10 Best Movies like Purple Hearts | Similar-List

By Published On: August 06,2024Last Updated: August 21,20241944 words9.8 min read

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Movies like Purple Hearts

Captivating viewers with its unique blend of romance and drama, Netflix’s "Purple Hearts" has quickly become a fan favorite. Based on Tess Wakefield's novel of the same name, this film has garnered significant attention for its compelling storyline. We follow Cassie (Sofia Carson), a passionate musician, and Luke (Nicholas Galitzine), a dedicated marine and recovering addict.


Cassie grapples with her diabetes and the mounting cost of her medication, while Luke’s struggle to settle his debts drives them into a convenience marriage to secure military benefits. Despite controversy, the dedicated fan base of "Purple Hearts" is undeniable. While we await news of a potential sequel, let's explore ten other movies like Purple Hearts that you'll love.

10 Best Movies like Purple Hearts

Just Go With It (2011)

In this romantic comedy, Danny Maccabee (Adam Sandler) is a successful plastic surgeon who pretends to be unhappily married as an excuse to avoid serious relationships. When he finally meets a woman he genuinely likes, Palmer (Brooklyn Decker), his web of lies unravels. To cover his tracks, Danny persuades his loyal assistant, Katherine (Jennifer Aniston), to pose as his soon-to-be ex-wife. As they embark on increasingly elaborate deceptions, including a trip to Hawaii, Danny and Katherine's fake marriage begins to feel unexpectedly real.

The film is a remake of the 1969 movie 'Cactus Flower' and showcases the undeniable chemistry between Sandler and Aniston, making their comedic timing and camaraderie a standout feature. Additionally, the movie features a heartwarming subplot involving Katherine's children, who initially see through the charade but ultimately come to enjoy the unexpected family dynamic. With stunning Hawaiian landscapes as the backdrop, this film offers a delightful mix of humor and heartfelt moments.

Much like 'Purple Hearts,' 'Just Go With It' delves into the complexities of a fake relationship evolving into genuine affection. Both films highlight how initial pretenses can lead to unexpected and deep emotional connections.

Candy Jar (2018)

Lona (Sami Gayle) and Bennet (Jacob Latimore) are high school debate rivals with big dreams of Ivy League colleges. Despite their initial animosity, they find common ground and unexpected attraction. Their determination and competitive spirits drive the narrative, creating tension and chemistry that is both engaging and heartfelt.

Lona, who comes from a modest background, and Bennet, who was raised in a wealthy family, must bridge their differences and socio-economic divides. This adds a layer of depth to their evolving relationship. Their journey is filled with witty banter, competitive debates, and touching moments of vulnerability as they help each other grow and achieve their dreams.

The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is reminiscent of "Purple Hearts," offering a fresh take on young love. Just as Cassie and Luke navigate their differences and the pressures of their respective struggles, Lona and Bennet move from rivalry to respect and eventually to romance. The film's blend of humor, heart, and ambition makes it a compelling watch for fans of "Purple Hearts."

Dear John (2010)

John Tyree (Channing Tatum), a dedicated soldier, meets Savannah Curtis (Amanda Seyfried), an idealistic college student, while he is on leave. Their connection is immediate and powerful, leading to a deep romance during their short time together. However, as John returns to military service and Savannah resumes her studies, they agree to maintain a long-distance relationship through heartfelt letters.

John's military duties continuously pull him away, creating emotional and physical gaps that are hard to bridge. Savannah, passionate about working with autistic children, finds the separation increasingly challenging. Their love is severely tested by John’s prolonged deployments, illustrating the toll that military life can take on personal relationships. As time passes, the letters provide a lifeline and highlight their growing distance and longing. Key moments that deepen their bond include their reunion scenes when John is on leave and the poignant sacrifices they both have to make.

Dear John, like Purple Hearts, centers on the themes of enduring love and the sacrifices required to maintain a relationship. Both films deal with the heartache of military separations and the perseverance needed to keep love alive against formidable odds.

Green Card (1990)

Frenchman Georges Fauré (Gérard Depardieu) and American horticulturalists Bront? Parrish (Andie MacDowell) enters a marriage of convenience—Georges needs a Green Card to stay in the U.S. and Bront? requires a married couple’s status to secure a dream apartment with a greenhouse.

Initially, Georges and Bront? plan to part ways after achieving their respective goals. However, their unexpected bond develops during the ensuing immigration investigation, forcing them to live together and convincingly play the role of a happily married couple. Their contrasting personalities—Georges' outspoken and boisterous nature versus Bront?'s meticulous and reserved demeanor—create a series of humorous and heartwarming moments. Particularly memorable are scenes where Georges attempts to understand Bront?'s passion for gardening and Bront? gradually opens up to Georges despite her initial reluctance. The film also won critical acclaim, receiving the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical and earning Gérard Depardieu the Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical award.

Green Card," like "Purple Hearts," explores how practical arrangements can blossom into genuine connections. Both films show that love can thrive in unexpected circumstances, revealing the depth of human relationships through humor, honesty, and shared experiences.

Holidate (2020)

To dodge familial pressure during holidays, Sloane (Emma Roberts) and Jackson (Luke Bracey) agree to fake-date each other for a year. During every major holiday event, they act as each other’s platonic plus-ones to avoid the constant nagging of being single.

Initially, Sloane and Jackson view their arrangement as purely practical and devoid of real emotions. They make a pact to keep things strictly friendly, but a series of humorous and heartfelt holiday adventures bring them closer. From awkward family dinners to New Year’s Eve parties and Valentine’s Day outings, their banter and chemistry become undeniable. They start to confide in each other, revealing deeper personal struggles and forging an authentic bond. This gradual evolution from convenience to real affection highlights themes of unexpected companionship and the pressures of societal expectations.

