Even though Valentine's Day has passed, romantic films remain an ideal choice for those who want stories different from the classic clichés of love.
The BBC has selected 12 alternative romantic films – from touching animations to dark dramas and unconventional romances – that are worth watching at any time.
Up (2009) - Screenshot/BBC
Up (2009)
The love story between Carl and Ellie, told in the film's opening minutes, is one of the most touching moments in animation. Although the film continues with adventure and humor, it is the couple's shared dreams and their loss that give "Up" a rare romantic depth. Michael Giacchino's "Married Life" score only reinforces this feeling.
St. Elmo's Fire (1985) - Screenshot/BBC
St. Elmo's Fire (1985)
John Hughes' film deals with the growing up and complicated relationships of a group of young people. Kevin's love for Leslie, although unrequited and toxic, is seen as an idealistic form of romance that remains unforgettable for many viewers.
Thirst (2009) - Screenshot/BBC
Thirst (2009)
Director Park Chan-wook brings a dark and obsessive story between a priest turned vampire and a woman seeking freedom. The film explores desire, passion and moral boundaries, turning romance into a terrifying and fascinating experience.
Red, White & Royal Blue (2023) - Screenshot/BBC
Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)
Based on the novel by Casey McQuiston, the film tells the story of the secret romance between a British prince and the son of the American president. Despite the comic tones and exaggerated politics, the chemistry between the protagonists makes the story touching and entertaining.
Sanctuary (2022) - Screenshot/BBC
sanctuary (2022)
A psychological thriller set primarily in a hotel room, where a wealthy young man tries to end his relationship with a dominant woman. The film explores power dynamics, love, and the boundary between play and reality.
The Addams Family (1991) - Screenshot/BBC
The Addams Family (1991)
Unlike most romantic films, this one focuses on a married couple. Morticia and Gomez are the epitome of a passionate and unwavering love, despite their strange and dark world.
La ardilla roja (1993) - Screenshot/BBC
The Red Squirrel (1993)
A chaotic and dangerous love story between two strangers, where an accident, amnesia and obsession create an intense and unstable, yet fascinating connection.
Julie & Julia (2009) - Screenshot/BBC
Julie & Julia (2009)
A sweet and unconventional story about inspiration, passion and connection between two women through cooking. The film explores the idea of love for a role model that can change lives.
WALL-E (2008) - Screenshot/BBC
WALL-E (2008)
On a post-apocalyptic Earth, the robot WALL-E falls in love with EVE, creating one of the sweetest and most unusual romances in animation, where a simple gesture like holding hands takes on great emotional meaning.
Human Traffic (1999) - Screenshot/BBC
Human Trafficking (1999)
A British comedy about youth and rave culture, where amidst the chaos and parties an unexpected love story arises between two friends, making the film an ode to friendship and sincere feelings.
Sing Street (2016) - Screenshot/BBC
Sing Street (2016)
A teenage story about music, dreams and love, where a boy forms a rock band to win a girl's heart, turning romance into artistic inspiration.
The Blond One (2019) - Screenshot/BBC
The Blond One (2019)
The Argentine film explores sexual tension, identity, and hidden feelings between two men, treating love as a complex and emotionally profound process.
These films show that love can take different, often unexpected, forms, and always remain inspiring for all viewers. /Telegraph/
