The Best Movies About Rekindled Romance

Ranker Film
Updated April 4, 2024 57.5K views 51 items
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Vote up your favorite films where an old flame is reignited.
Latest additions: Band Aid, Art of Love, Choose Love
Most divisive: Moonlight
Over 300 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About Rekindled Romance

Is there anything better than a rekindled romance in movies? Whether it's by war, jealousy, deception or simply bad luck, we all respond to the tragedy of a romance cut short. Whether it's in real life or the movies, we mourn for the beautiful love that could have been.

Every once in a while, though, we get a second chance. The top movies on this rekindled romance movie list prove that it's never too late to be with that perfect person. Whether you're separated by distance or, as in Lake House, by time, there's always hope that you'll be reunited.

The characters in this list of the best rekindled romance movies find their love again in different ways. Sometimes they've been searching for them for years, sometimes they find them by accident. Not all of these stories end well. Whether it's a movie about reuniting ex lovers or rekindling any kind of lost love, there's something here for everyone.

So vote for the greatest rekindled romance movies and don't forget to add anything that's missing!

  • The Notebook
    1
    Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner
    199 votes

    Starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as Noah and Allie, The Notebook beautifully recaptures a heartwarming tale of young love that is tragically disrupted, only for the flame to be reignited years later. Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel, the movie's tear-jerking narrative and powerful performances earned it numerous accolades. The scene where Noah rowing Allie through a lake filled with swans destined to become iconic in the pantheon of romantic imagery.

  • The Princess Bride
    2
    Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin
    88 votes

    The Princess Bride, a fairytale classic brimming with charm and enchantment, chronicles the reestablished bond between Westley (Cary Elwes) and Buttercup (Robin Wright). Their adventurous journey to reclaim their lost love gracefully blends romance, wit, and delightful fantasy, evoking a cinematic experience that transcends generations. As the film's mantra proclaims, "As you wish," the intricate storytelling and enchanting love story keep viewers glued to the screen.

  • Casablanca
    3
    Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
    78 votes

    Casablanca, the quintessential film about rekindled romance, showcases the enthralling chemistry between the brooding, enigmatic Rick (Humphrey Bogart) and the captivatingly beautiful Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) amidst their reunion in a tumultuous world. In this Oscar-winning work, director Michael Curtiz masterfully weaves themes of love, sacrifice, and wartime intrigue into an indelible tapestry that continues to enchant generations of moviegoers. The nostalgia-inspiring piano tune as Sam plays "As Time Goes By" cultivates an exquisite ambiance, fostering an impeccable cinematic experience that transcends time.

  • Serendipity
    4
    John Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Molly Shannon
    92 votes

    Serendipity, indulging in the delightful concept of fate, narrates the entrancing story of star-crossed lovers, Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale), determined to reunite against all odds. The enchanting essence of New York City during Christmastime interweaves with the film's mystique, setting the stage for an unforgettable love affair. Serendipity, with the perfect balance of fate, serendipitous moments, and passionate performances from the leads, thrusts the audience into an irresistible whirlwind of rekindled emotions.

  • Sweet Home Alabama
    5
    Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey
    101 votes

    Sweet Home Alabama, starring Reese Witherspoon and Josh Lucas, embarks on a charming passage through the lives of Melanie and Jake, whose turbulent past gradually transitions into an extraordinary chance at rekindling their love despite the passing years. A skillful blend of laughter, emotion, and swoon-worthy moments, this warmly-received romantic comedy persuasively captures the tender allure of mending once-broken bridges. The film's magic lies in embracing its delightful Southern roots, embracing a feel-good quality that barrels into the hearts of its audience.

  • Grosse Pointe Blank
    6
    John Cusack, Minnie Driver, Dan Aykroyd
    21 votes

    Grosse Pointe Blank's unique take on rekindled romance enlivens viewers with its quirky blend of comedy, action, and emotions. John Cusack and Minnie Driver's inexplicable charm as Martin and Debi reconnecting amidst the chaos of a high school reunion enthralls audiences, whilst simultaneously grounding the film in a sense of nostalgia. The unparalleled wit and unforgettable soundtrack culminate in a magnetic experience that demands multiple viewings.

  • Before Sunset
    7
    Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Vernon Dobtcheff
    58 votes

    Before Sunset, the stellar follow-up to Before Sunrise, reunites audiences with the beloved characters of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy) as they rekindle their once-in-a-lifetime connection nine years later. The film's philosophical conversations, combined with the raw chemistry between the actors, garnered critical acclaim and bestowed the screenplay accolades including an Academy Award nomination. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Paris, the film instills a timeless theme of star-crossed lovers separated by time and distance, only to find each other once more.

  • Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
    8
    Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Zhang Ziyi
    26 votes

    Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, a visually arresting masterpiece, artfully interweaves a deeply moving story of rekindled love into its martial arts tapestry. Ang Lee's direction, coupled with the poignant chemistry between Chow Yun-Fat and Michelle Yeoh's characters, elevates this high-intensity, award-winning film to a memorable exploration of lost love rediscovered. Winner of multiple Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film, the film showcases a spellbinding saga that spans the globe, traversing generations and redefining romance.

  • 13 Going on 30
    9
    Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo, Judy Greer
    64 votes

    Flitting through the enchanting story of Jenna, an unsatisfied preteen who wakes up as her thriving 30-year-old self (Jennifer Garner) in 13 Going on 30, the film delves into the romantic serendipities she encounters while revisiting a buried connection with a childhood friend (Mark Ruffalo). A creative twist on the coming-of-age story, the film brims with nostalgia and charisma, masterfully capturing the nostalgic essence of revisited feelings. The intersection of past and present in this delightful romantic comedy leaves viewers with an invigorated appreciation for oft-ignored childhood romances.

  • The Way We Were
    10
    Barbra Streisand, Robert Redford, Bradford Dillman
    29 votes

    The Way We Were, led by the magnetic pairing of Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford, unravels a bittersweet tale of smoldering passions, clashing ideals, and the ultimate rekindling of a once-in-a-lifetime romance. This highly acclaimed film showcases impeccable direction from Sydney Pollack that culminates in a resonant exploration of love, politics, and personal growth. Laden with an unforgettable, Academy Award-winning theme song, the film sears itself into the souls of audiences, igniting the fervor of emotional nostalgia.

  • The Best of Me
    11
    Michelle Monaghan, James Marsden, Luke Bracey
    36 votes

    The Best of Me, a Nicholas Sparks adaptation, explores the reconnection of high school sweethearts Dawson and Amanda (James Marsden and Michelle Monaghan), allowing fate to intertwine their lives once again. Parallel narratives unveil their troubled pasts and reveal an unyielding, true love that spans decades, evoking a sense of wistfulness, hope, and wonder. The engaging performances of the lead actors propel an otherwise familiar plot into an arresting portrait of enduring romance.

  • The Lake House
    12
    Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Shohreh Aghdashloo
    55 votes

    The Lake House, a love story that defies time and reason, transcends the ordinary as viewers sail through the captivating narrative of separated lovers (played by Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock). The imaginative premise, rooted in the epistolary exchanges between the protagonists, renders this film a heartwarming, bittersweet tale infused with an element of magical realism. Waves of emotion crash like the meandering lake, washing ashore a story that encompasses resilience, romance, and the potency of love conquering time.

  • Ghost
    13
    Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg
    53 votes

    Ghost, a unique fusion of romance, drama, and supernatural intrigue, delves into the heart-stirring journey of a deceased Sam (Patrick Swayze) and his living beloved, Molly (Demi Moore), as they endeavor to reconnect in the face of harrowing obstacles. This Academy Award-winning film profoundly resonates with audiences through a potent depiction of enduring love transcending death's boundaries. The iconic pottery scene and heartfelt performances immortalize Ghost as a cherished cinematic treasure, reawakening the inexhaustible power of eternal love.

  • Atonement
    14
    James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Romola Garai
    47 votes

    Based on Ian McEwan's novel, Atonement ventures into the deeply tragic yet hopeful tale of Robbie (James McAvoy) and Cecilia (Keira Knightley), who despite suffering the wrath of fate and circumstance, seek to rekindle their love amid the devastation of World War II. The transformative journey from a privileged existence to the horrors of the battlefield expertly highlights the overpowering force of their connection. Joe Wright's impassioned direction, accompanied by the film's multiple Oscar nominations, conveys an unforgettable romance that nestles into an exquisitely tragic tableau.

  • Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
    15
    Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman
    34 votes

    Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark enthralls the audience with an action-packed adventure that deftly kindles the smoldering romance between Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) and Marion Ravenwood (Karen Allen). Amid the relentless pursuit of ancient relics and daring exploits rests the irresistible charm and chemistry that reunites the duo despite their fractured past. The marriage of a swashbuckling escapade with bittersweet love stokes the fires of the heart, leaving one yearning for a love so intrepid and unyielding.

