Like This Watch That: 25 Epic Romance Movies Like The Notebook

When most people think of an epic romance movie, they immediately think of The Notebook. This movie adaptation of Nicholas Spark’s 1996 love story is a near flawless sweeping romance movie that captures the heart of every viewer.

In this article, we have selected 25 other epic romance movies like The Notebook that have a similar effect of pulling on your heart strings.

As with all of our articles, we offer a free movie checklist for you to download for later reference.

What information is provided about each epic romance movie in this selection?

The movie title and release year of the movie
Image of Movie
Director
A list of actors in the movie
The MPAA rating
Link to the movie in IMDb – For movie reviews, where to stream, ratings, trailers and lots more.
A movie summary

Don’t forget to download the FREE MOVIE CHECKLIST to keep track of what movies you want to watch!

25 Epic Romance Movies Like The Notebook

1. The Time Traveler’s Wife (2009)

Director: Robert Schwentke
Actors: Eric Bana, Rachel McAdams, Ron Livingston
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ on IMDb

“The Time Traveler’s Wife” weaves a complex tale of love that transcends time. Henry DeTamble, a librarian with a genetic disorder, involuntarily travels through time, making his relationship with Clare Abshire both magical and challenging. As Henry disappears to different times without warning, Clare must navigate the uncertainties of loving someone who might vanish at any moment. Their poignant romance explores the depths of commitment and the pain of separation, as they strive to build a life together against the relentless tide of time.

2. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

Director: David Fincher
Actors: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Taraji P. Henson
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ on IMDb

“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is a fantastical journey of a man living life in reverse. Born as an elderly man in a New Orleans nursing home, Benjamin Button ages backward, growing younger as the years pass. His unique condition presents an extraordinary perspective on life, love, and loss. Benjamin’s relationship with Daisy, who ages normally, is a testament to the enduring power of love amidst the inevitable passage of time. Their story is a mesmerizing exploration of what it means to truly live, as they find beauty and tragedy in their reversed lives together.

3. The Lake House (2006)

Director: Alejandro Agresti
Actors: Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Dylan Walsh, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Christopher Plummer
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘The Lake House’ on IMDb

“The Lake House” is a romantic fantasy that transcends time. An architect living in 2004 and a doctor living in 2006 discover a magical mailbox at the lake house they both have lived in at different times. Through letters left in this mailbox, they begin a correspondence that spans two years, despite the time difference. As they exchange letters, they fall in love and search for a way to bridge the gap of time that separates them.

4. A Star Is Born (2018)

Director: Bradley Cooper
Actors: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘A Star Is Born’ on IMDb

“A Star Is Born” is a stirring tale of love, fame, and the personal costs they demand. Seasoned musician Jackson Maine discovers and falls in love with struggling artist Ally, who has nearly given up on her dream to become a singer. Jack coaxes her into the spotlight, and as Ally’s career takes off, their personal relationship begins to break down, exacerbated by Jack’s battle with his own internal demons. This poignant narrative captures the highs and lows of stardom and the enduring power of love.

5. The Age of Adaline (2015)

Director: Lee Toland Krieger
Actors: Blake Lively, Michiel Huisman, Kathy Baker, Harrison Ford, Ellen Burstyn
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘The Age of Adaline’ on IMDb

“The Age of Adaline” follows the life of Adaline Bowman, a woman who becomes ageless following an accident. Living a solitary existence for decades, her life takes a turn when she meets Ellis Jones, a charismatic philanthropist who reignites her passion for life and romance. As their relationship deepens, Adaline must decide whether to reveal her secret or risk losing her chance at happiness.

6. Lovely Still (2008)

Director: Nicholas Fackler
Actors: Martin Landau, Ellen Burstyn, Adam Scott, Elizabeth Banks
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘Lovely Still’ on IMDb

“Lovely Still” is a touching story of an elderly man experiencing love for the first time. As Christmas approaches, Robert Malone, a lonely supermarket clerk, meets his new neighbor Mary. What starts as a dinner invitation blossoms into a tender and unexpected romance. As they share a series of dates, Robert discovers the joy and heartache of a late in life love affair, revealing that it’s never too late to find happiness.

7. Me Before You (2016)

Director: Thea Sharrock
Actors: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin, Janet McTeer, Charles Dance, Brendan Coyle
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Me Before You’ on IMDb

“Me Before You” is a poignant story of Lou Clark, a cheerful small town girl who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy banker left paralyzed from an accident. Their relationship evolves from distant to deeply connected as Lou shows Will that life is worth living despite his disability. The film explores themes of love, life’s worth, and the impact of true companionship.

