Love comes in many forms: passionate letters exchanged across centuries, grand romantic gestures, and quiet moments that speak volumes. Whether you’re a fan of classic love stories that make you nostalgic or modern romances with a fresh twist, Netflix has it all. This article explores the best of both worlds—classic and modern romantic movies—to suit every taste. So, whether you’re craving vintage charm or contemporary sparks, get ready for a movie marathon filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few tears.
Table: Classic vs. Modern Romantic Movies on Netflix
Here’s a breakdown of timeless classics versus contemporary gems. Choose your flavor of romance!
| Movie Title | Category | Genre | Vibe | Runtime | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pride & Prejudice | Classic | Period Drama | Timeless, Elegant | 129 mins | 7.8 |
| Casablanca | Classic | Romantic Drama | Iconic, Heartbreaking | 102 mins | 8.5 |
| Roman Holiday | Classic | Romantic Comedy | Whimsical, Sweet | 118 mins | 8.0 |
| The Philadelphia Story | Classic | Romantic Comedy | Witty, Sophisticated | 112 mins | 7.9 |
| Gone with the Wind | Classic | Romantic Epic | Dramatic, Passionate | 221 mins | 8.2 |
| The Notebook | Classic | Romantic Drama | Tearjerker, Timeless Love | 123 mins | 7.8 |
| Sense and Sensibility | Classic | Period Drama | Poignant, Elegant | 136 mins | 7.7 |
| Breakfast at Tiffany’s | Classic | Romantic Comedy | Stylish, Charming | 114 mins | 7.6 |
| About Time | Modern | Sci-Fi Romance | Sweet, Time-Bending Love | 123 mins | 7.8 |
| Always Be My Maybe | Modern | Romantic Comedy | Hilarious, Feel-Good | 102 mins | 6.8 |
| To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before | Modern | Romantic Comedy | Sweet, Teenage Love | 99 mins | 7.1 |
| Love, Rosie | Modern | Romantic Drama | Heartwarming, Emotional | 102 mins | 7.2 |
| Marriage Story | Modern | Romantic Drama | Intense, Emotional Rollercoaster | 137 mins | 7.9 |
| The Holiday | Modern | Romantic Comedy | Festive, Feel-Good | 136 mins | 6.9 |
| Set It Up | Modern | Romantic Comedy | Fun, Modern Love | 105 mins | 6.5 |
| The Half of It | Modern | Coming-of-Age Romance | Thoughtful, Quirky Love | 104 mins | 6.9 |
| Holidate | Modern | Romantic Comedy | Edgy, Holiday Fun | 104 mins | 6.1 |
| Me Before You | Modern | Romantic Drama | Heartbreaking, Emotional | 106 mins | 7.4 |
| Midnight Sun | Modern | Romantic Drama | Tender, Emotional | 91 mins | 6.6 |
Classic Romantic Movies
1. Pride & Prejudice
IMDb Rating: 7.8
Stars: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Rosamund Pike
Director: Joe Wright
Step into the world of Regency-era England, where love and social class collide. This adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel brings the fiery Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) face-to-face with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen). With stunning cinematography and impeccable performances, this film captures the essence of timeless romance and witty banter. Joe Wright’s direction, paired with Dario Marianelli’s hauntingly beautiful score, makes this an unforgettable love story. A must-watch for fans of classic period dramas.
2. Casablanca
IMDb Rating: 8.5
Stars: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
Director: Michael Curtiz
One of the most iconic romantic dramas of all time, Casablanca tells the story of Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), a nightclub owner in Morocco, who unexpectedly reunites with his old flame, Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman). Set against the backdrop of World War II, this film beautifully explores love, sacrifice, and duty. Directed by Michael Curtiz, Casablanca is renowned for its timeless quotes (“Here’s looking at you, kid”) and unforgettable performances. Its bittersweet ending ensures it remains etched in cinematic history.
3. Roman Holiday
IMDb Rating: 8.0
Stars: Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, Eddie Albert
Director: William Wyler
Audrey Hepburn shines in her Oscar-winning role as Princess Ann, a sheltered royal who escapes her duties for a day of freedom in Rome. Gregory Peck plays Joe Bradley, a journalist who reluctantly becomes her guide. Directed by William Wyler, Roman Holiday is a charming mix of romance and adventure, showcasing the Eternal City in all its glory. The film’s delightful chemistry and heartfelt moments make it a timeless favorite.
