30 Overrated Romantic Movies Everyone Seems To Like

Romantic movies often captivate audiences worldwide with beautiful music and idealized love stories. While many become classics, some viewers think certain popular films are overrated. This list looks at several well-known romantic movies that people debate – questioning whether they truly deserve their reputation and how well their stories are told. From grand historical dramas to contemporary teen romances, these are some of the most talked-about films in the genre.

‘Titanic’ (1997)

In the movie ‘Titanic’, Rose DeWitt Bukater, a young woman from a wealthy family, falls in love with Jack Dawson, a poor artist. Their passionate romance unfolds as the ship heads towards a dangerous iceberg. Directed by James Cameron, this blockbuster film won eleven Oscars and became one of the highest-grossing movies of all time. While the film is known for its stunning visuals and effects, some viewers find the love story itself to be a bit too emotional.

‘The Notebook’ (2004)

‘The Notebook’ tells the love story of a working-class man and a rich woman who meet one summer in North Carolina. An elderly man reads their story, taken from a notebook, to a friend in a nursing home. The movie became incredibly popular, largely due to the strong connection between stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. However, some critics note that the plot uses familiar romantic clichés and relies on unlikely events to keep the story going.

‘About Time’ (2013)

In the movie ‘About Time’, Tim Lake learns at 21 that he comes from a family with the power to travel through time. He uses this ability to try and find love with a woman named Mary. The film looks at what happens as a result of his actions and highlights the value of appreciating every day. Some viewers have noted that the rules of time travel in the movie aren’t always consistent and mostly exist to create romantic scenes.

‘(500) Days of Summer’ (2009)

In the film ‘500 Days of Summer,’ Tom Hansen looks back on his relationship with Summer Finn, who doesn’t believe in love that lasts forever. The movie tells their story out of order, showing the ups and downs of their connection and how it eventually ended. It’s become popular with audiences because it doesn’t follow the usual romantic comedy formula. However, some viewers feel that Tom doesn’t always respect Summer’s limits and boundaries during their time together.

‘The Fault in Our Stars’ (2014)

‘The Fault in Our Stars’ follows two teenagers battling cancer who connect at a support group and decide to travel to Amsterdam together. The film powerfully portrays the deep emotions of first love against the backdrop of serious illness. Based on the bestselling novel by John Green, it was a huge hit with audiences. Some critics, however, have pointed out that the characters sometimes speak in a way that doesn’t quite sound like typical teenagers – the dialogue can feel a bit too thoughtful and sophisticated.

‘Silver Linings Playbook’ (2012)

‘Silver Linings Playbook’ tells the story of a man with bipolar disorder who returns home to live with his parents and attempts to win back his ex-wife. He forms an unlikely connection with a young widow who proposes they partner up for a dance competition, hoping it will help them both. The film was widely praised for its acting and realistic portrayal of mental health, though some viewers felt the ultimately romantic ending didn’t fully address the difficult emotional challenges presented throughout the story.

‘Love Actually’ (2003)

‘Love Actually’ is a heartwarming film that tells the stories of eight couples in London during the busy weeks leading up to Christmas. It explores different kinds of love against a cheerful holiday backdrop and has become a beloved tradition for many viewers. While popular, some people find certain storylines a bit too sentimental or even troublesome.

‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ (1961)

‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ tells the story of Holly Golightly, a stylish New Yorker, and her connection with a new neighbor. The movie is well-known for Audrey Hepburn’s performance and its memorable fashion. It’s considered a classic romantic comedy that has inspired many films since. However, some modern audiences find the way certain characters are portrayed to be outdated and problematic.

‘Me Before You’ (2016)

‘Me Before You’ tells the story of Louisa Clark, who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy banker left paralyzed after an accident. As they spend time together, their relationship evolves from awkwardness into a strong connection that impacts both of their lives. The film explores difficult questions about disability, personal freedom, and the choices people make, but it also received criticism from disability advocates who disagreed with how it depicted the main character’s final decision.

