25 Love and Intimacy Movies Like The Third One | Similar-List

"The Third One" (2014), directed by Rodrigo Guerrero, is a poignant exploration of sexuality and human connection. It tells the story of a young man, Fede, who meets an older gay couple online and decides to visit their home for an intimate evening. The film delves into the complexities of intergenerational relationships, the exploration of sexual identity, and the nuances of human connection. If you were moved by its authentic portrayal of intimacy and the intricacies of human relationships, here are 25 movies like The Third One that resonate with similar themes.

25 Love and Intimacy Movies Like The Third One

1. Weekend (2011)

"Weekend," directed by Andrew Haigh, chronicles the brief yet intense connection between Russell and Glen, who meet at a nightclub and spend the weekend together. Their relationship develops over two days, filled with deep conversations and passionate encounters. As they share their thoughts, fears, and dreams, they forge a connection that challenges their perceptions of love and intimacy. The film captures their weekend's raw and genuine moments, leaving a lasting impact on both characters.

Like "The Third One," "Weekend" emphasizes the authentic portrayal of LGBTQ relationships, focusing on the emotional and physical intimacy between the characters. Both films explore fleeting connections and the transformative power of short-lived relationships. While "The Third One" involves a trio dynamic, "Weekend" zeroes in on the dyadic interaction, providing a different perspective on exploring sexual identity and the intricacies of human connection.

2. Call Me by Your Name (2017)

Luca Guadagnino's "Call Me by Your Name" tells the story of Elio, a young man who falls in love with Oliver, an older graduate student at his family's home in Italy. In the idyllic Italian countryside, the film captures the tender and intense romance between Elio and Oliver as they navigate their feelings for each other during a summer that changes their lives. The narrative is filled with beautiful moments of discovery, longing, and the bittersweet nature of first love.

Similar to "The Third One," "Call Me by Your Name" delves into the complexities of intergenerational relationships and the exploration of sexual identity. Both films are beautifully shot, capturing lush landscapes as a backdrop to the characters' emotional journeys. The tender and melancholic tone in both movies resonates deeply with audiences as they depict the fleeting nature of intimate relationships and the lasting impact these connections can have on individuals.

3. God's Own Country (2017)

"God's Own Country," directed by Francis Lee, follows the story of Johnny Saxby, a young farmer in Yorkshire, England. Johnny's life is monotonous and harsh, punctuated by casual sex and heavy drinking. This changes when Gheorghe, a Romanian migrant worker, arrives to help on the farm. The two men form a deep connection as they work together, leading to a transformative and passionate relationship. The rugged landscape of Yorkshire and the raw performances create a powerful backdrop for their love story.

Like "The Third One," "God's Own Country" explores themes of sexual awakening and emotional connection within a queer context. Both films are grounded in realism and feature characters who are initially guarded and uncertain but gradually open up through their interactions. The rural setting of "God's Own Country" parallels the intimate, confined space of the older couple's apartment in "The Third One," emphasizing the personal and transformative nature of these environments on the characters.

4. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Directed by Ang Lee, "Brokeback Mountain" tells the tragic love story of Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, two cowboys who develop a deep, romantic bond while herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain. Their relationship spans decades, marked by societal pressures, personal struggles, and unfulfilled desires. Despite being married to women, their connection endures, revealing the profound impact of their love on their lives and relationships.

"Brokeback Mountain" shares with "The Third One" the exploration of forbidden love and the struggle to reconcile societal norms with personal desires. Both films depict the characters' navigation of their identities and relationships in a world that often does not understand or accept them. The emotional depth and complexity of the characters in both films highlight the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for acceptance.

5. Shelter (2007)

"Jonah Markowitz's "Shelter" centers on Zach, a young man from a working-class family who dreams of becoming an artist but is tied down by his responsibilities to his family. Zach's life changes when he rekindles his friendship with Shaun, a writer, and their bond evolves into a romantic relationship. As Zach navigates his feelings for Shaun, he confronts his fears and aspirations, ultimately finding the courage to embrace his true self.

"Shelter" and "The Third One" explore the themes of self-discovery and the complexities of navigating one's identity within the constraints of societal expectations. The films highlight the characters' journey toward acceptance and love, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and the transformative power of intimate relationships. The coastal setting in "Shelter" adds a serene and reflective backdrop to Zach's emotional journey, similar to the intimate, confined space that serves as the setting in "The Third One."

6. Maurice (1987)

Directed by James Ivory, "Maurice" is an adaptation of E.M. Forster's novel, which tells the story of Maurice Hall, a young man in early 20th-century England who struggles with his homosexuality in a criminalized society. Maurice's journey is marked by his relationships with Clive, his first love who chooses a conventional life, and Alec, a gamekeeper who helps Maurice accept and embrace his true self. The film is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and societal constraints.

"Maurice" and "The Third One" depict the struggle for acceptance and the challenges of navigating one's identity in a repressive society. Both films feature characters who find solace and understanding in their relationships, ultimately leading to personal growth and self-acceptance. The historical context of "Maurice" contrasts with the contemporary setting of "The Third One," but both stories highlight these themes' timeless and universal nature.

7. North Sea Texas (2011)

Bavo Defurne's "North Sea Texas" follows the story of Pim, a young boy growing up in a small Belgian coastal town. Pim harbors feelings for his best friend, Gino, and dreams of a life filled with love and adventure. As they grow older, Pim's unrequited love for Gino is tested by the complexities of adolescence, family dynamics, and the search for identity. The film captures the bittersweet nature of first love and the longing for connection.

