Cuffing season is here, and it will stay till the chilly winds of winter give way in February with Valentine’s Day. The grand success of films like See You on Venus on Netflix is proof of just that, so we understand if you are suddenly in the mood for romance in cinematic forms.
Love, in its various forms and expressions, is a universal theme that can transcend cultural boundaries. So it doesn’t matter if you want to experience vicariously through your screens centres around a couple soaking up the sun in the Italian countryside or dancing in the snows of Manali in the Indian subcontinent.
This weekend, indulge in the magic of love with our curated list of five essential romantic films on Netflix.
Whether you’re a fan of sweeping romances or nuanced character studies, this weekend’s binge-watch session promises to be a fun ride into the universal and timeless alleys of love.
Five essential films to binge on Netflix this weekend:
Roja (1992)
Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, Roja is a timeless classic that seamlessly blends romance with political intrigue. The film follows the journey of Roja, played by Madhoo, whose husband is kidnapped by terrorists.
As she undertakes a perilous quest to rescue her husband, the film intricately weaves a poignant love story amidst the backdrop of societal and political turmoil. Roja is celebrated as much for its story and sweepingly gorgeous cinematography as it is for its soul-stirring music.
La La Land (2016)
La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle, is a modern musical masterpiece that pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood while delivering a contemporary love story.
Starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, the film follows the passionate journey of Mia and Sebastian, aspiring artists living in Los Angeles. The film’s enchanting musical sequences, vibrant visuals, and heartfelt performances earned it critical acclaim and multiple Academy Awards, including that comic finale that will live rent-free in the minds of pop culture nerds for long. La La Land is an essential romantic film because of how it depicts the bittersweet reality of chasing dreams while navigating the complexities of life.
Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Set against the sun-soaked landscapes of Italy, Call Me by Your Name is a coming-of-age romance directed by Luca Guadagnino. The film explores the blossoming relationship between Elio, played by Timothée Chalamet, and Oliver, portrayed by Armie Hammer, during a summer in the 1980s.
The lush cinematography, evocative storytelling, and powerful performances make this film such a heartbreaking but necessary watch. Call Me by Your Name is a poignant exploration of first love and a celebration of self-discovery and acceptance, making it an essential addition to any romantic film binge-watch list.
Ammonite (2020)
Ammonite, directed by Francis Lee, is a historical romance that delves into the unconventional love story between palaeontologist Mary Anning, played by Kate Winslet, and Charlotte Murchison, portrayed by Saoirse Ronan.
Set against the rugged backdrop of the 19th-century English coastline, the film beautifully captures the complexities of desire and connection. Winslet and Ronan deliver tremendously moving performances, and Lee’s direction ensures that Ammonite is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant romantic film.
Love at First Sight (2023)
Love at First Sight is a delightful modern-day rom-com directed by Vanessa Caswill, based on Jennifer E. Smith’s novel. The film follows a charming chance encounter between Hadley and Oliver on a flight from New York to London. Their instant connection is tested when they lose each other at customs, setting the stage for a whimsical journey of chasing your love through the sinewy streets of London.
The film’s playful narrative and feel-good vibes make Love at First Sight a must-watch on Netflix.