  • The Parent Trap
    16
    Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson
    45 votes

    The Parent Trap, a beloved family film, thrusts two long-lost sisters into a whirlwind of antics, as they yearn to reunite their estranged parents, Elizabeth and Nick (Natasha Richardson and Dennis Quaid). With a sweet, vivacious energy brought to life by a young Lindsay Lohan, the film playfully intertwines themes of rekindled romance, sibling bonds, and the strength of familial love. With a concoction of hilarity, nostalgia, and feel-good warmth, The Parent Trap establishes itself as a cornerstone of romantic reconnections and cherished memories for generations of viewers.

  • Brooklyn
    17
    Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen
    28 votes

    Brooklyn, an engrossing tale of young love starring the phenomenal Saoirse Ronan as Eilis, tells the story of an Irish immigrant torn between the warmth of her homeland and the uncharted territory of her new life in America after rekindling a romance with an old flame. The movie's spellbinding charm, grandiose cinematography, and compelling screenplay garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. Amid the panorama of 1950s Brooklyn, the film astutely showcases Eilis's internal struggle and steadfast love as she navigates the realms of loyalty, passion, and self-discovery.

  • Dear John
    18
    Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins
    35 votes

    Dear John, adapted from Nicholas Sparks' best-selling novel, presents the tempestuous, turbulent tale of a soldier, John (Channing Tatum), and his sweetheart, Savannah (Amanda Seyfried), as they persevere to rekindle their passion despite distance, danger, and time. Enriched with compelling performances and a heartrending narrative, the film envelopes viewers in a warm embrace of long-distance love and second chances. Undoubtedly, the movie's lyrical tone and mesmerizing chemistry create a poignant, heartrending journey that leaves viewers pining for their own long-lost loves.

  • Ticket to Paradise
    19
    George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Kaitlyn Dever
    15 votes

    Ticket to Paradise stars George Clooney and Julia Roberts as a divorced couple who find themselves thrown together again while trying to protect their children from making the same mistakes. The duo's sizzling on-screen chemistry and undeniable talent deliver a fresh breath of romantic air, reminiscent of their love in the classic film Ocean's Eleven. Hailed as a modern classic by critics, the movie showcases the wonders of rekindling love despite the passage of time and previous heartbreaks.

  • The Great Gatsby
    20
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan
    27 votes

    The Great Gatsby, the cinematic adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's literary masterpiece, thrives on the electric chemistry between Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his once-lost love, Daisy Buchanan (Carey Mulligan). Set against the opulent backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, director Baz Luhrmann ensures that the flickering embers of Gatsby and Daisy's past passion turn into a roaring blaze, leaving moviegoers with a story that they will never forget. The film earned accolades including Academy Awards for its extravagant production design and costume design, which contribute to a sensuous, immersive experience of rekindled romance.

  • Same Time, Next Year
    21
    Ellen Burstyn, Alan Alda, Ivan Bonar
    16 votes

    Same Time, Next Year, the engaging cinematic adaptation of Bernard Slade's celebrated play, invites audiences to indulge in the bittersweet journey of Doris (Ellen Burstyn) and George (Alan Alda), a pair of lovers committed to meeting on an annual basis despite their separate marriages. As the years pass and their encounters continue, the tender warmth of their rekindled connection demonstrates the potent allure of love that transcends time and the confines of societal norms. The film's sincere performances, particularly Burstyn's Academy Award-nominated portrayal, evoke the delicate balance between love, loyalty, and understanding in this heartfelt tale of reawakening passion.

  • It's Complicated
    22
    Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin
    36 votes

    In It's Complicated, the spark of love fizzles and crackles, as Meryl Streep's Jane and Alec Baldwin's Jake, a divorced couple, embark on a sensational escapade that playfully resurrects their dormant passion. As they tiptoe through the intricacies of rediscovered love and the emotional turmoil of adult children ensnared in their parents' liaison, this film weaves an irresistible web of laughter, heartfelt insight, and genuine connection that keeps the audience glued to the screen. Nancy Meyers' comedic prowess creates a delightful mise-en-scène, inviting viewers to reflect on the timelessness of love and its potential to blossom anew.

  • Begin Again
    23
    Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Hailee Steinfeld
    24 votes

    Begin Again, gracefully balancing the heartache of love lost with the promise of a new beginning, demonstrates the transcendent beauty of two shattered souls who, through music, rediscover the indomitable power of love. Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo deliver stunning performances as their extraordinary kinship transforms to an unexpected friendship that breathes life into their weary hearts. Filled with a soul-stirring soundtrack, this enchanting film resonates deeply with audiences searching for a tender love tale with a gentle, refreshing touch.

