Who says romance knows any borders? The beauty of love is that it’s universal, and international romantic movies on Netflix prove just that. From heartwarming tales of first love to bittersweet stories of unrequited feelings, these hidden gems offer a refreshing take on romance that transcends language and culture. Whether you’re in the mood for a Parisian affair, a Korean love story, or a Bollywood spectacle, this list has you covered. Let’s dive into some of the finest international romantic movies you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Table: Hidden Gems of International Romance
Here’s a table of romantic gems from different corners of the world. Each one has a unique charm, making it worthy of a spot on your watchlist.
| Movie Title | Country | Language | Genre | Runtime | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Your Name | Japan | Japanese | Anime, Fantasy Romance | 106 mins | 8.4 |
| The Lunchbox | India | Hindi | Romantic Drama | 104 mins | 7.8 |
| Amélie | France | French | Quirky Romance | 122 mins | 8.3 |
| Elisa & Marcela | Spain | Spanish | Historical Romance | 118 mins | 6.5 |
| Tune in for Love | South Korea | Korean | Melodrama, Romance | 122 mins | 7.1 |
| Portrait of a Lady on Fire | France | French | Romantic Drama | 122 mins | 8.1 |
| Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon | China | Mandarin | Epic Romance | 120 mins | 7.9 |
| Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge | India | Hindi | Romantic Comedy | 189 mins | 8.0 |
| A Castle for Christmas | UK | English | Holiday Romance | 98 mins | 5.5 |
| Cold War | Poland | Polish | Historical Romance | 89 mins | 7.6 |
| The Great Beauty | Italy | Italian | Romantic Drama | 142 mins | 7.8 |
| Call Me by Your Name | Italy/USA | Italian/English | Romantic Drama | 132 mins | 7.9 |
| Only You | UK | English | Romantic Drama | 119 mins | 6.8 |
| Like Water for Chocolate | Mexico | Spanish | Magical Realism, Romance | 105 mins | 7.1 |
| On Body and Soul | Hungary | Hungarian | Romantic Fantasy | 116 mins | 7.6 |
| I’m Your Man | Germany | German | Sci-Fi Romance | 108 mins | 7.1 |
| Weathering with You | Japan | Japanese | Anime, Fantasy Romance | 112 mins | 7.5 |
| The Handmaiden | South Korea | Korean | Romantic Thriller | 145 mins | 8.1 |
| A Man and A Woman | France | French | Classic Romance | 102 mins | 7.6 |
| Midnight in Paris | France/USA | English | Time-Travel Romance | 94 mins | 7.7 |
| La La Land | USA | English | Musical Romance | 128 mins | 8.0 |
| Love and Anarchy | Sweden | Swedish | Romantic Comedy | 92 mins | 7.4 |
| Life in a Year | USA/Canada | English | Teen Romance | 107 mins | 6.2 |
| Bicycle Thieves | Italy | Italian | Poignant Romance | 89 mins | 8.3 |
1. Your Name (Japan)
Rating: 8.4/10
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Stars: Miyu Irino, Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Mone Kamishiraishi
This breathtaking anime masterpiece tells the story of two high school students, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously swap bodies. Set against the backdrop of a beautifully animated Japan, the two embark on a journey to uncover the reason behind their supernatural connection. The film blends fantasy, romance, and breathtaking visuals to explore themes of fate, longing, and connection. Your Name became a global sensation for its emotional depth, stunning animation, and intricate storyline. It explores the yearning for love and the feeling of being drawn to someone you’ve never met, making it a touching cinematic experience that resonates with all viewers. Whether you’re an anime lover or not, this is a must-watch for anyone interested in a unique love story with a touch of magic.
2. The Lunchbox (India)
Rating: 7.8/10
Director: Ritesh Batra
Stars: Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Set in Mumbai, The Lunchbox tells the story of a mistaken lunchbox delivery that sparks a tender romance between two lonely individuals. Ila, a housewife, sends her lunch to her husband, only for it to be delivered to the wrong office worker, Saajan. Their exchange of notes through the lunchbox leads to an unexpected emotional connection. The film is a quiet, heartfelt exploration of isolation, unspoken desires, and the simple beauty of human connection. It features a brilliant performance by Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur, with a subtle, thought-provoking narrative that strikes an emotional chord. The Lunchbox is a beautiful and unconventional love story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
3. Amélie (France)
Rating: 8.3/10
Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Stars: Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
Amélie is a quirky French film that follows the life of Amélie Poulain, a shy young woman living in Paris. After discovering the lost childhood treasures of a man in her building, Amélie embarks on a journey to anonymously help others and brighten their lives. Along the way, she falls for Nino, a mysterious man who collects discarded photos from photo booths. With its whimsical tone, colorful visuals, and an unforgettable soundtrack, Amélie has become a classic of French cinema. Audrey Tautou’s captivating performance as Amélie brings the story’s charm to life, making it an uplifting experience for viewers. Amélie is a celebration of love, kindness, and the magic of small acts of generosity.
