Movie romances are like a special treat for audiences, captivating us with their unfolding stories. They have the power to make us laugh, feel warm inside, and even keep us on the edge of our seats. But what truly makes a movie romance memorable is the chemistry between the actors portraying the couple. When that chemistry is so palpable that it leaps off the screen, viewers can't help but root for the characters.
We've all experienced that exhilarating feeling of watching a movie couple with such incredible chemistry that we can't help but hope they'll collaborate again in the future. (Yes, I am looking at you, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper!). It's like witnessing magic, as their on-screen connection sparks and ignites a fire within us. Whether it's the charming banter between two actors, their genuine rapport, or the electric chemistry they share, these couples leave an indelible impression on our hearts.
Because when it comes to movie romances with incredible chemistry, one or two collaboration is simply not enough.
#1. Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet from Lady Bird (2017) and Little Women (2019):
Source: A24
Greta Gerwig sees the vision and I think we all should, too. I simply need to see these two stars opposite each other again. And again.
#2. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper from A Star Is Born (2018):
Source: Warner Bros.
Their chemistry was so mesmerizingly through the roof, there were dating rumors. And I must admit, I did give into the delusion for maybe a second (or two). The rumors have since been cleared up, but the internet still had a field day with them.
#3. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul from Breaking Bad (2008):
Source: AMC
A lot of people would argue that Walt and Jesse are one of the most iconic and complex duos in TV history, and who's to say they're wrong? I say give us another project — but maybe not surrounding such harsh circumstances this time.
#4. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling from Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011), Gangster Squad (2013), and La La Land (2016):
Source: Lionsgate
If you're surprised to see that Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling starred in three movies together and not just two, so was I. But after watching La La Land, I might just give Gangster Squad a go just to see them in the same frame again.
#5. Samira Wiley and Danielle Brooks from Orange Is the New Black (2013):
Source: Netflix
One thing I love the most is friendship between women, and Poussey and Taystee from OITNB might be one of my favorite duos ever. Samira Wiley and Danielle Brooks together was the gift that kept on giving. PS: I'm still not over that Poussey scene.
#6. Lana Condor and Noah Centineo from To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018):
Source: Netflix
This movie single-handedly revived the rom-com genre, and no one else can convince me otherwise. In a world filled with superhero movies, dark dramas, and horror remakes, TATBILB was my beacon of light. I was obsessed with their characters, and I'm equally obsessed with Lana and Noah's friendship.
#7. Candice King and Joseph Morgan from The Vampire Diaries (2009):
Source: CW
OK, everyone always loves to talk about Elena and the Salvatore bros, but let's pivot away from that train wreck of a love triangle and focus on Caroline and Klaus. Even though Klaus was kind of a terrible person, he wasn't terrible to her. Ugh, I loved every second.
#8. Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker from Rush Hour (1998):
Source: New Line Cinema
Not gonna lie, this really is just a plea for Rush Hour 4.
#9. Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey from How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) and Fool's Gold (2008):
Source: Warner Bros.
What more is there to say about these two utter icons? They have romantic chemistry and comedic chemistry, and that's really all I need to make me happy. But what would make me happier? Another film.
#10. Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac from A Most Violent Year (2014) and Scenes from a Marriage (2021):
Source: HBO
I am in love with both of these actors individually, so both of them starring opposite each other was absolutely mesmerizing. Their chemistry was tangible, and could especially be felt (and seen) during the duo's viral red carpet PDA moment.
#11. Anne Hathaway and Chris Pine from The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004):
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
I'm literally kicking my feet just thinking about their sizzling chemistry. That scene where Mia sneaks out and her and Nicholas wake up under the tree makes me swoooooon every time.
#12. Issa Rae and Yvonne Orji from Insecure (2016):
Source: HBO
Seeing realistic portrayals of friendship is important, and Insecure does it extremely well. Issa and Yvonne flesh out the highs and lows of love and relationships that feel very real, which isn't surprising since they're close friends IRL! That said, we need another project ASAP.
#13. Scarlett Johansson and Chris Evans from The Perfect Score (2004), The Nanny Diaries (2007), and the MCU:
Source: Disney's Marvel Studios
This duo's history has literally spanned a decade, and after their departure from the MCU, I am itching for another rom-com. Scarlett and Chris, please open up your schedules and give the fans (me) what they (I) want.
#14. Lily Collins and Sam Claflin from Love, Rosie (2014):
Source: Lionsgate
Love, Rosie is the epitome of a "wrong place, wrong time" romance, and Lily Collins and Sam Claflin do a phenomenal job of showcasing the yearning and romantic tension of two best friends who just can't stay on the same page. These two actors not being in another project together is a crime I cannot forgive.
#15. Danai Gurira and Andrew Lincoln from The Walking Dead (2010):
Source: AMC
The series pivoted from the comics and gave us the wonder that is Michonne and Rick. Danai and Andrew's chemistry was undeniable, and I really need to see them in another project where they're not fighting zombies 24/7.
#16. Lily James and Richard Madden from Disney's live-action Cinderella (2015):
Source: Walt Disney Pictures
Arguably one of Disney's best live-action remakes, Lily James and Richard Madden made the perfect Cinderella and Prince Charming. In fact, I like their portrayals much more than the original — although, the original Charming didn't have much to work with in the first place. Fairy Godmother, I wish for more Lily James and Richard Madden, please!
Do you have any couples that you want to see on-screen ASAP? Let us know in the comment!