After drama, romance is arguably the most individualized genre of film, with audiences seeking to reflect as much as be entertained. A romantic film reflects our own experiences and desires by evoking a range of emotions, from the thrill of first love to the bitter taste of unmet promises. By allowing viewers to accompany the fictional couples and closely examine and evaluate each of their actions, the genre goes beyond straightforward narrative.

Thankfully, the major streaming behemoths look out for their subscribers in this way, providing a wide range of romantic films, from classic tearjerkers and poignant commentary on soulmates to charming teenage tales and sci-fi-infused stories. These 30 romance films on Netflix will satisfy all of your tastes and preferences if you’re a fan of the genre.

30. La Dolce Villa (2025)

Single dad Eric’s (Scott Foley) life is turned around after he goes to a tiny Italian town to inspect an old heritage villa that his 24-year-old daughter Liv (Maia Reficco) has recently purchased in Mark Waters’ ‘La Dolce Villa.’ As concerned as he is about the new venture of his daughter, the relocation proves to be a welcome one after he encounters the town’s mayor, Francesca (Violante Placido), who is putting the derelict heritage villas up for sale to introduce new blood into her town. As a romance between Eric and Francesca sweetens, we have a warm drama of second chances, self-discovery, and the surprises of life. You can stream the bingeworthy film here.

29. Lonely Planet (2024)

Starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth, ‘Lonely Planet’ develops the romance of a novelist and much younger man who meet at a retreat in Morocco. While she struggles with writer’s block, he is struggling with his aloof girlfriend. Their random meeting could be lovely, but there are issues that they need to address if they want to spend more time together. Before they both deal with their feelings for the other, they must accept their differences. Can they? Directed by Susannah Grant, ‘Lonely Planet’ is a sweet Nicholas-Spark-esque romance that can be streamed right here.

28. My Oxford Year (2025)

‘My Oxford Year’ is a quintessential Netflix romance at the center of which are Anna De La Vega (Sofia Carson) and Jamie Davenport (Corey Mylchreest). Anna, from the US, is a student at Oxford, while Jamie, a local, is a teacher there. The film reveals how romance flowers between the two, sweet and colorful with Netflix’s coloring. Nevertheless, despite all the niceness, the two are revealed to drift apart once Jamie tells her that, to him, their relationship was nothing but a game. Were all the things he said to her lies, or is he protecting her from something by distancing her? Bingeworthy and bittersweet, ‘My Oxford Year’ is perfect to binge with your loved one. It can be streamed here.

27. Sierra Burgess is a Loser (2018)

‘Sierra Burgess is a Loser’ is a contemporary adaptation of French playwright Edmond Rostand’s timeless ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ that transports the tale to high school. The remake substitutes Cyrano with Sierra Burgess (Shannon Purser), a nerdy but socially inept teenage girl embroiled in a case of mistaken identity. When popular cheerleader Veronica (Kristine Froseth) mistakenly gives Jamey (Noah Centineo) Sierra’s number rather than her own, Sierra and Jamey start to have a relationship based on text messages. When Veronica’s college boyfriend dumps her for not being smart enough, she asks Sierra to help and, in the process, trains Sierra into someone good enough for Jamey. Ian Samuels directs the coming-of-age story that catches the naivety of being young, with a powerful message of self-identity as the characters try to transform themselves to attract other people’s attention. You can watch the movie here.

26. Find Me Falling (2024)

Directed by Stelana Kliris, ‘Find Me Falling’ is set against the warm and sunny expanses of Cyprus and follows a protagonist experiencing an equally gloomy phase. Having moved to the island nation to leave behind the desperation of his past, John Allman, a retired rockstar, finds out that his new land has been a notorious suicide point. As he builds fences to keep others away, John makes friends with local villagers, who persuade him to go out and find new women. Begrudgingly consenting, he begins socializing and relearns the good side of things. A twist in the plot comes with the re-emergence of his former love, Sia, stirring up old emotions. Confronted with a critical choice, John and his ex-girlfriend are in an understated romance drama that delves into heartbreak and sadness as it celebrates the value of letting go and establishing new social relationships. The movie is paired with lovely landscapes and a heart-wrenching story to create an engaging narrative on healing and rediscovery. ‘Find Me Falling’ can be viewed here.

