Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be about getting chocolates or flowers for your significant other. It can be for the married, single, or somewhere in between, too, especially if you turn on a steamy romance movie to bring the heat. If you need a movie recommendation to spice up the night with your partner, or bring some love to yourself, check out these six steamy romance movies that delve into love, BDSM, forbidden love, and more.
6. Friends with Benefits (2011)
Starting our list of steamy romance movies is Friends with Benefits. If you’ve ever considered the FWB lifestyle, this cute movie might be the perfect watch on Valentine’s Day. The film puts two lead characters, played by Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis, in a no-strings-attached physical relationship, all the while fighting against getting any feelings for each other.
5. Bros (2022)
Fifth on our list of steamy romance movies is Bros. It doesn’t matter if you’re hetero or part of the LGBTQ+ community; there’s something downright hilarious and sexy about two 30-something gay men falling for each other. The best part? One’s a cynic, and the other is a hunk. Full of funny jokes and some hot sex, what more do you want out of a steamy movie?
4. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)
Next on our list of steamy romance movies is Fifty Shades of Grey. Based on the bestselling novel series by E. L. James, the film focuses on the relationship between young literature student Anastasia and wealthy businessman Christian. As the two get closer, the themes of control, vulnerability, and unconventional love through BDSM are explored. It definitely pushes the envelope when it comes to mainstream romance films.
3. Dirty Dancing (1987)
Rounding out the top three steamy romance movies is Dirty Dancing. While it may be the oldest film on our list, it’s a classic with hunk Patrick Swayze and stunning Jennifer Grey at the center of it. Between the sensual dancing, unforgettable music track, and sweet romance scenes, there is nothing better than letting your mind escape to Kellerman’s Resort in the summer.
2. The Notebook (2004)
Second on our list of steamy romance movies is The Notebook. While you may need a box of tissues next to you at all times, the film is a heart-wrenching cult-classic that demands to be watched. Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie’s (Rachel McAdams) relationship is full of passion, and spans decades as the couple fights one obstacle after another to stay together.
1. 365 Days (2020)
Last but not least on our list of steamy romance movies is 365 Days. Based on the first novel in a trilogy by Blanka Lipińska, the slightly controversial film portrays the relationship between a kidnapped young woman (Anna-Maria Sieklucka) and a mafia boss (Michele Morrone). The boss gives her 365 days to fall in love with him, and it is filled with many steamy, explicit scenes. If you want more steamy scenes, there are two more films in the franchise.