The Best Movies About A First Love Experience

Alex Alvarez
Updated May 6, 2024 44 items
Ranked By
964 votes
150 voters
Latest additions: Turtles All The Way Down, How to Date Billy Walsh, Priscilla
Most divisive: The Kissing Booth
Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About A First Love Experience

When it comes to first love, everyone has a different experience. Some people find their first love in high school, while others find them later in life. Some people are lucky enough to have a first love that lasts a lifetime, while others might only experience it for a brief moment. In any case, you'll fall head over heals for these new and classic movies about falling in love for the first time. The best movies about young love or puppy love span across genres and decades, some end happily and others finish with a first heartbreak. Which means you'll find new and classic movies about a first romance on this list.

No matter what your own personal experience with first love is, there are bound to be some great movies out there that capture the essence of what it feels like. Here are some of the best movies about first love experiences. But which one deserves to be in the top spot? You can help decide by voting up your favorites. You can also vote down the first love movies that you've seen and think other fans should skip. Thanks to streaming services like Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, Netlfix, and Apple TV+ you can start streaming most of these movies right away.

  • Say Anything...
    1

    Say Anything...

    John Cusack, Ione Skye, John Mahoney
    84 votes

    In this iconic film directed by Cameron Crowe, Say Anything... explores the highs and lows of first love through the unlikely romance between an aspiring kickboxer (John Cusack) and a high-achieving student (Ione Skye). Its endearing blend of humor and heartache, along with memorable scenes like the famous boombox serenade, make this film stand out as a quintessential feature in any first love movie collection. It is the raw honesty, witty dialogue, and genuine emotion displayed in Say Anything... that cements its position as one of the best films showcasing the power of first love.

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  • A Walk to Remember
    2

    A Walk to Remember

    Shane West, Mandy Moore, Peter Coyote
    96 votes

    Adapted from Nicholas Sparks' bestselling novel, A Walk to Remember takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as it narrates the heart-wrenching love story between Landon Carter (Shane West) and Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore). This poignant film expertly navigates themes of love, sacrifice, and acceptance, showcasing the transformative effects of first love while remaining grounded in its portrayal of youthful innocence. With unforgettable performances and an evocative soundtrack, A Walk to Remember remains a timeless classic in the realm of first love cinema.

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  • The Notebook
    3

    The Notebook

    Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner
    89 votes

    A powerful tale of passion, The Notebook showcases the intense connection between two young lovers, portrayed by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. This romantic drama stands apart from other first love films due to its deeply emotional plot, captivating performances, and a time-honored love story that transcends generations. With its unforgettable scenes and the chemistry between the lead actors, The Notebook has undoubtedly earned its place in the pantheon of the best movies about first love ever made.

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  • The Man in the Moon
    4

    The Man in the Moon

    Sam Waterston, Tess Harper, Gail Strickland
    55 votes

    In this emotionally charged coming-of-age drama, The Man in the Moon tells a touching story of sisterhood and first love set against the backdrop of rural Louisiana. Starring a young Reese Witherspoon in her film debut, this poignant tale delves into themes of love, loss, and learning through the experiences of its compelling characters. Its sincere exploration of complex emotions and powerful acting make The Man in the Moon an enduring favorite for viewers seeking an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of first love.

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  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
    5

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower

    Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
    65 votes

    Based on the critically acclaimed novel by Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower delves into the complexities of adolescence and first love through the eyes of introverted high school student Charlie (Logan Lerman). The film's profound exploration of friendship, mental health, and self-discovery sets it apart from other stories about first love, as it captures the essence of teenage experiences with honesty and vulnerability. With memorable performances by Emma Watson and Ezra Miller, The Perks of Being a Wallflower has secured its place among the most powerful depictions of first love in modern cinema.

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  • The Fault in Our Stars
    6

    The Fault in Our Stars

    Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Willem Dafoe
    69 votes

    Adapted from John Green's popular novel, The Fault in Our Stars is a tear-jerking romantic drama that follows the love story of two cancer-stricken teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley) and Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort). This heartfelt film masterfully conveys the beauty of first love while exploring themes of life, death, and everything in between. With its profound narrative and authentic performances, The Fault in Our Stars remains a timeless tribute to the transformative power of first love.

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  • Love, Simon
    7

    Love, Simon

    Nick Robinson, Josh Duhamel, Jennifer Garner
    44 votes

    In the groundbreaking coming-out and coming-of-age comedy-drama, Love, Simon tells the story of teenager Simon Spier (Nick Robinson), who balances the challenges of high school with the secret of his closeted homosexuality. The film presents a heartwarming exploration of self-acceptance, identity, and the overwhelming power of first love. With its authentic and nuanced characters, Love, Simon is a touching tribute to the beauty of falling in love for the first time, making it an iconic addition to the canon of first love films.