8. Your Name (2016)

Director: Makoto Shinkai
Actors: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Mone Kamishiraishi (voices)
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘Your Name’ on IMDb

“Your Name” is a beautifully animated Japanese film that tells the story of two high school students, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously begin to swap bodies. As they navigate the complexities of each other’s lives, they form a bond that defies time and space. The film combines elements of romance, drama, and fantasy, culminating in a story that resonates with viewers long after it ends.

9. Straight Up (2019)

Director: James Sweeney
Actors: James Sweeney, Katie Findlay
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Link: ‘Straight Up’ on IMDb

“Straight Up” is a quirky and intelligent romantic comedy that challenges traditional narratives. It follows Todd, who is unsure of his sexuality, and Rory, an aspiring actress. They form a deep emotional connection that defies physical intimacy, leading them to explore the meaning of love and relationship beyond conventional labels. The film is a witty exploration of identity, companionship, and the complexities of modern love.

10. In the Mood for Love (2000)

Director: Wong Kar-wai
Actors: Maggie Cheung, Tony Leung
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘In the Mood for Love’ on IMDb

Set in Hong Kong, 1962, “In the Mood for Love” is a visually stunning and emotionally rich film. It follows Chow Mo-Wan and Su Li-zhen, neighbors who form a bond after suspecting their spouses of infidelity. Despite their mutual attraction, they vow to keep their relationship platonic, not wanting to stoop to their spouses’ level. The film is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the pain of unfulfilled desire.

11. Brief Encounter (1945)

Director: David Lean
Actors: Celia Johnson, Trevor Howard
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘Brief Encounter’ on IMDb

“Brief Encounter” is a classic British film that tells the story of Laura Jesson and Dr. Alec Harvey, who meet by chance at a railway station. Despite being married to others, they fall deeply in love. The film beautifully captures the torment and ecstasy of their illicit romance, as well as the societal pressures of the time, which ultimately force them to make difficult decisions about their future.

12. My Sassy Girl (2001)

Director: Kwak Jae-yong
Actors: Jun Ji-hyun, Cha Tae-hyun
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Link: ‘My Sassy Girl’ on IMDb

“My Sassy Girl” is a South Korean romantic comedy that became a hit across Asia. It’s based on a true story and follows the tumultuous relationship between a college student and a young woman he meets by chance. Their unconventional romance is filled with humor, drama, and heartfelt moments, making it a beloved film that sparked an international media franchise.

13. Through Night and Day (2018)

Director: Veronica Velasco
Actors: Alessandra de Rossi, Paolo Contis
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Link: ‘Through Night and Day’ on IMDb

“Through Night and Day” is a Filipino romantic drama that delves into the relationship of Ben and Jen, who have been together since childhood. After Ben’s proposal, they embark on a dream trip to Iceland, which turns into a journey of self-discovery and a test of their love. The film beautifully captures the landscapes of Iceland while exploring the themes of love, commitment, and the choices we make.

14. Catch and Release (2006)

Director: Susannah Grant
Actors: Jennifer Garner, Timothy Olyphant, Kevin Smith
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Catch and Release’ on IMDb

“Catch and Release” follows Gray Wheeler as she copes with the sudden death of her fiancé. Amidst her grief, she discovers secrets he kept from her, which challenge her understanding of their relationship. As she rebuilds her life, she finds unexpected comfort and love in his circle of friends, leading her to question what she knew about love and trust.

15. About Time (2013)

Director: Richard Curtis
Actors: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘About Time’ on IMDb

“About Time” is a British romantic comedy-drama with a twist of science fiction. It tells the story of Tim, who discovers he can time travel and decides to use this ability to improve his love life. As he navigates the complexities of time travel and relationships, he learns that love and life might not require time travel to be truly appreciated. The film is a heartwarming tale about making the most of life’s moments.

16. If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

Director: Barry Jenkins
Actors: KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Regina King
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ on IMDb

Set in the early 1970s in Harlem, “If Beale Street Could Talk” is a profound narrative of love and racial injustice. Tish, a young African-American woman, and Fonny, a young sculptor, see their plans for the future shattered when Fonny is falsely accused of a crime. With the support of her family, Tish seeks to clear Fonny’s name before the birth of their child. It’s a story of enduring love against the backdrop of social and legal turmoil.

17. A Very Long Engagement (2004)

Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Actors: Audrey Tautou, Gaspard Ulliel, Marion Cotillard
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘A Very Long Engagement’ on IMDb

“A Very Long Engagement” unfolds against the backdrop of World War I, where five French soldiers are condemned to death in the no man’s land between trenches. Mathilde, the fiancée of one of the soldiers, embarks on a relentless quest to discover the fate of her beloved amid the chaos of war. Her journey reveals the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths one will go for love.

