The 100+ Best Rated-R Romance Movies

Ranker Film
Updated May 2, 2024 454.9K views 119 items
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Vote up your favorite R-rated love stories.
Latest additions: The Idea of You, Challengers, The Tearsmith
Most divisive: Sex and the City
Over 2.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 100+ Best Rated-R Romance Movies

Discovering the finest R-rated romance films can be a delightful journey through both heartwarming rom-coms and intense romantic dramas. Our curated list is a result of TV enthusiasts coming together to rank and celebrate the very best in R-rated romance cinema. We've sifted through the vast landscape of romance movies, analyzing crowd rankings to definitively determine the ultimate R-rated romance movie.

As the world of cinema continually evolves, we keep this list up-to-date by adding newly released R-rated romance movies as they hit theaters or streaming services. Our commitment is to provide you with a comprehensive and dynamic resource for all your R-rated romance movie needs.

In this collection, you'll find R-rated romance films that strike a balance between tasteful, non-distracting nudity and captivating romantic narratives. We believe that a great R-rated romance movie should offer both elements seamlessly, creating an unforgettable viewing experience. While some of these films may also fall into the category of MA-rated content, they are undoubtedly exceptional in their romantic storytelling.

Each entry in our list includes details about the director, release date, and the talented actors who bring these love stories to life. If you believe that a particular R-rated romance movie deserves a higher spot on the list, don't hesitate to cast your vote and elevate it to its rightful place among the greatest R-rated romance films.

Are you on the hunt for a specific R-rated romance film? Our user-friendly search and filtering options make it easy to locate the movie you're looking for. From classics like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind to comedic gems like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, this list spans a wide range of R-rated romance movies.

Whether you're seeking the top R-rated romance movies or simply curious about the most renowned rated R love stories, our list is your go-to resource. With the abundance of romance films available on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, there's no shortage of captivating stories to explore.

Join us in celebrating the power of R-rated romance movies to evoke passion, laughter, and tears in audiences worldwide. Find over 100 of the best R-rated romance movies with the ultimate list below, and be sure to vote up your personal favorites.

  • Before Trilogy Franchise
    1

    Before Trilogy Franchise

    Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
    328 votes

    Captivating the hearts of audiences, the iconic Before Trilogy (Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Before Midnight), chronicles the enthralling journey of star-crossed lovers Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy) across three decades. Richard Linklater's audacious and innovative storytelling transports viewers through time, weaving an unforgettable tapestry of romance, longing, and fate. Celebrated for its groundbreaking authenticity and mesmerizing dialogue, the singular Before Trilogy enraptures audiences, breathlessly awaiting the lovers' every encounter in a dance of love's eternal flame.

  • Pretty Woman
    2
    Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Ralph Bellamy
    698 votes

    Audiences swooned as Julia Roberts' enchanting smile dazzled in the beloved classic, Pretty Woman, where her character Vivian Ward, a spirited streetwise woman, captures the hearts of both the dashing millionaire Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere, and viewers alike. This modern Cinderella tale deftly explores love's transformative power that ultimately transcends societal norms and personal boundaries. As one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time, Pretty Woman continues to ensnare hearts everywhere with its eternal charm and captivating story.

  • When Harry Met Sally...
    3
    Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Carrie Fisher
    432 votes

    Pondering the eternal question "Can men and women ever just be friends?", When Harry Met Sally... charms audiences with the witty repartee and undeniable chemistry between Billy Crystal's Harry and Meg Ryan's Sally. Directed by Rob Reiner and with an iconic script by Nora Ephron, this romantic comedy explores the hilarity of love and friendship through believable banter and those memorable, quotable moments. As laughter and love comingle, When Harry Met Sally... stands as an undeniable testimony to the enduring power of love and the irresistible pull of destiny.

  • Good Will Hunting
    4
    Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck
    341 votes

    In Good Will Hunting, Matt Damon's titular character embarks on a journey that explores not only the genius of a young math prodigy but also the transformative power of love as he meets and falls for the brilliant Skylar (Minnie Driver). Directed by Gus Van Sant and written by Damon and Ben Affleck, this Academy Award-winning film is a timeless tale of young love, finding oneself, and uncovering the key to personal salvation. Audiences revel in the magnetic performances, the sharpness of the script, and the tender romance that put this film on the map.

  • Love Actually
    5
    Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
    455 votes

    A delightful interlocking puzzle of relationships and emotions, Love Actually unites an ensemble of unforgettable characters, brought to life by an all-star cast that includes Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Keira Knightley. Richard Curtis's heartening opus wraps viewers in a cozy blanket of joy as multiple storylines crisscross the highs and lows of life and love, all set against the enchanting backdrop of London during Christmas. Celebrating the little love stories of life that truly matter, this cherished romantic tapestry continues to steal hearts and captivate the imagination.