25. Love Wedding Repeat (2020)

A remake of the 2012 French movie ‘Plan de Table’ by Francis Nief and Christelle Raynal, ‘Love Wedding Repeat’ is about the traditional trope of rescuing a wedding day, but with a new spin. The movie is directed by Dean Craig and is narrated from the perspective of the bride’s brother, Jack (Sam Claflin), who has to see his sister Hayley’s (Eleanor Tomlinson) wedding through without a glitch. He’s threatened by Dina (Olivia Munn), his former flame; Marc (Jack Farthing), an unwanted classmate of Hayley’s who’s determined to sabotage the event; and Bryan (Joel Fry), a sedated maid of honor. A creative turn revives the film into a world of multiple realities, allowing Jack to reverse the chaos. This allows the film to thrive in comedic unpredictability while presenting a refreshing take on the challenges of love and jealousy. Viewers can find ‘Love Wedding Repeat’ here.

24. All the Bright Places (2020)

This adaptation of Jennifer Niven’s novel brings to life a nuanced and introspective drama rooted in past trauma and survivor’s guilt. The film, directed by Brett Haley, features Elle Fanning as Violet Markey and Justice Smith as Theodore “Theo” Finch. The two high school students support one another in reaching out, overcoming fear and insecurity. Along the way of self-discovery, they find comfort in each other while coping with personal issues. The movie deals with issues of depression and loss sensitively and true to life. The rapport between Fanning and Smith lends depth to the storyline, making it a poignant study of love and resilience in the unacknowledged moments of life. ‘All the Bright Places’ is here for you to stream.

23. Malcolm & Marie (2021)

‘Euphoria’ creator Sam Levinson teamed up again with Zendaya to helm this brutal and intimate love drama. Starring alongside John David Washington, ‘Malcolm & Marie’ follows what happens in a night. Based on passionate discussions between filmmaker Malcolm Elliott and his girlfriend, Marie Jones, the film follows after they come back from the premiere of his film. Filmed in black and white, such discussions follow after Marie mentions being totally excluded from Malcolm’s address. The off-screen chemistry of the two leads is a vivid tapestry of misunderstandings and the impact they have on relationships and bring back old grudges. Additionally, the film delivers quietly about the nuances of artistry. The spare settings and Levinson’s handling capture all these themes effectively, ratcheting up the emotional stakes, as well as the vulnerabilities the characters unleash. ‘Malcolm & Marie’ is currently streaming on Netflix here.

22. When We First Met (2018)

This charming time-travel movie surprises with its original spin on the romantic comedy genre. Breaking away from the formulaic nature of modern love tales, ‘When We First Met’ has the feel of a story inspired by ‘Groundhog Day,’ evoking philosophical ideas. Adam DeVine plays Noah Ashby, a man smitten with Avery (Alexandra Daddario). Things get surreal when a magical photo booth enables Noah to go back to the evening he met Avery at a party. The couple’s future is altered abruptly in another drastic twist when they instantly alter after he wins over her. There are supporting roles by Shelley Hennig as Carrie and Robbie Amell as Ethan, Avery’s boyfriend. In spite of otherworldly aspects, ‘When We First Met’ elicits familiar emotions ranging from true love to overthinking. To that, DeVine’s own comic timing and Ari Sandel’s direction add fuel to humor through unexpected situations, which deliver laughter and edge-of-the-seat intrigue. You can view it here.

