Movies Like Past Lives: 20 Heartening Romance Blockbusters

Loving romantic movies like Past Lives will take you on a fascinating journey where your mood might be synced like violin strings. Based on a scientific fictional story, the Past Lives movie combines thought-provoking themes and romance. The movie gained fame due to its storytelling technique and curiosity to explore the ultimate evil powers.

In The Past Lives, the lady starts observing the flashbacks of past times, and she finds something mysterious. After expressing her deep curiosity, she realizes something behind the scenario must be tackled. In this article, you will not be restricted to only a single movie like Past Lives; more is explained here.

The 20 Best Movies Like Past Lives (2023)

Here starts a new campaign of romantic stories, including a stunning action quest to explore something strange and lovely. 

In the Mood for Love (2000)

In the Mood for Love is a critically acclaimed film directed by Wong Kar-wai. The movie is set in the 1960s and follows the tale of two neighbors, Su Li-Zhen and Chow. Both of them have an issue with their spouses regarding suspected relationships. When they spend more time together, they develop a deep emotional connection but struggle with their feelings due to societal expectations and personal moral codes.

The film is known for its stunning visual style, lush cinematography, and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. Wong Kar-wai’s signature slow-motion shots and use of color create a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the desire and sadness of the characters.

Drive My Car (2021)

“Drive My Car” is a 2021 Japanese film directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi. The movie follows the story of a stage actor and director named Yusuke Kafuku, played by Hidetoshi Nishijima, who is grieving the loss of his wife. To cope with his grief, Yusuke takes on a job directing a play in Hiroshima. However, due to his inability to drive, he is assigned a chauffeur named Misaki Watari, played by Toko Miura, to drive him around.

As Yusuke and Misaki spend time together on the road, they open up about their pasts and innermost thoughts. They find solace and healing in each other’s company through their conversations. The film explores themes of grief, loss, love, and human connection in a deeply emotional and touching way.

“Drive My Car” is based on a short story by Haruki Murakami and has received critical acclaim for its storytelling, direction, and performances. The film won the Best Screenplay award at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival and was selected as the Japanese entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 94th Academy Awards. 

Moonlight (2016)

“Moonlight” is a critically acclaimed film that describes the story of characters that follow the life of a young African American man named Chiron as he navigates his interaction in a rough neighborhood in Miami.

The film is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different stage of Chiron’s life. In the first act, we see Chiron as a young boy struggling with a drug-addicted mother and bullies at school. He finds solace in a local drug dealer and his girlfriend, who offer him guidance and support.

The second act follows Chiron as a teenager dealing with his sexuality and feelings of isolation. He forms a close bond with a classmate named Kevin, but societal expectations and pressures complicate their relationship. The third act shows Chiron as an adult, now going by the name “Black,” trying to come to terms with his past and reconnect with his true self.

Before Midnight (2013)

“Before Midnight” is the third installment in the popular romance film series that began with “Before Sunrise” and continued with “Before Sunset.” Directed by Richard Linklater, the film follows the story of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), a couple who meet on a train in Europe and spend a night together in Vienna in the first film. In “Before Sunset,” they reunite in Paris nine years later and spend an afternoon together.

In “Before Midnight,” we catch up with Jesse and Celine nearly ten years after the events of the second film. The couple is now in Greece, on vacation with their twin daughters. As they navigate the complexities of their relationship and the challenges of long-term love, they face difficult truths about themselves and their future together.

Brooklyn (2015)

Brooklyn (2015) is a lovely depiction of the romantic film directed by John Crowley. The plot describes the story of Eilis Lace, a young Irish immigrant portrayed by Saoirse Ronan, who finds herself navigating life in 1950s Brooklyn. Drawn by the attraction of America, Eilis leaves behind Ireland and her mother’s comforting presence for the bustling shores of New York City. 

Initially, homesickness grips her, but it fades away as new romance enchants her, bringing the exciting charm of love into her life. However, her past soon resurfaces, forcing Eilis to make a difficult decision between the two countries and the distinct lives they offer.

Decision to Leave (2022)

Decision to Leave (2022) is a romantic movie that depicts the new classical work. The story starts with the investigation of a man’s death in the mountains, and a detective encounters the mysterious wife of the deceased. As he delves deeper into the case, he develops feelings for her, complicating his relentless pursuit of the truth.

Decision to Leave is a beautifully shot and emotionally powerful film exploring identity, love, and acceptance themes. It won public admiration, setting its place as a modern masterpiece in cinema.

The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden (2016) is a thrilling movie directed by Park Chan with a romantic element. Aided by an orphaned pickpocket (Kim), a cunning Korean con artist (Ha) hatches a complex scheme to woo and deprive a Japanese woman (Kim) out of her fortune.

Overall, Handmaiden is a cinematic masterpiece that has left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Its exploration of love and loss resonates with viewers deeply emotionally, making it a timeless classic in cinema. It is one of the other movies like Past Lives.

Like Crazy (2011)

Like Crazy (2011) is a romantic film based on dramatic storytelling directed by Drake Doremus. The plot unveils that American Jacob (Anton) and Londoner Anna (Felicity) fall deeply in love while studying in Los Angeles. Their romance faces a major setback when Anna breaches her visa conditions and must return to England. 

As they navigate the challenges of a long-distance relationship amidst their evolving lives, Jacob and Anna repeatedly struggle to stay connected. Despite the obstacles, they continuously find their way back to each other.

Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)

Blue is the Warmest Color (2013) film is based on the story of two teen girls who love each other and later strengthen in the form of a strong friendship. The film is known for its realistic dialogue, emotional depth, and the chemistry between the lead actors. 