18. Titanic (1997)

Director: James Cameron
Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Titanic’ on IMDb

“Titanic” is an epic romance and disaster film that captures the tragic maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic. Jack, a poor artist, and Rose, a young woman from a wealthy family, fall in love aboard the ill-fated ship. Their passionate love affair becomes a race against time and fate as the Titanic collides with an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The film is a timeless tale of love, loss, and human courage in the face of disaster.

19. Legends of the Fall (1994)

Director: Edward Zwick
Actors: Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn, Julia Ormond
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘Legends of the Fall’ on IMDb

“Legends of the Fall” is an epic tale set in the early 20th century against the sprawling backdrop of Montana’s wilderness. It follows the lives of the Ludlow family, particularly the three brothers: Alfred, Tristan, and Samuel, and their father, Colonel William Ludlow. Their story is marked by love, betrayal, and the ravages of war, as each brother finds his own path in the face of family tragedy and the tumultuous changes of history.

20. The 5 Year Engagement (2012)

Director: Nicholas Stoller
Actors: Jason Segel, Emily Blunt, Chris Pratt, Alison Brie
MPAA Rating: R
Link: ‘The 5 Year Engagement’ on IMDb

“The 5 Year Engagement” chronicles the extended engagement of Tom and Violet, a couple whose journey to the altar is repeatedly delayed by career opportunities and unexpected life twists. As time passes, they begin to question their relationship and whether their marriage is meant to be, leading to a heartfelt exploration of commitment and the challenges of long-term love.

21. Brooklyn (2015)

Director: John Crowley
Actors: Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Brooklyn’ on IMDb

“Brooklyn” is a poignant story of Eilis Lacey, a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Torn between her new life in America and her homeland, Eilis finds herself amidst the challenges of homesickness and cultural adjustment. When circumstances lead her back to Ireland, she must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within them. The film is a tender portrayal of the immigrant experience and the search for belonging.

22. The Last Song (2010)

Director: Julie Anne Robinson
Actors: Miley Cyrus, Liam Hemsworth, Greg Kinnear
MPAA Rating: PG
Link: ‘The Last Song’ on IMDb

In “The Last Song,” rebellious teenager Ronnie is sent to a Southern beach town to spend the summer with her estranged father. Through their shared love of music, they reconnect and heal their relationship. Ronnie also finds romance and begins to rediscover her passion for life and music.

23. Message in a Bottle (1999)

Director: Luis Mandoki
Actors: Kevin Costner, Robin Wright, Paul Newman
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Message in a Bottle’ on IMDb

“Message in a Bottle” is a romantic drama where Theresa, a researcher, finds a love letter in a bottle on a beach and becomes determined to track down its author. The letter’s writer, a widowed shipbuilder, is still mourning his wife. As Theresa learns more about him, a deep mutual attraction develops, but he struggles to move past his grief.

24. At First Sight (1999)

Director: Irwin Winkler
Actors: Val Kilmer, Mira Sorvino, Kelly McGillis
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘At First Sight’ on IMDb

“At First Sight” is inspired by a true story and the work of neurologist Oliver Sacks. It follows Virgil, a blind man who undergoes surgery to regain his sight and must learn to navigate the world visually. He falls in love with Amy, an architect, who supports him through his journey of discovery and the challenges that come with seeing the world anew.

25. Ever After (1998)

Director: Andy Tennant
Actors: Drew Barrymore, Anjelica Huston, Dougray Scott
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Link: ‘Ever After’ on IMDb

“Ever After” presents a historical fiction take on the Cinderella story, set in Renaissance-era France. Danielle, the protagonist, lives under the oppression of her wicked stepmother and stepsisters after her father’s death. Her life intertwines with Prince Henry, leading to a series of events that challenge the traditional fairy tale narrative, emphasizing a post-feminist interpretation of the story.

Thanks for reading this article for romance movie inspiration!

We hope you found some to add to your must watch list.

For more epic romance movies, checkout these articles next:

The Ultimate List of Romantic Comedy Movies
The 50 Most Romantic Movies Ever Made: For Valentines Day and Beyond
22 Modern Rom Coms: Best Romantic Comedies in the Last 10 Years
Like This Watch That: 20 Period Drama Movies for Bridgerton Fans
20 Historical Period Drama Shows on Netflix Streaming Now

If you’re looking for a romantic movie night, click here for articles on romantic movies.

We hope you visit us again soon!