  • Legends of the Fall
    6
    Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn
    263 votes

    Epically sweeping across the canvas of this passionate period drama, Legends of the Fall centers on the tumultuous love story between the untamed Tristan Ludlow (Brad Pitt) and the alluring Susannah Fincannon (Julia Ormond). Set against the resplendent backdrop of the Montana wilderness, and directed by Edward Zwick, this achingly beautiful film explores the depths of desire, honor, and the unyielding bonds of love. The impassioned performances, coupled with the majestic cinematography, remain etched in viewers' hearts, long after the movie's climax.

  • Bridget Jones's Diary
    7
    Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant
    397 votes

    Distinguished by Renée Zellweger's iconic performance as the titular character, Bridget Jones's Diary presents a humorous account of one woman's pursuit of love, as she serenades the hearts of two dashing suitors played by Hugh Grant and Colin Firth. Based on Helen Fielding's best-selling novel, the film wonderfully captures the hilarious mishaps, the awkward encounters, and the tender moments that comprise the storied journey of Bridget's irresistible search for romance. Equal parts heartwarming and side-splitting, Bridget Jones's Diary has lodged itself firmly within the romantic comedy pantheon.

  • An Officer and a Gentleman
    8
    Richard Gere, Debra Winger, Louis Gossett
    264 votes

    In An Officer and a Gentleman, the rugged charm of Richard Gere as naval officer candidate Zack Mayo sizzles alongside an equally captivating Debra Winger, who portrays the fiercely independent Paula Pokrifki. A timeless romantic tale directed by Taylor Hackford, this film ignites emotions, illustrating how the transformative power of love can guide us through life's most grueling obstacles. As it navigates the emotional landscapes of passion and self-discovery, An Officer and a Gentleman remains a quintessential paragon of the romantic drama genre.

  • The Shape of Water
    9
    Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins
    28 votes

    Guillermo del Toro's mesmerizing masterpiece, The Shape of Water, weaves a tale of unconventional romance, as mute custodian Elisa (Sally Hawkins) falls for a mysterious aquatic creature held captive in a secret government facility. Awarded the Best Picture Oscar, this visually stunning film explores the otherworldly depths of compassion and connection that bloom between a woman and the fantastical being she falls in love with. The Shape of Water spellbinds audiences with its intoxicating blend of fantasy, passion, and the resilience of love that knows no bounds.

  • Working Girl
    10
    Melanie Griffith, Harrison Ford, Sigourney Weaver
    179 votes

    Melanie Griffith's indomitable Tess McGill sparks a corporate whirlwind and an unexpected love affair with Harrison Ford's Jack Trainer in the charming, paradigm-shifting rom-com Working Girl. As Tess shatters glass ceilings with her wit and resourcefulness, she also encounters passion, paving the way for countless women in romances that entail ambition and self-realization. Directed by Mike Nichols, Working Girl deftly balances humor, aspirations, and the big-hearted romance so beloved in the 1980s rom-com craze.

  • The Last of the Mohicans
    11
    Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Russell Means
    176 votes

    Embracing sweeping romanticism against the backdrop of war-torn colonial America, The Last of the Mohicans captures the passionate coupling of Daniel Day-Lewis's fierce Hawkeye and Madeleine Stowe's refined Cora Munro. Directed by Michael Mann and inspired by James Fenimore Cooper's classic novel, this breathtaking epic transports viewers on an ardent odyssey through the stunning landscapes that underscore the untamed passion of the film's protagonists. The Last of the Mohicans entrances audiences with its sweeping cinematic beauty and the power of love transcending the strictures of warfare and cultural divide.

  • Cruel Intentions
    12
    Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon
    312 votes

    Within the steamy, scheming world of Cruel Intentions, viewers find themselves enthralled by the complex web of forbidden desire and burgeoning romance between Ryan Phillippe's seductive Sebastian and Reese Witherspoon's ingénue Annette. Directed by Roger Kumble and set in the high-society cliques of Manhattan, this sultry tale reveals a consuming game of manipulation, which ultimately gives way to vulnerability and genuine emotion. This captivating drama etches itself into the hearts of its audience, exploring the complexities of human connection and the unexpected ways love can triumph over even the darkest of intentions.