21. The Kissing Booth (2018)

The same-named novel by writer-director Vince Marcello adapted Beth Reekles into this delightful teen romance. Kissing Booth’ features Joey King as Elle Evans, a junior in high school whose life gets complicated when she falls for her best friend’s older brother, the most popular bad boy Noah Flynn (Jacob Elordi). As Elle and Noah become more intimate, her early romantic relationship complicates her lifelong friendship with Lee (Joel Courtney). The story deepens at a kissing booth in the fundraiser at school, turning their relationship into a full-fledged love triangle. The teen comedy uses its high school setting to keep people laughing, and King’s acting of a very conflicted Elle brings depth. The relationships between the stars and the interesting plot spellbind ‘The Kissing Booth’ firmly into Netflix’s line-up. ‘The Kissing Booth’ can be streamed here

20. Irreplaceable You (2018)

Director Stephanie Laing captures the heartbreaking drama in ‘Irreplaceable You’ in an intimate manner. The central couple in the narrative, Sam (Michiel Huisman) and Abbie (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) have been together since age eight and are looking forward to their engagement. However, their plans are shattered when Abbie is diagnosed with terminal cancer. As the title suggests, Abbie decides to find a replacement and a new potential partner for Sam, fearing the emptiness her loss will cause him. Despite Sam’s efforts to deny the inevitable, the reality of their situation becomes increasingly apparent. Director Stephanie Laing captures this heartbreaking drama in an intimate manner. Unlike most romantic dramas, ‘Irreplaceable You’ is grounded in hopelessness and centers on the unavoidable break-up instead of the relation of the couple. You may view this drama here.

19. Falling Inn Love (2019)

Directed by Roger Kumble, a professional in coming-of-age movies, ‘Falling Inn Love’ brings strangers together in a creative manner. San Francisco native Gabriela Diaz (Christina Milian) wins a local inn in a contest and comes to New Zealand, only to find it’s worthless. Learning about its deplorable state, she employs contractor Jake Taylor (Adam Demos) to assist in redoing the property with plans to run a business. Recently heartbroken due to a non-committed boyfriend, Gabriela heals her heart with the help of Jake, and the latter too shares his tragic history and her sentiments. Against the picturesque background of New Zealand, ‘Falling Inn Love’ presents visual surprises and ample entertainment as characters bicker about small things regarding the look of the inn. Besides the romance, the movie also excels in its workplace-based subplot, providing something fresh to audiences. You can watch ‘Falling Inn Love’ here.

18. Falling for Christmas (2022)

‘Falling for Christmas’ is the first time Lindsay Lohan has starred in a feel-good romantic comedy in almost 15 years. The actress plays Sierra Belmont, an heiress to a hotel chain and newly minted vice president of a resort. As directed by Janeen Damian, the film is a departure from the stereotypical rich girl stereotype. Sierra, having no inclination to take over her father’s company, by mistake tumbles down from a mountain, resulting in unconsciousness and amnesia. Chord Overstreet makes an appearance as Jake Russell, a lodge owner who takes Sierra in until she recovers her memory. In return for his benevolence, Sierra begins assisting Jake grow his business during Christmas, and their shared concern turns into love. The movie celebrates traditional warmth and coziness with holiday themes and familial connections. ‘Falling for Christmas’ can be viewed here.

17. Holidate (2020)

‘Holidate,’ directed by John Whitesell, is a sweet holiday-themed romantic film starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey as Sloane and Jackson. The characters are also revealed to detest the holiday season because of the criticism and stress they get from their families regarding their singleness. When Sloane and Jackson coincidentally bump into each other, their common aversion to holidays compels them into a special promise: to be one another’s plus-ones to all holiday parties for the upcoming year. What starts as a pragmatic resolution to avoid family queries gradually becomes deeper. As they go to different holiday parties together, their initial anger develops into true affection. The movie not only provides a new twist on the traditional holiday romance but also untaps the repression of loneliness that has its leads push away its company. Owing to the occasional use of profanity, the movie is still viewer-friendly and warm-hearted and thus provides an excellent Christmas watch. ‘Holidate’ can be watched here.

16. Lady Chatterley’s Lover (2022)

‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ brings D.H. Lawrence’s classic tale of passion and love to the screen. The period drama is about Lady Constance Chatterley (Emma Corrin), who finds herself stuck in a loveless marriage with Sir Clifford Chatterley (Matthew Duckett). Her life changes when she becomes involved in a passionate affair with the gamekeeper of her estate, Oliver Mellors (Jack O’Connell). Directed by Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre, the film portrays the intense and forbidden romance between Constance and Mellors, showcasing how a loveless marriage can strip away one’s personal freedom and strain lifelong desires. The production design and cinematography beautifully reflect the essence of early 20th-century England. ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ is available here for you to watch.

