35 Best Romantic Movies of 2024 (So Far)

Romantic movies have always been special to moviegoers, and 2024 looks like an amazing year for heartwarming love stories. From grand tales to charming comedies, the best romantic movies of 2024 promise a variety of stories that will touch your heart and inspire you.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of romantic films or just looking for a captivating love story, this year’s selection has something for everyone. With both famous and new filmmakers, these movies offer a mix of classic Hollywood romances and unique, unconventional stories.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best romantic movies of 2024. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just want a good movie to watch with your special someone, our list will help you find the perfect film to fall in love with. Dive in and let your heart be swept away!

Challengers

Challengers is a romantic sports drama film directed by Luca Guadagnino and written by Justin Kuritzkes. It follows the love triangle between an injured tennis star-turned-coach (Zendaya), her low-circuit tennis player ex-boyfriend (Josh O’Connor), and her tennis champion husband (Mike Faist) across 13 years of their relationship, culminating in the latter two’s match on the ATP Challenger Tour.

It received highly positive reviews from critics, in addition to four nominations at the forthcoming 82nd Golden Globe Awards (including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy).

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV

We Live In Time

It is one of the best romantic comedy movies in this year, directed by John Crowley from a screenplay by Nick Payne. It follows the relationship of a couple (Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh) over the course of a decade. The film uses non-linear storytelling.

The film captivates with its poignant exploration of love, loss, and memory, brought to life by the compelling performances of Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh. Their chemistry resonates deeply, carrying the emotional weight of the film and immersing the audience in its heartfelt journey.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Theatre

Hit Man

Produced and directed by Richard Linklater, who co-wrote the screenplay with Glen Powell. The film stars Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta, and Sanjay Rao. It follows an undercover New Orleans police contractor who poses as a reliable hitman as he tries to save a woman in need. The basic premise was based on the true story of a college professor who worked for the Houston police in the late 1980s and 1990s as a fake hitman, as described in a 2001 magazine article by Skip Hollandsworth.

Where to watch: Netflix

The Idea of You

It’s a rom-com movie directed by Michael Showalter from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jennifer Westfeldt, based on the novel of the same name by Robinne Lee. Solène (Anne Hathaway), a 40-year-old single mom, begins an unexpected romance with 24-year-old Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), the lead singer of August Moon, the hottest boy band on the planet.

The film strikes a balance between heartfelt moments and glitzy, modern romance, crafting a story that feels both grounded and fantastical. Hathaway’s portrayal brings emotional depth and authenticity, while her chemistry with Nicholas Galitzine sparks with playfulness and sincerity. The movie’s exploration of fleeting romance and self-discovery resonates deeply, and its polished narrative ensures an engaging experience.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

It Ends with Us

It Ends with Us delivers a glossy and earnest adaptation of its melodramatic source material, balancing emotional depth with moments of aspirational romance. Directed by Justin Baldoni from a screenplay by Christy Hall, based on the 2016 novel by Colleen Hoover. The film stars Blake Lively (who also serves as producer) alongside Baldoni, Brandon Sklenar, Jenny Slate, and Hasan Minhaj.

Blake Lively shines as Lily, capturing the character’s resilience and charm while adding a magnetic screen presence. Though the film’s exploration of complex themes like domestic abuse is at times undercut by its frothy tone and uneven dialogue, it remains compelling thanks to strong performances and a polished visual style.

Also, In August 2024, following the release of the film, director Justin Baldoni acknowledged the potential for a film adaptation of the sequel novel It Starts with Us. Are you excited?

Where to watch: Netflix

Lisa Frankenstein

A romantic comedy film with the horror genre ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ is absolutely worth watching. Directed by Zelda Williams, in her feature-length directorial debut, and written by Diablo Cody. The film stars Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse, Liza Soberano, Henry Eikenberry, Joe Chrest, and Carla Gugino.

The plot follows a misunderstood teenage girl, Lisa, who meets and develops a relationship with a reanimated Victorian-era corpse. Cody stated that Lisa Frankenstein is set in the same fictional universe as Jennifer’s Body (2009).

