Premam (2015)
Director: Alphonse Puthren
Starring: Nivin Pauly, Sai Pallavi, Madonna Sebastian, and Anupama Parameswaran
“Premam” is a 2015 Malayalam language romantic-comedy film that follows the journey of a young man named George David as he experiences love at different stages of his life. The movie explores the themes of first love, heartbreak, and growing up through a series of lighthearted and humorous events. With its relatable storyline, charming characters, and memorable soundtrack, “Premam” has become a classic in Malayalam cinema and continues to be beloved by audiences.
The English Patient (1996)
Director: Anthony Minghella
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Juliette Binoche and Kristin Scott Thomas
“The English Patient” is a romantic war drama film that revolves around a severely burned and injured man, who is identified only as the English patient, and his memories of a passionate love affair with a married woman named Katharine, set against the backdrop of World War II. The film’s narrative unfolds in a series of flashbacks as the English patient, who is being cared for by a Canadian nurse, recounts his story to her. The film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actress.
Ved (2022)
Director: Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh
Starring: Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh, Genelia D’Souza, Jiya Shankar and Ashok Saraf
“Ved” is a 2022 Indian Marathi-language romantic drama film which follows Satya, a former cricket player, who is trying to overcome his past failures and move on in life. The movie unfolds the flashbacks where we get to see how young Satya’s life takes a turn when he falls in love with Nisha and how circumstances force them apart. Later, Satya marries Shravani but still carries a torch for Nisha. The film explores the complexities of relationships and how love can change people.
Silver Lining Playbook (2012)
Director: Alphonse Puthren
Starring: Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence
“Silver Lining Playbook” is a 2012 romantic comedy-drama film directed by David O. Russell. The film stars Bradley Cooper as Pat Solitano, a former high school teacher who meets Tiffany Maxwell after a stint in a mental institution, a young widow played by Jennifer Lawrence, who offers to help him win back his wife in exchange for her own favour. Despite their differing personalities and tumultuous pasts, Pat and Tiffany form an unlikely bond as they support each other through their struggles and find hope in the silver linings of their lives.
500 Days of Summer (2009)
Director: Marc Webb
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel
“500 Days of Summer” is a film with a non-linear narrative that follows the ups and downs of a romantic relationship between Tom Hansen, a hopeless romantic played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Summer Finn, a free-spirited woman played by Zooey Deschanel. The film spans the first 500 days of their relationship through flashbacks, flash-forwards, and dream sequences. The film explores the complexities of relationships and the bittersweet nature of love and heartbreak.
Call Me By Your Name (2017)
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Starring: Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer
“Call Me by Your Name” is a 2017 romantic coming-of-age film set in 1983 in Italy. The film follows 17-year-old Elio Perlman, who begins a summer romance with his father’s 24-year-old research assistant, Oliver. As the two spend time together, they explore their sexualities and develop a deep emotional connection. Despite the age difference and societal norms of the time, they ultimately fall in love. The film explores love, self-discovery, and heartbreak and is noted for its lush visuals and powerful performances by its leads.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” follows an introverted high school freshman named Charlie, who is struggling to adjust to the ups and downs of adolescence. He befriends two seniors, Sam and Patrick, who introduce him to the world of drugs, sex, and rock and roll. Along the way, Charlie learns to confront his personal demons, including his experiences with mental illness and abuse. The film delves into themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the complexities of growing up.
Definitely, Maybe (2008)
Director: Adam Brooks
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Abigail Breslin, Abigail Breslin and Rachel Weisz
“Definitely, Maybe” follows Will, a recently divorced father who is trying to explain his past romantic relationships to his young daughter, Maya. He changes the names of the women and tells Maya the story of how he met and fell in love with each of them. The film is set in New York City during the 1990s and received positive reviews for its humour, heartwarming story, and charming performances, particularly from Reynolds and the young actress Abigail Breslin, who plays Maya.
Dia (2020)
Director: K. S. Ashok
Starring: Kushee Ravi, Pruthvi Ambaar, and Dheekshith Shetty
“Dia” is a Kannada romantic drama film which revolves around Dia, a young introverted girl who is recovering from a traumatic incident in her past. She works at a coffee shop and spends most of her time writing poetry. Dia meets two men, Adi and Rohith, who fall in love with her. The film depicts the journey of Dia’s self-discovery and her relationships with Adi and Rohith. The film received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of relationships, strong performances, and its beautiful cinematography and music.
La La Land (2016)
Director: Damien Chazelle
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, and J.K. Simmons
“La La Land” is set in modern-day Los Angeles and follows the story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz pianist, who both dream of making it big in their respective industries. The film depicts their love story, the challenges they face in pursuing their passions, and their struggles to balance their relationship with their careers. The film received critical acclaim for its vibrant and stylised direction, creative choreography, and engaging story about pursuing dreams.