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  • Five Feet Apart
    8

    Five Feet Apart

    Haley Lu Richardson, Cole Sprouse, Moises Arias
    34 votes

    In this heart-wrenching romantic drama, Five Feet Apart tells the story of two teenagers with cystic fibrosis, Stella Grant (Haley Lu Richardson) and Will Newman (Cole Sprouse), who fall in love despite the challenges of their condition. This heart-stopping tale delves into themes of love, loss, and sacrifice, offering audiences a compelling and unforgettable portrayal of first love in the face of adversity. With its emotionally charged narrative and powerful performances, Five Feet Apart has quickly become a beloved favorite among films about first love.

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  • Tuck Everlasting
    9

    Tuck Everlasting

    Alexis Bledel, William Hurt, Sissy Spacek
    36 votes

    In the enchanting adaptation of Natalie Babbitt's beloved novel, Tuck Everlasting explores a unique and magical romance between teenage Winnie Foster (Alexis Bledel) and immortal Jesse Tuck (Jonathan Jackson). With its mystical elements and an ethereal atmosphere, this fantasy film sets itself apart by showcasing the power of first love in the face of eternal life. Tuck Everlasting's poignant storytelling and captivating performances ensure its status as a standout among movies about first love.

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  • The Spectacular Now
    10

    The Spectacular Now

    Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley, Brie Larson
    44 votes

    Blending humor, heartache, and raw emotion, The Spectacular Now is a poignant coming-of-age drama that explores the complexities of first love through the experiences of high school seniors Sutter Keely (Miles Teller) and Aimee Finecky (Shailene Woodley). This critically acclaimed film presents an authentic and unflinching depiction of the joys, challenges, and pain often associated with teenage romance. With its powerful performances and emotionally resonant narrative, The Spectacular Now remains an unforgettable gem in the world of first love films.

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  • To All the Boys I've Loved Before
    11

    To All the Boys I've Loved Before

    Lana Condor, John Corbett, Noah Centineo
    49 votes

    Adapted from Jenny Han's bestselling novel, To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a charming and relatable teen rom-com that follows high school junior Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) as her secret love letters are accidentally sent to her former crushes. This delightful film stands out due to its endearing characters, witty dialogue, and refreshing take on teenage romance. With its modern spin on classic romantic tropes and an engaging portrayal of first love, To All the Boys I've Loved Before has quickly become a beloved favorite among contemporary audiences.

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  • If I Stay
    12

    If I Stay

    Chloë Grace Moretz, Mireille Enos, Jamie Blackley
    27 votes

    Based on Gayle Forman's popular novel, If I Stay is a moving drama that explores the power of first love and life-changing decisions through the eyes of gifted cellist Mia Hall (Chloë Grace Moretz). As she faces a heartbreaking tragedy, her love story with aspiring rocker Adam Wilde (Jamie Blackley) unfolds in compelling flashbacks. With its emotional depth, powerful performances, and relatable themes, If I Stay has secured its place among the most memorable films about first love.

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  • Flipped
    13

    Flipped

    Madeline Carroll, Callan McAuliffe, Rebecca De Mornay
    31 votes

    A charming and nostalgic look at the trials and tribulations of young love, Flipped is a heartwarming coming-of-age film centered around the evolving relationship between neighbors Juli Baker (Madeline Carroll) and Bryce Loski (Callan McAuliffe). Set in the 1960s, this Rob Reiner-directed feature brings a unique perspective to the genre, capturing the innocence of a bygone era while offering a timeless insight into the nature of first love. Flipped's whimsical style and engaging performances make it a must-watch for fans of romance and coming-of-age films alike.

  • Call Me by Your Name
    14

    Call Me by Your Name

    Armie Hammer, Timothée Chalamet, Michael Stuhlbarg
    49 votes

    A visually stunning and emotionally charged coming-of-age film, Call Me by Your Name explores the passionate and complex relationship between 17-year-old Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet) and graduate student Oliver (Armie Hammer) during a summer in 1980s Italy. Directed by Luca Guadagnino and based on the novel by André Aciman, this critically acclaimed film transcends the boundaries of typical first love narratives, delving deep into themes of desire, longing, and self-discovery. With its captivating performances and breathtaking cinematography, Call Me by Your Name has solidified its position as an artful and evocative portrayal of first love.

