Romance, as a theme, is older than cinema itself. In fact, some of the first movies ever created featured love in their stories. Since then, we’ve been treated to a range of romances in cinema, from classic rom-coms to even fantasy films with romantic subplots. Considering the universality of romance, it’s no wonder that we’ve seen all kinds of stories, whether it’s about longing, heartbreak, undying love, or even forbidden love.
One of the nuggets of truth found in many romance films is that love, though it’s a beautiful phenomenon that nearly everyone wishes to experience at some point in life, is hard. And it can hurt — so much so that many of us often close ourselves off to even just the prospect of love. When this happens, it can be hard to warm ourselves up to romance and relationships again. Thankfully, from contemporary romances to historical love stories and rom-coms, these 20 miniseries will rekindle your faith in love.
20Normal People (2020)
Based on Sally Rooney’s novel of the same title,Normal Peoplefollows the complex relationship between two individuals, Marianne and Connell, from their high school days in a small Irish town to their university years in Dublin. The storyline explores the themes of love, friendship, and the challenges of relationships through itsrealistic portrayal of romance.
Raw Exploration of Modern Love
With its genuine and raw presentation of the highs and lows of a romantic relationship, this Hulu miniseries is a good choice for those looking to believe in love again. Indeed, it doesn’t shy away from depicting the most painful aspects of romance — be prepared to shed tears. But that’s what refreshing about this story: it’s honest about what it means to genuinely care about someone, and Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones' chemistry is palpable.Stream on Hulu
19Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
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Without a doubt,Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Storywas one of the most moving miniseries of 2023. This captivating spinoff ofBridgertonfocuses on the love story between Queen Charlotte and King George, providing much needed background info on how they got to where they are in the mainBridgertontimeline.
Extremely Warm and Profound
Considering that Queen Charlotte and King George’s relationship started as a marriage of convenience, no one would have imagined it would become so profound. Even with the King’s mental health issues and other challenges in the way of their love, Charlotte never stopped fighting for George, ultimately becoming his queen, therapist, and confidant. There’s a warmth to this historical drama as it presents to us a love story that defies the odds.Stream on Netflix
18Pride and Prejudice (1996)
Pride and Prejudice
Pride and Prejudiceis a six-episode miniseries produced by the BBC that closely follows Jane Austen’s eponymous novel. In fact, it is widely recognized as one of the most faithful adaptations of her popular novel. Set in the early-19th Century, it revolves around the Bennet family’s efforts to find respectable matches for their daughters. However, the arrival of Mr. Bingley and his proud friend, Mr. Darcy, complicates matters, and it falls upon Elizabeth Bennet to encourage Mr. Darcy to see beyond his pride.
A Timeless and Heartfelt Love Story
Pride and Prejudiceis indeed a heartwarming and timeless story that explores how genuine connections are made, the importance of looking beyond societal expectations, and the transformative power of love. Its enduring popularity and themes make it a compelling source for those seeking to believe in the depth and beauty of romantic relationships. Indeed, when one thinks of great love stories,Austen’sPride and Prejudiceis certainly one that comes to mind.
17War and Peace (2016)
Spellbinding and beautifully done,War and Peaceis a superb adaption of Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel of the same name. Setduring the Napoleonic wars, this six-part miniseries primarily follows the lives of three young Aristocrats, Pierre Bezukhov, Andrei Bolkonsky, and Natasha Rostova, brilliantly brought to life by Paul Dano, James Norton, and Lily James, respectively.
Spellbinding and Beautifully Executed
Adapting a beloved book likeWar and Peaceand doing a fine job of it is no easy feat. While the romance miniseries may present a condensed version of the story, it is regarded as a faithful and well-crafted adaptation that captures the spirit of Tolstoy’s literary masterpiece. Amidst the war and the wide range of themes it explores, it also delves into various facets of love, including passionate, tumultuous romances, and unrequited love.Stream on Prime Video
16North & South (2004)
Produced by BBC One and consisting of four episodes,North & Southsuccessfully transforms Elizabeth Gaskell’s work into a highly enjoyable and moving miniseries. It is told through the eyes of the beautiful southerner Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe), whose family relocates to the rapidly changing north. In this new environment, she becomes acquainted with the mill owner, John Thornton (Richard Armitage).
