When it comes to romantic movies on Netflix, the popular blockbusters often steal the spotlight. But what about the hidden gems, those underrated films quietly waiting to sweep you off your feet? These are the movies that don’t always get the recognition they deserve but pack just as much romance, charm, and emotional punch. If you’re ready to explore some lesser-known yet utterly delightful romantic movies, this list is for you. It’s time to step off the beaten path and dive into Netflix’s treasure trove of love stories you might have missed!
Table: Underrated Romantic Movies on Netflix
Here’s a curated table of must-watch underrated romantic movies. These films may not top mainstream lists, but they’re brimming with heart, soul, and unforgettable stories.
| Movie Title | Genre | Vibe | Runtime | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Jay | Indie Romance | Poignant, Nostalgic | 80 mins | 7.3 |
| The Incredible Jessica James | Romantic Comedy | Edgy, Empowering | 83 mins | 6.5 |
| Duck Butter | Indie Romance | Raw, Experimental Love | 94 mins | 5.2 |
| Love Per Square Foot | Romantic Comedy | Charming, Modern Love | 133 mins | 7.2 |
| In the Mood for Love | Period Drama | Elegant, Haunting Romance | 98 mins | 8.1 |
| Like Crazy | Romantic Drama | Intense, Bittersweet Love | 90 mins | 6.6 |
| Tramps | Romantic Comedy | Whimsical, Lighthearted | 82 mins | 6.5 |
| Straight Up | Romantic Comedy | Quirky, Nontraditional | 95 mins | 6.8 |
| Alex Strangelove | Teen Romance | Sweet, LGBTQ+ Love Story | 99 mins | 6.3 |
| Irreplaceable You | Romantic Drama | Tearjerker, Heartfelt | 96 mins | 6.4 |
| Five Feet Apart | Romantic Drama | Emotional, Forbidden Love | 116 mins | 7.2 |
| Ibiza | Romantic Comedy | Fun, Party Romance | 94 mins | 5.2 |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society | Period Romance | Historical, Sweet | 124 mins | 7.4 |
| The Souvenir | Indie Romance | Artistic, Emotional | 120 mins | 6.4 |
| Elisa & Marcela | Historical Romance | Bold, LGBTQ+ Period Drama | 118 mins | 6.5 |
| Happy Anniversary | Romantic Comedy | Realistic, Witty | 78 mins | 5.8 |
| The Longest Week | Romantic Comedy | Witty, New York Love | 86 mins | 5.4 |
| The Last Letter from Your Lover | Romantic Drama | Heartbreaking, Intriguing | 110 mins | 6.7 |
| Plus One | Romantic Comedy | Fun, Wedding Romance | 99 mins | 6.6 |
| Our Souls at Night | Romantic Drama | Mature, Heartwarming Love | 103 mins | 6.9 |
| Results | Romantic Comedy | Offbeat, Fitness Romance | 105 mins | 5.4 |
| Candy Jar | Teen Romance | Light, Competitive Love | 92 mins | 5.8 |
| The Giant Mechanical Man | Indie Romance | Quiet, Thoughtful Love | 94 mins | 6.6 |
1. Blue Jay
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Stars: Mark Duplass, Sarah Paulson
Director: Alex Lehmann
Blue Jay is an indie gem that delivers an emotional gut punch. Shot in evocative black-and-white, the film revolves around Jim (Mark Duplass) and Amanda (Sarah Paulson), former high school sweethearts who unexpectedly reunite in their hometown after many years. Over the course of a day, they reminisce about their shared past, rekindling old feelings and confronting unresolved emotions. It’s a poignant, dialogue-driven exploration of love, regret, and the passage of time. The performances are raw and heartfelt, making the story deeply relatable for anyone who’s wondered about the one that got away. Perfect for fans of introspective and nostalgic romance.
2. The Incredible Jessica James
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Jessica Williams, Chris O’Dowd, Lakeith Stanfield
Director: Jim Strouse
Jessica James (Jessica Williams) is a witty, fiercely independent playwright living in New York City. Struggling to recover from a breakup, she reluctantly goes on a blind date with Boone (Chris O’Dowd), who’s also nursing a broken heart. Together, they navigate the messy world of modern relationships, finding solace and laughter in each other’s company. The Incredible Jessica James is a refreshing romantic comedy that’s empowering, relatable, and hilariously real. Jessica Williams’ charismatic performance steals the show, while the sharp, funny dialogue keeps you entertained throughout. A must-watch for anyone looking for an edgy and modern take on love.
3. Duck Butter
IMDb Rating: 5.2
Stars: Alia Shawkat, Laia Costa
Director: Miguel Arteta
Duck Butter is an experimental indie romance that explores the intensity of human connection. When two women, Naima (Alia Shawkat) and Sergio (Laia Costa), meet, they decide to spend 24 hours together, committing to intimacy and truthfulness. Their unconventional approach to love leads to moments of raw vulnerability and deep self-discovery. Directed by Miguel Arteta, this film is a bold exploration of the highs and lows of accelerated relationships. While not for everyone, its unfiltered portrayal of love and emotions makes it a standout for fans of indie romance.
