When it comes to first love, everyone has a different experience. Some people find their first love in high school, while others find them later in life. Some people are lucky enough to have a first love that lasts a lifetime, while others might only experience it for a brief moment. In any case, you'll fall head over heals for these new and classic movies about falling in love for the first time. The best movies about young love or puppy love span across genres and decades, some end happily and others finish with a first heartbreak. Which means you'll find new and classic movies about a first romance on this list.
No matter what your own personal experience with first love is, there are bound to be some great movies out there that capture the essence of what it feels like. Here are some of the best movies about first love experiences. But which one deserves to be in the top spot? You can help decide by voting up your favorites. You can also vote down the first love movies that you've seen and think other fans should skip. Thanks to streaming services like Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, Netlfix, and Apple TV+ you can start streaming most of these movies right away.
- 1
A powerful tale of passion, The Notebook showcases the intense connection between two young lovers, portrayed by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. This romantic drama stands apart from other first love films due to its deeply emotional plot, captivating performances, and a time-honored love story that transcends generations. With its unforgettable scenes and the chemistry between the lead actors, The Notebook has undoubtedly earned its place in the pantheon of the best movies about first love ever made.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Nick Cassavetes
- 2
In this iconic film directed by Cameron Crowe, Say Anything... explores the highs and lows of first love through the unlikely romance between an aspiring kickboxer (John Cusack) and a high-achieving student (Ione Skye). Its endearing blend of humor and heartache, along with memorable scenes like the famous boombox serenade, make this film stand out as a quintessential feature in any first love movie collection. It is the raw honesty, witty dialogue, and genuine emotion displayed in Say Anything... that cements its position as one of the best films showcasing the power of first love.
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Cameron Crowe
- 3
Adapted from Nicholas Sparks' bestselling novel, A Walk to Remember takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as it narrates the heart-wrenching love story between Landon Carter (Shane West) and Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore). This poignant film expertly navigates themes of love, sacrifice, and acceptance, showcasing the transformative effects of first love while remaining grounded in its portrayal of youthful innocence. With unforgettable performances and an evocative soundtrack, A Walk to Remember remains a timeless classic in the realm of first love cinema.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Adam Shankman
- 4
Based on the critically acclaimed novel by Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower delves into the complexities of adolescence and first love through the eyes of introverted high school student Charlie (Logan Lerman). The film's profound exploration of friendship, mental health, and self-discovery sets it apart from other stories about first love, as it captures the essence of teenage experiences with honesty and vulnerability. With memorable performances by Emma Watson and Ezra Miller, The Perks of Being a Wallflower has secured its place among the most powerful depictions of first love in modern cinema.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Stephen Chbosky
- 5
Adapted from John Green's popular novel, The Fault in Our Stars is a tear-jerking romantic drama that follows the love story of two cancer-stricken teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley) and Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort). This heartfelt film masterfully conveys the beauty of first love while exploring themes of life, death, and everything in between. With its profound narrative and authentic performances, The Fault in Our Stars remains a timeless tribute to the transformative power of first love.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Josh Boone
- 6
In this emotionally charged coming-of-age drama, The Man in the Moon tells a touching story of sisterhood and first love set against the backdrop of rural Louisiana. Starring a young Reese Witherspoon in her film debut, this poignant tale delves into themes of love, loss, and learning through the experiences of its compelling characters. Its sincere exploration of complex emotions and powerful acting make The Man in the Moon an enduring favorite for viewers seeking an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of first love.
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Robert Mulligan
