If you’ve been swept away by the passionate romance between Hardin Scott and Tessa Young in the “After” series, you’re probably searching for similar films that capture that same intense chemistry and emotional depth. The “After” franchise has mastered the art of bringing complex relationships and character growth to the screen, leaving viewers craving more stories that blend romance with personal transformation. Whether you’re drawn to the bad-boy-meets-good-girl narrative or the college setting, we’ve curated a collection of movies that share similar themes and emotional resonance with “After.”
Beautiful Creatures (2013)
This supernatural romance follows Ethan Wate and Lena Duchannes, whose forbidden love story unfolds in a small Southern town. Like “After,” it features a transformative relationship that challenges both characters’ worlds. The film combines elements of gothic romance with coming-of-age themes, offering stunning visuals and compelling chemistry between leads Alden Ehrenreich and Alice Englert. The supernatural twist adds an extra layer of complexity to their romance, while maintaining the emotional depth that fans of “After” will appreciate.
The Perfect Date (2019)
Noah Centineo stars in this charming romantic comedy that shares similar themes of self-discovery with “After.” The story follows Brooks Rattigan, who creates an app where he offers his services as a customizable date to earn money for college. Like Hardin’s character development in “After,” Brooks must confront his own values and authenticity as he navigates relationships and personal growth. The film offers a perfect blend of romance and character evolution, with smart dialogue and genuine emotional moments.
Chemical Hearts (2020)
This poignant adaptation of Krystal Sutherland’s novel stars Lili Reinhart in a story that echoes the emotional intensity of “After.” The film follows Henry Page, an aspiring editor-in-chief of his high school newspaper, who falls for Grace Town, a mysterious new student with a complicated past. Like “After,” it explores themes of first love, healing from past trauma, and the complexities of young adult relationships with remarkable depth and sensitivity.
Endless Love (2014)
A passionate romance that mirrors the intensity of Hardin and Tessa’s relationship, “Endless Love” tells the story of David and Jade, whose love faces fierce opposition from Jade’s father. The film captures the raw emotion and determination of young love fighting against all odds, featuring strong performances from Alex Pettyfer and Gabriella Wilde. The narrative explores class differences and family expectations, themes that will resonate with “After” fans.
The Sun Is Also a Star (2019)
Based on Nicola Yoon’s bestseller, this romantic drama follows Natasha and Daniel, who fall in love over one magical day in New York City. Like “After,” it features complex characters dealing with personal challenges while navigating an intense romantic connection. The film tackles themes of fate, cultural expectations, and the power of love to transform lives, all while maintaining a sophisticated and emotionally resonant narrative.
Five Feet Apart (2019)
While different in setting from “After,” this emotional romance shares the same intensity and forbidden love elements. The story follows two teenagers with cystic fibrosis who must maintain a safe distance from each other while falling deeply in love. Cole Sprouse and Haley Lu Richardson deliver powerful performances that capture the yearning and frustration of love that faces seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Midnight Sun (2018)
This touching romance follows Katie, a teenager with a rare condition that prevents her from being out in sunlight, and Charlie, the boy she’s watched from her window for years. Like “After,” it features a relationship that must overcome significant obstacles, with both characters growing and changing through their connection. The film beautifully captures the transformative power of first love and the courage it takes to embrace life despite challenges.
Remember Me (2010)
Starring Robert Pattinson, this dramatic romance shares the emotional intensity and complex character development found in “After.” The story follows Tyler, a rebellious young man dealing with family trauma, who finds unexpected love with Ally. The film explores themes of healing, family relationships, and the power of love to help us overcome our past, resonating strongly with fans of the “After” series.
If I Stay (2014)
Based on Gayle Forman’s novel, this emotional drama starring Chloë Grace Moretz explores love, loss, and life-changing decisions. While different in tone from “After,” it shares the same depth of emotion and focus on personal growth through love. The story follows Mia, a talented cellist who must make an impossible choice after a tragic accident, weaving together themes of passion, purpose, and the transformative power of love.
After Everything (2018)
Not to be confused with the “After” series, this independent romance follows Elliot and Mia, whose whirlwind romance begins just as Elliot receives a life-changing diagnosis. Like “After,” it explores how love can develop in unexpected circumstances and transform both parties involved. The film offers a raw, honest look at young love facing real-world challenges, with compelling performances that capture the complexity of modern relationships.
Each of these films brings its own unique perspective to the romance genre while maintaining elements that fans of “After” will appreciate: intense emotional connections, complex character development, and the transformative power of love. Whether you’re drawn to supernatural romance, contemporary drama, or stories of forbidden love, these selections offer compelling narratives that will satisfy your craving for more movies like “After.”
Remember that while these films share similar themes with “After,” each brings its own unique perspective to the romance genre. From forbidden love to personal transformation, these stories capture the essence of what makes “After” so compelling while offering fresh takes on young adult romance.
