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movies to watch if you enjoyed after

If you were captivated by the intense romance and dramatic turns in "After," you're likely looking for more films that hit those same emotional beats. This list features movies delving into passionate first loves, complex relationships, and the journey of self-discovery.

Me Before You
Everything, Everything
If I Stay

The popularity of films like "After" underscores the enduring appeal of the young adult romance genre. These stories often throw characters into tumultuous, all-consuming relationships that become the central focus of their world, exploring themes of passion, vulnerability, and the challenges of first love.

A significant portion of these movies are adaptations of bestselling YA novels, bringing beloved characters and intricate emotional landscapes from page to screen. Authors like John Green have built careers on crafting these kinds of narratives, leading to successful film adaptations that resonate deeply with audiences. The genre often thrives on high stakes emotional drama, featuring characters grappling with personal demons, societal pressures, or external obstacles that threaten their connection.

While sometimes criticized for their dramatic intensity, these films connect with viewers by tapping into universal experiences: the overwhelming feeling of falling in love, the pain of heartbreak, and the process of figuring out who you are while navigating a significant relationship. They often feature talented young actors who embody the raw emotions of their characters, making their journeys relatable and compelling. Whether it's overcoming illness, dealing with family issues, or simply finding your place in the world alongside someone else, these movies offer stories that are both heartfelt and often quite dramatic.

13. Love, Simon (2018)

A landmark film in the teen genre, 'Love, Simon' is based on Becky Albertalli's novel 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda'. It tells the story of Simon Spier, a high school student who is secretly gay and begins communicating anonymously online with another closeted classmate. His secret is threatened, forcing him to confront his identity and come out.

Starring Nick Robinson as Simon, the film was notable for being the first movie from a major Hollywood studio to center on a gay teenage romance. It was widely praised for its heartfelt portrayal of coming out and the challenges and triumphs involved. It's a sweet, funny, and important story about finding yourself and love.

Love, Simon

12. The Kissing Booth (2018)

Originating as a story on Wattpad by then-teenager Beth Reekles, this film became a huge hit on Netflix. It follows Elle Evans, played by Joey King, whose lifelong friendship with Lee Flynn is tested when she starts a secret romance with his older brother, Noah, played by Jacob Elordi.

The film centers around a school carnival tradition where Elle runs a kissing booth. It's a classic high school romance with forbidden love tropes, focusing on friendship boundaries and navigating first relationships. It's a straightforward, feel-good teen movie that captured a massive audience, leading to several sequels.

The Kissing Booth

11. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

Based on the first book in Jenny Han's popular series, this Netflix hit stars Lana Condor as Lara Jean Covey, whose life is turned upside down when her secret love letters are accidentally mailed to her crushes. To avoid confronting one of them, she starts a fake relationship with Peter Kavinsky, played by Noah Centineo.

This movie really launched Lana Condor and Noah Centineo into stardom, and their charming on-screen chemistry is a major reason why. It's a fun take on the fake dating trope and delivers sweet, swoon-worthy moments. It's a bit lighter in tone than 'After,' focusing more on the delightful awkwardness of first love and high school drama.

To All the Boys I've Loved Before

10. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

Based on the beloved novel, this film was actually written and directed by the book's author, Stephen Chbosky, which is quite rare and allowed for a very faithful adaptation. Logan Lerman stars as Charlie, a shy and awkward freshman who is taken under the wing of two charismatic seniors, Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller).

This film is less about a central intense romance and more about friendship, finding where you belong, and navigating the challenges of adolescence, including mental health. The performances are fantastic, and the film beautifully captures the feeling of being an outsider finding your people. The scene driving through the tunnel to the song 'Heroes' is iconic for a reason.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

9. Paper Towns (2015)

Another John Green adaptation makes the list! Nat Wolff stars as Quentin, a high school senior who has been in love with his adventurous neighbor, Margo (Cara Delevingne), for years. One night, she enlists him in a night of mischief, only to disappear the next day, leaving behind cryptic clues that Quentin and his friends try to decipher.

While there's a clear romantic element, the film is also a mystery and a coming-of-age story about friendship and the difference between the people we imagine others to be and who they actually are. Cara Delevingne's portrayal of the enigmatic Margo is captivating, driving Quentin and the audience on a compelling search.

Paper Towns

8. The Space Between Us (2017)

Here's a unique twist on the teen romance genre! Asa Butterfield plays Gardner Elliot, the first human born on Mars. When he gets the chance to travel to Earth, he embarks on a road trip with a street-smart girl named Tulsa, played by Britt Robertson, to find his father, all while experiencing the wonders and dangers of a world he's only ever seen from afar.