  • The Time Traveler's Wife
    24
    Rachel McAdams, Eric Bana, Arliss Howard
    33 votes

    The Time Traveler's Wife, based on the best-selling novel, sways the viewers gently into an ethereal world where fate, love, and time intertwine to create a captivating tale of rekindled romance. Rachel McAdams and Eric Bana's arresting performances lead us on a labyrinthine journey through the tempests of time, offering moments of tender reunions in the chaos of their seemingly impossible love story. Aided by the sweeping intensity of its central relationship and unique premise, the film nestles itself in the hearts of audiences, inspiring reverence for soulmates destined to transcend time's boundaries.

  • Pearl Harbor
    25
    Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale
    27 votes

    Pearl Harbor, the stirring romance set amid war's fury, showcases an enthralling chemistry between Rafe (Ben Affleck) and Evelyn (Kate Beckinsale) as they endure heartbreak, longing, and a passionate rekindling in the face of adversity. Tapping into the unapologetic grandiosity of filmmaker Michael Bay, the film exhibits sweeping emotional depths and evocative war-time backdrops, guiding audiences through a world of impassioned serenades ignited by the turbulence of sacrifice. A lush romantic canvas, Pearl Harbor captures the essence of reuniting, healing, and rediscovering love while navigating the treacherous terrain of a world at war.

  • Disobedience
    26

    Disobedience

    Rachel Weisz, Rachel McAdams, Alessandro Nivola
    13 votes

    Disobedience, a deeply moving exploration of forbidden love, dives into the reunion of the passionate Ronit (Rachel Weisz) and the dutiful Esti (Rachel McAdams) as they rekindle their clandestine romance within a tight-knit Orthodox Jewish community. Director Sebastián Lelio's evocative rendering of reawakened longings pushes the boundaries of societal restrictions, shining a light on the transformative and exhilarating power of love. The intimate, raw performances from the lead actresses pave the way for an unforgettable cinematic experience that pays tribute to the audacious and resilient nature of the human heart.

  • Scream 3
    27
    David Arquette, Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox
    8 votes

    Scream 3, a phenomenal fusion of horror and romance, delves into the unexpected revival of affections between Courteney Cox and David Arquette's characters, Gale Weathers and Dewey Riley. As the Ghostface killer resurfaces, their hearts too become resurrected, interlacing terror and emotional intensity within each thrilling scene. This captivating concoction of rekindled love amidst a spine-chilling premise undoubtedly cements Scream 3's legacy as an unconventional portrayal of reawakened passion, worthy of recognition within the successful film franchise.

  • Love Actually
    28
    Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
    17 votes

    Love Actually, a tapestry of interwoven romances warmed with the festive spirit of the holiday season, captivates viewers with the touching tale of Karen (Emma Thompson) and Harry (Alan Rickman) as they navigate the challenges of their strained marriage. Laden with heartfelt humor and genuine moments of vulnerability, this film delves into the complexities of healing and rediscovering love. Richard Curtis' masterful storytelling transforms Love Actually into a modern classic brimming with hope, human connection, and the resuscitative power of unwavering devotion.

  • Like Crazy
    29
    Anton Yelchin, Felicity Jones, Jennifer Lawrence
    27 votes

    Like Crazy, a powerful and deeply emotional narrative, follows the arduous journey of Jacob (Anton Yelchin) and Anna (Felicity Jones), two star-crossed lovers grappling with an ocean of distance, visa issues, and the pressures of their diverging lives. Deemed a romantic triumph for its raw authenticity, this award-winning film captivates audiences with its haunting portrayal of love amidst insurmountable obstacles. Through heartrending moments of sepia-toned yearning and unapologetically honest confrontations, Like Crazy leaves an indelible imprint on the collective heart of its audience.

  • Just Friends
    30
    Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, Anna Faris
    19 votes

    Just Friends delights as it wittily navigates the rekindling of a romance once confined to the friend zone through the comic talents of Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart. As their characters, Chris and Jamie—an awkwardly affectionate teenager and his crush—mature into adulthood, they stumble upon each other yet again, unexpectedly sparking a renewed connection steeped in nostalgia and buried desires. The film's rich blend of humor, sentimentality, and feel-good reminiscence has endeared it to audiences seeking a heartwarming, laughter-filled ode to reignited romance.