  • Four Weddings and a Funeral
    13
    Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, Kristin Scott Thomas
    220 votes

    A delightful concoction of humor and heartfelt emotion, Four Weddings and a Funeral delicately traces the captivating love story that blossoms between the endearingly awkward Charles (Hugh Grant) and the enchanting American, Carrie (Andie MacDowell). Directed by Mike Newell with a brilliantly witty script by Richard Curtis, this iconic British romantic comedy has become a timeless classic, propelled by its spirited portrayal of love's many nuances. With whimsy and charm, Four Weddings and a Funeral regales audiences with a flavorful fusion of love, laughter, and cherished memories shared within a tight-knit circle of friends.

  • Jerry Maguire
    14
    Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding, Renée Zellweger
    270 votes

    The iconic refrain "You had me at hello" has echoed through the hearts of millions since the debut of Jerry Maguire, a romantic dramedy that extols the virtues of true love and difficult choices. As Tom Cruise's savvy sports agent collides with Renée Zellweger's endearing single mother Dorothy, audiences witness the warmth that unfolds, transforming both characters and showcasing the undeniable power of unconditional love. Directed by Cameron Crowe, Jerry Maguire melds the cutthroat world of sports management with tender romance, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of viewers.

  • American Pie Franchise
    15
    Jason Biggs, Shannon Elizabeth, Alyson Hannigan
    458 votes

    The American Pie franchise, renowned for its raucous humor and ensemble cast, follows the escapades of a group of high school friends as they navigate love, friendship, and growing up over the timeline of successive films. Characters like Jim (Jason Biggs), Stifler (Seann William Scott), and Michelle (Alyson Hannigan) deliver an entertaining mix of laughter and heart as they conquer their romantic quests, survive hilarious and calamitous situations, and ultimately learn valuable life lessons. With its candid, edgy wit and shamelessly endearing moments, the American Pie series has secured its place in the hearts of viewers as an iconic coming-of-age saga full of hilarity, loyalty, and, of course, unforgettable romance.

  • Forgetting Sarah Marshall
    16
    Jason Segel, Kristen Bell, Mila Kunis
    234 votes

    The brilliant comedy of Jason Segel's despondent Peter Bretter effortlessly collides with the grounded charm of Mila Kunis's Rachel Jansen in the modern rom-com favorite, Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii, this Judd Apatow-produced film resonates with a perfect balance of uproarious laughter and genuine emotion, as Peter discovers the healing balm of newfound love. Overflowing with laughter and genuine heart, Forgetting Sarah Marshall endears audiences with its quirky characters and honest portrayal of starting anew in life and love.

  • Bridesmaids
    17
    Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne
    326 votes

    Kristen Wiig's wildly entertaining antics as unlucky-in-love Annie Walker takes center stage in Bridesmaids, where she gallantly attempts to stand by her best friend Lillian (Maya Rudolph) as a bridesmaid. Annie’s rollercoaster journey leads her into the arms of the sensitive and caring Officer Rhodes, played by Chris O'Dowd. Directed by Paul Feig and co-written by Wiig, this hilarious and unexpectedly romantic tale reminds us that even when life is chaotic, love can offer a fresh start.

  • Amélie
    18
    Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
    184 votes

    A darling of French cinema, Amélie enchants viewers with its quirky charm as we follow the delightful journey of the doe-eyed Amélie (Audrey Tautou) on a mission to bring joy to the lives of those around her. Set against the colorful backdrop of Paris, Amélie's whimsical quest leads her to an unexpected love affair with the enigmatic Nino Quincampoix. With humor and melancholic sentiment swirling together, Amélie continues to captivate hearts as an unorthodox romantic classic.

  • Coming to America
    19
    Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, John Amos
    211 votes

    Charming prince Akeem, played by the brilliant Eddie Murphy, embarks on a hilarious adventure to find true love in the bustling boroughs of New York City. A delightful romantic comedy, Coming to America serves up a heartwarming tale of searching for lasting love while embracing an array of humorous cultural differences. This delightful love story with a dash of laughter remains a firm favorite among audiences even decades after its release.

  • There's Something About Mary
    20
    Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Ben Stiller
    415 votes

    This outrageously funny romantic comedy revolves around Ted (Ben Stiller), who's smitten with the lovely Mary (Cameron Diaz), sparking an all-out battle for her affection among a slew of zany suitors. Replete with whirlwind emotions, There's Something About Mary keeps audiences rooting for love to prevail. Featuring an unforgettable hair gel scene, this hilarious romance caper exudes a timeless appeal.

  • Unfaithful
    21
    Richard Gere, Diane Lane, Olivier Martinez
    370 votes

    Adrian Lyne's thrilling, steamy tale Unfaithful takes audiences on an intimate journey into the passionate, clandestine affair between Diane Lane's character Connie and Olivier Martinez's captivating Paul. As passion and infidelity intertwine, this dramatic portrayal of love, loss, and betrayal comes to a boiling point, showcasing the depths of temptation and the unforeseen consequences that accompany combustible romantic pursuits. Unfaithful keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its raw emotion and intense storytelling, highlighting the captivating complexity of human nature.

