10 Old-School Period Romance Movies To Escape To Another Era

10 Old-School Period Romance Movies To Escape To Another Era

Period romance movies are always mysterious. They take viewers on a journey to the past, whisking them away to luxurious settled moments filled with passion and elegance.

The stories never seem to be joyful ones but they do capture the essence of love from different eras. Here, we’ve collected our favorite 10 of the best historical drama movies that we’re sure will captivate you with their timeless charm.

No one ever said love was easy. And I’m almost positive no ever will say it either. But sometimes, we just need to feel something even if its sadness especially when times are tough for us in reality right now…

Whether you’re happy or sad, these ten historical romance movies will give you the escapism you need and deserve. And if that wasn’t enough for you, here’s an updated list of even more great period drama movies we can’t live without.

10 Period Romance Movies Of All Time

1. Shakespeare In Love (1998)

Shakespeare in Love
Shakespeare in Love

Young Will Shakespeare is a bit of a writer but finds the inspiration for his greatest masterpiece while crushing on lady Viola de Lesseps. This film wraps up the charm and wit of its characters into a true tribute to love and art.

Related: 7 Must-Watch Movies About Toxic Relationships And Dysfunctional Romance

2. Portrait Of A Lady On Fire (2019)

period romance movies

People are still trying to figure out how this movie is so visually stunning. The forbidden love between a painter and her subject could not be more beautiful, as they go through the struggles of desire and societal expectations in 18th century France.

3. Pride And Prejudice (2005)

period romance movies

You know you’re gonna get some incredible costumes when you hear that Jane Austen’s classic novel was adapted for the big screen.

In early 19th century England, Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Darcy (who initially seems like kind of a rude guy), until he turns out to be her perfect match.

4. The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden
The Handmaiden

Betrayal, deception, and passion intertwine in one of the iconic period drama movies of South Korea. What’s love got to do with it? Two women from different worlds connect over their shared desires in 1930s Korea.

Related: The Art Of Soft Love In K-Drama Romance: 10 Enchanting Lessons

5. Sense And Sensibility (1995)

Sense and Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility

It’s another one by Jane Austen, but this time directed it’s by Ang Lee. ‘Sense and Sensibility’ is one of the best period romance movies which follows Dashwood sisters as they try not to let societal expectations ruin their love life in early 19th century England.

6. Emma (2020)

Emma
Emma

A fresh take on Jane Austen’s beloved era in English filmmaking, this delightful comedy of manners captures all the ups and downs that come with trying to find someone right for your friend during Regency-era England.

7. Marie Antoinette (2006)

period romance movies

Sofia Coppola brings her own unique style and flair to the story of the infamous French queen. Through extravagant parties and political turmoil, Marie Antoinette finds herself – and love.

8. Phantom Thread (2017)

Phantom Thread
Phantom Thread

It’s London in the ’50s. Director Paul Thomas Anderson creates the perfect setting for a dressmaker to fall for a young waitress named Alma. At what point does love become power? And is it worth sacrificing anything?

9. Atonement (2007)

Atonement
Atonement

Dark secrets run rampant and false accusations change lives forever in this hauntingly beautiful film. Though these star-crossed lovers are torn apart by betrayal, it doesn’t make their passion any less real.

10. Little Women (2019)

period romance movies

Greta Gerwig’s bright adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel throws a major party in the name of sisterhood. And if anyone needs reminding, this movie is here to tell you that no matter what, love always wins.

Between the love of family and friends, it’s a theme that rings true during even the darkest times.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the elegance of Regency England or the splendor of Victorian society, these movies will keep you hooked with their amazing stories and unforgettable characters.

Let us know in the comments some of your favorite historical drama movies in the comments below!


period romance movies pin

Published On:

Last updated on:

Daisy Simon

I’m Daisy Simon, member of the Editorial Team at Minds Journal, who loves exploring the cultural zeitgeist through cinema, and pop culture. I hold a degree in Sociology and I write on topics like lifestyle, relationships, feminism, mental health, and how they all connect to the world we live in today. My goal is to spark honest conversations that people can relate to and help us better understand the challenges and ideas shaping our generation.