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Música

Coming-of-age romantic comedy film starring and directed by Rudy Mancuso in his feature film directorial debut. Mancuso also co-wrote the screenplay with Dan Lagana. It is based on a real life story partly inspired by Rudy’s own authentic experience. It also stars Camila Mendes and J.B. Smoove.

It follows a young man, plagued by the music in his head, has to come to terms with an uncertain future while balancing love, family and Brazilian culture in Newark, New Jersey.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Turtles All the Way Down

Based on the 2017 novel of the same name by John Green. The film is directed by Hannah Marks from a screenplay by Elizabeth Berger and Isaac Aptaker, and stars Isabela Merced, Cree, Felix Mallard, Maliq Johnson, Poorna Jagannathan, Judy Reyes ,and J. Smith-Cameron. The story centers on a 16-year-old with obsessive–compulsive disorder who pursues the disappearance of a billionaire.

Where to watch: Max

Upgraded

It is one of the best romantic comedy movies of 2024, directed by Carlson Young. Its a modern-day retelling of the classic fairytale “Cinderella” starring Camila Mendes, Archie Renaux, Thomas Kretschmann, Grégory Montel, Lena Olin and Marisa Tomei.

A young girl has a chance meeting with a rich young man in an airplane trip. She tries to impress him by lying that she is the boss of the company where she works. One thing leads to another and they start liking each other but she soon finds herself caught in the maze of her own lies.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Anora

Written, directed, and edited by Sean Baker. It follows the beleaguered marriage between Anora (Mikey Madison), a young sex worker, and Vanya Zakharov (Mark Eydelshteyn), the son of a Russian oligarch. The supporting cast includes Yura Borisov, Karren Karagulian, Vache Tovmasyan, and Aleksei Serebryakov.

The film explores the ambitions and struggles of America’s strivers. It has earned widespread acclaim for its raw energy and emotional depth, bolstered by Mikey Madison’s brassy, standout performance. The film’s unpredictable narrative, blending joyous moments with devastating twists, makes it both a wild ride and a thought-provoking commentary on societal structures.

Where to watch: Buy/Rent – Amazon Video, Apple TV

Five Blind Dates is an Australian romantic comedy film, written by Nathan Ramos-Park and Shuang Hu, who also stars alongside Yoson An, Tiffany Wong, Ilai Swindells, Tzi Ma, Renee Lim, and Rob Collins.

With her artisanal tea shop in Sydney unsuccessful, Lia returns to her hometown of Townsville for her younger sister’s wedding. At the engagement party, a fortune teller tells her she will meet the love of her life amongst her next five dates.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

This is Me… Now: A Love Story

It is a romantic musical drama film and visual accompaniment to Jennifer Lopez’s ninth studio album, This Is Me… Now (2024). Directed by Dave Meyers and written by Lopez and Matt Walton, based on the story Lopez, Meyers and Chris Shafer conceived, This Is Me… Now: A Love Story stars Lopez alongside an ensemble cast featuring Jane Fonda, Fat Joe, Kim Petras, Keke Palmer, Post Malone, Sofía Vergara, Jenifer Lewis, Jay Shetty, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Sadhguru, Derek Hough, Trevor Noah and Ben Affleck as the Biker.

This narrative-driven odyssey that coincides with the release of her same-named album tells the story of Jennifer Lopez’s journey to love through her own eyes.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Mother Of The Bride

Directed by Mark Waters and written by Robin Bernheim. It stars Brooke Shields, Miranda Cosgrove, Sean Teale, Chad Michael Murray, Rachael Harris, and Benjamin Bratt.

After a year abroad in London, Emma returns home and stuns her mother Lana with the news that she’s getting married in a month at a resort in Phuket, Thailand. Things get worse when Lana discovers that the husband-to-be RJ is the son of Will, the man who broke her heart years earlier.

Where to watch: Netflix

The Greatest Hits

Written, produced and directed by Ned Benson, and starring Lucy Boynton, Justin H. Min, David Corenswet, and Austin Crute. It follows Harriet (Boynton) who, mourning her deceased boyfriend, travels back in time when she listens to a particular song associated with the latter.

It brings an intriguing concept to the screen, weaving themes of love, loss, and music’s emotional resonance. While its soundtrack and occasional charm shine through, the film falters in its shallow character development and reliance on sentimentality. The time-travel romance feels more like a series of familiar beats than a fresh melody, with its execution failing to elevate the premise.

