Top Romantic Movies with Oscar Potential for 2025
Romantic films have always held a unique power to capture the beauty and complexity of love, making them beloved by audiences and critics alike. In 2024, directors and actors brought to life a remarkable slate of films that delve into themes of connection, vulnerability, and passion. With the Oscars just around the corner, these movies are generating significant buzz for their potential to take home golden statuettes in 2025. For Ukrainian singles in USA and romantics worldwide, these films resonate deeply, offering relatable narratives and aspirational stories of love.
From groundbreaking narratives to extraordinary performances, this year’s romantic films showcase the transformative power of love on screen. Let’s dive into the standout movies that have the potential to dominate the awards season.
All of You
Director: William Bridges
Starring: Brett Goldstein, Imogen Poots
“All of You” brings a futuristic twist to the romance genre, exploring the idea of scientifically determined soulmates. Directed by William Bridges, this science fiction romantic drama delves into the lives of two characters whose connection has been decided by technology. The film raises profound questions about free will, compatibility, and the true essence of love.
Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, All of You quickly garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking premise and emotionally charged storytelling. Brett Goldstein and Imogen Poots deliver standout performances, bringing depth and nuance to their roles. The film’s unique narrative and stunning cinematography position it as a strong contender for Best Original Screenplay and possibly acting nominations.
What makes All of You so compelling is its ability to merge the intellectual with the emotional. By posing questions about the role of technology in relationships, the movie resonates with modern audiences, making it a standout in this year’s Oscar race.
The Idea of You
Director: Michael Showalter
Starring: Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway delivers a powerhouse performance in The Idea of You, a romantic drama that challenges societal norms. The film follows Sophie, a woman in her forties who embarks on a whirlwind romance with a younger man. Directed by Michael Showalter, the movie explores themes of empowerment, vulnerability, and the complexities of love that transcends age.
Hathaway’s portrayal of Sophie is both captivating and emotionally resonant, positioning her as a frontrunner for Best Actress. The film has also received praise for its screenplay, which artfully navigates the challenges of defying societal expectations while highlighting the transformative power of love.
Dubbed a standout in the “Cougar-Com” trend of 2024, The Idea of You represents a fresh take on romantic storytelling. Its compelling narrative and Hathaway’s magnetic performance make it a strong contender in categories such as Best Adapted Screenplay and even Best Picture.
A Family Affair
Director: Richard LaGravenese
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, Joey King
Romantic comedies often face an uphill battle during awards season, but A Family Affair has proven itself a worthy contender. Directed by Richard LaGravenese, this delightful film stars Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, and Joey King in a story that blends humor, heart, and a touch of drama.
The plot centers around a surprising romance that disrupts familial dynamics, leading to both comedic and heartfelt moments. Nicole Kidman’s performance stands out, making her a potential nominee for Best Supporting Actress. The film’s sharp writing and charming cast elevate it beyond the typical rom-com, earning it a place in discussions about Best Original Screenplay and even Best Picture for its unique take on love and identity.
What sets A Family Affair apart is its ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper emotional themes. It’s a film that entertains while also resonating on a personal level, making it a strong candidate for recognition at the Oscars.
Hit Man
Director: Richard Linklater
Starring: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona
Richard Linklater’s Hit Man is a genre-defying romantic film that blends elements of crime, comedy, and love. The story follows a professor who moonlights as a hitman and becomes entangled with a woman who hires his services. As their relationship evolves, the film explores themes of trust, redemption, and the unpredictability of love.
Glen Powell’s performance as the titular hitman is both charismatic and layered, making him a potential nominee for Best Actor. Adria Arjona also shines, bringing depth and charm to her role. The film’s clever script and Linklater’s masterful direction position it as a contender for Best Original Screenplay and other key awards.
What makes Hit Man stand out is its ability to subvert expectations. By combining suspense with heartfelt romance, the film creates a unique cinematic experience that resonates with audiences and critics alike.
Challengers
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Starring: Zendaya, Mike Faist, Josh O’Connor
Set in the high-stakes world of professional tennis, Challengers is a romantic drama that explores ambition, loyalty, and the complexities of love. Zendaya stars as Tashi, a former tennis prodigy who coaches her husband while navigating a love triangle with his rival. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film is a visually stunning and emotionally intense exploration of relationships.
Zendaya’s performance has earned widespread acclaim, making her a strong contender for Best Actress. The film’s intricate storytelling and Guadagnino’s direction elevate it to potential nominations for Best Picture and Best Director. With its compelling narrative and exceptional performances, Challengers has cemented its place as a frontrunner for the 2025 Oscars.
Themes That Define Oscar-Worthy Romance
What makes these films stand out is their ability to push the boundaries of traditional romantic storytelling. From the futuristic dilemmas of All of You to the empowering narrative of The Idea of You, these movies offer fresh perspectives on love. They explore universal themes like vulnerability, connection, and resilience, while also delving into contemporary issues such as technology, societal norms, and ambition.
Each film brings something unique to the table. Whether it’s the innovative storytelling of Hit Man, the humor and charm of A Family Affair, or the emotional intensity of Challengers, these movies capture the diverse facets of love in ways that resonate deeply with audiences.
Why These Films Have Oscar Potential
Romantic films often face challenges during awards season, as the genre is sometimes undervalued in comparison to dramas or historical epics. However, the 2024 slate of romantic films has managed to break through these barriers, earning critical acclaim for their exceptional performances, innovative scripts, and powerful storytelling.
These movies have successfully elevated the romance genre by tackling complex themes with authenticity and artistry. Their emotional depth, coupled with outstanding direction and acting, positions them as strong contenders in categories such as Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay.
A Celebration of Love in Cinema
As the Oscars approach, these romantic films are sure to remain at the forefront of awards season discussions. They not only celebrate the beauty and complexity of love but also push the genre forward with bold narratives and unforgettable performances.
Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt dramas, genre-defying stories, or lighthearted comedies, these movies offer something for everyone. For Ukrainian singles in the USA and romantics everywhere, these films provide a source of inspiration and a reminder of the enduring power of love.
