The 25 Best Movies Like 'Lady Chatterley's Lover', Ranked By Fans

In the seductive drama Dangerous Liaisons, set in 18th-century France, the manipulative Marquise de Muil (Glenn Close) and the charming Vicomte de Valmont (John Malkovich) engage in a twisted game of seduction and betrayal, using others as pawns in their schemes. As their web of deceit unfolds, themes of power, desire, and moral degradation come to the forefront in this tale of love and manipulation. The film's lavish costumes and intricate plotting underscore the complexities of passion and deception.

Mirroring the allure of Lady Chatterley's Lover, Dangerous Liaisons immerses viewers in a world of steamy romance and clandestine affairs, where characters navigate the treacherous waters of forbidden desire. Both films provide a glimpse into the darker aspects of love and lust, as protagonists engage in illicit relationships that challenge societal norms and moral boundaries. Through its intricate character dynamics and sumptuous visuals, Dangerous Liaisons captivates with its portrayal of intoxicating passion and moral ambiguity.

In the period drama Madame Bovary, Emma Bovary (Mia Wasikowska) is a discontented aristocrat who enters into multiple affairs to escape her dull marriage, leading to financial ruin and tragedy. Themes of forbidden love, societal constraints, and the pursuit of happiness at any cost are showcased through the complex protagonist's journey towards self-destruction. 

Mirroring the narrative of Lady Chatterley's Lover, Madame Bovary follows a protagonist entangled in scandalous affairs, navigating the consequences of their actions amidst a backdrop of societal expectations. Both characters grapple with desires that defy societal norms, facing internal and external conflicts as they seek fulfillment and passion in forbidden relationships.

In the romantic drama Anna Karenina, set in 19th-century Russia, the titular character (Keira Knightley) finds herself trapped in a loveless marriage and embarks on a passionate affair with Count Vronsky (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), leading to scandal and tragedy. Themes of forbidden love, societal expectations, and the consequences of infidelity are explored through intricate plotting and complex character relationships. 

Similar to Lady Chatterley's Lover, Anna Karenina delves into the tumultuous affair between its protagonists, showcasing the emotional turmoil and societal backlash they face. Both films navigate the complexities of illicit love, with characters seeking happiness outside of their oppressive marriages amidst themes of passion, desire, and betrayal.

In the romantic drama Portrait of a Lady on Fire, set in 18th century France, artist Marianne (Noémie Merlant) is tasked with painting the wedding portrait of Héloïse (Adèle Haenel), a reluctant bride-to-be. As Marianne observes Héloïse in secret, their connection deepens into a passionate love affair, exploring themes of forbidden desire, artistry, and societal constraints. The film, directed by Céline Sciamma, captures the intimacy and intensity of their relationship against the backdrop of a stifling patriarchal society.

Similar to Lady Chatterley's Lover, Portrait of a Lady on Fire delves into the complexities of a forbidden romance between its leads, showcasing the emotional depth and longing that define their connection. Both films explore the theme of love transcending societal norms, as characters engage in steamy, illicit relationships that challenge the conventions of their time. Through exquisite visuals and nuanced performances, these period pieces evoke a sense of heightened passion and emotional entanglement.

In the classic romantic drama Pride & Prejudice, based on the novel by Jane Austen, the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) navigates the challenges of social expectations and misconceptions as she finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen). Against the backdrop of 19th-century England, themes of class, morality, and romance are interwoven in this timeless tale of love and personal growth. The film showcases the dynamics of the Bennet family and their interactions with the affluent and intriguing characters of Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley.

Like Lady Chatterley's Lover, Pride & Prejudice explores the complexities of love and desire within a societal framework, where characters grapple with personal convictions and expectations. Both narratives delve into forbidden or unconventional relationships, challenging the norms of their respective eras and highlighting the emotional turmoil and passion that come with such connections. Through its evocative period setting and rich character development, Pride & Prejudice captures the essence of forbidden love and societal constraints with a nuanced and captivating approach.

Set against the backdrop of World War II, Atonement centers on the tragic love story between Cecilia Tallis, portrayed by Keira Knightley, and Robbie Turner, played by James McAvoy, as a moment of misunderstanding leads to devastating consequences and separates the lovers. Themes of guilt, redemption, and the enduring power of love are interwoven in this sweeping romantic drama directed by Joe Wright. Through its stunning visuals and impactful storytelling, Atonement explores the complexities of love and sacrifice amidst the chaos of war.

Similar to the themes explored in Lady Chatterley's Lover, Atonement delves into the heart-wrenching journey of characters entangled in a love affair fraught with misunderstandings and societal constraints. Both narratives highlight the transformative nature of love as it navigates through obstacles of guilt and redemption, resonating with the emotional depth and raw vulnerability of forbidden relationships. With its poignant exploration of longing and forgiveness, Atonement captures the essence of characters falling in love against the backdrop of turbulent times, mirroring the emotional turmoil in Lady Chatterley's Lover.