Where to watch: Hulu

Fly Me To The Moon

Historical fiction romantic comedy drama film directed by Greg Berlanti and written by Rose Gilroy, based on a story by Keenan Flynn and Bill Kirstein. The film stars Scarlett Johansson as Kelly Jones, a marketing specialist, and Channing Tatum as Cole Davis, a NASA launch director. Set against the backdrop of the Apollo 11 mission, the story follows Jones and Davis as she is tasked with creating a fake moon landing in case his actual mission fails.

Fly Me to the Moon received mixed reviews, with praise for the lead performances but criticism for its implausible plot and inconsistent tone. Its blend of romance and historical drama was also considered uneven by some critics.

Where to watch: Apple TV+

Love Lies Bleeding

Set in 1989, the film’s plot follows the lesbian relationship between a reclusive gym manager, who is part of a crime family, and an ambitious bodybuilder who gets wrapped up in organized crime. The film directed by Rose Glass from a screenplay she co-wrote with Weronika Tofilska, and starring Kristen Stewart, Katy O’Brian, Jena Malone, Anna Baryshnikov, Dave Franco, and Ed Harris.

Love Lies Bleeding is a gripping blend of lust, violence, and dark humor, showcasing Rose Glass’ exceptional storytelling prowess. This pulpy noir captivates with its stylized intensity, drawing inspiration from genre legends while forging its own path. Powered by stellar performances and a narrative that masterfully balances homage and originality, the film dives into the depths of human desires and consequences.

Where to watch: Max

The Fall Guy

Directed by David Leitch and written by Drew Pearce, loosely based on the 1980s TV series. The plot follows a stuntman (Ryan Gosling) working on his ex-girlfriend’s (Emily Blunt) directorial debut action film, only to find himself involved in a conspiracy surrounding the film’s lead actor (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The cast also features Hannah Waddingham, Teresa Palmer, Stephanie Hsu, and Winston Duke.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, but underperformed at the box office. But trust me it is worth to watch it.

Where to watch: Peacock, Apple TV

My Old Ass

My Old Ass is a delightful romantic film that blends humor, sci-fi, and emotional depth in a unique and engaging way. Directed by Megan Park in her film debut, starring Percy Hynes White, Maddie Ziegler, Kerrice Brooks, and Aubrey Plaza.

It follows the story of Stella and her journey to revisit her past with the wisdom of her future, a concept brought to life through the impeccable chemistry between Stella and Aubrey Plaza. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Muskoka, the film offers a nostalgic yet fresh take on love, growth, and regret, celebrating both the recklessness of youth and the wisdom of experience. With its witty dialogue, heartfelt performances, and a poignant message about life’s fleeting moments, My Old Ass is one of the most charming and thought-provoking romantic films of 2024.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

A Family Affair

Directed by Richard LaGravenese and written by Carrie Solomon. The film stars Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, Joey King, and Kathy Bates. The film revolves around a widowed writer who begins a relationship with a young actor for whom her daughter works.

The film struggles to fully realize its potential despite the star power of Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman. While the two lead performances bring a semblance of chemistry, the film falters with an uneven tone and cliched storyline. The script, bouncing awkwardly between comedy and drama, fails to deliver consistent emotional depth.

While Kidman and Efron have a likable presence, the lack of authenticity and the film’s reliance on familiar rom-com tropes leave it feeling predictable and forgettable. Despite mixed reviews, the film debuted as the #1 Netflix original on the weekend of its release, according to the rankings from Netflix’s domestic daily chart published on July 1, 2024. The film garnered 26.8 million views since its launch on June 28, 2024.

Where to watch: Netflix

Irish Wish

Fantasy romantic comedy film directed by Janeen Damian and written by Kirsten Hansen. The film stars Lindsay Lohan and marked her second consecutive project with Netflix, Damian and Damian’s husband Michael Damian, who served as a producer on the film alongside Brad Krevoy. Ed Speleers, Alexander Vlahos, Ayesha Curry, Elizabeth Tan, and Jane Seymour also appear in supporting roles.

