If you're a fan of the romance genre, chances are you've come across and maybe even watched a couple of sad romantic movies. However, these types of films aren't for everyone because they don't usually end on a happy note.
They often follow a narrative arc that includes the blossoming of a relationship, the introduction of challenges and obstacles, a tragic turn, and a bittersweet resolution. While these types of movies can be memorable and moving, some people might find them to be too intense and/or dark. However, they're the perfect films to watch if you need a good cry. I'll tell you that!
Netflix has several sad romantic movies streaming on its platform right now. Here's a list of four that are worth checking out.
All the Bright Places (2020)
All the Bright Places is based on the internationally bestselling YA fictional novel of the same name by Jennifer Niven. It's a tearjerker that revolves around two teens grappling with their own personal struggles and emotional pain who meet and become friends only for their relationship to deepen into a romantic one.
Violet Markey was once a popular and outgoing teen girl until her sister died in a tragic car accident. Struggling with survivor's guilt, she becomes withdrawn from her family and friends. That's until one day, in an unexpected encounter, she meets Theo, a loner who has an obsession with death.
As they get to know one another while paired up for a school project, they begin to open up to each other. While Theo helps Violet rediscover a passion for living, Violet helps him navigate his struggles with his mental health. However, things don't quite end happily in this film.
All the Bright Places is a thought-provoking romance movie, but it's heartbreaking at the same time. Make sure to have a box of tissues next to you if you watch this film. You will definitely need it!
Irreplaceable You (2018)
If you're looking for a movie that'll get you right in your feels, look no further because Irreplaceable You is just the movie to do it. It tells a touching story about love, loss, and the challenges that comes with saying goodbye to a loved one.
Abbie and Sam started as childhood friends before they got together and became a couple. They're now engaged and are looking to build a life together. However, everything comes crashing down when Abbie is diagnosed with terminal cancer.
This devastating news instantly changes her outlook on life, causing her to become increasingly concerned about what will happen to Sam after she passes away. In an effort to make sure he's taken care of after she's gone, Abbie embarks on a mission to find him a future girlfriend.
Midnight Sun (2018)
Midnight Sun is a heartfelt and emotional film based on the 2006 Japanese movie A Song to the Sun by Kenji Bando. While it has romantic and uplifting elements, it also deals with the serious themes of loss, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of living with a chronic illness. This is what makes it a sad romantic movie.
The story follows Katie Price, a talented young musician who has a rare medical condition called Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP), which makes her extremely sensitive to sunlight. One night, she encounters Charlie, a popular high school student and her longtime crush. This chance encounter leads to a budding romance, but things become increasingly difficult as Katie struggles to hide her condition from Charlie.
Drawing Closer (2024)
Last but not least on our list of the saddest romantic movies on Netflix is Drawing Closer, a heartfelt Japanese film about two terminally ill teens who meet, fall in love, and spend their remaining time on Earth together.
Akito Hayasaka is a gifted 17-year-old artist who has been diagnosed with terminal heart disease and only has a year left to live. One day, on the hospital rooftop, he meets Haruna Sakurai, a teen girl living with a terminal illness herself. But instead of one year left to live, she only has six months. With limited time left on Earth, Akito and Haruna spend their time together, cherishing every moment.
Will you be checking out any of these romance movies on Netflix?