15. It Ends with Us (2024)

Justin Baldoni’s ‘It Ends with Us’ follows Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), who finds herself stuck in a cycle of domestic violence. While regretting her decisions, she soon meets her former flame and wonders if there is still time to right the wrong she had done to herself long ago or if it is too late. Adapted from Colleen Hoover’s own The New York Times bestselling novel, ‘It Ends with Us’ co-stars Baldoni and Brandon Sklenar and has established itself as one of the streaming service’s most-viewed romances. You can watch the movie here.

14. We Couldn’t Become Adults (2021)

Directed by Yoshihiro Mori, ‘We Couldn’t Become Adults’ is an adaptation of the same-named novel by Moegara. The film is a surrealist study of the life of the middle-aged protagonist, Makoto. The film switches between the present and the 1990s, with a nostalgic feel. Makoto’s life is jolted when he gets a friend request on a social media site from Kaori Karo, a former girlfriend who had moved away years ago to fulfill her ambitions, as she found their relationship too mundane. But now she has settled into a mundane existence, far removed from what she had pursued. The shocking discovery agitates strong emotions in Makoto as he sees things in their past that directed his life. In recollecting their history and the role Kaori played in his life, the film delves into the themes of lost love, desires, getting old, and isolation. It resonates with audiences by drawing attention to the emotional burden of lost potential and the “what if” games of having enough resources and liberty to follow one’s dream versus being trapped in dead-end existences. You can watch ‘We Couldn’t Become Adults’ here.

13. Hot Frosty (2024)

Starring Lacey Chabert and Dustin Milligan, ‘Hot Frosty’ is a Christmas romance that chronicles an improbable love affair between a woman and a snowman (once he is human). Kathy (Chabert) is a widow, and her emotional quest receives assistance in the form of Jack, a snowman who has miraculously been brought to life. As fireworks fly, we wonder if their love will endure forever because when winter dissolves, ice melts. Directed by Jerry Ciccoritti, ‘Hot Frosty’ performs commendably in mixing sweet romance and understated comedy to deliver the ideal Christmas rom-com. You may watch it with your sweetheart here.

12. A Jazzman’s Blues (2022)

This Tyler Perry production carves out a romance drama from a murder mystery backdrop. The story begins in 1987, when the mother of Horace John Boyd, commonly known as Bayou (Joshua Boone), requests the district attorney to reopen the case of her son’s murder. She also hands him some crucial letters from Bayou’s life, which leads the investigators to a series of flashbacks from the 1940s. The film recounts Bayou’s struggles as a failed musician who was often ridiculed by his father and how it led him to meet Leanne Jean Harper, affectionately called Bucket (Solea Pfeiffer). Already a social outcast who is looked down upon by the community and is sexually abused by her grandfather, Bucket accepts Bayou, and a passionate love affair ensues. Their illicit love comes with societal ostracization and individual suffering, giving depth to their relationship. ‘A Jazzman’s Blues’ not only delves into love and loss but also into the effects of racial and social tensions on their existence. Further, Perry’s direction properly balances the tragic and emotional aspects with the overall mystery, always reminding the audience of the ominous fate that Bayou meets. You may see the film here.

11. Persuasion (2022)

This sweeping adaptation of Jane Austen’s last novel, ‘Persuasion,’ stars Dakota Johnson as Anne Elliot, a woman in her twenties who is still unmarried eight years after being swayed to break off her engagement with Frederick Wentworth (Cosmo Jarvis) — a dashing and young Royal Navy officer — because of his inferior social status. When the latter goes back to her own life as a successful captain, Anne, who has endured years of isolation, reunites with him and reopens old flames. But this reunion is hindered by the presence of other females competing for Frederick’s affections and the same old family and friends once more commandeering the affair. ‘Persuasion’ stays true to Austen’s novel, showing the harsh realities of Georgian England, where women, even from wealthier backgrounds, were often controlled by society and their own families in matters related to marriage. You can stream ‘Persuasion’ here.