4. Love Per Square Foot
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Vicky Kaushal, Angira Dhar
Director: Anand Tiwari
This charming Bollywood rom-com revolves around Sanjay (Vicky Kaushal) and Karina (Angira Dhar), two young professionals in Mumbai who decide to enter a marriage of convenience to buy their dream home. As they navigate cultural expectations, familial pressures, and their growing feelings for each other, the movie offers a heartfelt look at love in the modern age. With stellar performances, witty dialogue, and vibrant visuals, Love Per Square Foot is a delightful watch for fans of romantic comedies and Indian cinema.
5. In the Mood for Love
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Stars: Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung
Director: Wong Kar-wai
A masterpiece of cinema, In the Mood for Love is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant tale of forbidden love. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, it follows Chow (Tony Leung) and Su (Maggie Cheung), neighbors who discover their spouses are having an affair. As they find comfort in each other, their bond grows into a love they can’t fully express. Wong Kar-wai’s masterful direction and Christopher Doyle’s cinematography create a poetic, melancholic atmosphere, making this film a timeless classic.
6. Like Crazy
IMDb Rating: 6.6
Stars: Felicity Jones, Anton Yelchin
Director: Drake Doremus
Like Crazy is a heart-wrenching story of long-distance love. Anna (Felicity Jones), a British student, falls deeply in love with Jacob (Anton Yelchin) while studying in the U.S. When visa issues force them apart, their relationship is tested by time, distance, and life’s complexities. With authentic performances and an improvised script, the film captures the bittersweet reality of love that faces insurmountable challenges.
7. Tramps
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Callum Turner, Grace Van Patten
Director: Adam Leon
Tramps is a whimsical romantic comedy about an accidental adventure. Danny (Callum Turner) and Ellie (Grace Van Patten) are strangers brought together for a sketchy deal that goes hilariously wrong. As they navigate a chaotic day of misadventures, their chemistry blossoms into a sweet, understated romance. With its quirky charm and vibrant New York setting, this indie gem is a feel-good delight.
8. Straight Up
IMDb Rating: 6.8
Stars: James Sweeney, Katie Findlay
Director: James Sweeney
Straight Up is a clever, nontraditional rom-com that challenges societal norms about love. Todd (James Sweeney) and Rory (Katie Findlay) form a deep emotional connection, but Todd’s struggles with his sexual identity create a unique dynamic in their relationship. Witty, sharp, and refreshingly different, this indie movie offers a thoughtful exploration of love in all its complexities.
9. Alex Strangelove
IMDb Rating: 6.3
Stars: Daniel Doheny, Antonio Marziale
Director: Craig Johnson
This coming-of-age LGBTQ+ romantic comedy follows Alex Truelove (Daniel Doheny), a high school senior with a seemingly perfect life. As he plans to lose his virginity to his girlfriend, he meets Elliot (Antonio Marziale), who complicates his feelings. Funny, heartfelt, and deeply relatable, Alex Strangelove is a celebration of self-discovery and young love.
10. Irreplaceable You
IMDb Rating: 6.4
Stars: Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Michiel Huisman
Director: Stephanie Laing
Prepare your tissues for Irreplaceable You, a tearjerker about love and loss. Abbie (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) and Sam (Michiel Huisman) are childhood sweethearts whose lives are turned upside down when Abbie is diagnosed with cancer. Determined to find Sam a new partner, Abbie embarks on a bittersweet journey. Heartfelt and deeply emotional, this film is a poignant reminder of the power of love.
11. Five Feet Apart
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Haley Lu Richardson, Cole Sprouse
Director: Justin Baldoni
Five Feet Apart tells the heart-wrenching story of Stella (Haley Lu Richardson) and Will (Cole Sprouse), two teenagers living with cystic fibrosis. Despite their mutual attraction, they must stay six feet apart to prevent cross-infection. However, as their bond deepens, they decide to defy the rules by shortening the distance to five feet. A tender and emotional romance that emphasizes the bittersweet nature of love and the human desire for connection, this film will leave you deeply moved.
12. Ibiza
IMDb Rating: 5.2
Stars: Gillian Jacobs, Richard Madden, Phoebe Robinson
Director: Alex Richanbach
Ibiza is a fun, carefree romantic comedy about Harper (Gillian Jacobs), who travels to Spain for work with her best friends. What starts as a business trip quickly turns into a wild adventure when Harper meets a charming DJ (Richard Madden) in Ibiza. The film balances romance with plenty of laughs, thanks to the lively supporting cast and stunning European backdrops. A lighthearted pick for those seeking escapist entertainment.
13. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Stars: Lily James, Michiel Huisman, Matthew Goode
Director: Mike Newell
Set in post-World War II England, this period romance follows Juliet Ashton (Lily James), a writer who forms an unexpected bond with residents of Guernsey while researching their unique book club. As she uncovers their wartime secrets, she also discovers love. With its charming cast and heartfelt storytelling, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a beautifully crafted tale of resilience, love, and the power of community.