4. Elisa & Marcela (Spain)
Rating: 6.5/10
Director: Isabel Coixet
Stars: Natalia de Molina, Greta Fernández, Aixa Villagrán
Set in early 20th-century Spain, Elisa & Marcela is based on the true story of the first same-sex marriage in Spain. Elisa and Marcela fall in love despite societal constraints and religious opposition, eventually going to extraordinary lengths to marry. Their love story is portrayed against the backdrop of a time when homosexuality was still a criminal act. The film, with its emotional performances from Natalia de Molina and Greta Fernández, explores themes of love, rebellion, and the power of authenticity in a repressive society. The direction by Isabel Coixet brings the couple’s struggle to life in a delicate and heartfelt manner, highlighting the emotional strength required to love freely in an oppressive world.
5. Tune in for Love (South Korea)
Rating: 7.1/10
Director: Jung Ji-woo
Stars: Kim Go-eun, Jung Hae-in, Park Hae-joon
Tune in for Love is a South Korean melodrama that spans several years, following the blossoming relationship between Mi-soo and Hyeok. They first meet at a bakery, where they bond over their shared love of music and a sense of loss. However, the timing is never right for them to fully commit to a relationship, as they both face personal struggles and life changes. This beautifully shot film delves into the bittersweet nature of love, fate, and the longing for connection. Kim Go-eun and Jung Hae-in shine in their roles, delivering powerful, emotional performances that resonate with the audience. With a nostalgic soundtrack and a poignant narrative, Tune in for Love captures the heartache of missed opportunities and the hope that love will eventually find its way.
6. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (France)
Rating: 8.1/10
Director: Céline Sciamma
Stars: Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel, Luàna Bajrami
Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a visually stunning period drama that tells the story of the passionate love affair between a young painter, Marianne, and her subject, Héloïse, in 18th-century France. Marianne is hired to paint Héloïse’s portrait, but as they spend time together, the two women develop a deep emotional and physical bond. The film is a slow burn, focusing on the quiet, intimate moments between the characters as they explore their feelings for each other. With breathtaking cinematography and sensitive performances, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a hauntingly beautiful film about forbidden love, desire, and the art of capturing the essence of someone you adore.
7. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (China)
Rating: 7.9/10
Director: Ang Lee
Stars: Chow Yun-fat, Michelle Yeoh, Zhang Ziyi
Set in Qing Dynasty China, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a sweeping martial arts epic with a strong romantic subplot. The film follows the story of two warriors, Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, as they attempt to recover a stolen sword and deal with their unresolved feelings for one another. The stunning choreography of the action scenes is complemented by a poignant love story that transcends time and duty. The film stars Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun-fat in unforgettable performances, with Zhang Ziyi providing a strong supporting role. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a cinematic masterpiece that blends action, romance, and profound emotional depth, making it a timeless classic.
8. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (India)
Rating: 8.0/10
Director: Aditya Chopra
Stars: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Amrish Puri
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) is the epitome of Bollywood romance, and it continues to capture hearts even decades after its release. Raj and Simran meet while traveling through Europe and fall in love, but Simran’s traditional father doesn’t approve of their relationship. What follows is a beautiful story of love, sacrifice, and family, set to unforgettable music and iconic moments. Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol deliver stellar performances, bringing their characters to life in a way that makes this film a cultural touchstone. DDLJ is a celebration of love conquering all obstacles, with stunning locations and an iconic soundtrack that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
9. A Castle for Christmas (UK)
Rating: 5.5/10
Director: Mary Lambert
Stars: Brooke Shields, Cary Elwes, Lee Ross
This holiday-themed romantic comedy tells the story of Sophie, an author who travels to Scotland to buy a castle, only to butt heads with its grumpy owner, Myles. As sparks fly between the two, they realize that love and unexpected connections can be found in the most unlikely of places. A Castle for Christmas is a lighthearted, feel-good film with picturesque Scottish scenery and an easy-to-follow love story. While it may not be the most groundbreaking romance, it offers plenty of heartwarming moments and enough charm to entertain viewers looking for a cozy Christmas romance.