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  • The Last Song
    15

    The Last Song

    Miley Cyrus, Greg Kinnear, Liam Hemsworth
    31 votes

    Adapted from another Nicholas Sparks novel, The Last Song follows rebellious teenager Ronnie Miller (Miley Cyrus) as she reconnects with her estranged father and falls in love for the first time with local boy Will Blakelee (Liam Hemsworth). Set against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town, this emotional drama combines themes of family, forgiveness, and the transformative power of first love. With its captivating performances and moving storyline, The Last Song has solidified its status as a beloved addition to the realm of first love films.

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  • My Sister's Keeper
    16

    My Sister's Keeper

    Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin
    45 votes

    Tackling themes of illness, family, and first love, My Sister's Keeper is a heartrending drama based on Jodi Picoult's bestselling novel. The film centers on the delicate balance of life and love for leukemia-stricken teenager Kate Fitzgerald (Sofia Vassilieva) as she experiences the joys and challenges of first love amidst the struggles with her health. Its potent mix of raw emotions, powerful acting, and thought-provoking themes elevates My Sister's Keeper to a standout status in the realm of first love cinema.

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  • Priscilla
    17

    Priscilla

    Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi, Dagmara Domińczyk
    10 votes

    A heartfelt, captivating, and ultimately heartbreaking story of young love, Priscilla tells the tale of beloved and legendary musician Elvis Presley and his romantic courtship and subsequent relationship with the titular Priscilla. A film that is not afraid to tackle the dark and gritty nature of love, especially one so heavily perceived in the public eye, Priscilla shows the highs, lows, and everything in between in arguably one of the most popular, beloved, and iconic celebrity couples of all time.

     

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  • The Kissing Booth
    18

    The Kissing Booth

    Joey King, Jacob Elordi, Molly Ringwald
    55 votes

    A lighthearted and endearing take on teenage love, The Kissing Booth follows high school student Elle Evans (Joey King) as she navigates the highs and lows of first love with her best friend's older brother, Noah Flynn (Jacob Elordi). This Netflix original stands out due to its charming characters, playful humor, and relatable themes that resonate with audiences of all ages. The Kissing Booth's infectious energy and undeniable appeal have quickly established it as a contemporary favorite among first love films.

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  • Remember Me
    19

    Remember Me

    Robert Pattinson, Emilie de Ravin, Chris Cooper
    27 votes

    A touching and bittersweet tale of young love, Remember Me explores the burgeoning romance between emotionally damaged college student Tyler Hawkins (Robert Pattinson) and guarded but captivating Ally Craig (Emilie de Ravin). This emotionally charged drama delves into themes of love, loss, and healing, offering viewers a compelling portrayal of first love and its transformative effects. With its gripping story and poignant performances, Remember Me has become a standout entry in the pantheon of first love cinema.

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  • Mischief
    20

    Mischief

    Doug McKeon, Chris Nash, Kelly Preston
    28 votes

    A nostalgic nod to the 1950s, Mischief is a playful and endearing coming-of-age film that centers around the adventures and romantic exploits of high school friends Jonathan Bellah (Doug McKeon) and Gene Harbrough (Chris Nash). Set against the backdrop of a simpler time, this lighthearted film presents a fun-filled and heartwarming exploration of young love, friendship, and the trials of adolescence. Its whimsical nature, engaging performances, and timeless appeal make Mischief a beloved classic among movies about first love.

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  • After
    21

    After

    Josephine Langford, Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Pia Mia
    28 votes

    Based on Anna Todd's bestselling novel, After explores the passionate and tumultuous romance between college freshman Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) and mysterious bad boy Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin). This steamy drama delves into themes of desire, obsession, and the power of first love to transform and challenge individuals. With its captivating performances and emotionally charged storyline, After has secured its place among the most memorable and intense portrayals of first love in modern cinema.

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  • An Education
    22

    An Education

    Peter Sarsgaard, Carey Mulligan, Alfred Molina
    26 votes

    Set in 1960s London, An Education is a coming-of-age drama that centers around the intellectual and romantic awakening of bright, young student Jenny Mellor (Carey Mulligan) at the hands of charming older man David Goldman (Peter Sarsgaard). This critically acclaimed film provides a captivating exploration of first love, desire, and the delicate dance between innocence and adulthood. With its enthralling performances and evocative storytelling, An Education stands out as a masterful depiction of first love in cinema.

