11 Devastating Romance Movies That Will Rip Your Heart Out

Nora and Hae Sung, childhood friends from Korea, find themselves reunited in New York for one transformative week. As they navigate the complexities of destiny, love, and the choices that shape our lives, viewers are drawn into a poignant exploration of what could have been. Released in 2023, this film with a robust average rating of 4.3 resonates deeply with anyone who's pondered fate's intricate dance.

Set against the backdrop of an isolated island in Brittany at the close of the eighteenth century, this 2019 masterpiece captures the intense bond formed between a painter and her subject—a reluctant bride-to-be. With an average rating of 4 on Likewise, the film's silent glances and unspoken words speak of a love as fierce as it is forbidden.

In this 2004 science fiction drama, Joel Barish discovers his ex-girlfriend has erased all memories of him. The film's exploration of memory and regret showcases a complex emotional journey. As Joel undergoes the same procedure, he realises how much she meant to him. Loved by many with a rating of 4, this narrative forces us to question: can heartbreak be undone with technology?

In a tale that intertwines joy with heart-wrenching choices, a small-town girl takes a job as a carer for a wealthy paralysed man. Their evolving relationship brings sweet moments of discovery and depth. Released in 2016, the movie holds a substantial average rating of 3.9 and reminds us all of life's unpredictability and the importance of living it to the fullest.

This 2019 film delves deep into family dynamics and the everlasting impact of tragedy. The complexities of love and expectations from a controlling father play out against the backdrop of a heartening sibling relationship. With a rating of 3.9, Waves challenges societal norms and portrays the raw agony of unforseen loss.

The narrative follows a widow who discovers ten letters prepared by her late husband to ease her grief. This emotional journey, released in 2007 and rated 3.7, offers a moving ode to love's resilience and the enduring bond beyond physical presence.

An extraordinary tale crafted around a man aging backward, this 2008 film uncovers the unique layers of love between Benjamin and Daisy. With every encounter, they highlight life’s fleeting nature, complemented by a solid rating of 4. A cinematic wonder that's strange yet inspiring.

This 2016 modern-day musical follows two dreamers whose passion for music and acting draw them together. As their individual successes mount, maintaining the delicate balance of love becomes tenuous. With a rating of 3.9, La La Land captures the bittersweet reality of dreams that may not converge as planned.

In 2007, an adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel presented the collateral damage of a young girl's unfounded accusations. With devastatingly crafted scenes that earned a rating of 3.8, Atonement draws audiences into the irrevocable impacts of accusation and remorse.

A love story overshadowed by societal norms and personal obligations, this 2005 film beautifully presents the emotional intricacies of love between two cowboys. Its introspective look at genuine bonds back then gives it a solid rating of 3.6. Endearing yet heartbreaking, it leaves an indelible mark.

Landon and Jamie, two high school students from different worlds, discover unexpected love's power. However, Jamie harbors a life-changing secret. Released in 2002, this cherished film with a rating of 3.9 shows that sometimes, love is about the things we don’t say. A classic exploration of youthful love's innocence and tragedy.