The 8 Best Romantic Movies on Netflix for When You Want to Stay In

Whether you're looking for an activity for an at-home Good date night Movie or are just watching solo, Netflix has every flavor of romance you could ask for. The only problem is sifting through all the choices. These are the current best romantic movies on Netflix to watch in 2023. Some of them are funny rom-com — and there are even a few in a genre that Netflix perfected, if not pioneered: the romantic-comedy franchise, with two, three, and sometimes four films in a series. Others are more straight-faced and serious, with dire circumstances keeping lovers apart.

Here are some popular romantic movies on Netflix that you might enjoy:

To All the Boys I've Loved Before

"To All the Boys I've Loved Before" is a popular romantic comedy movie on Netflix, based on the novel of the same name by Jenny Han. The story follows a high school junior named Lara Jean Covey, who writes secret love letters to all of her crushes but never intends to send them. However, her life turns upside down when the letters are accidentally sent out, and her crushes confront her about them.

The movie features a charming performance by the lead actress, Lana Condor, and a heartwarming love story between Lara Jean and one of her former crushes, Peter Kavinsky, played by Noah Centineo. It also explores themes of family, friendship, and growing up.

"To All the Boys I've Loved Before" has been praised for its diverse cast and for capturing the excitement and awkwardness of first love. It was so successful that it spawned two sequels, "To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You" and "To All the Boys: Always and Forever", which continue Lara Jean and Peter's love story as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship.

The Kissing Booth

"The Kissing Booth" is a popular romantic comedy movie on Netflix, based on the novel of the same name by Beth Reekles. The story follows a high school student named Elle Evans, who decides to run a kissing booth at her school's spring carnival with her best friend Lee Flynn. But when Elle kisses Lee's older brother Noah, who she has had a crush on for years, their lives are turned upside down.

The movie features a charming performance by Joey King as Elle and a swoon-worthy performance by Jacob Elordi as Noah. It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and first love.

"The Kissing Booth" has been praised for its fun and lighthearted tone, and for capturing the excitement and drama of high school romance. It was so successful that it spawned two sequels, "The Kissing Booth 2" and "The Kissing Booth 3", which continue Elle and Noah's love story as they navigate the challenges of long-distance relationships and college.

Always Be My Maybe

"Always Be My Maybe" is a popular romantic comedy movie on Netflix, directed by Nahnatchka Khan and written by Ali Wong, Randall Park, and Michael Golamco. The story follows childhood friends Sasha Tran and Marcus Kim, who reconnect after years apart and begin to realize that they may have romantic feelings for each other.

The movie features a standout performance by Ali Wong as Sasha and a hilarious and heartfelt performance by Randall Park as Marcus. It also features a memorable cameo by Keanu Reeves as a fictionalized version of himself.

"Always Be My Maybe" has been praised for its witty writing, charming performances, and for breaking down stereotypes about Asian Americans in mainstream media. It explores themes of identity, ambition, and the complications of love.

The Half of It

"The Half of It" is a popular coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama movie on Netflix, written and directed by Alice Wu. The story follows a high school student named Ellie Chu, who agrees to help a jock named Paul Munsky write love letters to his crush, Aster Flores. As Ellie and Paul become closer through their collaboration, Ellie begins to realize that she has feelings for Aster as well.

The movie features a standout performance by Leah Lewis as Ellie and a charming performance by Daniel Diemer as Paul. It explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of teenage relationships.

"The Half of It" has been praised for its clever writing, poignant themes, and for its refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre. It also serves as a celebration of diversity and inclusion in storytelling.

The Notebook

"The Notebook" is a classic romantic drama movie, directed by Nick Cassavetes and based on the novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. The story follows a young couple, Noah Calhoun and Allie Hamilton, who fall in love during the summer of 1940. However, their relationship is tested when Allie's wealthy parents disapprove of Noah, and they are forced to separate. The movie alternates between flashbacks of their early romance and the present day, where an elderly Noah is reading to a dementia-stricken Allie in a nursing home.

The movie features standout performances by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as Noah and Allie, respectively, and has become a beloved classic in the romance genre. It explores themes of love, class differences, and the enduring power of memories.

"The Notebook" has been praised for its beautiful cinematography, heartwarming story, and the chemistry between Gosling and McAdams. It has also been criticized for its sometimes over-the-top sentimentalism.

Silver Linings Playbook

"Silver Linings Playbook" is a romantic comedy-drama movie, directed by David O. Russell and based on the novel of the same name by Matthew Quick. The story follows Pat Solitano, a former teacher who is released from a mental institution and moves back in with his parents. Pat is determined to rebuild his life and reunite with his estranged wife, but his plans are complicated by his burgeoning relationship with a young widow named Tiffany, who is also struggling with her emotional issues.

The movie features standout performances by Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence as Pat and Tiffany, respectively, and has been praised for its honest portrayal of mental illness and its impact on relationships. It also explores themes of family, love, and redemption.

"Silver Linings Playbook" has been widely acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, and was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning one for Jennifer Lawrence's performance. It is a touching and often humorous movie that celebrates the beauty and complexity of human relationships, and the importance of finding hope and joy in the face of adversity.

About Time

"About Time" is a romantic comedy-drama movie, written and directed by Richard Curtis. The story follows Tim Lake, a young man who discovers that he can time travel. He decides to use this newfound power to improve his love life and win the heart of Mary, a charming and quirky woman whom he meets by chance.

The movie features standout performances by Domhnall Gleeson as Tim and Rachel McAdams as Mary. It explores themes of love, family, and the fleeting nature of time.

"About Time" has been praised for its heartwarming story, witty dialogue, and for its unique take on the time travel genre. It also has a beautiful score composed by Nick Laird-Clowes.

A Star is Born

"A Star is Born" is a romantic musical drama movie, directed by Bradley Cooper, who also stars in the movie alongside Lady Gaga. The story follows Jackson Maine, a famous musician struggling with addiction and a declining career, who discovers and falls in love with a talented but unknown singer named Ally. As Ally's career begins to take off, Jackson's demons threaten to destroy their relationship and his own life.

The movie features standout performances by Cooper and Gaga, with original music composed for the movie that received critical acclaim. It explores themes of love, addiction, fame, and the sacrifices we make for the people we love. "A Star is Born" has been widely praised for its captivating performances, emotional storytelling, and its stunning music. The movie was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning one for Best Original Song for "Shallow".

Final Thought

Romantic movies can provide a welcome escape and offer a chance to experience the magic of love and human connection. Whether it's a classic love story or a modern take on the genre, the best romantic movies have the power to touch our hearts and remind us of the beauty and complexity of the human experience. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy one of these great romantic movies on Netflix for a perfect night in.