10 Romance Movies That Sparked Massive Controversy

Me Before You (2016)

Based on the novel by Jojo Moyes, Me Before You tells the love story of Lou and Will, a man living with a disability. The film faced backlash for portraying disability as a burden rather than normalizing it. It was also criticized for casting a non-disabled actor to play Will.

It Ends With Us (2024)

Based on Colleen Hoover's book, It Ends With Us explores toxic and abusive relationships and the emotional difficulty of walking away from them. The film sparked controversy because of its sensitive subject matter and its portrayal of domestic abuse. It also drew massive attention due to the off-screen legal dispute between co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni involving allegations of inappropriate behavior.

Love Actually (2003)

This Christmas-themed romantic comedy became a holiday classic, but several storylines have aged controversially. Many viewers criticized Mark confessing his love to Juliet after she married his best friend, while others pointed to the Prime Minister and Natalie storyline for its body-shaming jokes and questionable power dynamics.

Fifty Shades Of Grey (2015)

Adapted from E. L. James' Fifty Shades of Grey, the film became widely controversial for its portrayal of dominant relationships. Critics argued that the relationship between Anastasia and Christian romanticized toxic behavior and misrepresented submissive dynamics. While some viewers saw it as a different perspective on romance, others felt it blurred the line between consent and manipulation.

Twilight (2008)

Based on the bestselling vampire romance saga, Twilight sparked debate over Edward Cullen’s controlling and overly possessive behavior, which the film often framed as “protective.” Critics also argued that Bella’s entire life revolving around Edward promoted an unhealthy and unrealistic idea of romance.

The Great Gatsby (2013)

Adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald's great American classic, The Great Gatsby, the film drew attention for its portrayal of infidelity, toxic relationships, and the darker side of the American Dream. Like the novel, it has also faced criticism from some groups for its mature themes and language.

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

Starring Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, Call Me by Your Name sparked debate because of the age gap between Elio and Oliver, with Elio being 17 years old. Critics questioned the power imbalance in their relationship, while others defended the film as a nuanced coming-of-age story. The movie also generated discussions around LGBTQ+ representation and bisexuality.

Titanic (1997)

One of the most iconic romance films ever made, Titanic has remained at the center of pop culture debates for years. The biggest controversy surrounds Jack’s death, with fans constantly arguing whether both Jack and Rose could have fit on the floating door and survived.

Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)

The film received praise for bringing LGBTQ+ relationships into mainstream cinema, but it also faced heavy criticism for its explicit scenes and the male gaze in its storytelling. Many viewers and members of the LGBTQ+ community felt the relationship was portrayed unrealistically, while the director also faced criticism over his handling of the subject matter.

365 Days (2020)

365 Days became hugely popular online and turned Michele Morrone into an internet sensation, but the film was heavily criticized for romanticizing kidnapping, coercion, manipulation, and toxic behavior. Many viewers felt the story glamorized an abusive relationship under the guise of romance.