Love stories have the remarkable ability to touch our hearts and awaken the deepest emotions within us. Among the treasured classics that have accomplished this feat, The Notebook, adapted from Nicholas Sparks’ novel, stands as an iconic symbol of love’s enduring power. But for those who yearn to experience more tales of heartfelt romance, this collection of films holds the key to evoking the same stirring emotions. Just as The Notebook weaves a tapestry of love, passion, and heartache, this cinematic treasure promise to transport you into the captivating world of human connection, so here is the list of movies like The Notebook to watch in Canada right now that will leave you both sobbing and swooning.
Movies like The Notebook: La La Land (2016)
Director: Damien Chazelle | Writer: Damien Chazelle | Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend | Runtime: 2 hours, 8 minutes
In the luminous tapestry of La La Land, a cinematic gem directed by Damien Chazelle, the radiant chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone intertwines with the mesmerizing magic of music and dance. This film celebrates dreams, ambitions, and the bittersweet nuances of life’s realities, all set against the vibrant heart of Los Angeles. With an IMDb rating of 8.0/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 91%, La La Land proudly earns its place on our list of movies like The Notebook, as we witness Mia and Sebastian’s journey, one where they must part ways to find themselves truly.
Curiously, stories where lovers don’t ultimately end up together can evoke a sense of romance, much like “The Notebook.” Consider Noah and Allie’s tale—Noah remains steadfastly devoted, even in the face of Allie’s extreme dementia erasing shared memories. Her forgetfulness doesn’t hinder his devotion; he reads to her daily, striving to rekindle some fragment of their deep connection. Similarly, La La Land could have explored an alternative ending, but its chosen conclusion aligns with the reality of many iconic love stories throughout history. These narratives often transcend the neat confines of a “happily ever after.” At the same time, relationships may transform or end practically, but the love within them persists—a profound sentiment that continues to resonate.
Stream La La Land in Canada
You can watch La La Land on Netflix in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: Blue Valentine (2010)
Director: Derek Cianfrance | Writer: Derek Cianfrance, Cami Delavigne, Joey Curtis | Cast: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams | Runtime: 1 hour, 52 minutes
As we journey through movies like The Notebook, one cannot overlook the profound impact of Ryan Gosling’s tear-jerker masterpiece, Blue Valentine. The movie has an IMDb rating of 7.0 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 86%.
In the spirit of Noah and Allie’s enduring love, Dean and Cindy’s journey in Blue Valentine is a testament to unwavering devotion, despite the challenges that surface over time. Their emotional odyssey navigates the complexities of human relationships, transcending the simplistic notion of happily ever after.
Just as The Notebook could have ventured into alternate resolutions, Blue Valentine could have explored different paths for Dean and Cindy’s relationship. However, the film’s chosen trajectory resonates with the genuine complexities inherent in many iconic love stories.
Stream Blue Valentine in Canada
You can stream Blue Valentine on Netflix in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: Marriage Story (2019)
Director: Noah Baumbach | Writer: Noah Baumbach | Cast: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson | Runtime: 2 hours, 16 minutes | IMDb: 7.9 | Rotten Tomatoes: 95%
In the realm of movies like The Notebook, Noah Baumbach’s poignant Netflix dramedy, Marriage Story, takes center stage. This deeply personal film navigates the intricacies of ending a relationship amicably, or at least attempting to. With powerful performances by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson, both Oscar-nominated, the movie delves into the story of a couple on the precipice of divorce.
Much like the heartfelt expression of love in The Notebook, Marriage Story finds its emotional core in written form. At the recommendation of their marriage counselor, Charlie and Nicole pens heartfelt letters to each other, detailing the aspects they deeply cherish. The narrative approach resonates with the sincere sentimentality in The Notebook.
Stream Marriage Story in Canada
Marriage Story is available on Netflix in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Director: Josh Boone | Writer: Scott Neustadter, Michael H. Weber | Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Nat Wolff, Laura Dern, Willem Dafoe | Runtime: 2 hours, 6 minutes
In the list of movies like The Notebook, let’s not forget to mention The Fault in Our Stars. Adapted from John Green’s novel, this heartrending story may differ in plot but shares the ability to evoke tears. Following the lives of two young cancer patients, Hazel and Gus, as they navigate love and illness, the film weaves a tapestry of raw emotions. Their journey to meet a beloved author becomes a transformative experience that resonates deeply. With an IMDb rating of 7.7/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 80%, The Fault in Our Stars leaves an indelible mark, much like The Notebook, showcasing that love’s power is unyielding even in life’s toughest battles.
Stream The Fault in Our Stars in Canada
The Fault in Our Stars is available on Canada’s Disney Plus, Crave Starz, and Amazon Channel.
Movies like The Notebook: The Longest Ride (2015)
Director: George Tillman Jr. | Writer: Craig Bolotin | Cast: Britt Robertson, Scott Eastwood, Jack Huston, Oona Chaplin, Alan Alda | Runtime: 2 hours, 19 minutes
For those who adore romantic narratives with a touch of cowboy allure, The Longest Ride, another remarkable adaptation from Nicholas Sparks’ collection, is tailor-made. This cinematic gem introduces us to not just one but two heartwarming love stories. The first centers on Luke (Scott Eastwood), a professional bull rider, and Sophia (Britt Robertson), an art student. Their connection sparks debates over Luke’s daring profession, adding a layer of excitement to their budding romance. Meanwhile, the movie unfolds the poignant tale of Ira (Jack Huston) and Ruth (Oona Chaplin), a story recounted by an older Ira, portrayed by the incomparable Alan Alda. While Luke and Sophia’s story tugs at your heartstrings, it’s truly Ira and Ruth’s journey that will set your tear ducts into motion. Elderly Ira beautifully shares their epic love saga—navigating the challenges of pre and post-World War II life—that’s bound to leave you emotionally moved, much like The Notebook.