The film blends sci-fi elements with a sweet, poignant romance. It's fascinating to see Earth through Gardner's eyes, as simple things we take for granted become extraordinary discoveries for him. The core of the story is about finding connection and belonging, no matter where you come from.

The Space Between Us

7. The Spectacular Now (2013)

This indie gem, based on Tim Tharp's novel, offers a more grounded and realistic look at teenage life and relationships. Miles Teller plays Sutter, a charming but aimless high school senior who starts a relationship with Aimee, played by Shailene Woodley, a quiet girl who isn't exactly his usual type.

Teller and Woodley have fantastic, natural chemistry, which is perhaps no surprise as they had previously worked together on 'Footloose.' The film won a Special Jury Award for Acting at the Sundance Film Festival, highlighting the powerful and nuanced performances from its leads. It's a coming-of-age story that feels genuinely authentic and a little messy, just like real life.

The Spectacular Now

6. The Sun Is Also a Star (2019)

Another adaptation of a Nicola Yoon novel, this film brings together Yara Shahidi and Charles Melton as Natasha and Daniel, two teenagers who meet and fall in love over the course of a single day in New York City. Natasha is facing deportation, and Daniel is on his way to an interview that could determine his future, but fate seems to have other plans.

The film captures the bustling energy of New York City, making it feel like a character itself. The story explores themes of destiny versus choice, immigration, and how quickly a life-altering connection can form when you least expect it. It's a whirlwind romance packed into 24 hours.

The Sun Is Also a Star

5. If I Stay (2014)

What would you do if you had to decide whether to live or die? This film, based on Gayle Forman's novel, follows Mia Hall, a talented young cellist, who is in a coma after a tragic car accident. While in this state, she has an out-of-body experience, witnessing her friends and family at the hospital and reflecting on her life, especially her relationship with her boyfriend, Adam.

Chloƫ Grace Moretz learned to play the cello specifically for this role, adding a layer of authenticity to Mia's passion for music. The film weaves flashbacks with the present, showing us the beautiful life Mia built and the difficult choice she faces, making you truly invested in her fate.

If I Stay

4. Everything, Everything (2017)

Based on Nicola Yoon's novel, this movie tells the story of Maddy, a teenager who has a rare disease that prevents her from leaving her hermetically sealed home. Her world changes completely when a new family moves in next door, and she falls for the boy next door, Olly.

Amandla Stenberg and Nick Robinson star as the young lovers. The film uses creative visual metaphors to depict Maddy's isolated world and her imagination, like showing her room expanding into a vast space or her conversations happening in surreal, imagined locations. It's a story about breaking free, taking risks, and the power of connection.

Everything, Everything

3. Me Before You (2016)

Based on Jojo Moyes' bestselling novel, this film stars Emilia Clarke as the quirky and optimistic Lou Clark, who takes a job as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy young man paralyzed after an accident, played by Sam Claflin. Their relationship blossoms unexpectedly, challenging both of their perspectives on life.

The film was shot in some absolutely stunning locations, including Pembroke Castle in Wales and the beautiful island of Mallorca, which add a touch of fairy-tale charm to Lou's world. Emilia Clarke is simply radiant in her role, bringing so much warmth and personality to Lou, making it impossible not to root for her and Will's unconventional love story.

Me Before You

2. Five Feet Apart (2019)

Prepare for a romance that truly tests the boundaries of physical distance. Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse deliver powerful performances as Stella and Will, two teenagers with cystic fibrosis who must maintain a strict distance from each other to avoid cross-infection.

The film was directed by Justin Baldoni, known for his documentary series 'My Last Days,' which features inspiring stories of people living with terminal illnesses. This background brings a layer of authenticity and sensitivity to the film's portrayal of CF and the challenges faced by those living with it. The central conceit creates incredible dramatic tension, making every moment they share, even from afar, feel incredibly significant.

Five Feet Apart

1. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Get ready for an emotional journey with this adaptation of John Green's beloved novel! Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort star as Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet and fall in love in a cancer support group. Their chemistry is simply undeniable and makes their story incredibly compelling.

Fun fact: Shailene Woodley actually cut her hair off for the role in solidarity with her character and donated it to Locks of Love. The film was a huge box office success and resonated deeply with audiences worldwide for its honest portrayal of young love and facing difficult circumstances. It's a tearjerker, for sure, but also full of wit and heart.

The Fault in Our Stars

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