‘Say Anything…’ (1989)

In the movie ‘Say Anything…’, Lloyd Dobler tries to win over Diane Court, the top student in their graduating class. The film is famous for the scene where Lloyd holds a boombox above his head, and it’s often remembered as a classic teen romance. However, some viewers and critics think the relationship between the characters is more obsessive than romantic.

‘Jerry Maguire’ (1996)

The film ‘Jerry Maguire’ centers around a sports agent who has a change of heart and loses his job. The movie depicts his journey to start over, both professionally and personally, as he develops a relationship with the one coworker who remained supportive. Over the years, it’s become known for its memorable lines. Some viewers, however, believe the love story doesn’t quite fit with the main focus on the agent’s career and feels a little unnatural.

‘A Walk to Remember’ (2002)

I absolutely adore ‘A Walk to Remember’! It’s such a sweet story about a popular guy at school who unexpectedly gets involved in the school play and ends up falling for the minister’s daughter. It’s a beautiful romance, but things get really tough when he finds out she’s been keeping a secret about her health. Knowing it’s based on a Nicholas Sparks novel, I went in expecting to feel something, and it definitely delivered! Though, I have to admit, some of the plot twists felt a little predictable – it’s pretty clear where the story is going, but it still manages to pull at your heartstrings.

‘Grease’ (1978)

‘Grease’ tells the story of Sandy and Danny, who fall in love over the summer, only to discover they go to the same high school. The movie captures the challenges of being a teenager in the late 1950s, focusing on fitting in with different social circles. It’s famous for its catchy songs and lively dance numbers, which are still enjoyed by many. However, some viewers today debate the ending, as the main female character dramatically changes herself to win the affection of the male lead.

‘Notting Hill’ (1999)

‘Notting Hill’ tells the story of a bookstore owner whose life is turned upside down when he falls for a hugely famous movie star. The film explores the challenges they face as their very different worlds collide, and how they cope with her public image. It’s beloved for its heartwarming story and the chemistry between Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. However, some critics feel the plot relies too much on a wishful fantasy and doesn’t feel entirely realistic.

‘Pretty Woman’ (1990)

‘Pretty Woman’ tells the story of a successful businessman who hires a woman to be his companion for a week of events in Los Angeles. As they spend time together, they form a surprising connection that makes them both question their beliefs about life and love. The movie was a huge success in theaters and made Julia Roberts a worldwide star. While it’s a classic fairytale, some people note that the film romanticizes a challenging and often difficult job.

‘Ghost’ (1990)

In the movie ‘Ghost’, Sam Wheat is killed during a robbery but stays behind as a ghost to watch over his girlfriend. Unable to directly communicate, he seeks help from a psychic to uncover the truth about his murder. The film was a huge success, blending love story elements with the supernatural. However, some audiences feel the combination of genres doesn’t always work perfectly, and the romantic parts haven’t aged particularly well.

‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ (1994)

Okay, so ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ is a charming British comedy that really took everyone by surprise. It follows a group of friends stumbling through life, love, and a whole lot of social events – weddings, naturally, and, well, a funeral. The movie centers on Charles and this American woman, Carrie, who keep bumping into each other. It’s a fun watch, and it got a lot of attention, racking up award nominations. Though, I have to admit, some critics – and I kind of agree – felt the spark between the leads wasn’t quite strong enough to fully sell their big romance. Still, it’s a delightful film!

‘Dirty Dancing’ (1987)

In the movie ‘Dirty Dancing,’ Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman experiences a summer romance with dance instructor Johnny Castle while on vacation. The film uses dance to tell a story about growing up and the differences between social classes. It’s well-known for its memorable music and the iconic final dance. However, some viewers find the storyline somewhat familiar, as it follows common patterns seen in many teen films.

‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ (2018)

I absolutely adored ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’! It’s about Lara Jean, and her world turns upside down when all these private letters she wrote to her crushes get accidentally mailed out. To complicate things, she ends up pretending to date one guy to hide her feelings for another. Honestly, I think this movie really brought back the fun, classic teen rom-com, especially on streaming. Though, I’ve heard some people say the ending felt a little too neat and was definitely geared towards a younger audience, but I didn’t mind it at all!

