom's story (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) about Summer (Zooey Deschanel). It's quirky, stylish, and challenges traditional rom-com norms.
Roman Holiday (1953): Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck share cinematic charm. Princess Ann (Hepburn) escapes her duties. She falls for Joe Bradley (Peck), an American journalist. It’s a classic fairytale romance, bittersweet yet magical.
The Philadelphia Story (1940): Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and James Stewart form a rom-com dream team. Tracy Lord (Hepburn), a socialite, nears remarrying when her ex, C.K. Dexter Haven (Grant), and reporter, Macaulay Connor (Stewart), complicate matters. It’s witty, sophisticated, and brilliantly acted.
Bringing Up Baby (1938): Katharine Hepburn teams up with Cary Grant in this screwball comedy. David Huxley (Grant), a paleontologist, meets Susan Vance (Hepburn), a spirited heiress, and a leopard named Baby. It's chaotic, hilarious, and delightful.
While You Were Sleeping (1995): Sandra Bullock shines in a mix-up rom-com. Lucy (Bullock) saves Peter (Peter Gallagher) from a train and is thought to be his fiancée by his family. She joins the charade and falls for Peter's brother, Jack (Bill Pullman).
Sweet Home Alabama (2002): Reese Witherspoon brings Southern charm. Melanie Carmichael (Witherspoon), a fashion designer, returns to Alabama for a divorce from Jake (Josh Lucas). Complications arise, creating a humorous and heartfelt story.
Moonstruck (1987): Cher and Nicolas Cage star in this quirky Italian-American rom-com. Loretta Castorini (Cher), a widowed bookkeeper, falls for her fiancé’s passionate brother, Ronny (Cage). It is funny and romantic with Oscar-winning performances.
Notting Hill (1999): This film remains a favorite on "best rom-com" lists. Notting Hill solidifies its place as a beloved genre staple.
50 First Dates (2004): Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore star in a sweetly silly tale. Henry Roth (Sandler) falls for Lucy (Barrymore), who has short-term memory loss. He needs to win her over daily. It’s heartwarming and humorous, showcasing Sandler's softer side.

Other rom-coms often noted as greats include Austenland, Maid in Manhattan, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, Kate & Leopold, and lately, Anyone But You.

Date Night Delights: Netflix Rom-Coms for Cozy Evenings

Need a rom-com for a date night? Netflix has many options. Several of these films are available, with new titles added constantly. Consider 13 Going on 30, Anyone But You, Hit Man, Maid in Manhattan, Notting Hill, and Set It Up. They promise a fun night.

For something diverse, think about:

Om Shanti Om (2007): A Bollywood delight! This Hindi-language rom-com offers song, dance, and drama. It’s a reincarnation love story featuring Shah Rukh Khan.
Two Weeks Notice: Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant shine as opposites attract. A lawyer wants to quit her job while her wealthy boss becomes intriguing. They fall for each other.
The Wedding Planner: Jennifer Lopez portrays a wedding planner who loves one of her clients (Matthew McConaughey). It’s a classic romantic setup with charming performances.
To All the Boys I've Loved Before: Teen rom-com greatness. Lara Jean’s love letters get mailed out accidentally, disrupting her high school life. It captures teenage romance's joys and anxieties.
Set It Up: Two assistants attempt to match up their demanding bosses. They end up finding love themselves. It’s a sharp, witty modern take.

For additional date night choices, Netflix suggests Back in Action, Miss Congeniality, 50 First Dates, and Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All by Myself. Just add popcorn and blankets!

Steamy Affairs: "Spicy" and "Steamy" Romantic Movies

Sometimes you crave romance with extra heat. Netflix has categories for "steamy" and "intimate" films. For those looking for high-temperature movies, consider:

Fifty Shades of Grey (and sequels): This infamous adaptation of E.L. James's novels explores the relationship between Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) and Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson). It is undeniably steamy but opinions on it vary.
Lady Chatterley's Lover: A critically acclaimed adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's novel. It delves into passion and desire while focusing on emotional connections.
Fatal Attraction: A classic thriller with romantic and sexual undertones. It serves as a cautionary tale about infidelity with some steamy moments, veering into thriller territory.
Burning Betrayal: A Brazilian erotic thriller filled with passion and suspense. Its steamy scenes and dramatic twists keep viewers engaged.
Addicted: A drama about addiction and infidelity. It explores themes of desire and consequences.
Mea Culpa: A legal thriller featuring steamy romantic elements. A lawyer engages with a complex case that leads to suspenseful, romantic entanglements.

Netflix also highlights films like A True Gentleman, Against All Odds, Plum Blossom, Five Senses of Eros, Umjolo: Day Ones, and Good Luck to You, Leo Grande. Always check ratings and viewer discretion is advised!

Key Ingredients: Elements of Romance Movies

What makes romance movies genuinely work? Beyond plot and actors, specific elements elevate the genre consistently.

The Perfect Kiss: Movie Kisses That Leave Us Breathless

An iconic movie kiss can be unforgettable. It embodies longing and connection. What are some memorable movie kisses?

Rhett and Scarlett in Gone With the Wind (1939): This passionate kiss illustrates the tumultuous bond between Rhett Butler (Clark Gable) and Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh).
Westley and Buttercup in The Princess Bride (1987): A fairytale romance. Their reunion kiss radiates joy and true love magic.
Ennis and Jack in Brokeback Mountain (2005): A powerful kiss highlighting forbidden love. It’s a poignant moment in a groundbreaking film.
Leo and Felicitas in Flesh and the Devil (1926): Legendary silent film chemistry between John Gilbert and Greta Garbo. Their kisses radiated intensity.
Elin and Agnes in Show Me Love (1998): A tender kiss between two girls discovering love. It captures vulnerability and self-discovery.