The Top 10 Romantic Movies of the Last Decade to Watch on Valentine’s Day 2025

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate love in all its forms—and what better way to do that than with a cozy movie night? Whether you’re cuddled up with your partner, spending time with friends, or enjoying some well-deserved self-care, romantic films can stir the soul, bring tears to your eyes, and make your heart swell. This curated list of the 10 best romantic movies from the last decade brings together unforgettable stories of connection, heartbreak, and enduring love—perfect for making your Valentine’s Day 2025 extra special.

1. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Director: Josh Boone
Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort
Synopsis: Based on John Green’s bestselling novel, this heart-wrenching love story follows Hazel and Gus, two teens with cancer who find strength, humor, and love in each other. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that reminds us to cherish every moment.

2. Me Before You (2016)

Director: Thea Sharrock
Starring: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin
Synopsis: Louisa, a quirky young woman, becomes the caregiver for Will, a wealthy man left paralyzed after an accident. Their growing bond challenges them to see life in a new light. This poignant film explores love, loss, and self-discovery.

3. Your Name (2016)

Director: Makoto Shinkai
Starring: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Mone Kamishiraishi
Synopsis: In this breathtaking Japanese animated film, two strangers—Taki and Mitsuha—mysteriously swap bodies and form a deep connection across time and space. With stunning visuals and an emotional storyline, it’s a masterpiece of romantic storytelling.

4. The Big Sick (2017)

Director: Michael Showalter
Starring: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan
Synopsis: Based on the real-life love story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani and his wife Emily, this romantic comedy blends humor with heartfelt moments as Kumail navigates cultural differences and a health crisis that puts their love to the test.

5. Call Me By Your Name (2017)

Director: Luca Guadagnino
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer
Synopsis: Set in 1980s Italy, this coming-of-age romance tells the story of Elio and Oliver, whose summer romance is filled with passion, self-discovery, and bittersweet moments. The stunning cinematography and emotional depth make it unforgettable.

6. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

Director: Jon M. Chu
Starring: Constance Wu, Henry Golding
Synopsis: This vibrant romantic comedy follows Rachel Chu, an American professor, as she discovers her boyfriend Nick comes from an ultra-wealthy family in Singapore. With glamorous settings and heartwarming themes of love and family, it’s a modern classic.

7. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Director: Céline Sciamma
Starring: Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel
Synopsis: Set in 18th-century France, this beautifully shot film chronicles the forbidden love between a painter and her subject. With minimal dialogue and powerful performances, it captures the intensity of longing and connection.

8. Marriage Story (2019)

Director: Noah Baumbach
Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver
Synopsis: This raw and emotional film explores the complexities of love, marriage, and divorce. With stellar performances and a deeply human story, it’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and joys of relationships.

9. Little Women (2019)

Director: Greta Gerwig
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Timothée Chalamet
Synopsis: This fresh adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel beautifully weaves the stories of the March sisters as they navigate life, love, and independence. Jo and Laurie’s relationship is a standout, blending friendship and unspoken romance.

10. Sylvie’s Love (2020)

Director: Eugene Ashe
Starring: Tessa Thompson, Nnamdi Asomugha
Synopsis: This visually stunning love story follows Sylvie and Robert, whose romance blossoms in 1950s Harlem. As their lives pull them in different directions, their love endures, making this film a timeless ode to passion and ambition.

How to Make the Most of Your Valentine’s Movie Night

To enhance your experience, consider creating a themed setup:

Pick a genre: Choose one or two movies with a similar tone (heartfelt drama, quirky rom-com, emotional coming-of-age).
Prepare themed snacks: Chocolate-dipped strawberries for “Sylvie’s Love,” heart-shaped cookies for “The Big Sick,” or popcorn with a twist for “Crazy Rich Asians.”
Set the mood: Dim the lights, grab cozy blankets, and light a few candles or fairy lights.
Create conversation: After the movie, talk about your favorite scenes, the emotional themes, and how the story compares to your own idea of love.

Celebrate Love Through Film

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or simply love a good story, these ten films offer a variety of perspectives on what love looks like—messy, magical, painful, joyful, and everything in between. Watching a romantic movie on Valentine’s Day is more than entertainment—it’s a chance to reflect on your own journey, share meaningful time with others, and experience the beauty of love through someone else’s eyes.

So, pop the popcorn, hit play, and let the romance unfold.