14. The Souvenir
IMDb Rating: 6.4
Stars: Honor Swinton Byrne, Tom Burke
Director: Joanna Hogg
The Souvenir is an artistic and introspective romance that delves into the complexities of love and self-discovery. Julie (Honor Swinton Byrne), a young film student, becomes entangled in a turbulent relationship with Anthony (Tom Burke), a charismatic yet troubled older man. With its slow pace and raw authenticity, this semi-autobiographical film by Joanna Hogg explores themes of vulnerability, artistic passion, and emotional growth.
15. Elisa & Marcela
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Natalia de Molina, Greta Fernández
Director: Isabel Coixet
This historical drama tells the true story of Elisa Sánchez Loriga and Marcela Gracia Ibeas, two women in 19th-century Spain who disguised Elisa as a man to marry each other. Directed by Isabel Coixet, Elisa & Marcela is a bold, poignant exploration of forbidden love and resilience in the face of societal oppression. With stunning cinematography and heartfelt performances, this film is both a love story and a testament to courage.
16. Happy Anniversary
IMDb Rating: 5.8
Stars: Noël Wells, Ben Schwartz
Director: Jared Stern
Happy Anniversary follows Mollie (Noël Wells) and Sam (Ben Schwartz), a couple reflecting on their relationship on their third anniversary. As they reminisce about their highs and lows, they must decide whether to move forward together or part ways. With witty dialogue and relatable moments, this rom-com captures the realistic struggles of modern relationships while balancing humor and heart.
17. The Longest Week
IMDb Rating: 5.4
Stars: Jason Bateman, Olivia Wilde, Billy Crudup
Director: Peter Glanz
Conrad (Jason Bateman), a wealthy yet aimless man, finds himself homeless after his parents cut him off financially. During his stay with an old friend, he falls for the enigmatic Beatrice (Olivia Wilde), leading to a love triangle. The Longest Week is a stylish and witty rom-com with charming performances and plenty of New York City allure.
18. The Last Letter from Your Lover
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Stars: Felicity Jones, Shailene Woodley, Callum Turner
Director: Augustine Frizzell
This dual-timeline romantic drama weaves together the stories of two women: Ellie (Felicity Jones), a journalist uncovering love letters from the 1960s, and Jennifer (Shailene Woodley), a woman caught in a forbidden affair. As Ellie pieces together the mystery, parallels emerge between their lives. The Last Letter from Your Lover is a beautifully crafted tale of passion, heartbreak, and rediscovery.
19. Plus One
IMDb Rating: 6.6
Stars: Maya Erskine, Jack Quaid
Director: Jeff Chan, Andrew Rhymer
Ben (Jack Quaid) and Alice (Maya Erskine) make a pact to be each other’s dates for the endless string of weddings they’re attending. What starts as a convenient arrangement evolves into something deeper. Plus One is a hilarious and relatable rom-com that perfectly captures the chaos of wedding season and the unexpected nature of love.
20. Our Souls at Night
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Stars: Robert Redford, Jane Fonda
Director: Ritesh Batra
In this tender romance, Louis (Robert Redford) and Addie (Jane Fonda), two widowed neighbors, form an unexpected companionship to combat their loneliness. As they spend more time together, their bond grows into something beautiful. Our Souls at Night is a mature, heartfelt love story about finding connection later in life, brought to life by two legendary actors.
21. Results
IMDb Rating: 5.4
Stars: Guy Pearce, Cobie Smulders, Kevin Corrigan
Director: Andrew Bujalski
Set in the world of personal training, Results is a quirky rom-com that follows the unlikely love triangle between an eccentric client, his ambitious trainer, and her laid-back boss. With offbeat humor and charming performances, this film offers a fresh take on romance in unexpected places.
22. Candy Jar
IMDb Rating: 5.8
Stars: Sami Gayle, Jacob Latimore
Director: Ben Shelton
Two fiercely competitive high school debate champions, Lona (Sami Gayle) and Bennett (Jacob Latimore), discover they have more in common than they thought. As they prepare for their final competition, a surprising romance blossoms. Candy Jar is a lighthearted and sweet teen rom-com perfect for young audiences.
23. The Giant Mechanical Man
IMDb Rating: 6.6
Stars: Jenna Fischer, Chris Messina
Director: Lee Kirk
The Giant Mechanical Man is a quiet, introspective indie romance about two lost souls. Janice (Jenna Fischer), a zoo worker, forms an unlikely connection with Tim (Chris Messina), a struggling street performer dressed as a mechanical man. Together, they find solace and purpose in each other’s company. It’s a thoughtful and heartwarming love story for fans of understated romances.
Conclusion
Netflix’s catalog of underrated romantic movies proves that sometimes the best love stories are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly. These films might not be plastered across billboards or trending on social media, but they have a magic all their own. From poignant indie dramas to quirky comedies, these hidden gems are waiting to be discovered and adored.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for love, give these underrated picks a chance. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite romantic movie. Happy watching, and don’t forget to keep the tissues handy – just in case! ❤️
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