14 Romantic(ish) Movies I Don’t Hate

Romantic movies for people who dislike romantic movies.

I have a little secret to share: romantic movies just don’t do it for me. While some people are swept away by the meet-cutes and grand gestures , I often find myself rolling my eyes and battling boredom. It's surprising, especially considering my childhood was filled with the delightful films of Nora Ephron—classics like When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, and You've Got Mail. Those flicks may hold a special place in my heart, but overall, romantic movies feel overly idealistic to me, almost like stepping into a fairy tale. If you’ve ever dipped your toes into the dating scene and encountered your fair share of frogs and freaks, then you can probably relate to my perspective. The realities of love can be far messier—and way more entertaining—than what you see onscreen!

I often find myself pondering: just how many unique ways can we tell the story of two heterosexuals falling in love before it grows tiresome and clichéd? If this whole rant is resonating with you but like me you still want to embrace the spirit of love this season, I’ve curated a list of captivating films within the romance genre that will keep you intrigued without the cringe factor. These stories share a common thread: love is beautiful and chaotic. It’s about navigating the messiness that comes with it, complete with heartfelt apologies and genuine growth.

These films give women more agency and explore the complexities of relationships, illustrating that some loves are seasonal while others are meant to last for a reason. You'll also find some truly admirable men in the mix—those genuinely nice guys who not only finish first but also remain in the spotlight. So, if you're ready to experience romance in a refreshingly honest way, dive into this collection that celebrates love's trials and triumphs! I can't guarantee that they will all have a happy ending, but they are enjoyable.

1. Amélie (2001) dir. Jean-Pierre Jeune

I love the film Amélie—it's hands down my all-time favorite romance! To me, this film is perfect. It's quirky, fun, and visually entertaining. The story follows the shy Amélie, who has this amazing gift for helping people. She spends her days secretly matchmaking and being a guardian angel to everyone she encounters. Then she meets a charming stranger who inspires her to break out of her shell and seek love. What follows is this enchanting scavenger hunt she sets up to woo this stranger to her. It shows how the journey of finding love can be just as important and exciting as the love itself!

Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Prime

2. The Apartment (1960) dir. Billy Wilder

Billy Wilder is definitely one of my favorite directors! He made so many great films, from Double Indemnity (1944) to Sunset Boulevard (1950) and, of course, Some Like It Hot (1959) with the fabulous Marilyn Monroe. It feels like he just can’t make a bad movie! Wilder defined the golden age of Hollywood, and if I see his name on a film, you can bet I’m going to watch it. One of his standout films, The Apartment, is such a unique story. It follows an insurance worker named C.C. Baxter (played by Jack Lemmon) who lets his boss use his apartment for affairs, all in hopes of getting a promotion. And there’s this sweet subplot about his crush on the elevator girl, Fran (played by Shirley MacLaine). It might seem like a lighthearted comedy, but it also dives into some deeper topics, including suicide. The film packs a punch, and that ending? Total mic drop moment! It’s just incredible.

Stream on: Hoopla, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, FuboTV / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Prime

3. His Girl Friday (1940) dir. Howard Hawks

Howard Hawks is a true legend from Hollywood's golden age! One of his fantastic romantic comedies follows Walter Burns, a clever newspaper publisher who is determined to win back his star reporter, who just so happens to be his ex-wife. She’s thinking about leaving her job to settle down with a new guy, but Walter knows she can't resist a great scoop! He’s got some tricks up his sleeve to make sure she never leaves. This film is packed with witty dialogue and physical comedy that will keep you chuckling from start to finish!

