Gone are the days when romance in film and TV was all about love-at-first-sight tropes and grand gestures. Today’s storytelling explores love in deeper, more diverse, and refreshingly realistic ways. From slow-burn connections to second chances and non-traditional relationships, modern media is redefining what it means to fall in love. Here are some must-watch TV series and films on Netflix that do romance right.

1. “Bridgerton” (2020-Present) – A Regency Romance with Modern Flair

This hit series brings a fresh take on historical romance with diverse representation, steamy chemistry, and compelling love stories. Each season focuses on a different Bridgerton sibling’s journey to love, making it a must-watch for period drama lovers.

2. “Heartstopper” (2022-Present) – Young Love with Heartfelt Representation

This refreshing LGBTQ+ series follows Charlie and Nick as they navigate high school, friendships, and their blossoming romance. With its positive representation of queer love and mental health themes, “Heartstopper” delivers a wholesome and heartfelt take on young relationships.

3. “One Day” (2024) – Love Through the Years

Based on David Nicholls’ novel, this Netflix adaptation follows the lives of Emma and Dexter over decades, exploring how love changes with time. If the book’s emotional depth is anything to go by, this will be a must-watch for modern romance fans.

4. “Your Place or Mine” (2023) – Redefining Romance in Adulthood

This Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher rom-com flips traditional romance tropes, focusing on career-driven individuals who learn that love can come when least expected. It’s a fun, feel-good take on long-distance friendships evolving into something deeper.

5. “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” Trilogy – A Teen Romance Classic

This beloved trilogy follows Lara Jean as she navigates high school romance, self-discovery, and growing up. The series brings a refreshing take on young love and showcases a charming, heartfelt journey of relationships.

6. “Someone Great” (2019) – Love, Friendship, and Moving On

A rom-com that isn’t just about romance but also about heartbreak and new beginnings. “Someone Great” reminds us that love isn’t always about a partner—it’s also about the friendships that lift us up after love ends.

7. “The Half of It” (2020) – A Unique Love Triangle

This coming-of-age film follows Ellie Chu, a shy but intelligent student who helps a jock woo a girl she secretly loves. With its heartfelt storytelling and fresh perspective on love, it’s a touching and beautifully crafted film.

8. “Love & Gelato” (2022) – A Romantic Italian Adventure

This Netflix original follows a young woman’s journey of self-discovery in Italy, where she explores romance, family, and the beauty of following her heart. Perfect for those who love travel-inspired love stories.

9. “Always Be My Maybe” (2019) – A Modern Rom-Com with a Twist

Starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, this film brings humor, cultural depth, and a heartwarming romance. The story of childhood friends reconnecting as adults is both funny and deeply relatable.

10. “Isa Pa, With Feelings” (2019) – A Touching Filipino Romance

This heartfelt Filipino film follows a woman recovering from heartbreak and a deaf man who dreams of becoming an architect. Their unique connection and emotional journey make for a deeply touching and unconventional love story.

Love is no longer just about ‘happily ever after’—it’s about authenticity, personal growth, and navigating relationships in a fast-changing world. These Netflix TV shows and films prove that modern romance is beautifully complex, diverse, and worth celebrating.