  • Wedding Crashers
    22
    Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Christopher Walken
    355 votes

    Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson shine as a mischievous duo who sneak into weddings to enjoy the festivities and charm unsuspecting bridesmaids. Their frolicking ways are challenged when love intervenes, as John (Wilson) falls for the beautiful Claire (Rachel McAdams). Amid uproarious misadventures, Wedding Crashers balances unbridled hilarity with heartfelt romance.

  • Brokeback Mountain
    23
    Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Linda Cardellini
    248 votes

    In the beautifully haunting Brokeback Mountain, Heath Ledger's Ennis Del Mar and Jake Gyllenhaal's Jack Twist share a transcendent love that unfolds amidst the Wyoming wilderness. Ang Lee's celebrated masterpiece confronts societal constraints, weaving the tale of soulmates who defy norms to cultivate a profound connection that spans decades. This Academy Award-winning drama leaves lasting imprints with its heartrending narrative, ardent performances, and heart-stopping depiction of a fiercely authentic love nestled within the most serene of landscapes.

  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
    24
    Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst
    221 votes

    This evocative masterpiece delves into the human heart with its mesmerizing storyline about a couple, played by Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, who decide to erase their memories of each other following a tumultuous breakup. As they revisit their shared moments, they rekindle the love they thought was lost forever in a hauntingly beautiful journey. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, a surreal romantic odyssey, reminds us that true love can triumph over oblivion.

  • Bram Stoker's Dracula
    25
    Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins
    154 votes

    A blood-chilling tale of sensuality and seduction, Bram Stoker's Dracula sweeps the audience off their feet as they follow the love story between the enigmatic Count Dracula (Gary Oldman) and Mina Harker (Winona Ryder). Despite the hauntingly sinister backdrop of the Victorian era, the forbidden passion between them ignites a fire that burns through the morbid darkness. With awards to its name and an unforgettable performance by Oldman, this gothic masterpiece has etched its romantic spell onto the hearts of many.

  • The 40-Year-Old Virgin
    26
    Steve Carell, Catherine Keener, Paul Rudd
    287 votes

    In a clever mix of heart and humor, The 40-Year-Old Virgin chronicles the journey of an incredibly endearing and inexperienced man, Andy (Steve Carell), searching for love and connection. His friends rally around to guide him through the peculiar world of dating while getting a few laughs along the way. This uproarious comedy consistently tugs at the heartstrings as viewers root for Andy's success in love.

  • Friends with Benefits
    27
    Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis, Patricia Clarkson
    22 votes

    Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis sizzle in this witty, feel-good romantic comedy as they embark on a no-commitment physical relationship that ultimately leads to deeper feelings. The palpable onscreen chemistry between them, bolstered by witty dialogue, makes Friends with Benefits an irresistible cinematic experience filled with laughter and warmth. This captivating love story highlights the complexities and joys of modern relationships, leaving viewers grinning from ear to ear.

  • The Ugly Truth
    28
    Katherine Heigl, Gerard Butler, Eric Winter
    186 votes

    This lively, battle-of-the-sexes rom-com stars the charming Gerard Butler as a chauvinistic TV personality who clashes with the ambitious and headstrong producer (played by the lovely Katherine Heigl). Their heated banter eventually erupts into an unexpected romantic connection. The Ugly Truth flawlessly blends humor and chemistry, serving up unceasing entertainment and proving that love can flourish in the most opposing of circumstances.

  • American Beauty
    29
    Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch
    280 votes

    At once disturbing and charming, American Beauty portrays suburban life with a searing intensity, following the story of Lester Burnham (Kevin Spacey) and his infatuation for his daughter's friend Angela (Mena Suvari). The film delves deeply into dimensions of love, lust, and yearning, using its evocative visual palette to create an unforgettable romantic drama. Winner of numerous Academy Awards, American Beauty remains a poignant depiction of a heart in search of genuine connection.

  • Indecent Proposal
    30
    Robert Redford, Demi Moore, Woody Harrelson
    472 votes

    A tantalizing exploration of love, desire, and the lure of wealth, Indecent Proposal follows the married couple, Diana and David Murphy (Demi Moore and Woody Harrelson), as they grapple with a life-altering offer from a charming millionaire (Robert Redford). This steamy drama, filled with passion and betrayal, evokes the age-old question: can true love conquer all? This intensely gripping film leaves audiences questioning the very nature of love and sacrifice.