Over the past ten years, Netflix has been on a mission to perfect the romantic movie formula. While some attempts have missed the mark, others have hit that sweet spot of chemistry, sharp writing, and unforgettable meet-cutes. These aren't just "good for Netflix"—they're genuinely great films that remind us why we love the genre. Here are the most perfect Netflix romance movies of the last 10 years, ranked.
8. 'Our Souls at Night' (2017)
Robert Redford and Jane Fonda, who famously played newlyweds in Barefoot in the Park, reunite in this gentle, deeply human story about two lonely widowers in a small Colorado town. Based on Kent Haruf's novel, Our Souls at Night follows Addie Moore (Fonda) who proposes an unconventional arrangement to her neighbor Louis (Redford): they'll share a bed for companionship, no strings attached. Over time, this quiet arrangement blossoms into a tender romance, despite gossip and judgment. The film moves at an unhurried pace, trusting audiences to appreciate the small, meaningful moments between two people who know what truly matters in life. Though the ending isn't the happiest, the journey is beautiful from start to finish.
7. 'Always Be My Maybe' (2019)
Co-written by and starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, this romantic comedy is a sharp, funny, and authentically Asian-American story. Directed by Nahnatchka Khan (Fresh Off the Boat), the film follows childhood best friends Sasha (Wong) and Marcus (Park) who reconnect as adults after a teenage romance went sour. Sasha is now a famous chef, while Marcus still lives with his father and plays in a band. Their renewed friendship forces them to confront buried feelings. The tone shifts smoothly from laugh-out-loud moments to moving conversations about potential and self-love. Plus, a Keanu Reeves cameo steals the show. This is a rom-com that feels personal, authentic, and genuinely funny.
6. 'People We Meet on Vacation' (2026)
One of the most recent entries on this list, People We Meet on Vacation adapts Emily Henry's beloved novel with charm and polish. Directed by Brett Haley, the film follows former best friends Poppy (Emily Bader) and Alex (Tom Blyth), who vowed to take a trip together every summer. After an undisclosed event tore them apart, they reconnect for one last vacation. The story toggles between past and present, revealing why they fought and what they mean to each other. This is a slow-burn romance wrapped in light comedy and beautiful chemistry—a warm, familiar love story that fans of the genre will adore.
5. 'Nuovo Olimpo' (2023)
This Italian Netflix original is a powerful exploration of fate, missed opportunities, and love that haunts you for a lifetime. Directed by Ferzan Özpetek, who calls the story semi-autobiographical, Nuovo Olimpo is set in 1970s Rome during the Years of Lead. It follows two young men, Pietro and Enea, who meet at a local cinema and fall into a passionate, life-altering love affair. Circumstances tear them apart, and the film follows the decades-long ache of their separation. With stunning cinematography and gorgeous scenery, this queer drama is incredibly romantic and moving—and deserves far more attention.
4. 'The Half of It' (2020)
Writer-director Alice Wu delivers a modern twist on the Cyrano de Bergerac story in The Half of It. Shy, introverted Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis) agrees to write love letters for a jock named Paul (Daniel Diemer) to win the heart of Aster (Alexxis Lemire). But Ellie herself has feelings for Aster, leading to a complicated love triangle. This isn't a typical rom-com; it's a thoughtful, tender story about identity, friendship, and the courage to be yourself. The film's quiet intelligence and emotional depth make it one of Netflix's most perfect romances.
3. 'Set It Up' (2018)
This is the kind of rom-com that feels like a classic from the moment it starts. Set It Up follows two overworked assistants, Harper (Zoey Deutch) and Charlie (Glen Powell), who decide to set up their demanding bosses (Lucy Liu and Taye Diggs) in hopes of getting some time off. Of course, chaos and chemistry ensue. The film is a masterclass in the genre: sharp dialogue, genuine laughs, and a central romance that feels earned. It's a throwback to the great rom-coms of the '90s and '00s, and it works perfectly.
2. 'Voicemails for Isabelle' (2025)
This recent gem from Netflix tells the story of a woman who discovers a series of voicemails left by her late mother, each one a message of love and advice. As she listens, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected romance. The film is a beautiful blend of grief, hope, and love, with a performance that will leave you in tears. It's a reminder that sometimes the most perfect love stories are the ones that help us heal.
1. 'The Perfect Date' (2019)
Noah Centineo stars as Brooks Rattigan, a high school student who creates a dating app where he can be anyone his clients want—a perfect date for any occasion. But when he falls for one of his clients, he realizes that being yourself is more important than being perfect. This film is a charming, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt exploration of identity and love. It's the kind of movie that makes you believe in the magic of a perfect date—and the power of being true to yourself.
For more binge-worthy picks, check out our Weekend Binge Alert: 3 Netflix Shows to Devour on July 10 and Weekend Watchlist: 3 Must-See Netflix Movies for July 10.