Stream on: Prime Video, Hoopla, Kanopy, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, FuboTV & Vudu

4. Past Lives (2023) dir. Celine Song

I was initially hesitant to watch this movie when it first came out, but after hearing all the rave reviews, I decided to give it a shot—and I’m so glad I did! The story follows two childhood friends who reconnect in New York, after years of not being in each other's lives. Even though their lives took them in different directions, the feelings from their past lingered beautifully. This movie hit home for me because several years ago, I reconnected with my childhood crush in New York, and we had such a lovely evening together. It made me think about that moment and all the “what could have been” scenarios. "Past Lives" doesn’t tie everything up neatly or give you all the answers, but it does a fantastic job of showing how messy life and love can be.

Stream on: Prime Video & FuboTV

5. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) dir. Céline Sciamma

This one's for the girls! It's a sweet sapphic romance set at the end of the 18th Century on a beautiful, isolated island in Brittany. The story follows a woman who needs a wedding portrait painted for her daughter, who is about to marry a nobleman from Milan. The catch? Her daughter isn’t interested in having her portrait done, so the painter has to secretly observe her in her daily life to capture her essence. "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" beautifully explores the love that blossoms between the painter and her subject. It’s filled with passion while also being soft and delicate. The entire movie feels like you’re walking through an art gallery, with visuals that are simply breathtaking. Honestly, it’s one of the best films to come out of 2019!

Stream on: Hulu & Kanopy / Rent on: Apple TV

6. In The Mood for Love (2000) dir. Wong Kar-Wai

In The Mood For Love is such a beautiful film. It follows two neighbors in 1962 Hong Kong who form a bond after both suspect their spouses may be having an affair—it feels like a slow-burning wax candle, filled with warmth and rich colors. The way Wong Kar-Wai captures this secret, forbidden love is just so special! He creates these amazing shots that make the film feel sensual without being over the top. We’re sharing in this hidden romance that seems to escape everyone else, even though we know it can’t last. Honestly, it’s one of the loveliest love stories I’ve ever seen! And the costumes? Absolutely stunning! I spent hours joyfully browsing Google Images and Pinterest, trying to uncover the inspiration behind those gorgeous outfits. I may have to dedicate a whole other post to it alone. It deserves some commotion!

Stream on: Criterion Channel & MAX / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

7. Moonstruck (1987) dir. Norman Jewison

Cher in a movie? Count me in—no need to even share the plot! Moonstruck is a cherished favorite at my house. While Cher shines as a phenomenal musician, some forget that she is an incredible actress. This beautiful love story revolves around Loretta, a 37-year-old widow who thinks she’s just had the worst luck in love. She ends up accepting a marriage proposal from a rather dull man she doesn't truly care for. But everything changes when she meets his estranged brother, played by baby-faced Nicolas Cage. He's everything her fiancé isn’t—full of emotion and passion! Any woman in her late 30s can relate to Loretta’s journey. Their relationship isn’t perfect, but there’s something so genuine about how their romance unfolds that it feels refreshing rather than cringe-worthy.

Stream on: Prime Video, Criterion Channel, Pluto TV, Tubi TV, & Hoopla

8. Stardust (2007) dir. Matthew Vaugh

I have to admit, I didn’t think Stardust would be my kind of movie at first, but I couldn’t resist the amazing cast! Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, and even a young Henry Cavill—what a lineup! Claire Danes really shines as the fallen star who wants to get back home while dealing with some quirky witches who want to steal her heart for beauty and immortality. Plus, there’s a young man on a quest to retrieve this star as proof of his love for his sweetheart. Stardust is such a delightful fairytale filled with humor and heart! While everyone did a fantastic job, I must say Robert De Niro stole the show as the fabulous, closeted sky pirate captain who loves to wear women’s clothing. Seeing is believing!

Stream on: Pluto TV & Peacock / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

9. Queen & Slim (2019) dir. Melina Matsoukas

Queen & Slim is a fresh take on the classic Bonnie & Clyde story! Just picture this: you go out for a first date and suddenly find yourselves on the run from the police after your date has to defend themselves and kills an officer in self-defense. Talk about an unexpected twist! As the news about what happened spreads far and wide, they end up becoming symbols of hope and resilience for a community that has faced its share of challenges with law enforcement. Along their journey, they meet some people who shelter them. Both Queen and Slim develop a deep bond that truly redefines what it means to be 'ride or die' for each other.