More Than a Mere Period Piece
Far more than a mere period piece, this romantic miniseries serves as a commentary on the socio-economic disparities between the north and the south of England during the 19th Century. However, at the heart of the story lies Margaret and John Thornton’s evolving and complex romance that infuses heartfelt depth into the tale. Denby-Ashe portrays Margaret with a blend of intelligence, strength, and compassion, while Richard Armitage skillfully brings out the stern exterior, pride and vulnerable side Thornton is known for.Stream on Roku Channel
15The Thorn Birds (1983)
Based on Colleen McCllough’s novel,The Thorn Birdsrevolves around the Cleary family, but primarily focuses on the tumultuous andforbidden love affairbetween Meggie Cleary and Father Ralph. Richard Chamberlain plays Father Ralph, a Catholic priest with ambitions of rising in the hierarchy in the church, while Rachel Ward takes on the role of Meggie, a young woman from a sheep farming family.
Intense Forbidden Love
Known for its sweeping, emotional storytelling and the portrayal of a complicated yet long-lasting love affair, this miniseries digs into deep stuff like sacrifice and the consequences of forbidden romance. Viewers are drawn into the passionate and intense love between Meggie and Father Ralph, eliciting a strong emotional response from those invested in these characters’ journeys.The Thorn Birdsis a roller coaster of emotions that many can’t help falling in love despite its heart-wrenching twists.Buy on Apple TV
14Little Dorrit (2008)
Little Dorrit
Derived from the book written by Charles Dickens,Little Dorrittells the story of Amy Dorrit, who diligently cares for her proud father. Her life takes a surprising turn when Arthur Cleanam arrives, and together they discover they have a deep connection.
A Breathtaking Period Romance
Boasting a cast of splendid characters, stunning cinematography, and a sweeping soundtrack, this miniseries is often praised for its captivating and faithful adaptation of the source material. The carefully crafted costumes and sets provide ample information for viewers to gain more insights about each character, regardless of their roles.Little Dorrithas the power to stir a range of emotions, with Claire Foy delivering an exceptional and unforgettable performance as Amy. Without a doubt, this historical romance will leave viewers with smiles on their faces by its end.Stream on Roku
Related:The 12 Most Underrated TV Romance Shows, Ranked
13Dash & Lily (2020)
Dash & Lilyunfolds during Christmas in New York, weaving an enchantingholiday love storybetween the titular characters. Their connection deepens through a series of daring challenges, creating a heartwarming tale for fans of sweet romance. The festive New York backdrop adds an eye-catching charm to this adventure of love.
A Fresh Take on Young Love
There’s something undeniably beautiful about the innocence, excitement, and intensity of young love, andDash & Lilybeautifully captures all these elements. Midori Francis and Austin Abrams embody the pure emotions that accompany the sparks of first love. The narrative is so enchanting that it will bring many to tears, moved by the pure beauty of this teenage love story. Overflowing with romantic gestures and heartfelt dialogue,Dash & Lilyrekindle hope for those who may have lost faith in romance.Stream on Netflix
12From Scratch (2022)
Inspired by the memoir penned by Tembi Locke, the eight-episode romantic miniseries,From Scratch, presents one of the sweetest love stories ever seen. Starring Zoe Saldaña and Eugenio Mastrandrea in the lead roles, it follows the love-at-first-sight between an artist and a chef in Italy, and beautifully explores the pair’s transformative journey of love, hope, loss, and more.
A Tender and Emotional Love Story
From Scratchis a mesmerizing love story that tugs at heartstrings while warming the soul. There’s no controlling the tears that pour out as viewers witness Amy experience love and grief across different cultures and continents. Saldaña’s portrayal of Amy is so powerful, earning her well-deserved praise. Yet she’s not the only one who shines here: the rest of the cast is absolutely amazing, enriching the story’s depth.Stream on Netflix
11Four Weddings and a Funeral (2019)
With just a concise package of 10 episodes,Four Weddings and a Funeralpresents a modern reimagining of the 1994 British film of the same name, written by Richard Curtis. It follows four friends who reunite for a wedding, only to have their lives disrupted by a bombshell. As they piece their lives back together, they face a turbulent year filled with romance and heartbreak.
An Uplifting Delight
This miniseries packs in loads of fun, humor, love, and charm, making it an ideal choice for fans of feel-good romances. Cleverly written, the show is teeming with numerous characters that viewers grow to like. It undeniably captures the enchanting spirit, warmth, and passion of the original movie, while offering a modern perspective. avid fans ofMindy Kaling’s work,sand those who have a penchant for romantic comedies, are sure to find absolute delight in this.Stream on Hulu