Disclaimer: The informational content on The Minds Journal have been created and reviewed by qualified mental health professionals. They are intended solely for educational and self-awareness purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing emotional distress or have concerns about your mental health, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional or healthcare provider.

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10 Old-School Period Romance Movies To Escape To Another Era

Period romance movies are always mysterious. They take viewers on a journey to the past, whisking them away to luxurious settled moments filled with passion and elegance.

The stories never seem to be joyful ones but they do capture the essence of love from different eras. Here, we’ve collected our favorite 10 of the best historical drama movies that we’re sure will captivate you with their timeless charm.

No one ever said love was easy. And I’m almost positive no ever will say it either. But sometimes, we just need to feel something even if its sadness especially when times are tough for us in reality right now…

Whether you’re happy or sad, these ten historical romance movies will give you the escapism you need and deserve. And if that wasn’t enough for you, here’s an updated list of even more great period drama movies we can’t live without.

10 Period Romance Movies Of All Time

1. Shakespeare In Love (1998)

Shakespeare in Love
Shakespeare in Love

Young Will Shakespeare is a bit of a writer but finds the inspiration for his greatest masterpiece while crushing on lady Viola de Lesseps. This film wraps up the charm and wit of its characters into a true tribute to love and art.

Related: 7 Must-Watch Movies About Toxic Relationships And Dysfunctional Romance

2. Portrait Of A Lady On Fire (2019)

period romance movies

People are still trying to figure out how this movie is so visually stunning. The forbidden love between a painter and her subject could not be more beautiful, as they go through the struggles of desire and societal expectations in 18th century France.

3. Pride And Prejudice (2005)

period romance movies

You know you’re gonna get some incredible costumes when you hear that Jane Austen’s classic novel was adapted for the big screen.

In early 19th century England, Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Darcy (who initially seems like kind of a rude guy), until he turns out to be her perfect match.

4. The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden
The Handmaiden

Betrayal, deception, and passion intertwine in one of the iconic period drama movies of South Korea. What’s love got to do with it? Two women from different worlds connect over their shared desires in 1930s Korea.

Related: The Art Of Soft Love In K-Drama Romance: 10 Enchanting Lessons

5. Sense And Sensibility (1995)

Sense and Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility

It’s another one by Jane Austen, but this time directed it’s by Ang Lee. ‘Sense and Sensibility’ is one of the best period romance movies which follows Dashwood sisters as they try not to let societal expectations ruin their love life in early 19th century England.

6. Emma (2020)

Emma
Emma

A fresh take on Jane Austen’s beloved era in English filmmaking, this delightful comedy of manners captures all the ups and downs that come with trying to find someone right for your friend during Regency-era England.

7. Marie Antoinette (2006)

period romance movies

Sofia Coppola brings her own unique style and flair to the story of the infamous French queen. Through extravagant parties and political turmoil, Marie Antoinette finds herself – and love.

8. Phantom Thread (2017)

Phantom Thread
Phantom Thread

It’s London in the ’50s. Director Paul Thomas Anderson creates the perfect setting for a dressmaker to fall for a young waitress named Alma. At what point does love become power? And is it worth sacrificing anything?

9. Atonement (2007)

Atonement
Atonement

Dark secrets run rampant and false accusations change lives forever in this hauntingly beautiful film. Though these star-crossed lovers are torn apart by betrayal, it doesn’t make their passion any less real.

10. Little Women (2019)

period romance movies

Greta Gerwig’s bright adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel throws a major party in the name of sisterhood. And if anyone needs reminding, this movie is here to tell you that no matter what, love always wins.

Between the love of family and friends, it’s a theme that rings true during even the darkest times.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the elegance of Regency England or the splendor of Victorian society, these movies will keep you hooked with their amazing stories and unforgettable characters.

Let us know in the comments some of your favorite historical drama movies in the comments below!


period romance movies pin

Published On:

Last updated on:

Daisy Simon

I’m Daisy Simon, member of the Editorial Team at Minds Journal, who loves exploring the cultural zeitgeist through cinema, and pop culture. I hold a degree in Sociology and I write on topics like lifestyle, relationships, feminism, mental health, and how they all connect to the world we live in today. My goal is to spark honest conversations that people can relate to and help us better understand the challenges and ideas shaping our generation.

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