4. The Philadelphia Story
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Stars: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, James Stewart
Director: George Cukor
This witty and sophisticated romantic comedy follows the love life of Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn), a wealthy socialite caught between her ex-husband (Cary Grant) and a charming reporter (James Stewart). Directed by George Cukor, The Philadelphia Story is a masterclass in dialogue, performances, and comedic timing. It’s a perfect blend of humor and romance, cementing its place as a classic.
5. Gone with the Wind
IMDb Rating: 8.2
Stars: Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable, Olivia de Havilland
Director: Victor Fleming
Set during the American Civil War, Gone with the Wind follows the fiery Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh) as she navigates love and loss, particularly with the dashing Rhett Butler (Clark Gable). Directed by Victor Fleming, this epic romance is as much a tale of resilience as it is of passion. The sweeping visuals, unforgettable characters, and grand scale make it a landmark in cinematic history.
Modern Romantic Movies
6. About Time
IMDb Rating: 7.8
Stars: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
Director: Richard Curtis
A heartwarming tale with a twist, About Time follows Tim (Domhnall Gleeson), who discovers he can time-travel and uses this ability to win over the love of his life, Mary (Rachel McAdams). Directed by Richard Curtis (Love Actually), this movie explores love, family, and the importance of cherishing every moment. With its heartfelt story and charming performances, it’s a modern-day romance that will leave you teary-eyed and inspired.
7. Always Be My Maybe
IMDb Rating: 6.8
Stars: Ali Wong, Randall Park, Keanu Reeves
Director: Nahnatchka Khan
Childhood sweethearts Sasha (Ali Wong) and Marcus (Randall Park) reconnect after years apart, only to realize their feelings for each other never really went away. Directed by Nahnatchka Khan, this feel-good romantic comedy is packed with hilarious moments, including a scene-stealing Keanu Reeves cameo. With its heartfelt narrative and modern twists, it’s perfect for fans of lighthearted love stories.
8. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
IMDb Rating: 7.1
Stars: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish
Director: Susan Johnson
Lara Jean Covey’s (Lana Condor) love life turns upside down when her secret love letters are mysteriously mailed to her past crushes. This Netflix original is a sweet and relatable teenage rom-com that captures the innocence of first love. Directed by Susan Johnson, it’s a delightful watch for fans of coming-of-age romance.
9. Love, Rosie
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Lily Collins, Sam Claflin
Director: Christian Ditter
Best friends Rosie (Lily Collins) and Alex (Sam Claflin) navigate years of missed opportunities and misunderstandings as they slowly realize they’re meant to be together. Directed by Christian Ditter, this heartfelt drama beautifully portrays the complexity of timing in relationships. It’s an emotional rollercoaster with plenty of charm.
10. Marriage Story
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Stars: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver
Director: Noah Baumbach
A raw and emotional look at a couple’s journey through divorce, Marriage Story is a modern romantic drama that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of love. Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver deliver powerhouse performances under Noah Baumbach’s masterful direction. It’s a film that will resonate deeply with anyone who’s experienced the highs and lows of relationships.
11. The Holiday
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Stars: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black
Director: Nancy Meyers
When two women, Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), swap homes during the holiday season, they discover love in unexpected places. Directed by Nancy Meyers, The Holiday is a delightful romantic comedy that combines festive cheer with heartwarming romance. With charming performances by Jude Law and Jack Black as their respective love interests, this film is perfect for anyone looking to feel cozy and inspired by love.
12. Set It Up
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Zoey Deutch, Glen Powell, Lucy Liu, Taye Diggs
Director: Claire Scanlon
Harried assistants Harper (Zoey Deutch) and Charlie (Glen Powell) team up to set up their demanding bosses in the hopes of easing their workloads. Along the way, they find themselves drawn to each other. Directed by Claire Scanlon, Set It Up is a witty and refreshing rom-com with a modern twist on love in the workplace.
13. The Half of It
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Stars: Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, Alexxis Lemire
Director: Alice Wu
This thoughtful coming-of-age romance follows Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis), a shy but brilliant student who helps a jock woo his crush, only to realize she has feelings for the same girl. Directed by Alice Wu, The Half of It is a touching exploration of love, friendship, and identity. Its unique narrative and heartfelt performances make it a standout.
