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New Delhi: Romance movies often sell us the idea that love must be passionate, dramatic, and, most importantly, romantic. But sometimes, the strongest connections don’t come with candlelit dinners or grand declarations of love.
Platonic love—the deep bond between two people that doesn’t rely on romance—is just as powerful and meaningful. Hollywood has given us some unforgettable platonic relationships over the years. Some of them start with a spark of attraction that never fully turns into romance. Meanwhile, others are purely about companionship from the beginning.
If you're tired of typical love stories and want to watch something that celebrates human connections in a different way, this list is for you. Here are seven of the best romance movies that showcase the power of platonic love.
Where to watch: Jio Hotstar
Cast: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
Synopsis: When his only son, Nemo, is captured by a diver, overprotective clownfish Marlin sets out on a journey across the ocean to find him. Along the way, he teams up with Dory, a forgetful but well-meaning blue tangfish, and the two form an unlikely partnership. As they navigate the dangers of the deep sea, Marlin learns to trust others and let go of his fears. Their bond, built on resilience and trust, proves that love isn’t just about romance; it’s also about family and friendship.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, Anna Faris
Synopsis: Chris Brander has been in love with his best friend Jamie since high school, but she only sees him as a friend. After years away, Chris returns home, now successful and confident, but still struggling to escape the friend zone. Despite his attempts to change their dynamic, Chris and Jamie's friendship remains at the heart of their relationship. As they navigate old feelings and new situations, the film explores whether a deep friendship can survive unrequited love and whether romantic attraction is necessary for a meaningful connection.
Where to watch: Netflix
Cast: Jason Sudeikis, Alison Brie, Adam Scott
Synopsis: After a brief fling in college, Jake and Lainey reconnect years later, both struggling with dysfunctional relationships. They make a pact to keep things strictly platonic while helping each other overcome their bad romantic habits. Their friendship deepens as they provide emotional support without crossing the line into romance.
Where to watch: Netflix
Cast: Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, Kristin Chenoweth
Synopsis: Tired of being single during the holidays, Sloane and Jackson strike a deal to be each other’s dates for every holiday event throughout the year. What starts as a practical arrangement soon turns into a deep friendship as they learn more about each other’s fears, insecurities, and dreams. While their chemistry is undeniable, their relationship is built on companionship rather than immediate romance.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Cast: Barbra Streisand, Jeff Bridges, Pierce Brosnan
Synopsis: Two professors, Gregory and Rose, enter into a marriage based on mutual respect and intellectual companionship rather than romance. They believe that love should be about the mind, not physical attraction. However, as time passes, Rose begins to question whether a platonic relationship is enough. The film explores whether love can exist without passion and what happens when one person’s feelings change.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Cast: Richard Burton, Tatum O’Neal, Norma Dell’Agnese
Synopsis: When a teenage girl fascinated by literature meets an ageing painter, they form an unconventional friendship. Though their relationship raises eyebrows, it remains purely platonic, built on mutual admiration and understanding. As she struggles with her own coming-of-age journey, he provides wisdom and perspective, while she reignites his passion for art.
Where to watch: Netflix, Prime Video
Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Rinko Kikuchi, Idris Elba
Synopsis: In a world where humanity is under attack by monstrous Kaiju, two unlikely co-pilots must sync their minds to control a powerful Jaeger robot. Raleigh and Mako come from different backgrounds, but their deep trust and understanding make them the perfect team. While most action films lean into romance, their relationship remains one of pure partnership and respect.