Stream on: Netflix & FuboTV / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

10. What’s Up, Doc? (1972) dir. Peter Bogdanovich

If you’re in the mood for a fun, quirky comedy, “What’s Up, Doc?” is a perfect choice! Barbara Streisand shines as Judy, a charmingly chaotic character who seems to bring a whirlwind of excitement wherever she goes. She crosses paths with Howard, who’s on a trip with his rather uptight wife, Eunice, leading to an unexpected adventure sparked by a mix-up of four identical plaid overnight bags. Streisand, who plays Judy, has the ability to turn even the worst situations into something entertaining, which makes her so lovable. Honestly, her face card never declines during the whole movie. If you appreciate a good screwball comedy with dorky characters, this film is definitely for you!

Stream on: Tubi TV / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

11. Maurice (1987) dir. James Ivory

Maurice is a refreshing break from heterosexual romance. Our young man meets Clive at Cambridge College, where they quickly develop deep feelings for each other. Their passionate affair takes a turn when Clive decides to marry a woman, leaving Maurice to navigate his identity in a strict Edwardian society. I watched this during Pride month, and what struck me was how beautifully it captures Maurice's love and heartbreak. His struggle to be seen and understood is so relatable. While Clive seems able to hide that part of himself, Maurice discovers something within him that he just can’t ignore. If you loved Portrait of a Lady on Fire, this one will speak to you too!

Stream on: Criterion Channel, Tubi TV & Kanopy / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

12. Now, Voyager (1942) dir. Irving Rapper

Another actress whose work I absolutely adore is Bette Davis. As on-screen talents go, she’s one of the all-time greats! In this particular movie, she plays a neurotic “spinster” with a rather overbearing mother. After getting some help from a doctor, she starts to come out of her shell and decides to go on a cruise. One scene that sticks with me is when Davis returns home. She’s had this amazing glow-up and is just not the same woman who left! When her wide-brimmed hat gets lifted, and we see how much she’s transformed, it takes your breath away! While the story focuses on how Charlotte breaks free from her mother’s control, it also dives into her complicated romance with a married man. Even though she tries to move on, this love is one she just can’t forget. I’m usually not one for mushy stuff, but the ending had me in tears!

Stream on: Tubi TV / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

13. Moonlight (2016) dir. Barry Jenkins

Do you remember where you were when the Oscars had their mix-up and announced the wrong movie for Best Picture? If you’re thinking about the 2017 Oscars, then you probably know about the incredible film Moonlight. This movie deserves all the praise it gets! I didn’t even realize it was partly a queer love story until I watched it, and I was so glad I did. It follows a young man on his journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with his sexuality during some pivotal moments in his life. What I love most is that, even though he faces tough challenges, several kind people take an interest in him and help him lean into his true self. Moonlight opened my eyes to how other films haven’t always represented Black people authentically, and it’s made me appreciate storytelling in a whole new way. It's also a masterclass on how to light darker skin tones in film. Take notes!

Stream on: Kanopy / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video

14. Jack Goes Boating (2010) dir. Philip Seymour Hoffman

Jack Goes Boating is such a charming 90-minute film! It follows a single guy who goes on a blind date with the co-worker of his best friend's wife. As they start to connect and their feelings deepen, Jack is inspired to step out of his comfort zone. He takes cooking lessons, learns to swim, and goes after his dream job. What I love about this movie—besides the fact that it’s directed by and stars one of my favorite actors, Philip Seymour Hoffman—is that it beautifully showcases a guy striving to improve himself for someone he cares about. Unfortunately, while his relationship blossoms, his best friend's marriage starts to crumble.

Stream on: Pluto TV, Hoopla, & Kanopy / Rent on: Apple TV & Amazon Video