10. Cold War (Poland)
Rating: 7.6/10
Director: Paweł Pawlikowski
Stars: Joanna Kulig, Tomasz Kot, Borys Szyc
Cold War is a visually striking, black-and-white romantic drama set during the Cold War era. The film follows the tumultuous love story between Wiktor and Zula, two individuals from different backgrounds who meet and fall in love amidst the political tensions of post-war Europe. Their relationship spans years, marked by separations, reunions, and constant emotional turmoil. With breathtaking cinematography and standout performances, especially from Joanna Kulig and Tomasz Kot, Cold War is a melancholic yet beautiful portrayal of love in a divided world. The film’s stark contrasts, both visually and emotionally, create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
11. The Great Beauty (Italy)
Rating: 7.8/10
Director: Paolo Sorrentino
Stars: Toni Servillo, Carlo Verdone, Sabrina Ferilli
The Great Beauty follows Jep Gambardella, a journalist and socialite in Rome, as he reflects on his life filled with parties, glamour, and shallow pleasures. However, Jep becomes increasingly disillusioned with his hedonistic existence, longing for deeper meaning. Amidst the beauty of Rome and the world of high society, Jep embarks on a journey of self-discovery. This film offers not only a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture but also an exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. With stunning cinematography and a masterful performance from Toni Servillo, The Great Beauty is a reflective and visually captivating exploration of love and life in Italy.
12. Call Me by Your Name (Italy/USA)
Rating: 7.9/10
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Stars: Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer, Michael Stuhlbarg
Set in the stunning Italian countryside in the 1980s, Call Me by Your Name is a coming-of-age romantic drama about a young boy, Elio, who experiences a transformative love affair with his father’s intern, Oliver. The film beautifully captures the complexity of first love, yearning, and heartbreak. With brilliant performances from Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, Call Me by Your Name became an instant classic for its poignant exploration of identity and love. The film’s lush visuals and emotional depth make it a must-watch for anyone who has ever experienced the intensity of young love.
13. Only You (UK)
Rating: 6.8/10
Director: Michael Hoffman
Stars: Robert Downey Jr., Marisa Tomei, Bonnie Hunt
In Only You, Faith, a woman searching for the perfect man, meets a charming but unexpected candidate for love. After discovering that her soulmate may be someone she has never met, she embarks on a whimsical journey to find him, leading her to an unexpected romance. The chemistry between Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. is delightful, and their performances bring this romantic comedy to life. Only You is a charming, lighthearted film that offers a feel-good experience with humor, destiny, and the surprises of love.
14. Like Water for Chocolate (Mexico)
Rating: 7.1/10
Director: Alfonso Arau
Stars: Lumi Cavazos, Marco Leonardi, Regina Torné
Based on the beloved novel by Laura Esquivel, Like Water for Chocolate is a magical realism romance set in Mexico. The story follows Tita, a young woman forbidden to marry the love of her life, Pedro, due to family tradition. As she pours her emotions into her cooking, the food seems to have a magical influence on those who eat it, leading to a passionate and heartbreaking love story. With its stunning visuals and blend of magical realism and romance, Like Water for Chocolate explores themes of love, repression, and the power of emotions through food.
15. On Body and Soul (Hungary)
Rating: 7.6/10
Director: Ildikó Enyedi
Stars: Alexandra Borbély, Géza Morcsányi, Zoltán Schneider
On Body and Soul is a Hungarian romantic drama that tells the story of a quiet, introverted woman named Mária, who works at a slaughterhouse and finds an unlikely connection with the company’s director, Endre. The two share a unique bond, experiencing dreams where they are in a peaceful forest together. The film explores the deep emotional connection and intimacy that can exist between two people, even when communication is difficult in the waking world. On Body and Soul is a beautifully introspective and poetic exploration of love, desire, and the need for human connection.
16. I’m Your Man (Germany)
Rating: 7.1/10
Director: Maria Schrader
Stars: Maren Eggert, Dan Stevens, Sandra Hüller
Set in a futuristic world, I’m Your Man is a German romantic sci-fi film that follows Alma, a scientist who is asked to test a humanoid robot, Tom, designed to be the perfect partner. Over time, Alma begins to question what makes a perfect partner and whether genuine emotional connection can exist between a human and a machine. Maren Eggert delivers a stellar performance as Alma, and Dan Stevens brings Tom to life with his charming yet robotic portrayal. I’m Your Man is a thought-provoking exploration of love, artificial intelligence, and the complexities of relationships in the modern age.
17. Weathering with You (Japan)
Rating: 7.5/10
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Stars: Kotaro Daigo, Nana Mori, Shun Oguri
From the director of Your Name, Weathering with You is another beautifully animated film that explores the themes of love and the supernatural. It follows Hodaka, a teenage boy who moves to Tokyo and meets Hina, a girl with the ability to control the weather. As their bond deepens, they struggle with the consequences of Hina’s powers and the choices they must make for their future. With breathtaking animation and a powerful love story at its core, Weathering with You explores fate, sacrifice, and the bond between two people willing to defy the odds for each other.
