Summary
Romance films have always held a special place in cinema (and in viewers' hearts), touching onthe themes of love, whether dark or light romance. They portray the human experiences of heartbreak and relationships around the world. Some years stand out as staples in the industry, delivering a selection of iconic films that have left a lasting impact on moviegoers.
Whether set in grand historical contexts or intimate, everyday settings, these films have helped shape a society of love. From timeless, classic love stories to heartfelt comedies, here’s a ranking of the best years for romance movies in history.
Where Love Took Center Stage
Standout Movies
1991 is filled with classic romance films that generations will honor for years to come.My Girl,the touching coming-of-age story about love, loss and the complexities of growing up, is a fan favorite for plenty of reasons. Spike Lee’s exploration of interracial relationships inJungle Feverblends real life commentary with romance, creating a drama that was loved around the world.
Father of the Brideoffers a humorous take on fatherhood and the emotions that come with letting go of a daughter on her wedding day, turning it into a cherished family favorite. These films, along withMississippi Masala,captivated audiences with depictions of love and showcased how love can transcend societal boundaries and prejudices.
Classic, Iconic Romance Films
1987 was a standout year for romance films, offering some of the most notable films in history.Dirty Dancing,still famous almost thirty years later, brought together dance, music, and an unforgettable love story between characters, creating a cultural phenomenon.Fatal Attractionadded a fine love of love and obsession to the mix of movies released in history. The consequences of infidelity were serious andFatal Attractionis still a favorite of viewers today. The films of 1987 featured self-worth, forbidden love, and groundbreaking depictions of love and family.
Dawn Of The New Millennium
The year 2000 marked a new millennium, and it was filled with films that explored love in personal, relatable ways.Love and Basketballquickly became a fan favorite, blending sports with romance for a powerful narrative of ambition, love, and sacrifice.What Women Want,starring Mel Gibson, brought humor and charm. Gibson’s character suddenly gained the ability to hear women’s thoughts, leading to insight that challenged the understanding of women and relationships.
Chocolat,starring Juliette Binoche, showed how love and a dash of magic could transform an entire village.Malena,set in post-World War 2 Italy, explored youthful infatuation and the power of loss. The films of the era were about personal journeys, resilience, and the complexities of modern relationships. It offered some ofthe sweetest romance stories,making this year pivotalin the history of romance films.
Romance Staples
1997 was arguably one of the most iconic years for romance films, producing the genre’s most loved classics years later. The beloved romance filmTitanicwas set against the backdrop of the true story of the ship that sank, immediately becoming an international phenomenon. The relationship between Jack and Rose (portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet) became a symbol of tragic love stories.
Selenatells the story of the late artist’s rise to fame, blending romance with her journey in the music world.My Best Friend’s WeddingandAs Good As It Getspresent humor and drama in romance. With films like these dominating the industry, 1997 stood out as a pivotal year for the genre. These films are not just about traditional love. They explore the complexities, sacrifices, and personal growth that come along with it. 1997 pushed boundaries and explored new spaces in romance, resonating with diverse and evolving audiences.
Love Stories That Transcend Time
The year 2010 was a time that all moviegoers remember. Bringing contemporary and nostalgic romance, the industry produced films that explored the complexities of love in the modern world. Among the top romance films of 2010,Dear Johnstands as a key film of the year. It follows the love story between John (Channing Tatum), a soldier on leave, and a college student, Savannah (Amanda Seyfried). This fan-favorite tugs at heartstrings and depicts the sacrifices made for love.
The world-renowned film,Eat, Pray, Love,starring Julia Roberts, took viewers on a journey of self-discovery and love, highlighting the transformative power of travel and personal growth.Love and Other Drugsexplored the complexities of relationships, illness, and emotionally charged companionship. 2010 brought heartfelt passion, and proof that love will prevail in all forms.
From Vampires To Weddings: The Magic Of Love
2008 was filled with intense love stories and feel-good romantic comedies.Twilightignited the vampire obsession, a staplein the 2000s era of dark fantasy films. The forbidden love between Bella and Edward (let’s not forget about the triangle including Jacob) sparked love among teenage girls around the globe. The film grossed $35.7 million on the opening day, paving the way for love stories in the industry.
27 DressesandMade of Honoroffered lighthearted takes on struggles, whileMarley and Memade way for love and family. 2008 offered a diverse range of romance films exploring commitment and challenges that come with relationships, all while providing the audience with experiences that felt like their own.
Connection Is Key
Action-packed romance came for a win. 2005 stands as a notable year for its love stories that pack a punch (literally).Mr. and Mrs. Smithfeatures Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as a married couple who are secretly spies working against each other. Their chaotic love story has had remakes and predecessors almost twenty years later.
Yours, Mine & Ourscombined romance and family dynamics, whileThe Perfect Manwas the perfect strike ofbalance of rom-com that a teenager could wish for.Rentis a film adaptation of the Broadway musical that explored love and loss, and captured the raw emotions of expression and the fight for acceptance in love. 2005 gave viewers quirky comedies and one of the best films in history, making it a standout year for the genre of romance films.
Shades Of Romance
Memorable romance films swept the screens in 2004. Originating the timeless classic,The Notebook,2004 stands notable for bringing twists to romance. The Notebook became an instant classic in homes across the world, telling the love story of Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams). The film’s emotional depth resonated with audiences, and twenty years later, it is as beloved as the day it was released.
AlongsideThe Notebook,2004 brought romance films that added to the genre with their inventive storytelling on screen, such as50 First Datesstarring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore and13 Going on 30starring Jennifer Garner.13 Going on 30focuses on the beauty of personal growth, while the premise of50 First Datesshows how love can transcend challenges, patience, and human memory itself.
