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50 Best Steamy Romance Movies to Get You Both Hot, Naughty & in the Mood

Need something to watch on a hot date, or a sexy flick to get you in the mood? Watch the screen sizzle in these steamy romance movies!

Best Steamy Romance Movies

Everybody remembers the hot and heavy erotic novels that took the world by storm just a couple of years ago. But steamy romance movies are not always as cheesy as steamy romance novels. They can have some amazing acting, wonderful plots, and of course, sexy scenes.

Whether you are stuck in a rut, in the mood for some loving, or just want to turn movie night into something a whole lot hotter, check out this undeniable list of steamy romance movies to get you in the mood.

[Read: How to get in the mood for sex – 17 horny tricks]

Why we love steamy romance movies

The love of steamy romance movies is nothing new, people have loved these films since film was created. And it isn’t just about the sex. If you just wanted sex, you’d watch porn, right? Then there’s no obligation to care about the plot – not that there is one anyway!

Steamy romance movies are the opposite of porn movies. They’re all about the chemistry between the characters, the music, the passion, and the tension. Sometimes, people won’t even have sex on screen. They’ll just talk or think about it. And that’s more than enough for a seriously sexy film!

You don’t have to be in a relationship to enjoy steamy romance movies, either. Sure, they can be a great way to create a sexy atmosphere on a date. But even if you’re single, watching a few sexy scenes has a ton of benefits.

These movies can get you in the mood, help you release any tension, or be a good prerequisite to some of your own steamy romance. So, that’s a few reasons why we love steamy romance movies. [Read: Sexy questions for couples to keep that spark going]

Our favorite steamy romance movies

Action films, horror movies, and chick-flicks are all well and good to watch. However, sometimes you need to add some spice to your movie night.

So, if you’re looking for something steamy to watch alone or with your partner, then check out our list of the best steamy romance movies.

1. Nymphomaniac: Volume I and II (2013)

Lars Von Trier, without a doubt, has to be on this list of steamy romance movies. The Nymphomaniac movies tell the story of a sex addict, and the struggles and trauma she goes through throughout her life.

Okay, each movie is over two hours long, but it’s worth it. The films go into depth about the character and what made her do what she does. Is there nudity? Yes. Are there moments that make you squirm? Yes. It has it all – even some spanking. [Read: BDSM tips and tricks for curious first-timers]

2. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)

This French film tells the story of a teenage girl exploring her sexuality with a blue-haired art student. It’s a passionate love story, and because it’s a French film, add another layer of passion on top!

Once you press play, you won’t be able to stop watching. So if you have any plans, cancel them – because this movie is over three hours long. The scenes are extremely sexual and passionate. And there’s quite a bit of nudity, so don’t watch this with your parents. It won’t be fun for you, or them.

3. I Am Love (2009)

Sex and drama, how can the two not go together? Some people think she looks like an alien, but Tilda Swinton plays quite the sex kitten in this film. Plus, the director is Luca Guadagnino, who’s also the director of another of our faves, Call Me By Your Name.

Swinton plays the Russian-born matriarch of a rich Italian family, who has an affair with their chef. Unfortunately, the affair threatens to completely ruin her life as she knows it… Dun dun duuuuun.

4. Y Tu Mana Tambien (2001)

What do you get when you have two young teenage guys and a 28-year-old married woman on a road trip together? Well, you’ll have to watch this steamy romance movie to see. This movie includes everything that’s probably going through your mind.

Best of all, Alfonso Cuaron also directs it. If you don’t know who he is, he directed Children of Men and Gravity—so it’s going to be good. [Read: Arousing sex fantasies to try in real life]

5. Fatal Attraction (1987)

Here’s the storyline: man has an affair with a woman, man wants it to end, but the woman doesn’t. Then she goes insane. This is a classic storyline, but Fatal Attraction is the first movie ever to try it. It’s hot, it’s passionate, it’s naughty. It’s the ultimate steamy romance movie! And it’s from the 80s, so they all have crazy hairdos.

6. Gloria (2013)

There aren’t too many steamy romance movies out there that focus on middle-aged people… Usually, it’s always about young, hot people. But in this case, you’ll be pleasantly surprised – it’s about older hot people.