10. The Last Letter from Your Lover (2021)

Directed by Augustine Frizzell, ‘The Last Letter from Your Lover’ is a film based on Jojo Moyes’ novel of the same title, with interconnected stories in multiple timelines connected by a series of letters. In the flashback scenes set in 1965, Jennifer Stirling (Shailene Woodley), the wife of a successful businessman, has memory loss due to an accident and looks for the source of letters that she does not remember. At the same time, contemporary London reporter Ellie Haworth (Felicity Jones) stumbles upon the same letters and tries to discover the identity of the cryptic couple — J and B — who wrote these letters. As Ellie gets completely immersed in the past, the letters imprint themselves on her emerging romantic sentiments for her colleague, archivist Rory McCallan (Nabhaan Rizwan). ‘The Last Letter from Your Lover’ increases suspense with every scene, connecting people as much as it spans periods and merging expert investigation with personal exploration to yield an enthralling narrative of love, memory, and how past relationships affect the present. The film can be watched here.

9. Elisa & Marcela (2019)

This Spanish black-and-white biographical drama tells of the difficulties Elisa Sanchez Loriga experienced because of the illegality of same-sex marriage during late 19th and early 20th century Spain. Natalia de Molina portrays the role of Elisa, who makes history after fifteen years of a secretive relationship. Elisa becomes Mario Sánchez, disguising herself as a man, in order to marry her beloved Marcela Gracia Ibeas (Greta Fernández). The movie showcases her daring step and the ordeal that follows, such as furious mobs finding out about their ruse. Writer-director Isabel Coixet makes sure that the central romance encompasses a surrealism that makes viewers want to see Elisa and Marcela succeed, stressing that their love is worth fighting for. Furthermore, the historical setting also makes ‘Elisa & Marcela’ thrilling as well as insightful. More about this Spanish drama can be learned here.

8. Our Souls at Night (2017)

Novelist Kent Haruf’s title novel is brought to the screen by two acting legends: Robert Redford and Jane Fonda. Directed by Ritesh Batra, ‘Our Souls at Night’ is an emotional tale set in a small Colorado town where Addie Moore (Fonda), a widow who’s had enough of solitude, calls up her neighbor Louis Waters (Redford), who’s also a widower. Notwithstanding their record of few encounters in the past, the aging couple grasp the opportunity to achieve a companionship that is not sexual in nature with each other. Their developing relationship brings them comfort and happiness, compensating for the space left by the alienated children. Even without having to rely on gimmicks or outside crises, the earthy and fantastical drama moves towards the importance of old-age companionship and the worth of human relationship. Batra’s guidance highlights the emotional richness of the story, a heartwarming portrayal of two people relearning the beauty of life through their relationship. ‘Our Souls at Night’ can be viewed here.

7. The Incredible Jessica James (2017)

This independent romantic comedy is about Jessica James (Jessica Williams), a New York City playwright who is healing from a break-up. She embarks on a series of self-destructive behaviors, from dating apps to try and get her ex jealous to inappropriately pouring her emotions out on clients at work. Trying to find her way, Jessica crosses paths with Boone (Chris O’Dowd), who is similarly fresh from a breakup. Jim Strouse directs the film as it chronicled their developing relationship as they find common ground in their former heartache and career ambitions. The chemistry between Williams and O’Dowd, coupled with the comedy and meaningful conversations between supporting characters Tasha (Lakeith Stanfield) and Damon (Noël Wells), make ‘The Incredible Jessica James’ so interesting. ‘The Incredible Jessica James’ is available on the streaming giant through this here.