14. Holidate
IMDb Rating: 6.1
Stars: Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey
Director: John Whitesell
Tired of being single during the holidays, Sloane (Emma Roberts) and Jackson (Luke Bracey) agree to be each other’s platonic “holidates.” Naturally, sparks fly as they spend the year together celebrating different holidays. Directed by John Whitesell, Holidate is a lighthearted and edgy romantic comedy perfect for fans of holiday-themed love stories with a cheeky twist.
15. Me Before You
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin
Director: Thea Sharrock
Louisa (Emilia Clarke), a quirky and optimistic caregiver, forms an unexpected bond with Will (Sam Claflin), a wealthy man left paralyzed after an accident. Directed by Thea Sharrock, Me Before You is an emotional love story about hope, sacrifice, and finding joy in the face of adversity. With heartfelt performances, this tearjerker will tug at your heartstrings.
16. Midnight Sun
IMDb Rating: 6.6
Stars: Bella Thorne, Patrick Schwarzenegger
Director: Scott Speer
Katie (Bella Thorne), a teenager with a rare disease that makes sunlight deadly, finds love with Charlie (Patrick Schwarzenegger) during her moonlit escapades. Directed by Scott Speer, Midnight Sun is a tender and poignant romance that explores the fragility of life and the power of love.
17. Casablanca
IMDb Rating: 8.5
Stars: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman
Director: Michael Curtiz
This timeless classic set in World War II Morocco tells the story of Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) and Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman), former lovers reunited under dramatic circumstances. Known for its iconic dialogue and bittersweet ending, Casablanca remains a cinematic treasure.
18. Always Be My Maybe
IMDb Rating: 6.8
Stars: Ali Wong, Randall Park, Keanu Reeves
Director: Nahnatchka Khan
Sasha (Ali Wong) and Marcus (Randall Park), childhood friends turned estranged adults, reconnect years later. This modern rom-com delivers plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and a surprise appearance by Keanu Reeves playing an exaggerated version of himself.
19. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
IMDb Rating: 7.1
Stars: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo
Director: Susan Johnson
Lara Jean’s secret love letters create chaos when they’re accidentally sent to her crushes. This high-school romance is sweet, funny, and incredibly relatable, making it a favorite among fans of teenage rom-coms.
20. Love, Rosie
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Lily Collins, Sam Claflin
Director: Christian Ditter
A story of best friends whose lives are continuously intertwined despite missed opportunities and miscommunication. This touching film is a rollercoaster of emotions with moments of joy, heartbreak, and hope.
21. Marriage Story
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Stars: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson
Director: Noah Baumbach
Marriage Story is an intense and emotional look at a couple’s disintegrating marriage. Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson deliver award-worthy performances in this poignant and beautifully crafted film.
22. The Holiday
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Stars: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet
Director: Nancy Meyers
Two women swap homes for the holidays, each finding love in their new settings. With a stellar cast and a heartwarming story, this movie is perfect for the festive season.
23. Sense and Sensibility
IMDb Rating: 7.7
Stars: Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman
Director: Ang Lee
Based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, Sense and Sensibility follows the Dashwood sisters, Elinor (Emma Thompson) and Marianne (Kate Winslet), as they navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations. Directed by Ang Lee, this elegant period drama masterfully balances wit, romance, and emotion. With standout performances by a stellar cast and a lush, picturesque backdrop, this film is a must-watch for fans of classic romantic tales.
24. The Incredible Jessica James
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Jessica Williams, Chris O’Dowd
Director: Jim Strouse
Jessica James (Jessica Williams) is a fiercely independent playwright recovering from a breakup. She strikes up an unexpected connection with Boone (Chris O’Dowd), who’s also navigating his own romantic woes. Directed by Jim Strouse, The Incredible Jessica James is a witty, empowering romantic comedy with a fresh take on love and self-discovery. It’s perfect for viewers who enjoy quirky and relatable stories.
25. Love, Rosie
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Lily Collins, Sam Claflin
Director: Christian Ditter
Best friends Rosie (Lily Collins) and Alex (Sam Claflin) share a deep bond, but life keeps getting in the way of their romantic connection. Directed by Christian Ditter, this heartfelt drama is a bittersweet exploration of timing, friendship, and love. Filled with charming performances and emotional moments, it’s a story that reminds us that love often finds its way, even if it takes a while.