This Chilean film follows the story of a middle-aged, divorced woman looking for love by going to singles’ dance clubs. Does she find love? Of course. Does it come with its own drama? How could it not? [Read: Movie date – how to create sexual chemistry]

7. Basic Instinct (1992)

This movie created Sharon Stone. Mainly, it was *that* interrogation scene which made her into the sex symbol she is today. Stone’s character, a crime novelist, becomes a suspect in the death of a rock star. Then, she seduces the homicide detective into a steamy relationship.

Of course, this is a classic situation we’re sure all of us have been in. Anyways, just watch it. You can’t go wrong with watching this movie.

8. Dirty Dancing (1987)

There’s just something about Patrick Swayze that will always be sexy. We think it’s the arms. Anyways, this movie made Patrick a sex symbol. Plus, have you seen his dance moves? That’s one graceful man. It’s pretty steamy. Like, the way he lifts her… Mmmm…

Oh, right, the movie. In this steamy romance movie, a rich family goes on vacation to a resort. The main girl, Baby, played by Jennifer Grey, gets close with the dance instructor, Johnny, aka. Patrick Swayze. Yeah, now you got the wheels turning. [Read: Date night movies to get you both in the mood]

9. Cruel Intentions (1999)

Ah, Reese Witherspoon. Innocent Reese. This steamy romance flick follows the story of two super-rich step-siblings – Kathryn and Sebastian – who make a cruel bet that Sebastian can take naive Annette *Witherspoon*’s virginity.

Well, as you can imagine—the challenge was accepted! Her boyfriend in the film is Ryan Phillippe. And we all know they got married in real life, so you can only imagine how intense the scenes are between them.

10. Young & Beautiful (2013)

This movie tells the story of a teenage girl experimenting with her sexuality by secretly being a prostitute. It’s interesting to see what hides behind her innocent face. Is she hiding it from her friends and family? Yes. So, you can only imagine the buildup in this film.

It’s intense and oh-so-steamy. Sure, there are subtitles — but don’t you start sighing! Reading is great, and trust us, this movie is worth it.

11. Boogie Nights (1997)

This steamy romance movie came out when Marky Mark was just stepping into the limelight. Mark Wahlberg stars as a young man in the 70s, getting into the porn industry. There is a prosthetic penis in the film, but you can pretend it’s the real deal. That’s what we did—it helps you sleep better at night.

If you think Boogie Nights is all about glamor, well, you’re half right. But it also depicts the dark side of the porn industry. [Read: Uncovered secrets about the female porn industry]

12. Sleeping Beauty (2011)

We don’t mean the Disney movie! In this erotic thriller, a young college student becomes a niche sex worker for a high-end brothel where customers pay to touch her while she sleeps. Doesn’t sound creepy at all, eh?

It’s an amazingly odd film, but it’s a really great watch. Emily Browning does an amazing job, and she’s basically nude for half of the film. Which, kudos to her, takes balls — figuratively speaking.

13. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

How could this movie not be on the list? This is the definition of a steamy romance movie, and there are several sequels to get through once you’re done.

Based on books that were originally Twilight fanfiction, this is the adult version of a dark, brooding guy who falls for a simple yet unique lady. Instead of vampires and werewolves, you get BDSM, stalkers, and revenge – which takes this romance from PG-13 to R-rated. [Read: Movies to watch with your boyfriend – 30 films he’ll love]

14. Call Me By Your Name (2017)

The beauty of the Italian scenery, the romance, the ’80s attire… It’s all stunning. Italian director Luca Guadagnino stunningly depicts the budding romance between a seventeen-year-old student and his older lover.

As he falls in love with his father’s research assistant over an unforgettable summer, Timothee Chalamet’s character learns about his true erotic self. You might not feel the same way about peaches after this one, though.

15. Out of Sight (1998)

Jack Foley, played by the handsome George Clooney, is the most successful bank robber in the country. But upon breaking out of prison, he meets Karen Sisco, played by Jennifer Lopez. Although she is everything he wants in a woman, she is also a federal marshal.