18. The Handmaiden (South Korea)
Rating: 8.1/10
Director: Park Chan-wook
Stars: Kim Tae-ri, Kim Min-hee, Ha Jung-woo
A stylish and twisted romantic thriller, The Handmaiden is set in 1930s Korea during the Japanese occupation. The film follows a young woman hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese woman, who is plotting to marry her and steal her inheritance. However, the relationship between the two women develops into something far more complex. With its stunning cinematography, intricate plot twists, and intense performances, The Handmaiden is a captivating tale of love, betrayal, and power. Park Chan-wook’s direction and the film’s richly layered storytelling make it a must-see.
19. A Man and A Woman (France)
Rating: 7.6/10
Director: Claude Lelouch
Stars: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Anouk Aimée, Pierre Barouh
A Man and A Woman is a classic French romantic drama that tells the story of two people, both grieving the loss of their partners, who meet and begin a complicated love affair. The film’s atmospheric cinematography and tender performances make it an emotional and intimate exploration of love, loss, and new beginnings. With a beautiful, jazzy score and a deeply evocative narrative, A Man and A Woman is a timeless love story that has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite among fans of classic romance.
20. Midnight in Paris (France/USA)
Rating: 7.7/10
Director: Woody Allen
Stars: Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard
Midnight in Paris is a whimsical romantic fantasy about Gil Pender, a writer who finds himself mysteriously traveling back in time to the 1920s every night at midnight while staying in Paris. There, he meets famous artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, but also finds himself falling in love with Adriana, a woman from the past. The film captures the magic of Paris and the allure of nostalgia, offering a lighthearted yet profound look at love, time, and self-discovery. The performances, especially from Owen Wilson, and the enchanting Parisian setting make this a delightful watch.
21. La La Land (USA)
Rating: 8.0/10
Director: Damien Chazelle
Stars: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend
La La Land is a modern musical romance that follows Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, as they try to make their dreams come true while navigating the complexities of love. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the film is a visually stunning celebration of romance, ambition, and sacrifice. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone’s captivating performances, paired with an unforgettable soundtrack and beautiful choreography, make this an enchanting film about love, art, and the bittersweet nature of following your dreams.
22. Love and Anarchy (Sweden)
Rating: 7.4/10
Director: Lisa Langseth
Stars: Ida Engvoll, Björn Kjellman, Krister Henriksson
Love and Anarchy is a Swedish romantic comedy about a young woman named Sofie, who begins a passionate affair with an older, married man. Their forbidden relationship evolves as they both grapple with issues of power, freedom, and vulnerability. The film is filled with humor and emotional depth, tackling themes of love, trust, and the complications of human relationships. Ida Engvoll and Björn Kjellman deliver memorable performances in this delightful film that shows how love can push boundaries and lead to unexpected, transformative experiences.
23. Life in a Year (USA/Canada)
Rating: 6.2/10
Director: Mitja Okorn
Stars: Jaden Smith, Cara Delevingne, Cuba Gooding Jr.
Life in a Year is a coming-of-age romance that follows Daryn, a young man who discovers that his girlfriend, Isabelle, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The film explores their deep connection and his determination to give her the best year of her life. While the film dives into themes of love, loss, and the fragility of life, the performances by Jaden Smith and Cara Delevingne make it an emotional ride. Life in a Year offers a poignant look at how love and loss shape us, even when time is running out.
24. Bicycle Thieves (Italy)
Rating: 8.3/10
Director: Vittorio De Sica
Stars: Lamberto Maggiorani, Enzo Staiola, Giulietta Masina
A classic of Italian neorealism, Bicycle Thieves tells the story of Antonio, a poor man in post-war Rome who struggles to provide for his family. When his bicycle, essential for his work, is stolen, he embarks on a desperate search through the city. While not a conventional romance, the film’s themes of family, love, and sacrifice make it a deeply moving story. With breathtaking performances, especially from Lamberto Maggiorani, Bicycle Thieves is a masterpiece that captures the human condition and the strength of love in times of hardship.
Conclusion
There’s a whole world of romance waiting for you on Netflix, quite literally! These hidden gems bring unique cultural flavors to timeless tales of love, proving that romance truly knows no language. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt dramas, quirky comedies, or sweeping epics, this list of international romantic movies offers something fresh and exciting for every movie enthusiast.
So, take a break from the usual Hollywood rom-coms and dive into these global love stories. You never know, one of these films might just become your new favorite. Happy watching, and don’t forget the subtitles! ❤️
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