The Best Movies Where The Main Characters Don't Live Happily Ever After

One of the most beloved American films of all time, Casablanca ends with the two star-crossed lovers parting ways. And while it may not be the happiest of conclusions, it makes a lot of sense. Ilsa and Rick have great chemistry, but they can't make things work in the long run. As Rick points out, she would eventually regret choosing him over her husband. Rick lets Ilsa go for the greater good. It's sad but incredibly poignant. 

It's not a romantic movie, but Cast Away realistically depicts the relationship between Chuck and Kelly. Chuck disappears and is presumed dead, so Kelly moves on with her life, marrying another man. Upon Chuck’s return, they both profess their love for each other. And yet, too much has changed. Kelly is committed to her new family. It doesn't get more real (or heartbreaking) than this.

In Edward Scissorhands, a gentle man with scissor hands is brought into a new community after living in isolation. Of course, he falls for a lovely girl. Even better, the girl looks past his disability and cares for him. And yet, their sweet romance must end. After a series of unfortunate events, they realize they can’t make it work and call it quits. Because let’s be real, dating a man with scissors instead of hands is incredibly impractical.

Setting a high bar for all romantic comedies, Roman Holiday is charming, fun, and realistic. When a bored and sheltered princess escapes her guardians, she falls in love with an American newsman in Rome. But despite the obvious attraction, she has to go back to her responsibilities and leave her holiday fling behind. The princess puts her sense of duty above her feelings, as any worthy royal must. This makes viewers love her more.

One of Hollywood's best epics, Gone with the Wind follows an incredibly feisty and selfish heroine. Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler’s romance is the stuff of legends; and yet, she can’t let go of her feeling for Ashley - the one that got away. When Scarlett finally realizes Rhett is the man for her, it’s too late. He’s over the drama. Frankly, he doesn't give a darn. People won’t wait around for distracted lovers in the real world, either.

Given Sebastian and Mia’s amazing chemistry and the general upbeat tone of the movie, viewers expect a happy ending. Surprisingly, however, La La Land decides to let each character follow their respective dreams. Sebastian and Mia find success in their chosen fields, but the relationship suffers. It’s like Hollywood finally understands that, sometimes, you just can’t have it all.