They have to choose between their jobs, the law, and their romance. Tough choice, right? Especially when your girlfriend’s Jennifer freaking Lopez! [Read: How to have great sex – 46 expert-level tips and tricks]

16. Unfaithful (2002)

This erotic thriller stars Richard Gere and Diane Lane as a married couple. However, things aren’t as good as they may seem. Before long, Gere’s character discovers his wife has been lying about an affair!

But instead of fighting, counseling, or other methods, he confronts her lover. From there, the rage he experiences is like nothing he’s felt before. If you’ve ever been wronged in love, this steamy romance movie will really touch your emotions.

17. Titanic (1997)

This is a classic among the classics. It has everything you want in a movie, especially a hot and steamy romance movie.

Jack and Rose fall in love across class lines and share an unforgettable romance during their voyage on the Titanic. However, as we all know, there’s a big iceberg floating in the way of their happily ever after.

It’s all about the Romeo and Juliet type of passion and longing. Plus, the fact that it’s all going down during a crisis is heartbreaking, hot, and unforgettable.

18. How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)

Stella is a stockbroker who is less than unlucky in love. But, when her friend, played by Whoopi Goldberg, whisks her off to Jamaica, she engages in a sexy fling with a younger man. But, by the end of her vacation, she realizes it might be more than she bargained for. Can their relationship withstand their age difference and geographical distance?

19. The Girl Next Door (2004)

High school senior Matthew Kidman, played by Emile Hirsch, is an overachiever to the point of boredom. Then, his dull life turns upside down when he falls for his new neighbor. His fantasies of her spin out of control when he finds out she is a porn star. But his emotions are deep.

He discovers his sheltered life was nothing compared to the love and adventure he can find with the girl next door. They even make their own sex tape at one point! [Read: Hot sex ideas to blow your partner’s mind]

20. Blue Valentine (2010)

Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams star in this understated romance. They play a couple living a seemingly simple life. However, as you watch, you see their relationship slip away. What seemed to have so much potential is ruined by everyday problems.

Now, this might just sound like watching an everyday relationship, but don’t be fooled. Gosling was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance, whilst Michelle Williams narrowly missed out on the Oscar for Best Actress. So you can expect some steaming hot performances in this one.

21. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain is one of the most iconic gay romance movies of all time.

A rodeo cowboy, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, and a ranch hand, played by Heath Ledger, are hired as sheepherders in Wyoming. One night after a drunken tryst, they start an affair that spans marriages, children, and 20 years. Be prepared – this one will make you cry!

22. Ghost (1990)

This is not your typical steamy romance movie, one of the sexiest scenes in the film takes place between a woman and the ghost of her lover. Not only does the love and passion between these two outlive even death, but there is a crime to solve in the midst of this heartbreaking tale.

If you’re not creeped out by the idea of having sex beyond the grave, this is the perfect steamy romance movie for you. And even if you are freaked out, this fact might change your mind – the ghost is played by hunky 80s heartthrob Patrick Swayze. [Read: 20 unromantic movies with surprisingly romantic twists]

23. After (2019)

In her first year of college, a young and inexperienced woman begins dating a bad boy with a poor attitude, violent outbursts, and secrets. Although he seems to respect her desire to slow things down physically, their passion overwhelms her, and they have sex. This seems to derail a lot of her plans for her life, and things become hazy.

This movie is all about the transformative effect great sex can have on your life. Sometimes, feeling intense passion can change everything you thought you knew about yourself. The whole point of After is capturing that feeling.

24. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)

This erotic mystery stars former married couple Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. Cruise’s character is shocked to discover that his wife has had fantasies about cheating on him. From there, he becomes obsessed with having an adulterous sexual encounter, so much so that he finds himself in the middle of an orgy.

Eyes Wide Shut was directed by one of the best directors of all time: Stanley Kubrick. That means you can expect stunning visuals and a pacy plot, as well as some super steamy sex scenes! Also, did you know that Kidman and Cruise were married in real life when they made this movie? Knowing that fact makes things extra spicy.

25. Good Luck to You, Leo Grande (2022)

Who doesn’t love Emma Thompson? If you’re still crying over her heartbreaking scenes in Love Actually, this movie might help you dry your tears. Thompson plays Nancy Stokes, a retired schoolteacher who feels fed up with her humdrum life. In search of sex and excitement, she hires young sex worker Leo Grande, played by the dishy Daryl McCormack.

