19 Most beautiful love at first sight moments from movies

Love at first sight moments in movies draw us in through their portrayal of powerful and captivating displays of love. Whether it is a tale of love or a gritty action thriller, these moments show us the soft and vulnerable side of the characters, making them more relatable to the viewers. From classic tales of star-crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet to modern-day fairytales, these moments capture the essence of instant attraction and the deep impact it can have on the characters' lives and story forward. This list of 19 such moments highlights the beauty and charm of blossoming love in our favorite movies making the scenes unforgettable.

19) WALL- E (2008)

In the 2008 film WALL-E, the love at first sight moment happens when the little waste-collecting robot WALL-E meets EVE, an advanced probe sent to Earth to find signs of life. The moment WALL-E lays eyes on EVE, he's instantly captivated by her elegance and advanced design. Despite their differences, WALL-E's curiosity and affection for EVE grow as he shows her his collection of human artifacts and their shared connection to a tiny plant.

18) Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street (2007)

When Anthony, a young sailor played by Jamie Campbell Bower, first sees Johanna, portrayed by Jayne Wisener, singing at her window, he is immediately captivated by her beauty and angelic voice. Despite the grim and dangerous world they live in, Anthony’s love for Johanna remains pure and unwavering. This intense and captivating love-at-first-sight moment adds a layer of hope and innocence to the spooky story, highlighting the power of love to inspire even the darkest of characters.

17) The Little Mermaid (1989)

In The Little Mermaid, a young mermaid named Ariel falls in love with Prince Eric the moment she sees him aboard his ship. Despite their worlds being so different, Ariel is drawn to Eric's charm and bravery, and her fascination with the human world deepens. Their love at first sight moment is a central theme driving the story, as Ariel defies her father and sacrifices her voice to be with Eric.

16) Big Fish (2003)

Ewan McGregor's Edward Bloom’s love at first sight moment with Sandra Templeton, played by Alison Lohman, occurs at a circus, where time seemingly stands still. Edward’s determination to win Sandra’s heart, despite numerous challenges, becomes a central theme in his tale. Their romance is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that true love can overcome any challenge. The film’s quirky narrative and vivid storytelling celebrate the beauty of love and the enduring legacy of Edward’s tales.

15) Les Miserables (2012)

In this epic musical, the immediate connection between Eddie Redmayne's Marius and Amanda Seyfried's Cosette, is a beacon of hope amidst the dangerous times of the French Revolution. Their love-at-first-sight moment occurs in the crowded streets of Paris, where their eyes meet and a deep connection is formed. Their romance contrasts with the harsh realities around them, providing a glimpse of tenderness and hopefulness in an otherwise dark world. Marius and Cosette’s love story symbolizes resilience and the enduring spirit of hope.

14) Carol (2015)

Therese Belivet, played by Rooney Mara, and Carol Aird, played by Cate Blanchett, first meet in a department store in an encounter charged with an immediate and intense connection. Their blossoming romance, set against the backdrop of 1950s societal limitations, evolves into a deeply emotional bond. The film delicately portrays the subtleties of forbidden love and the courage required to pursue one’s true feelings. Therese and Carol’s love-at-first-sight moment is both tender and transformative, highlighting the power of genuine connection.

13) The Truman Show (1998)

Truman Burbank, played by Jim Carrey, unknowingly living in a manufactured reality show, falls in love with Sylvia, played by Natascha McElhone - a woman he’s not supposed to meet. Their fleeting yet intense encounter defies the show’s script, sparking his curiosity and leading him to question his entire world. Sylvia’s genuine affection for Truman contrasts with the artificiality around him, driving his quest for truth and freedom. Their love at first sight moment provokes Truman’s awakening and desire for a real life.

12) Love Actually (2003)

Sam, a young boy, played by Thomas Brodie Sangster, becomes infatuated with his classmate, Olivia Olson's Joanna Anderson, from the moment he sees her. His determination to win her affection leads to charming and heartwarming moments, concluding in a grand gesture at the airport. This subplot in the ensemble romantic comedy highlights the innocence and purity of first love, demonstrating how even the youngest hearts can experience powerful emotions and the lengths one can go to for love.

11) Forrest Gump (1994)

Forrest Gump, played by Tom Hanks has a love so unwavering for Robin Wright's Jenny Curran, from the moment they meet as children. Their love at first sight moment blossoms into a lifelong connection, despite the many challenges and separations they face. Jenny becomes Forrest’s guiding light, and he remains devoted to her through his many adventures.