Holidate" mirrors the theme of a pretend relationship that blossoms into true love, much like "Purple Hearts." Both films delve into how circumstances can unwittingly pave the way for genuine feelings to develop, emphasizing that love often finds a way when least expected.

An Officer and a Gentleman (1982)

Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) enrolls in the Navy's Officer Candidate School to escape his troubled life and pursue his dream of becoming a Navy pilot. During his rigorous training, he meets factory worker Paula Pokrifki (Debra Winger), who aspires to leave the small town she feels trapped in. Their relationship blossoms amidst the challenges and stern discipline imposed by Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley (Louis Gossett Jr.), who won an Academy Award for his performance.

The movie’s portrayal of Zack’s transformation from a self-centered loner to a responsible officer and partner is deeply compelling. Paula’s down-to-earth character and her struggles with family expectations add a layer of realism and emotional depth. One of the film’s most memorable scenes is when Zack, in full uniform, swoops Paula off her feet at her workplace, symbolizing his growth and commitment to his career and their relationship. The film also touches on themes of perseverance, overcoming personal demons, and the support system built through genuine connections.

An Officer and a Gentleman" shares the essence of personal growth, military challenges, and romantic aspirations with "Purple Hearts." Both films explore how love can change lives unexpectedly and emphasize the strength of overcoming adversities together.

The Proposal (2009)

Editor Margaret (Sandra Bullock) coerces her assistant Andrew (Ryan Reynolds) into a fake marriage to avoid deportation. Their forced closeness leads to a genuine relationship.

The plot thickens when they travel to Andrew's hometown in Alaska to meet his quirky family. This trip includes many humorous and touching moments, like Margaret’s unexpected bonding with Andrew’s grandmother (played by Betty White), who steals many scenes with her comedic timing.

The cultural differences between Margaret’s sophisticated New York lifestyle and the down-to-earth Alaskan setting provide a rich backdrop for comic relief and character growth.

Both characters evolve throughout the film. Initially a hard-nosed boss, Margaret softens as she experiences warmth and family bonds, while Andrew gains confidence and takes charge of his personal and professional life.

The hilarious nude scene where they accidentally collide and the touching wedding scene where genuine emotions come to the forefront add depth to their relationship.

The comedic and emotional rollercoaster of a fake marriage turning real resonates with the dynamics of "Purple Hearts," where initial convenience evolves into heartfelt connections.

Leap Year (2010)

Anna Brady (Amy Adams) has been waiting for her boyfriend, Jeremy (Adam Scott), to propose for a long time. Determined to take matters into her own hands, she follows an old Irish tradition that allows women to propose to men on Leap Day. As she travels to Dublin to propose to Jeremy, a series of mishaps causes her to enlist the help of a charming and cynical innkeeper, Declan (Matthew Goode). Their journey across the lush Irish countryside is filled with comedic and heartwarming moments.

Along the way, the stark differences between Anna, a meticulous planner, and Declan, a laid-back and spontaneous individual, become apparent. These opposites attract, creating undeniable chemistry and a budding romance. The film not only showcases their evolving relationship but also provides breathtaking views of Ireland's stunning landscapes, enhancing the romantic feel of the movie.

Much like "Purple Hearts," "Leap Year" deals with unexpected love between two people. Both films highlight how literal or metaphorical journeys can lead to profound personal connections and self-discovery.

The Hating Game (2021)

Lucy Hutton (Lucy Hale) and Joshua Templeman (Austin Stowell) are executive assistants with an intense rivalry at a recently merged publishing company. Their competitive spirits flare when they both vie for the same promotion, leading to a series of confrontations that are as humorous as they are charged with sexual tension.

Lucy and Joshua's hatred is palpable, manifesting in many petty and hilarious mind games, from color-coding tasks to sending passive-aggressive emails. Beneath their contentious interactions are glimpses of mutual admiration and suppressed attraction. Their personalities contrast sharply—Lucy is optimistic and earnest, while Joshua is methodical and seemingly cold-hearted, but both characters have hidden depths revealed as the story unfolds.

The Hating Game shares a similar enemies-to-lovers arc with 'Purple Hearts,' where initial hostility gives way to understanding and affection. Furthermore, it explores themes of family expectations and personal growth, mirroring Luke and Cassie's journey of overcoming individual struggles.

Single All The Way (2021)

To avoid family pressure during the holiday season, Peter (Michael Urie) convinces his best friend and roommate Nick (Philemon Chambers) to pose as his boyfriend. Despite their initial plan, spending time with Peter's family leads to unexpected romantic feelings developing between the two.

Peter's family is keen on setting him up with a local trainer, James (Luke Macfarlane), who creates a love triangle and adds depth to the storyline. The film also highlights themes of friendship and the pressures of familial expectations. With charming holiday settings and heartwarming interactions, "Single All The Way" brings a fresh LGBTQ perspective to the classic fake relationship trope.

Pretending becomes reality, just like the central relationship dynamic in "Purple Hearts," making this film relatable and heartwarming. The film's holiday backdrop and focus on family dynamics add layers of warmth and humor, enhancing its appeal for fans of "Purple Hearts."

While you wait for any updates on a "Purple Hearts" sequel, dive into these captivating stories. Each film offers a unique yet familiar tale of love, sacrifice, and unexpected romance that will keep you entertained.

About the Author: Sophia Roberts

Sophia Roberts is a freelance writer, novelist, scriptwriter, and editor at similar-list.com. She has a passion for cinema, literature, and culinary arts, and holds strong views on classic films, mystery novels, and artisanal cheeses. As a freelance writer since 2015, Sophia holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MFA in Screenwriting. She is always on the lookout for captivating narratives, whether in books, movies, or everyday life. Sophia has also contributed to The Atlantic, Vulture, Paste Magazine, and other publications.

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