However, Nancy ends up finding a closer connection with Leo than she anticipated. There’s a lot of sex in this movie, and all of it features the older female lead. This steamy romance movie just goes to show that you can still be sexy at any age!

26. Love & Basketball (2000)

Love & Basketball combines representation and sex appeal, following the romantic relationship between two young Black Americans. Monica and Quincy are two childhood friends who both dream of becoming professional basketball players. Throughout the movie, we experience the ups and downs of their careers and their lifelong love story.

This movie is great for people who love sports. Producer and Hollywood legend Spike Lee insisted that the leads in this movie both had real basketball skills, so both of the actors are semi-pro players too. [Read: Get in the mood with these 15 movies with a lot of sex]

27. Malcolm & Marie (2021)

A filmmaker returns home with his girlfriend following a celebratory movie premiere as he awaits what’s sure to be an imminent critical and financial success. The evening suddenly takes a turn as revelations about their relationships begin to surface, testing the strength of their love.

The movie stars John David Washington and Zendaya as the central couple. On top of this, the whole movie is filmed in black and white for an extra classy artistic vibe.

28. Lady Chatterley’s Lover (2022)

This classic story is so steamy that it was banned in England and the publishers had to go on trial to be allowed to sell the book. It follows the story of aristocratic lady Constance Chatterley, who is unhappily married to her wheelchair-bound husband, Clifford.

When Constance meets her estate’s gamekeeper, Oliver Mellors, they embark on one of the hottest affairs ever recorded on screen. There’s a reason why this story has been notorious for over 100 years! It really is one of the steamiest romance movies around.

29. Something New (2006)

This movie is directed by Sanaa Hamri, the lead actress from Love & Basketball. She also stars as successful single accountant Kenya McQueen, who lives a super uptight and rigid lifestyle. She’s never had time for love, so she decides to open up and try a series of blind dates.

When she meets her blind date, she’s surprised to discover he’s white. The story goes on to navigate their culture clash, exploring interracial dating and African American family values. [Read: 30 famous movie lines you can use to woo a guy or gal]

30. Duck Butter (2018)

Ever thought you knew your date, only to find out that everything was totally fake? That’s the kind of dishonesty the lead characters in Duck Butter are sick and tired of.

In hope of changing their attitudes to dating, they decide to try an experiment: they make a pact to spend 24 hours together, having sex every hour. That way, they can experience their relationship on “fast forward” – with nothing fake, and everything laid bare.

This is a powerful gay love story that’ll really make you think about art, love, and sex. Also, it’ll teach you the term “duck butter”. Don’t Google it though, seriously. It’s gross.

31. Friends With Benefits (2011)

In this movie, a young man and woman decide to take their friendship to the next level without becoming a couple, but soon discover that adding sex only leads to complications. Did we mention that the couple are played by Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis? Who wouldn’t want to see them have sex?

While they’re trying to have no-strings sex, the two characters are forced to confront their emotional pasts. Jamie, Mila Kunis, is seriously emotionally damaged, whilst Dylan, Justin Timberlake, is emotionally unavailable. It really shows you how things that happen in our past can affect our present.

32. Addicted (2014)

Based on the bestselling erotic novel, this is a tense and steamy romance movie with tons of thrills. It follows the story of a successful art collector and gallerist, who risks everything – her career, her family, and even her sanity – by embarking on an affair with a talented painter whose work she exhibits. It’s all about lust and uncontrollable desire. [Read: 40 romantic movie quotes about love and relationships]

33. Deep Water (2022)

Deep Water is an unsettling tale of infidelity and betrayal. Ben Affleck plays a rich husband who allows his beautiful wife, Ana de Armas, to have affairs in order to avoid a divorce.

However, things get complicated when he becomes a prime suspect in the disappearance of one of his wife’s lovers. This movie is based on the 1957 novel by Patricia Highsmith, so expect lots of mystery and intrigue alongside the steamy sex.

