The Best Movies About Rekindled Romance

Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About Rekindled Romance
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite films where an old flame is reignited.
Latest additions: Past Lives, Moonlight, Disobedience
Most divisive: Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

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!

Ranked by
  • The Notebook
    1
    Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner
    144 votes
    • Released: 2004
    • Directed by: Nick Cassavetes

    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
    55 votes
    • Released: 1987
    • Directed by: Rob Reiner

    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.

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  • Serendipity
    3
    John Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Molly Shannon
    73 votes
    • Released: 2001
    • Directed by: Peter Chelsom

    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.

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  • Casablanca
    4
    Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
    57 votes
    • Released: 1942
    • Directed by: Michael Curtiz

    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.

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  • Sweet Home Alabama
    5
    Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey
    75 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Andy Tennant

    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.

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  • Before Sunset
    6
    Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Vernon Dobtcheff
    39 votes
    • Released: 2004
    • Directed by: Richard Linklater

    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.

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