Romantic Movies That Will Emotionally Destroy You

In "Past Lives," Nora and Hae Sung, two childhood friends, reunite in New York for one fateful week, confronting the complexities of destiny and the choices that shape their lives. This film, released on June 2, 2023, is rated 4.3, capturing the essence of nostalgia and unfulfilled love. Learn more.

This groundbreaking film from 2004, rated 4, depicts Joel Barish’s heart-wrenching journey as he discovers that his girlfriend has erased him from her memory. In a bid to escape the pain, he undergoes a similar procedure only to realize that he still loves her. A tale of love, loss, and the struggle against fate, it invites viewers to reflect on the nature of memories. Learn more.

"Blue Valentine," released on December 26, 2010, explores the painful stages of a marriage through the lives of Dean and Cindy. Initially basking in love and optimism, their relationship begins to fray under the weight of ambition and self-absorption. With a rating of 3.5, this film offers a stark look at how circumstances can drastically alter love over time. Learn more.

A quintessential romantic epic, "The Notebook," released on June 25, 2004, features an older man reading a love story from his notebook to a woman suffering from Alzheimer's. This moving tale of lifelong love follows a couple reunited after years apart due to World War II. With a rating of 3.8, it showcases the power of memories in long-lasting relationships. Learn more.

This heartfelt film released on November 15, 2007, rated 3.7, follows a young widow who discovers that her late husband left her ten messages intended to help her cope with her grief and embrace a fresh start. "P.S. I Love You" is a testament to love transcending even death. Learn more.

"A Walk to Remember," released on January 25, 2002, tells the story of Landon Carter, a popular teen who unexpectedly falls in love with Jamie Sullivan, the minister's daughter. Their love story, filled with secrets and life lessons, leaves audiences with a profound sense of longing and hope. It garnered a rating of 3.9. Learn more.

Starring Robert Pattinson, "Remember Me," released on March 11, 2010, follows Tyler Hawkins as he navigates life after personal tragedies. This poignant narrative about love and loss received a rating of 3.5, emphasizing how relationships can be both a source of solace and strain amidst grief. Learn more.

Released on March 30, 2017, "The Big Sick" explores the cultural barriers and personal trials faced by comedian Kumail Nanjiani and grad student Emily Gardner. This film, rated 4, delves into love’s complexities when Emily becomes seriously ill, forcing Kumail to confront both his feelings and family expectations. Learn more.

"Atonement," released on February 27, 2007, is a sweeping drama of love and regret at its finest. A 13-year-old Briony Tallis makes a life-altering accusation against her sister’s lover, altering the intertwined fates of the three characters forever. With a rating of 3.8, this tale explores themes of forgiveness and the ramifications of misunderstandings. Learn more.

This classic film from November 20, 1983, rated 3.8, follows Aurora, a strong-willed woman in search of love while navigating her daughter’s marital struggles. Their bond and the trials they face together resonate deeply, making it a timeless exploration of maternal love. Learn more.

"The Fountain," released on November 22, 2006, spans over a thousand years, weaving three parallel stories that reflect on love, death, and spirituality. An exploration of the fragility of life, this poignant film has a rating of 3.4 and invites viewers to ponder their existence and connections. Learn more.

"About Time," released on September 4, 2013, introduces Tim, who learns from his father that he can time travel. This allows him to relive moments and alter his life’s trajectory, fostering deeper appreciation for love and family. With a rating of 3.7, it’s a charming yet profound journey of discovery. Learn more.

Set in the beautiful landscapes of 1980s Italy, "Call Me by Your Name," released on July 28, 2017, tells the story of a seventeen-year-old Elio who falls for his father's research assistant. This bittersweet romance, rated 4.2, is an exploration of first love that resonates with audiences on a personal level. Learn more.

In the animated masterpiece "Your Name.," released on August 26, 2016, high schoolers Mitsuha and Taki experience a mysterious connection that allows them to switch bodies. This unique narrative about love and identity has won hearts worldwide, achieving a perfect rating of 5. It beautifully illustrates the longing and complexity of youth and connection. Learn more.

Set on a secluded island in 18th century Brittany, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire," released on June 17, 2019, follows a female painter tasked with painting a wedding portrait of a young woman. Their developing relationship is both beautiful and tragic, earning a rating of 4. It highlights themes of art, love’s fleeting nature, and societal constraints. Learn more.