34. Fatal Attraction (1987)

This classic 80s erotic thriller stars Basic Instinct‘s Michael Douglas and is solidly one of the steamiest romantic movies of all time. The film centers on a married man who has a weekend affair with a woman, played by Glenn Close. But when he tries to break things off, she refuses to let go – with crazy and catastrophic results!

Fatal Attraction was nominated for a heap of Oscars, including Best Picture and both lead acting awards. It also spawned the phrase “bunny boiler”, to describe a sexy but deranged woman. Trust us, Glenn Close’s character is one of the craziest girls in cinema. [Read: The realistic romance movies that can teach you a lot about love]

35. Yes, God, Yes (2019)

Set in the fall of 2000, this movie follows Catholic teenager Alice on a journey of self-discovery. After an innocent AOL chat turns racy, she discovers masturbation and struggles to suppress her new urges in the face of eternal damnation.

If you’re looking for a short but sweet coming of age story – with lots of religious-themed laughs along the way – then this is the movie for you.

36. American Pie Presents: Girls’ Rules (2020)

American Pie movies aren’t usually known for their steamy romance, they tend to be funny or gross instead of sexy. However, this ninth movie in the series is a little different as it doesn’t feature any of the regular characters and focuses totally on a group of girls.

Steve Stifler’s cousin, Stephanie Stifler, bands together with her four best girlfriends on a quest to have the best senior year ever. Their saga includes sex toys, blowjobs, pajamas, and John F. Kennedy – and it’s just as hilarious as it sounds. By the end of the movie, they’ve all managed to achieve their goal of losing their virginities. Not that it was easy!

37. MILF (2018)

Speaking of American Pie, here’s another movie all about MILFs. In the south of France, three best friends in their 40s navigate loss and heartbreak while embarking on torrid affairs with much younger men.

It’s sexy, funny, and French – which pretty much guarantees it’s going to be steamy. Cécile, Sonia, and Elise’s realization that they’re still sexy is super empowering, too. [Read: 20 enlightening movies all about sexuality]

38. Emmanuelle (1974)

This might be an old movie, but that doesn’t make it any less sexy. In fact, this movie was so explicit that it was censored for years – the uncut version wasn’t allowed to be released until 1984. Even then, it had to carry an X-rating! Some critics at the time called it straight-up porn, but we think it’s definitely more of a steamy romance movie.

Emmanuelle is a beautiful 19-year-old model who has just married an older man, a diplomat named Jean. They move to Bangkok together, but Emmanuelle finds her life dull and uninspiring. What she wants is an affair. But to have one, she needs to learn to have sex without guilt. Cue lots of hot sex scenes with every other character!

39. Elisa and Marcela (2019)

For hundreds of years, gay people have faced prejudice. It’s this prejudice that prevents Elisa and Marcela from getting married, even though they’ve been in love for years. To evade the law, they decide to dress up as a heterosexual couple – and become the first same-sex couple ever to get married in Spain.

Although this movie is set in 1901, it still has lots of beautiful, moving, and hot sex scenes. It’s truly a love story for the ages. [Read: Netflix and chill – how to do it the right way]

40. The Piano Teacher (2001)

This movie won the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2001, along with Best Actor and Actress for the two leads. Isabelle Huppert and Benoit Magimel play a piano teacher and student, who share an intense sadomasochistic relationship at a Vienna Conservatoire. It’s stylish, psychological, and very, very kinky.

This isn’t one for the faint-hearted, though. Critics described Huppert’s performance as “a rich incarnation of a woman we might see on the street, and never guess that she contains fires, earthquakes, and infernos”. If you want a disturbing but compelling watch, check this one out.

41. 9 1/2 Weeks (1986)

Another 80s steamy romance movie! In this one, Kim Basinger portrays a New York City art gallery employee who has a brief yet intense affair with a mysterious Wall Street broker, played by Mickey Rourke. Don’t worry, this was before the boxing – so they’re both as hot as each other!

Rourke and Basinger’s affair grows into a BDSM arrangement, where Rourke orders her to perform increasingly intense sex acts and plays twisting mind games. At first, it’s fun, but things soon get complicated.

42. An Easy Girl (2020)

This French comedy drama follows Naima, the sixteen-year-old daughter of a cleaning lady. She has given herself the summer to choose what she wants to do with her life before an important audition. However, she’s then swept up into the life of her glamorous, sexually liberated older cousin Sofia.