6. Tramps (2016)

This light romance is a standout in terms of its novelty and interesting storyline. Directed in the midst of New York City’s frenzied world, ‘Tramps’ is a story about Danny (Callum Turner), who is a budding chef, and Ellie (Grace Van Patten), a street-smart hustler hired by Danny to work as his getaway driver. When their illicit transaction goes awry after a misidentification, the two must stick together and set things right. The film draws elements from several other genres to represent the pairing’s adventure as they walk around the streets to pursue the briefcase and finish their task. During the process, they share light conversation and develop an improbable bond. The screenplay by Director Adam Leon is excellent with the mix of romance and adventure as Danny and Ellie learn something new about themselves. You can watch the Netflix original film here.

5. Set It Up (2018)

This charming romantic comedy gives a fresh spin to the age-old tropes of the genre through its witty dialogues and likable ensemble cast. The leads, Harper Moore (Zoey Deutch) and Charlie Young (Glen Powell) are high-strung assistants who concoct a scheme to match up their beleaguered bosses. They enact multiple ploys to arrange a meet-cute situation for Kirsten Stevens (Lucy Liu) and Rick Otis (Taye Diggs), in the hope of simplifying their lives. Claire Scanlon directs the story, which presents a satirical image of corporate life today and work-life balance. As Harper and Charlie’s plan unfolds, they find themselves inadvertently becoming closer and re-evaluating their emotions. ‘Set It Up’ is available on Netflix.

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

This charming teen romance is credited with marking a new era of movies oriented at Gen-Z. Directed by Susan Johnson, it stars Lana Condor as Lara Jean Covey, a high schooler whose secret love letters are mysteriously sent to her crushes. Noah Centineo plays Peter Kavinsky, one of the recipients who proposes a fake relationship to make his ex-girlfriend jealous. The plan leads to unexpected feelings and delightful moments. The first in a trilogy of movies adapted from Jenny Han’s novel of the same name, ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ explores themes of young love, identity, and sisterhood. The movie is celebrated for its sincere portrayal of adolescent romance, refreshing humor, and representation. Moreover, the chemistry between Condor and Centineo uplifts the story’s engaging and heartfelt scenarios. You may watch this movie here.

3. Always Be My Maybe (2019)

Nahnatchka Khan directed ‘Always Be My Maybe’, the romanticized tale of Sasha Tran (Ali Wong), a successful celebrity chef, and Marcus Kim (Randall Park), an aspiring musician. Sasha and Marcus were childhood friends who got back together after 15 years. The two try to cope with turbulent situations brought about by their vastly contrasting lifestyles, but the attraction and unwritten emotions they still have for each other hold strong. To the delight of viewers, there are humorous cameos in the film, such as Keanu Reeves doing an over-the-top version of himself. The script, written by Wong and Park themselves, together with Michael Golamco, adds witty banter and dreamlike dramatic moments to the story. From rekindling past flames and lampooning celebrity existences to the ideas of self-improvement and cultural heritage, ‘Always Be My Maybe’ provides several life lessons for both the main couple and audiences. You can watch ‘Always Be My Maybe’ here.

2. Past Lives (2023)

Celine Song’s stunning and poignant drama ‘Past Life’ is about two individuals, Na and Hae. With them knowing each other since childhood, they were meant to be together forever, or at least that’s what they thought. But years go by, and they both find themselves in other parts of the world, crossing paths only once in between, and Na goes on to get married. Years go by some more, and they cross paths again, but their past now feels like another past life. With the release of old emotions suppressed by the tight hold of a new life, we have an emotional tale of how moving on is not synonymous with stopping loving. Starring Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro, ‘Past Lives’ is available to stream right here.

1. A Star is Born (2018)

Starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, ‘A Star is Born’ is a musical romance that explores the romance between forty-three-year-old popular country singer, Jackson “Jack” Maine, and 31-year-old Ally Campana, a talented singer who sings at local clubs. While Jack assists Ally in rising to stardom and getting the kind of treatment she merits for her enchanting voice, he himself descends into the depths of alcoholism, one that comes to cause numerous problems, even between the two. Whether and how they work them out is what the film explores. Directed by Cooper himself, ‘A Star is Born’ is a lovely and poignant remake of the 1937 original, which features Janet Gaynor and Fredric March. Watch here. Read More: Best Wedding and Marriage Movies on Netflix

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