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  • The Graduate
    23

    The Graduate

    Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, Katharine Ross
    26 votes

    In this iconic and groundbreaking film from director Mike Nichols, The Graduate explores the complexities of first love, seduction, and self-discovery through the experiences of recent college graduate Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman) as he becomes entangled in a passionate affair with the older, married Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) before falling for her daughter, Elaine (Katharine Ross). This critically acclaimed film presents a provocative and thought-provoking examination of the human heart, tackling themes of love, desire, and personal growth. With its unforgettable performances, innovative filmmaking, and timeless appeal, The Graduate has secured its place as a cinematic masterpiece in the realm of first love films.

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  • The Boy in the Plastic Bubble
    24

    The Boy in the Plastic Bubble

    John Travolta, Robert Reed, Ralph Bellamy
    31 votes

    In this heart-wrenching and poignant drama based on a true story, The Boy in the Plastic Bubble follows the life of Tod Lubitch (John Travolta), a teenager born with a rare immune deficiency that forces him to live in complete isolation within a sterile environment. Despite his confinement, Tod manages to experience the joy and heartache of first love through his relationship with his next-door neighbor, Gina (Glynnis O'Connor). This touching film showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love, making The Boy in the Plastic Bubble an enduring classic in the world of first love films.

  • Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist
    25

    Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist

    Kat Dennings, Michael Cera, Mimi Imfurst
    26 votes

    In this quirky and enchanting romantic comedy, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist takes viewers on a whirlwind adventure through New York City's indie rock scene, as newly acquainted teenagers Nick O'Leary (Michael Cera) and Norah Silverberg (Kat Dennings) embark on a search for their favorite band's secret show. This lighthearted film captures the beauty of unexpected first love and the joy of shared passions. With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and magical atmosphere, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist has become a beloved favorite among fans of first love cinema.

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  • The Half of It
    26

    The Half of It

    Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, Alexxis Lemire
    27 votes

    In this heartfelt and thought-provoking teen dramedy, The Half of It tells the story of introverted high school student Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis) as she navigates friendship, identity, and her own unexpected journey of first love. This Netflix original offers a refreshing and unique take on the genre, exploring themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the complexities of human connection. With its intelligent script and compelling performances, The Half of It has quickly become an acclaimed favorite among films about first love.

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  • Everything, Everything
    27

    Everything, Everything

    Amandla Stenberg, Nick Robinson, Anika Noni Rose
    19 votes

    Based on Nicola Yoon's bestselling novel, Everything, Everything tells the story of Maddy Whittier (Amandla Stenberg), a teenager with a rare immunodeficiency disease that forces her to live in complete isolation, and her blossoming romance with her neighbor Olly Bright (Nick Robinson). This enchanting film explores themes of love, risk, and the power of human connection, capturing the profound and transformative nature of first love. With its captivating storyline, visually stunning scenes, and powerful performances, Everything, Everything has quickly become a fan favorite among first love movies.

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  • The Sky Is Everywhere
    28

    The Sky Is Everywhere

    Grace Kaufman, Pico Alexander, Jason Segel
    23 votes

    Based on Jandy Nelson's bestselling novel, The Sky Is Everywhere is an upcoming adaptation set to explore the intertwining themes of love, grief, and self-discovery as it tells the story of Lennie Walker (Grace Kaufman), a young girl navigating the loss of her sister and her unexpected journey of first love. The film's exploration of the profound relationship between love and loss promises to offer audiences a captivating and unforgettable portrayal of first love's transformative impact. With its emotionally compelling narrative and highly anticipated performances, The Sky Is Everywhere is set to become a powerful addition to the realm of first love cinema.

  • How to Deal
    29

    How to Deal

    Mandy Moore, Allison Janney, Trent Ford
    18 votes

    In this heartfelt coming-of-age drama, How to Deal follows high school student Halley Martin (Mandy Moore) as she learns to navigate the challenges of family, friendship and first love with the unexpected guidance of an unconventional mentor. The film offers a unique perspective on the transformative power of first love and the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity. With its engaging performances and relatable themes, How to Deal remains a beloved favorite among films about first love.

  • I Love You, Beth Cooper
    30

    I Love You, Beth Cooper

    Hayden Panettiere, Paul Rust, Jack Carpenter
    22 votes

    In this lighthearted and endearing teen comedy, I Love You, Beth Cooper follows the unlikely romance between nerdy valedictorian Denis Cooverman (Paul Rust) and popular cheerleader Beth Cooper (Hayden Panettiere) as they embark on an unforgettable night of adventure. This fun-filled journey explores the thrills, challenges, and transformative power of first love as it blossoms in unexpected ways. With its charming characters and playful humor, I Love You, Beth Cooper remains a delightful addition to the world of first love films.

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