With an IMDb rating of 7.1/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 31%, The Longest Ride encapsulates the evocative power of love, mirroring the soul-stirring beauty that resonates in The Notebook.
Stream The Longest Ride in Canada
The Longest Ride is streaming on Disney plus in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: Brokeback Mountain
Director: Ang Lee | Writer: Larry McMurtry, Diana Ossana | Cast: Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Williams | Runtime: 2 hours, 14 minutes
In the movie Brokeback Mountain, Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal deliver performances of mesmerizing depth, portraying two cowboys whose forbidden love affair unfolds across two decades in the rugged American West. Their heartwarming yet heart-wrenching dynamic captures the essence of a passion that defies societal norms. Much like the poignant narrative of The Notebook, Brokeback Mountain weaves a tragic romance that traverses a vast timeline laden with both passion and heartache. Ang Lee’s neo-western masterpiece remains a beacon of powerful storytelling, even though it controversially lost the Academy Award for Best Picture to the arguably lesser film, Crash. Irrespective of its Best Picture status, Brokeback Mountain continues to stand the test of time, a testament to the enduring resonance of its narrative.
Stream Brokeback Mountain in Canada
You can stream Brokeback Mountain on Crave in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: Atonement (2007)
Director: Joe Wright | Writer: Christopher Hampton (screenplay), Ian McEwan (novel) | Cast: Keira Knightley, James McAvoy, Saoirse Ronan, Brenda Blethyn, Vanessa Redgrave | Runtime: 2 hours, 3 minutes
Venturing through the realm of movies like The Notebook, we set our sights on Atonement, where the splendid chemistry between Keira Knightley and James McAvoy takes center stage. This cinematic masterpiece, adapted from Ian McEwan’s namesake novel, spins a narrative of love that defies the odds. The heiress of luxury and the housekeeper’s son find their destinies intertwined in a saga reminiscent of The Notebook. Mirroring the nonlinear storytelling of the latter, Atonement spans decades, enveloping viewers in a captivating tapestry of a couple’s emotional love story. Amidst the backdrop of a World War II subplot, the heart-rending conclusion of Atonement strikes a chord similar to that of its counterpart. Just as in The Notebook, where historical circumstances propel the male leads into the crucible of the Second World War, Atonement likewise navigates the impact of global conflict on relationships, showcasing the enduring parallels between these touching narratives.
With an IMDb rating of 7.8/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 83%, Atonement captivates the senses with its poignant portrayal of love’s intricate tapestry, akin to the soul-stirring beauty that resonates in The Notebook.
Stream Atonement in Canada
You can purchase Atonement on Amazon Video for download or rent it online through Amazon Video.
Movies like The Notebook: The English Patient (1996)
Director: Anthony Minghella | Writer: Anthony Minghella (screenplay), Michael Ondaatje (novel) | Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Juliette Binoche, Kristin Scott Thomas | Runtime: 2 hours, 42 minutes | IMDb: 7.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 84%
Seinfeld’s humor made The English Patient a punchline throughout the ’90s. Yet, from our perspective, it’s high time for this breathtaking film to reclaim the recognition it truly deserves. It is an epic in every sense, weaving a tapestry of forbidden love, alluring sandstorms, and moments of intimate vulnerability. For those who cherish poignant love tales spanning multiple timelines (and let’s face it, if you’re a devotee of The Notebook, you most likely do), this Best Picture-winning masterpiece is essential.
Stream The English Patient in Canada
You can watch The English Patient on Crave and Amazon Prime in Canada.
Movies like The Notebook: The Vow
Director: Michael Sucsy | Writers: Abby Kohn, Marc Silverstein, Jason Katims | Cast: Rachel McAdams, Channing Tatum | Runtime: 1 hour, 44 minutes
Similar to her The Notebook co-star, Rachel McAdams has ventured back into the realm of romantic tragedy. In The Vow, she leads with Channing Tatum, forming a cinematic duo that resonates with emotional depth reminiscent of The Notebook. Therefore we added it to the movies like The Notebook, But the parallels don’t stop there—rather, The Vow is almost a mirror image. It shares an uncanny resemblance in its narrative, revolving around the fragments of memories tied to love. The plot revolves around a woman who awakens from a coma with memory loss and her husband’s earnest attempts to rekindle her recognition of him. The movie’s theatrical storytelling exudes a gentle sincerity, an eloquent tribute to love that defies time.
Stream The Vow in Canada
The Vow is available to watch on Crave in Canada.
Honorable Mentions
- A Walk to Remember (2002)
- Dear John (2010)
- P.S. I Love You (2007)
- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
- Message in a Bottle (1999)
- Me Before You (2016)
- Safe Haven (2013)
- The Lucky One (2012)
- Remember Me (2010)
- If I Stay (2014)
- Pride & Prejudice (2005)
- Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
- One Day (2011)
- The Time Traveler’s Wife (2009)
- Romeo + Juliet (1996)
- Ghost (1990)
- The Lake House (2006)
- Before Sunrise (1995)
- Her (2013)
- Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
- 500 Days of Summer (2009)
- The Great Gatsby (2013)
- An Affair to Remember (1957)