The plot follows Maddie Kelly (Lohan), a book editor whose dream man is days away from marrying her best friend in Ireland when a spontaneous wish made on an ancient stone magically alters her fate and turns her into the bride.

Where to watch: Netflix

Hot Frosty

Christmas romantic comedy film directed by Jerry Ciccoritti, written by Russell Hainline, and starring Lacey Chabert, Dustin Milligan, Katy Mixon Greer, Lauren Holly, Chrishell Stause, Joe Lo Truglio, and Craig Robinson.

Widow Kathy magically brings a snowman to life. His innocence helps her heal and find love again. They bond before the holidays, but he’s doomed to melt.

It’s a knowingly goofy with its steamy twist on the magic of Christmas, Hot Frosty is an affable rom-com that ought to thaw the hearts of even the most skeptical of viewers.

Where to watch: Netflix

The Beast

I can proudly say that it is the best science fiction romantic drama film directed and written by Bertrand Bonello from a story he co-wrote with Guillaume Bréaud and Benjamin Charbit. A co-production between France and Canada, the film is loosely based on Henry James’s 1903 novella The Beast in the Jungle.

It stars Léa Seydoux and George MacKay, with Guslagie Malanda, Dasha Nekrasova, Martin Scali, Elina Löwensohn, Marta Hoskins, Julia Faure, Kester Lovelace, Félicien Pinot and Laurent Lacotte in supporting roles.

In the near future where emotions have become a threat, Gabrielle finally decides to purify her DNA in a machine that will immerse her in her previous lives and rid her of any strong feelings. She then meets Louis and feels a powerful connection, as if she has known him forever. A melodrama crossed by the genre, which unfolds over three distinct periods, 1910, 2014 and 2044.

Where to watch: Criterion Channel, Amazon and Apple TV (But/Rent)

Queer

Based on the 1985 novella by William S. Burroughs, the film directed by Luca Guadagnino from a screenplay by Justin Kuritzkes. Set in 1950s Mexico City, the film follows an outcast American expatriate (Daniel Craig) who becomes infatuated with a younger man (Drew Starkey). Jason Schwartzman, Henry Zaga, Omar Apollo, and Lesley Manville also star.

It is a unique blend of bold storytelling, visually striking scenes, and Daniel Craig’s most praised performance. The film immerses audiences in a deeply emotional and unpredictable journey, exploring love, identity, and the complexities of human connections. Craig’s portrayal of Burroughs’ alter ego brings a sense of raw authenticity to the screen, making the romantic elements not just compelling but profoundly resonant.

Where to watch: Theatre

The Merry Gentlemen

Christmas romantic comedy film directed by Peter Sullivan, and starring Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray. The film follows a Broadway dancer who stages an all-male, Christmas-themed revue in hopes of saving her parents’ small-town performing venue.

Where to watch: Netflix

Sweethearts

Sweethearts is one of the best romantic movies of 2024 on Max, directed and co-written by Jordan Weiss in her feature directorial debut. It stars Kiernan Shipka, Nico Hiraga, Caleb Hearon, Tramell Tillman, Charlie Hall, and Ava DeMary.

Two college freshmen pull a “Turkey Dump” and break up with their high school sweethearts over “Drunksgiving” – the one chaotic night before Thanksgiving in their hometown that puts their codependent friendship to the test.

Where to watch: Max

Our Little Secret

Our Little Secret follows Avery (Lohan), who is spending her first Christmas with her boyfriend’s family but discovers her ex is also part of the holiday festivities and decides to hide their romantic history.

Directed by Stephen Herek and written by Hailey DeDominicis. It stars Lindsay Lohan, alongside an ensemble cast featuring Ian Harding, Tim Meadows, Jon Rudnitsky, Judy Reyes, Henry Czerny, Chris Parnell, and Kristin Chenoweth. It delivers a cozy holiday vibe, but it doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential. Lohan and Harding have solid chemistry, yet the film’s lack of a compelling backstory and predictable secrets make it feel more like a generic Christmas comedy than a memorable one.