‘P.S. I Love You’ (2007)

The movie ‘P.S. I Love You’ tells the story of a woman grieving her husband’s death, who finds a series of letters he wrote before he died. These letters are meant to help her heal and encourage her to try new things. While the film aims to be a moving portrayal of grief and recovery, some viewers find it too lengthy and feel it relies too heavily on emotional appeals to move the story forward.

‘The Holiday’ (2006)

In the movie ‘The Holiday,’ two women trade homes for the Christmas season, hoping for a fresh start after difficult breakups. While living in each other’s countries, they both unexpectedly fall in love. The film is known for being warm and inviting, with a likeable cast. However, some critics point out that the story is fairly simple and uses common clichés about the cultures depicted.

‘Sleepless in Seattle’ (1993)

In the movie ‘Sleepless in Seattle’, a boy tries to help his recently widowed father find love by calling a radio show. A woman across the country hears the broadcast and feels drawn to the father, even though she’s already engaged. The film is inspired by older movies and explores whether fate brings people together. However, some viewers feel it’s slow-paced because the main characters don’t meet or interact for much of the story.

‘Serendipity’ (2001)

‘Serendipity’ tells the story of two people who meet by chance in New York City and playfully decide to see if destiny will bring them together. The film follows their years-long journey, filled with close calls and lucky coincidences, as they search for each other. It’s a romantic story about soulmates and fate, though some critics feel the characters act illogically, letting the idea of destiny overshadow practical considerations.

‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’ (2003)

The movie ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’ follows an advice columnist who tries to get rid of a man, all while he’s secretly trying to make her fall in love with him. Both are working with hidden agendas, leading to a lot of funny moments. However, some viewers think the story’s foundation—based on deception—makes the eventual romance feel forced and unbelievable.

‘Dear John’ (2010)

‘Dear John’ tells the story of a soldier who falls for a college student during his leave. They stay connected by writing letters to each other while he’s stationed overseas for years. The movie examines the challenges of loving someone from a distance and how military duty can affect relationships. While popular, some reviewers feel the ending isn’t very fulfilling and the plot is similar to other films adapted from Nicholas Sparks novels.

‘Sweet Home Alabama’ (2002)

In ‘Sweet Home Alabama’, a New York fashion designer goes back to her small hometown to finalize her divorce. While there, she reconnects with her past and struggles to balance her old life with her current engagement to a wealthy man. The film highlights the differences between the simplicity of small-town life and the excitement of big-city dreams. Some viewers believe the main character makes an unjust decision regarding the man who helped build her career.

‘The Kissing Booth’ (2018)

In the Netflix movie ‘The Kissing Booth’, Elle Evans falls for her best friend’s older brother, creating drama and testing the boundaries of their friendship. The film was very popular, leading to multiple sequels, but it has also received criticism for showing a relationship that some viewers found controlling and unhealthy.

‘Twilight’ (2008)

‘Twilight’ tells the story of Bella Swan, who relocates to a quiet town and begins a romance with a secretive classmate who turns out to be a vampire. Their love is complicated by dangers from other supernatural creatures and the difficulties of being so different. The movie became incredibly popular with teens worldwide, sparking a huge franchise, though some critics have noted that the characters aren’t fully developed and the relationship feels overly intense and even problematic.

‘After’ (2019)

‘After’ follows Tessa Young, a focused college student, whose world is turned upside down when she meets a brooding and rebellious new guy. The movie portrays their passionate but rocky relationship as they deal with the ups and downs of university life. While based on a beloved book series, the film has received some criticism for showing an unhealthy dynamic between the main characters. Some viewers enjoy the drama, but others feel the storyline becomes predictable.

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ (2015)

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ tells the story of a young college graduate who becomes involved with a much older, wealthy man. The film delves into themes of power and emotional connection in their relationship. While based on the hugely popular books by E L James and a box office hit, many viewers and critics felt the movie lacked spark between the main actors and featured awkward conversations.

Share your thoughts on which romantic films you find the most overrated in the comments.

2025-12-31 05:18