Blue is the Warmest Color explores themes of love, commitment, and the passage of time in a thought-provoking way. It has been praised for its raw honesty and its portrayal of the ups and downs of a long-term relationship. The public also criticizes the movie in terms of its storytelling and plot.

After Ever Happy (2022)

After Ever Happy (2022) is covered in a drama film with a touch of romanticism. Castille Landon directs the movie. The movie begins with a startling revelation about their families comes to light; the couple realizes they share more similarities than they initially thought. 

Tessa has transformed from the sweet, uncomplicated girl she once was when she met Hardin, just as Hardin is no longer the harsh, brooding boy she fell deeply for. It is one of the similar movies like Past Lives. 

Empire of Light (2022)

Empire of Light (2022) is a romantic drama film directed by Sam Mendes with a blend of comedy. The plot begins in the 1980s on the south coast of England; the duty manager of a seaside cinema, grappling with her mental health, begins a relationship with a new employee. Overall, it is a beautifully crafted movie that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Lost in Florence (2017)

Lost in Florence (2017) is another romantic film set in a scenic location. The movie describes the story of Eric Lombard, who finds himself at a pivotal moment, torn between chasing his unlikely dream of becoming a professional football player and embarking on a new journey by attending law school. 

As he wrestles with this decision, he travels to Florence with his longtime girlfriend, Colleen, to visit his cousin. Unexpectedly, Eric becomes entangled in the local sport of Calcio Storico, challenging all his previous assumptions about his life and future.

Porto (2016)

Porto (2016) is a romantic film directed by Gabe Klinger that has diverse opinions. The movie opens in the historic city of Porto, where two emigrants share a fleeting yet profound connection. Years later, the memory of their bond continues to haunt them, lingering in their thoughts and emotions.

Porto is a tale of unachievable love, missed opportunities, and the complexities of human relationships. It explores themes of loneliness, desire, and the passage of time with grace and sensitivity. The film has been praised for its performances, intricate storytelling, and strong memories to mood.

Dreamy Eyes (2019)

Directed by Victor Vu, Dreamy Eyes (2019) promises to entertain the viewers through a fascinating romantic story. The movie story opens with heartbreak and betrayal; a young man’s unanswered love for his childhood best friend persists across generations in this epic romance. It is one of the similar movies like Past Lives regarding the love imagination.

Ammonite (2020)

Directed by Francis Lee, Ammonite (2020) offers a full package for romantic lovers in terms of story. Renowned fossilist Mary Anning, who supports her poor mother by selling ordinary fossils to tourists, experiences a life-altering shift when she accepts a job offer to care for a visitor’s wife. Moreover, the movie never lets you get bored if you find the romantic stories impatiently. 

Nuovo Olimpo (2023)

Nuovo Olimpo (2023) is a romantic drama film directed by Ferzan Özpetek. The plot story starts in the late 1970s when two young men cross paths unexpectedly and fall deeply in love. A sudden, unforeseen event tears them apart. 

Over the next 30 years, they opt to the hope of reuniting. Moreover, if you want to watch romantic movies like Past Lives, you should watch Nuovo Olimpo once. 

A Beautiful Life (2011)

A Beautiful Life (2011) is a Chinese romantic movie based on the story of a couple. The unveiling occurs when a lady relocates to Beijing for a fresh start but faces numerous challenges in her new life. Despite these setbacks, she falls in love with a traditional-minded policeman. Moreover, it is one of the best productions, as is the Past Lives by Media Asia Distributions.

Anyone but You (2023)

Anyone but You (2023) is a romantic movie based on the close relationship of the couple under the directorship of Will Gluck. After a promising first date, Ben and Bea’s initial attraction change quickly. When they unexpectedly attend a destination wedding in Australia, they pretend to be the perfect couple to maintain looks. In terms of enjoying Past Lives like movies, watch Anyone but You.

Chemical Hearts (2020)

Chemical Hearts (2020) is a heartening romantic film directed by Richard Tanne. The story is about Henry Page, a teenager and the editor of his high school newspaper, who dreams of becoming a successful writer. His secret? Despite never having experienced love, he desires a grand and romantic love story that will fulfill and inspire him.

Redeeming Love (2022)

Redeeming Love (2022) is a romantic film based on the novel under the directorship of D.J. Caruso. The movie begins in the backdrop of the harsh California Gold Rush of 1850; a young couple’s relationship is tested to its limits. 

Angel, grappling with newfound love and confronting difficult personal challenges, flees from a life she believes she doesn’t deserve. Determined to find her, Michael embarks on a journey that leads Angel to realize she holds the power to shape her own destiny.

Past Lives (2023) Plot

“Past Lives (2023)” is a science fiction thriller film that follows the story of a young woman who begins to experience vivid flashbacks of her past lives. As she delves deeper into these memories, she discovers a connection to a mysterious organization manipulating people’s past lives for their own gain. With the help of a group of rebels, she sets out to uncover the truth behind her past lives and end the organization’s evil plans.

The film is set in a futuristic world where technology allows people to access their past lives through virtual reality simulations. The stunning visuals, with breathtaking CGI effects, bring the different time periods to life. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mystery alongside the protagonist.

Box Office Collection 

Conclusion

In short, movies like Past Lives are houseful entertainment blends unfolding romanticism. Past Lives (2023) is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of identity, memory, and the consequences of changings with the past. It raises important questions about ethics and the nature of reality, making viewers reflect on their beliefs and values.

With an exciting cast and a suitable storyline, this film will captivate audiences and leave them questioning the nature of their existence. To enjoy more romantic stories, go through the article with a deep analysis of the plot and storytelling.