Press play on these films that unravel love in all its passion, chaos, and heartbreak—perfect for a Valentine’s Day special watchlist
Searching for the perfect film to set the mood this Valentine’s Day? Lionsgate Play goes beyond classic rom-coms, bringing you love stories that capture romance in all its forms—passionate, bittersweet, and refreshingly real. Whether you’re drawn to an epic love story that spans decades or a sizzling summer fling, there’s a movie for every kind of romantic.
Spending the day with your special someone? Enjoying a Galentine’s night? Or simply indulging in pizza, chocolate, and a cozy blanket for some well-deserved me-time? Whatever your plans, this handpicked selection of films is sure to make your heart skip a beat.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Expecting yet another ordinary summer in the Catskills with her family, 17-year-old Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey) instead stumbles into a world of electrifying dance and unexpected romance. Drawn to the resort’s charismatic dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), she defies social expectations and her family’s disapproval, embracing the experience that transforms her. Through passion, rebellion, and self-discovery, Baby not only finds love but also learns to stand up for what truly matters.
Love in the Time of Cholera (2007)
Few love stories are as heartrending as that of Florentino (Javier Bardem) and Fermina (Giovanna Mezzogiorno) in Love in the Time of Cholera. Their youthful romance is cut short when Fermina’s father forbids their union, steering her toward the distinguished Dr. Juvenal Urbino (Benjamin Bratt) instead. Heartbroken but undeterred, Florentino devotes his life to proving his worth, waiting patiently for decades in the hope of rekindling their love. Based on Gabriel García Márquez’s acclaimed 1985 novel, this sweeping tale explores the resilience of true love amidst the trials and transformations of life.
Laws of Attraction (2004)
As top divorce lawyers, Daniel Rafferty (Pierce Brosnan) and Audrey Woods (Julianne Moore) have witnessed countless marriages fall apart—enough to make them skeptical about love. Yet, despite their fierce courtroom rivalry and clashing personalities, an undeniable chemistry draws them together. A drunken night at an Irish festival takes an unexpected turn, leaving them legally married. Now, as they navigate their accidental relationship while tackling a high-stakes celebrity divorce case, Daniel and Audrey begin to realize that their differences might just make them the perfect match.
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper shine in this offbeat romantic dramedy about two flawed yet deeply compelling individuals trying to rebuild their lives. After a stint in a psychiatric hospital following a violent outburst, Pat Solitano (Cooper) is determined to win back his ex-wife, embarking on a journey of self-improvement and redemption. Along the way, he meets Tiffany Maxwell (Lawrence), a sharp-witted young widow with struggles of her own. As their unlikely friendship takes shape—through dance, shared frustrations, and life’s unpredictable twists—they discover that happiness sometimes comes from the most unexpected connections.
Blue Valentine (2010)
Not in the mood for a fairy-tale romance? Blue Valentine offers a raw, unflinching look at love’s highs and lows, told through two parallel narratives. The film juxtaposes the passionate early days of Dean (Ryan Gosling) and Cindy’s (Michelle Williams) relationship with the stark reality of their crumbling marriage. As they attempt to salvage their love with a romantic getaway, long-buried issues resurface, forcing them to confront the painful truth. This critically acclaimed drama delivers a heartbreaking portrayal of how love can evolve—and sometimes unravel—over time. Williams’ powerful performance earned her both Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress, while Gosling received a Golden Globe nod for Best Actor.
Ready for all the feels? Explore Lionsgate Play’s library of films to set you in the mood for Valentine’s Day!