26. Love Guaranteed
IMDb Rating: 5.5
Stars: Rachael Leigh Cook, Damon Wayans Jr.
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
When Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook), a struggling lawyer, takes on Nick’s (Damon Wayans Jr.) unusual case against a dating app that promises love, sparks fly in unexpected ways. Directed by Mark Steven Johnson, Love Guaranteed is a light, fun romantic comedy that explores the quirks of modern dating while delivering charming chemistry between its leads.
27. Destination Wedding
IMDb Rating: 6.0
Stars: Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder
Director: Victor Levin
Two cynical strangers, Frank (Keanu Reeves) and Lindsay (Winona Ryder), meet at a wedding and bond over their shared disdain for romance and social gatherings. Directed by Victor Levin, Destination Wedding is an unconventional rom-com that thrives on witty banter and the undeniable chemistry of its leads. If you enjoy sarcastic humor with a side of love, this one’s for you.
28. Perfect Match
IMDb Rating: 5.9
Stars: Terrence Jenkins, Cassie Ventura
Director: Bille Woodruff
Charlie (Terrence Jenkins), a self-proclaimed playboy who doesn’t believe in long-term relationships, has his worldview challenged when he meets Eva (Cassie Ventura). Directed by Bille Woodruff, Perfect Match is a tropical, fun-filled romantic comedy that explores the transformative power of love and the joy of finding the right person.
29. Sierra Burgess Is a Loser
IMDb Rating: 5.9
Stars: Shannon Purser, Noah Centineo, Kristine Froseth
Director: Ian Samuels
In this modern twist on Cyrano de Bergerac, Sierra Burgess (Shannon Purser) is an intelligent but unpopular high schooler who finds herself catfishing her crush, Jamey (Noah Centineo). Directed by Ian Samuels, the film blends humor, awkward teenage moments, and heartfelt themes of self-acceptance. It’s a quirky and relatable romantic story for the social media generation.
30. Blue Jay
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Stars: Mark Duplass, Sarah Paulson
Director: Alex Lehmann
This indie gem follows Jim (Mark Duplass) and Amanda (Sarah Paulson), former high school sweethearts who reconnect by chance after 20 years. As they reminisce about their shared past, they uncover unresolved feelings and old wounds. Directed by Alex Lehmann, Blue Jay is a poignant, black-and-white film that beautifully captures nostalgia, love, and regret. It’s a must-watch for fans of subtle, emotionally rich storytelling.
31. Love in the Villa
IMDb Rating: 5.4
Stars: Kat Graham, Tom Hopper
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
Julie (Kat Graham) plans a romantic trip to Verona, Italy, but finds her villa double-booked with the charming yet frustrating Charlie (Tom Hopper). Directed by Mark Steven Johnson, Love in the Villa is a playful rom-com set against the stunning Italian countryside. It’s perfect for those who love travel-inspired romances with plenty of banter and heartwarming moments.
The Modern Hits: Contemporary Love Stories
For those who love a fresh take on romance with relatable themes.
- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
High school drama, heartfelt moments, and an adorable lead couple make this the perfect modern rom-com for the young and the young at heart. - Always Be My Maybe
Hilarious misunderstandings and relatable characters come together in this feel-good movie. Bonus: Keanu Reeves as himself in one of the funniest cameos ever. - The Half of It
This coming-of-age romance is more about friendship and self-discovery than just love. A beautiful, thought-provoking film for those who enjoy unconventional love stories. - About Time
Time travel meets romance in this heartfelt film about cherishing every moment with the people you love. Get ready to cry happy tears. - Set It Up
A light, modern rom-com where two overworked assistants try to set up their bosses, only to realize they’ve found their own romance in the process.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for classic charm or modern-day love stories, Netflix has something for everyone. The classics bring nostalgia, elegance, and timeless storytelling, while the modern hits offer relatable themes, fresh perspectives, and a good dose of humor.
Why choose one when you can have the best of both worlds? Make it a weekend of romance—start with a classic, follow it up with a modern pick, and let love take center stage. Let us know which side of the spectrum you enjoyed the most. Happy watching! ❤️
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