10) 500 Days Of Summer (2009)

Tom Hansen, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, a hopeless romantic, instantly falls for Summer Finn, played by Zooey Deschanel, when he first sees her at work. The non-linear way of showcasing their relationship in the movie brought forth the ups and downs they faced in their relationship. The film dismantles typical romantic tropes by realistically portraying the complications of love and heartbreak. Tom’s infatuation with Summer from the very beginning highlights the often unpredictable nature of relationships and the lingering impact of first love.

9) Moulin Rouge! (2001)

In Baz Luhrmann’s stunning musical, the English writer Christian, played by Ewan McGregor, falls madly in love with the enchanting courtesan Satine, played by Nicole Kidman, upon their first meeting at the club Moulin Rouge. Their forbidden romance is marked by lavish musical numbers and intoxicating passion. Christian’s love for Satine defies societal norms and the harsh realities of their world, concluding in a tragic yet beautiful love story.

8) Sleepless In Seattle (1993)

Though Sam, played by Tom Hanks, and Meg Ryan's Annie don’t initially meet face-to-face, their connection is undeniable. After hearing Sam’s heartbreaking story on the radio, Annie is mysteriously drawn to him. Their eventual meeting atop the Empire State Building, an homage to An Affair to Remember- the film that inspired Sleepless In Seattle, cements their love at first sight moment. The film explores the power of destiny and the belief that true love will find a way, no matter what obstacles they have to face.

7) The Great Gatsby (2013)

The mysterious and wealthy Jay Gatsby, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, is madly in love with Daisy Buchanan, played by Carey Mulligan. It acts as the driving force behind his opulent lifestyle. Though their first meeting takes place before when the events of the movie, during Gatsby's time as a soldier leading to a whirlwind romance, their perfect love-at-first-sight moment happens at their reunion which was perfectly orchestrated by Gatsby's relentless efforts years later re-igniting a passionate but ill-fated romance. While Gatsby’s love is rooted in an idealized past, Daisy’s affection is more complex and fleeting. Their relationship encapsulates themes of obsession and ambition with their love-at-first-sight moment catalyzing Gatsby’s grand gestures and ultimate downfall.

6) Pride And Prejudice (2005)

Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s love story begins with misunderstanding and prejudice, but their tumultuous relationship eventually leads to a profound mutual admiration. The movie adaptation captures their growing romantic tension in the famous scene where Darcy, Matthew McFayden, helps Keira Knightley's Elizabeth into the carriage, a subtle yet powerful gesture of blossoming feelings (which also gave the fans the famous hand flex scene!)

5) The Notebook (2004)

Noah and Allie’s love story begins with an unforgettable summer romance. Their love-at-first-sight moment happens when they meet at a carnival. The scene is filled with playfulness and charm, setting the stage for a deep connection that withstands the test of time. Despite obstacles and separation, their love remains intact. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams gave unforgettable performances as Noah and Alley in the film.

4) The Godfather (1972)

Michael Corleone, played by Al Pacino, seeking refuge in Sicily, is captivated by the stunning Apollonia, played by Simonetta Stefanelli, when he first sees her. Their love blooms amidst the Sicilian scenery, but tragedy strikes when Apollonia is killed in an assassination attempt meant for Michael. This love-at-first-sight moment becomes an important subplot, showcasing Michael's vulnerability and the temporary peace he finds with Apollonia.

3) Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Baz Luhrmann's vibrant adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy features Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes as the star-crossed lovers. Their first encounter at a masquerade ball is electric, with an immediate and powerful attraction. The aquarium scene where they secretly glance at each other is one of the most iconic scenes depicting love at first sight. The modern setting and visually dynamic filmmaking with the performances of the young actors have made the film a classic.

2) West Side Story (1961)

Inspired by Shakespeare's famous tragedy about a romance between Romeo and Juliet, this film follows the same theme with protagonists Tony and Maria's love story where they experience an intense and immediate connection at a dance. Their eyes meet across a crowded room, sparking a love that transcends the bitter rivalry between their respective gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. Their love at first sight moment is charged with both sweetness and danger, setting the stage for a passionate yet doomed romance.

1) Titanic (1997)

Jack and Rose's love story begins with an act of heroism. When Rose first sees Jack, she’s attempting to end her life. Jack saves her, and their bond deepens as they navigate their romance amidst class differences and societal expectations. Their whirlwind romance aboard the ill-fated ship epitomizes the concept of love at first sight, with their attraction blossoming despite the catastrophic events around them.