Movies transport us, capturing emotions and storylines that strike a deep chord in the hearts of people all over the world. They simply make things feel better. Recently, a love of cinema has given birth to the romantic thriller genre, which combines the intensity of love with the attraction of suspense, catching audiences in its spellbinding narrative dance. Let us know more about it. 

What is romantic crime?

Romantic crime expertly combines the fervour of love with the thrill of criminality. It is a genre where heartbeats sync with the ticking of a time bomb and stolen kisses are as illegal as stolen jewels. Here, lovers may be partners in crime or adversaries in a perilous dance, resulting in stories that capture both passion and suspense.

Why are romantic crime movies popular?

Romantic crime films expertly merge the allure of forbidden love with adrenaline-pumping suspense. They provide fans with a double dose of excitement: the enticing pull of romance paired with the heart-racing stakes of a criminal plot. These films play on our natural curiosity about the complexities of human relationships, all while delivering unexpected turns. It is no surprise that they continue to entice audiences looking for a cinematic experience. Down below we have compiled a list of ten romantic crime movies that will keep you glued to them, have a look. 

Top 10 romantic crime movies on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and OTT: 

1. Ek Hasina Thi  (Streaming on Amazon Prime)

Before delivering hits like Badlapur and Andhadhun, Sriram Raghavan created a stride with the film  Ek Hasina Thi, a revered romantic thriller. Sarika (Urmila Matondkar) deeply falls for Karan (Saif Ali Khan), unaware that his deceptive actions will land her behind bars. The film notably showcases Sarika’s journey from innocence to seeking vengeance, epitomizing the saying, “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.”    

2. Safe Haven (Streaming on Netflix)

Katie (Julianne Hough) escapes an abusive relationship and finds love with a widower, Alex (Josh Duhamel). However, shadows from her past threaten her newfound happiness. Although the suspense takes time to build in this adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ novel, the charming characters and strong acting from the leads ensure it’s a captivating viewing experience.

3. The Bodyguard (Streaming on Amazon Prime)

Although critics had reservations about the lead performances by Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, The Bodyguard soared to be the second top-earning movie of 1992. Frank (Costner), a former Secret Services agent, becomes the protector of Rachel (Houston), a superstar with a persistent stalker. Amidst the allure and soft moments, the ever-present danger and suspense ensure this is not just another typical romance.

4. Ek Villain (Streaming on Disney + Hotstar)

Guru (Sidharth Malhotra) and Aisha’s (Shraddha Kapoor) blossoming love story meets a tragic end when Aisha is killed. Blinded by anger, Guru pursues Rakesh (Riteish Deshmukh), a submissive husband who vents his frustrations by murdering women. This gripping thriller is accompanied by a captivating soundtrack.

5. The Tourist (Streaming on Netflix)

Combine two top-tier actors on screen, and you are guaranteed sparks. Elise (Angelina Jolie), the wife of a man pursued by both police and the mob, entices tourist Frank (Johnny Depp) to mislead her pursuers. This film, a reinterpretation of the 2005 French movie Anthony Zimmer, may start off slow but delivers unexpected twists as the story unfolds. It earned three nominations at the 68th Golden Globe Awards.

6. Playing With Fire (Streaming on Netflix)

Fabrizio, a charming man, disrupts the existence of three women living on a thriving coffee estate by engaging in intimate relationships with them. Two married friends, Camila and Martina, find their bond tested, while Andrea, Martina’s daughter, is also entangled in this web. Fabrizio’s irresistible allure sparks a sensual awakening that threatens to shatter their content lives. With its alluring narrative and steamy scenes, this film will captivate you from start to finish.

7. Humraaz (Streaming on Amazon Prime)

What initially appears as a love triangle involving Karan (Akshaye Khanna), Priya (Ameesha Patel), and Raj (Bobby Deol) quickly transforms into a web of greed, intricate relationships, and ambition. This movie is infused with romance, but the plot continually surprises, keeping you engaged throughout.

8. Chloe (Streaming on Amazon Prime)

Love has the potential to lead us down unexpected paths, as illustrated by this film. In this dark and twisted romantic thriller, Hollywood icons Julianne Moore, Liam Neeson, and Amanda Seyfried take centre stage. Dr Catherine Stewart (played by Julianne), a gynaecologist, begins to believe her husband David Stewart, a college lecturer, is being unfaithful when he grows cold and detached. To confirm her suspicions, Catherine enlists the services of an escort, Chloe (Amanda). Unexpectedly, Catherine herself becomes enamoured with Chloe, succumbing to her deepest desires. The narrative continually surprises as the three protagonists confront the challenges besetting their intertwined relationships.

9. Baby Driver (Streaming on FXNow, DirecTV, And Fubo TV)

Edgar Wright’s ‘Baby Driver’ may dazzle with high-octane action and a diverse soundtrack, but its heart is a tale of romance entwined with crime. Thanks to spectacular stunts and Wright’s unique storytelling, the film quickly garnered a loyal fan base. Set against the backdrop of Atlanta, the plot revolves around a young getaway driver seeking to settle a debt with a crime boss. However, when he crosses paths with a captivating waitress, his desire to escape this perilous life intensifies.

10. Haseen Dilruba (Streaming on Netflix)

Haseen Dilruba, a fascinating romantic thriller blends love, intrigue, and suspense. The plot revolves around Rani Kashyap (Taapsee Pannu) and her shifting relationships, particularly with her husband Rishabh Saxena (Vikrant Massey), and is set in a small town. Their nuanced performances depict the depths of love and deception beautifully. The film’s twists and turns, combined with the lead actors’ fascinating chemistry, set it apart from the pack.

Romantic crime films have earned a niche in the cinema business by efficiently mixing the fervour of love with the thrill of criminality. These movies provide the audience with a one-of-a-kind experience in which heartbeats sync with ticking time bombs and stolen kisses are as illegal as stolen jewels. They remain popular due to their capacity to give a double dose of adrenaline, combining the appeal of forbidden love with heart-racing suspense. The intricate interpersonal interactions examined in these films, combined with unexpected plot twists, keep moviegoers enthralled. If you are seeking a fascinating cinematic experience, the top 10 romantic crime movies mentioned above are definitely worth a watch, featuring a blend of passion, tension, and unexpected plot turns. Do let us know your all-time favourite romantic crime film.