Are you sick and tired of waiting for that heartfelt confession in the rain? Here are five romance movies to get you in the mood for love.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
“Portrait of a Lady on Fire” is a masterpiece that captures the essence of love in such a profound manner. It follows the story of Marianne (Noémie Merlant), a painter tasked with completing a wedding portrait of a reluctant bride named Héloïse (Adèle Haenel). Over time, Marianne and Héloïse fall in love and form a passionate connection. Fate; however, is not on their side, as Héloïse is promised to another. The beauty of the film’s cinematography is sure to linger in the viewer’s mind well after the credits roll. The intimacy between the pair is also quite a force. Director Céline Sciamma delivers an absolutely devastating triumph that challenges the traditional depiction of the relationship between an artist and their muse. This film is a guaranteed tear-jerker though, so I absolutely recommend keeping some tissues on hand.
Phantom Thread (2018)
Keeping in theme with romances between an artist and their muse, Phantom Thread is an absolute must-see. Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) is a famed dress designer who has meticulously constructed a perfect world for himself that he means to maintain by all means necessary. His former bachelor lifestyle; however, is permanently shattered when he becomes romantically involved with a young woman named Alma (Vicky Krieps). Reynolds has grown accustomed to using women as muses and discarding them once they become a nuisance. He finally meets his match with Alma, a strong-willed woman who refuses to let Reynolds destroy what they have. Phantom Thread provides a nuanced look into what sacrifices are necessary for a relationship to properly function. While the romance depicted is certainly unconventional, the intensity between Reynolds and Alma is something you can’t quite take your eyes off of. Furthermore, Phantom Thread features some of the most mesmerizing shots that I have ever seen in a film. In terms of acting, Day-Lewis and Krieps both deliver absolutely must-see performances.
Carol (2015)
As the holiday season approaches, the inclusion of Carol in this list feels especially appropriate. Set in the 1950s, this film follows Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara), an aspiring photographer who struggles to find her place in the world. She works as a clerk at a Manhattan department store to make ends meet. It is there that she stumbles upon an alluring housewife named Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett) who is purchasing a toy for her daughter. As soon as their gaze connects, sparks fly and what follows is a passionate love affair that brings the shrouded facets of the pair’s identities to light. Danger lurks in the shadows for the two women; though, and it becomes clear that they are existing on borrowed time. Yet what Carol so masterfully portrays is the sheer force of love and its insurmountable nature. The potent chemistry between Mara and Blanchett in their charged glances and intimate embraces is a sight to behold. Director Todd Hayes carefully weaves a poignant love story told through the lens of a breathtaking winter atmosphere that you surely won’t forget.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
With its cozy cable knit sweaters and mesmerizing auburn foliage, When Harry Met Sally is an autumnal classic. The film is centered around the age-old inquiry: can men and women ever “just” be friends? Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) set out to prove the masses wrong and ignore their primal urges. Throughout the course of their friendship, the pair become intimately acquainted with each other’s quirks and nuances. In an ironic twist of events, it becomes abundantly clear towards the end that the two can’t quite live without each other. When Harry Met Sally is the perfect “rom-com,” containing hilarious scenes as well as unforgettable, heartfelt exchanges. The intimacy between Harry and Sally is highly endearing and wonderful to watch. To achieve the perfect fall atmosphere, bake your favorite cookies, light a scented candle, and get under a comfortable blanket before putting this movie on. I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.
Pride & Prejudice (2005)
No list of romance films would be complete without the inclusion of Pride & Prejudice. Jane Austen’s classic is responsible for many of the tropes found in modern love stories. Pride & Prejudice follows Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley), a young, strong-willed woman who lives with her parents and four lively sisters. Despite her family’s financial situation, Elizabeth is resolute in her intention to marry for love, not money. At a ball, she becomes acquainted with Mr. Darcy, an affluent, aloof gentleman. The two have a highly turbulent relationship, with Darcy’s immense pride and Elizabeth’s spirited nature causing tension between the pair. Despite the barrier that their strong personalities and disparities in status pose, the collision between the pair is unstoppable. The chemistry and ardent intimacy between Elizabeth and Darcy is what makes this film such a beloved classic within the romance genre. The clever humor of Pride & Prejudice is also very endearing . Additionally, the glamor of the Regency period and the breathtaking English countryside provide absolutely unforgettable visuals.