Sofia hooks them up with a duo of rich art collectors, who whisk the girls away on their private yacht for a summer of luxury, opulence, haute couture, great restaurants, and sumptuous Mediterranean villas.

43. Don Jon (2013)

Written, starring, and directed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, this movie tells the story of a womanizing playboy who decides to change his ways. Jon Martello is tired of his overwhelming sex life and decides to fix his unhealthy relationship with pornography and sex.

This is a totally different role for Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who 90s kids will remember as the dorky friend in 10 Things I Hate About You. Here, he perfectly captures Jon’s emotional journey as he reconnects with himself. While also “reconnecting” with Scarlett Johansson. [Read: 20 of the most romantic seasonal winter movies]

44. Oh, Ramona! (2019)

This Romanian movie follows a teenager named Andrei as he enters the world of romance. He has a crush on the “hottest girl in school”, Ramona, who also likes him back. However, he’s also falling for his vacation romance, Anemona. This is another steamy romance movie all about a love triangle.

45. You Get Me (2017)

Sex symbol and OnlyFans star Bella Thorne plays the lead in this sexy thriller. A one-night stand turns into a nightmare for a high-school student when a young woman’s obsession grows dangerous. Everywhere he goes, she follows him – determined to either have him or ruin his life.

You Get Me offers a fresh, modern, and youthful take on the Fatal Attraction formula. [Read: The famous movies that teach bad lessons about love]

46. Dry Martina (2018)

Dry Martina is about a former young singing star – sort of like an Argentinian Britney Spears. Since Martina’s fame faded, she has become completely uninterested in sex and disenchanted with love.

Yet when her sister arrives with her sexy boyfriend, Martina’s sad tale transforms into a steamy romance movie. Martina’s sister encourages her to take a trip to Chile and rediscover her libido. There are tons of twists and turns in this one, so it’ll keep you guessing right until the very end.

47. Cuddle Weather (2019)

Why is it people always get to pay for sex, but nobody gets to pay for cuddles? That’s the question the lead characters in Cuddle Weather are asking. Experienced sex worker Adela teams up with newbie Ram, for some loud, cuddly, no-strings sex. It seems like their “cuddle partner” arrangement is working out just fine. Until one of them starts to catch feelings… [Read: The modern movie couples we can all learn from]

48. The Handmaiden (2016)

Korean director Park Chan-wook is usually known for his violent revenge flicks, such as Oldboy and Lady Vengeance. However, his BAFTA-winning film The Handmaiden is definitely more of a steamy romance movie. Set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule, it depicts the relationship between a young maid, Sookee, and her Lady, Hideko.

Initially, Sookee seems to be just an ordinary loyal servant. But in fact, she is a pickpocket involved in a plan to seduce the Lady, rob her of her fortune, and lock her up in a madhouse. The plan works – until Sookee’s passionate relationship with Hideko gets in the way.

49. Secretary (2002)

Secretary is all about… you guessed it, a secretary. Maggie Gyllenhaal stars as a woman named Lee Holloway, who gets a job as a secretary for a demanding lawyer after being released from a mental hospital. However, their relationship quickly goes from employer-employee, to master-slave. Their sadomasochistic relationship leads to plenty of spicy sex scenes.

50. The Voyeurs (2021)

The Voyeurs stars Sydney Sweeney as Pippa, half of a young couple who have just moved in together in Montreal. Pippa and her boyfriend soon become obsessed with the lives of their neighbors, Rear Window-style, they’re convinced that both of the neighbors are cheating on each other.

Every night, they watch the neighbors having wild encounters, and before long, Pippa’s having sex with the husband. In the end, all of these movies involve watching other people have sex. At least The Voyeurs acknowledges it!

[Read: The flirting moves you can learn from famous movies]

So, grab some popcorn, get snuggled underneath the sheets, and watch one of these steamy films. Who knows, maybe one of these movies will inspire you and your partner?

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Preeti Tewari Serai
Preeti Serai
Preeti, the founder of LovePanky, is an eternal optimist and believer in the beauty of love and life. With an exhaustive experience in love, relationships, and ...