Where to watch: Netflix

Sometimes I Think About Dying

Directed by Rachel Lambert, and written by Kevin Armento, Stefanie Abel Horowitz, and Katy Wright-Mead. It is based on the 2014 play Killers by Armento, and a short film that was released in 2019, directed and co-written by Horowitz. The film stars Daisy Ridley, Dave Merheje, Parvesh Cheena, Marcia DeBonis, Meg Stalter, Brittany O’Grady, and Bree Elrod.

Fran, who likes to think about dying, makes the new guy at work laugh, which leads to dating and more. Now the only thing standing in their way is Fran herself.

Where to watch: MUBI

Meet Me Next Christmas

Christmas romantic comedy film directed by Rusty Cundieff and written by Molly Haldeman and Camilla Rubis. It stars Christina Milian, Devale Ellis, Kofi Siriboe, Tymika Tafari, Mitch Grassi, Scott Hoying, Kirstin Maldonado, Kevin Olusola, Matt Sallee, and Kalen Allen.

In pursuit of a fairytale romance with the man of her dreams, Layla must race through New York City to get her hands on the hottest ticket in town: the sold out Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert.

Where to watch: Netflix

Am I OK?

The film is directed by Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne and written by Lauren Pomerantz. The film’s screenplay is loosely based on screenwriter Pomerantz’ personal life and her friendship with Jessica Elbaum, who also serves as producer. It stars Dakota Johnson, Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Kiersey Clemons, Molly Gordon, Whitmer Thomas, Odessa A’zion, Sean Hayes, and Notaro.

Lucy and Jane have been best friends for most of their lives and think they know everything there is to know about each other. But when Jane announces she’s moving to London, Lucy reveals a long-held secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy, their friendship is thrown into chaos.

Where to watch: Max

Lonely Planet

Written and directed by Susannah Grant. It stars Laura Dern, Liam Hemsworth, Diana Silvers, Younès Boucif, Adriano Giannini, Rachida Brakni.

During a retreat for authors in picturesque Morocco a popular American writer has plans to continue writing her latest book. Her plan however gets disrupted when she gets attracted to an American young man who has accompanied his writer girlfriend to the retreat.

Where to watch: Netflix

Mai

Mai Vietnamese romantic drama film directed by Tran Thanh. It stars Phương Anh Đào, Tuấn Trần, Trấn Thành, Ngọc Giàu, Khả Như, Uyển Ân, Anh Đức, Việt Anh, and Hồng Đào It is becoming the highest-grossing film in Vietnamese box office history.

When a struggling single mother falls for a wealthy heartbreaker, their risky romance could just turn their lives around — or tear their worlds apart.

Where to watch: Netflix

Find Me Falling

Romantic comedy film written and directed by Stelana Kliris. It stars Harry Connick Jr. as an American rock star who takes a break from his career to live in a remote house near a cliff in Cyprus, which he discovers is a suicide hotspot. The cast also includes Agni Scott, Ali Fumiko Whitney, and Clarence Smith.

Where to watch: Netflix

Beautiful Wedding

It is based on Jamie McGuire’s 2013 novel A Beautiful Wedding, and serves as the sequel to Beautiful Disaster (2023). The film is written and directed by Roger Kumble. It stars Dylan Sprouse, Virginia Gardner, Austin North, Libe Barer, Steven Bauer, Alex Aiono, Rob Estes, and Kyle Richards.

It follows Abby and Travis, who after a crazy night in Las Vegas, discover they are married. They head to Mexico for a honeymoon with friends and family.

Where to watch: Hulu

Art of Love

Art of Love (Turkish: Romantik Hırsız) is a Turkish romance film directed by Recai Karagöz, and written by Pelin Karamehmetoğlu. The film stars Birkan Sokullu, Esra Bilgiç and Fırat Tanış.

After learning that the art thief she has been chasing is her ex-lover, an officer working for Interpol concocts a plan to catch him red-handed.

Where to watch: Netflix

Skywalkers: A Love Story

It’s a romantic documentary film directed by Jeff Zimbalist and co-directed by Maria Bukhonina, featuring Russian couple Angela Nikolau and Vanya Beerkus.

A daring couple travels worldwide to climb the 118-story megatall skyscraper, Merdeka 118, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attempting a bold acrobatic stunt on the spire to salvage both their career and relationship.

Where to watch: Netflix