Epic romance films go beyond a meet-cute and a happy ending. These stories move you to feel that these characters need to be together or the world may end. Most are epic love stories because the relationships are not easy, but worth fighting for. Epic in storytelling, characters, production design, and popularity. These films are memorable and iconic.
Titanic
The definition of epic. From the expense to make to the box office to rebuilding most of an ocean liner in a sound stage, this film is as epic as it gets. It is all grounded by the Jack and Rose love story making this one of the best movies ever made.
Synopsis: James Cameron’s “Titanic” is an epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the R.M.S. Titanic; the pride and joy of the White Star Line and, at the time, the largest moving object ever built. She was the most luxurious liner of her era — the “ship of dreams” — which ultimately carried over 1,500 people to their death in the ice-cold waters of the North Atlantic in the early hours of April 15, 1912.
Watch on: Starz
The Notebook
This film shares the challenges of love in a beautifully crafted film. This film’s premise asks the audience if real, true love could ever be forgotten or does it become part of who you are.
Synopsis: In 1940s South Carolina, mill worker Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and rich girl Allie (Rachel McAdams) are desperately in love. But her parents don’t approve. When Noah goes off to serve in World War II, it seems to mark the end of their love affair. In the interim, Allie becomes involved with another man (James Marsden). But when Noah returns to their small town years later, on the cusp of Allie’s marriage, it soon becomes clear that their romance is anything but over.
Watch on: HBO Max
Moulin Rouge!
This musical spectacular is grand and bold. The scale of this production is epically stunning. The colorful quirkiness balances this fantastical love story.
Synopsis: A young Englishman in the Paris of 1899, becomes infatuated with Satine, a singer at the Moulin Rouge. However, she has been promised by the manager to a Duke in return for funding his next production. As the young lovers meet in secret, Satine’s wedding day draws closer but she hides a fatal secret from both Christian and the Duke.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video
RELATED: The Best of New York City Movies
Casablanca
One for the ages. One of the most beloved films. One epic love story is known for its complex relationship and grounded honest characters. Here’s looking at you, kid.
Synopsis: Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), who owns a nightclub in Casablanca, discovers his old flame Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) is in town with her husband, Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid). Laszlo is a famed rebel, and with Germans on his tail, Ilsa knows Rick can help them get out of the country.
Watch on: HBO Max
An Affair to Remember
A New York love classic. This epic tale is more about what keeps them apart than what brings them together. A love that almost didn’t happen and all the heartbreak along the way.
Synopsis: A man and a woman have a romance while on a cruise from Europe to New York. Despite being engaged to other people, both agree to reunite at the top of the Empire State Building in six months. However, an unfortunate accident keeps her from the reunion, and he fears that she has married or does not love him anymore.
Rent or Buy: YouTube
Thought of other Epic Romance Films? Share in the comments!