"North Sea Texas" and "The Third One" both explore the theme of young love and the journey toward self-discovery. Both films depict the characters navigating their feelings and identities in a world they may not fully understand or accept. The coastal setting in "North Sea Texas" mirrors the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," emphasizing these environments' personal and transformative nature on the characters' emotional journeys.

8. Keep the Lights On (2012)

Directed by Ira Sachs, "Keep the Lights On" is a deeply personal and raw exploration of a decade-long relationship between Erik, a documentary filmmaker, and Paul, a lawyer with substance abuse issues. The film chronicles their ups and downs, highlighting the struggles of maintaining a relationship amidst addiction, personal growth, and the complexities of love. The narrative candidly portrays the challenges and triumphs of long-term commitment.

"Keep the Lights On" shares with "The Third One" a focus on the intricacies of intimate relationships and the impact of external factors on personal connections. Both films delve into love's emotional and physical aspects, exploring the characters' vulnerabilities and strengths. The realistic and unflinching portrayal of relationships in both films highlights the universal challenges of maintaining love and connection amidst life's complexities.

9. Moonlight (2016)

Barry Jenkins' "Moonlight" is a coming-of-age story that follows Chiron, a young black man, through three pivotal stages of his life. The film explores Chiron's struggle with his identity, sexuality, and the harsh realities of his environment. Through his relationships with his mother, mentor, and childhood friend Kevin, Chiron learns to navigate his emotions and find his place in the world. "Moonlight" is a powerful and visually stunning exploration of self-discovery and acceptance.

"Moonlight" and "The Third One" depict the journey of self-discovery and the exploration of identity within a marginalized community. Both films emphasize the importance of personal connections in shaping one's understanding of self and the world. The rich, visual storytelling in "Moonlight" parallels the intimate, confined setting of "The Third One," highlighting the characters' emotional and physical journeys.

10. Handsome Devil (2016)

Directed by John Butler, "Handsome Devil" follows the story of Ned, a lonely and bullied teenager at an all-boys boarding school in Ireland. Ned's life changes when he is forced to share a room with Conor, a star athlete with a secret. Their unlikely friendship challenges their perceptions of identity, friendship, and courage. The film is a heartwarming and uplifting exploration of acceptance and self-discovery.

"Handsome Devil" shares with "The Third One" the theme of self-discovery and the importance of personal connections in shaping one's identity. Both films depict characters who find strength and understanding through their relationships, ultimately leading to personal growth and acceptance. The boarding school setting in "Handsome Devil" provides a unique backdrop for the characters' emotional journeys, similar to the intimate setting of "The Third One."

11. My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)

Directed by Stephen Frears, "My Beautiful Laundrette" is set in 1980s London and follows the story of Omar, a young Pakistani man who takes over his uncle's laundromat business. Omar reunites with his childhood friend Johnny, a former punk and now a member of a racist gang. As they work together to transform the laundromat, they rekindle their romantic relationship, navigating the challenges of societal expectations and personal ambitions.

"My Beautiful Laundrette" and "The Third One" explore the complexities of LGBTQ relationships within a specific cultural and societal context. Both films highlight the characters' struggles with identity and the impact of external factors on their connections. The vibrant and dynamic setting of 1980s London contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," but both films emphasize the transformative power of love and connection.

12. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)

Directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, "Blue Is the Warmest Color" follows the story of Adèle, a young woman who falls in love with Emma, an older blue-haired art student. The film chronicles their passionate and tumultuous relationship, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. Through their intense connection, Adèle navigates her feelings and the challenges of societal expectations, ultimately finding her true self.

"Blue Is the Warmest Color" and "The Third One" explore young love and the journey toward self-discovery. Both films depict the characters navigating their feelings and identities in a world that they may not fully understand or accept. The intimate and raw portrayal of the character's emotional and physical relationships in both films highlights the universal challenges of love and self-acceptance.

13. The Way He Looks (2014)

Directed by Daniel Ribeiro, "The Way He Looks" follows the story of Leonardo, a blind teenager searching for independence and a sense of self. His life changes when Gabriel, a new student, arrives at his school. As their friendship grows, Leonardo begins to question his feelings for Gabriel, navigating the complexities of his emerging sexuality and the challenges of his disability. The film is a heartwarming exploration of love, identity, and personal growth.

"The Way He Looks" shares with "The Third One" the theme of self-discovery and the importance of personal connections in shaping one's identity. Both films depict characters who find strength and understanding through their relationships, ultimately leading to personal growth and acceptance. The unique perspective of Leonardo's blindness in "The Way He Looks" adds depth to the exploration of identity and love, similar to the intimate setting of "The Third One."

14. Stranger by the Lake (2013)

Alain Guiraudie's "Stranger by the Lake" is a tense and atmospheric thriller set at a secluded cruising spot by a lake. The film follows Franck, a man who becomes infatuated with Michel, a mysterious and dangerous figure. As their relationship intensifies, Franck becomes entangled in a web of desire and danger, leading to a suspenseful and tragic conclusion. The film explores themes of desire, danger, and the darker aspects of human nature.

"Stranger by the Lake" and "The Third One" both delve into the complexities of desire and explore sexual identity within a specific setting. Both films create a sense of intimacy and tension through their confined and isolated environments. The suspenseful and atmospheric tone of "Stranger by the Lake" contrasts with the more tender and melancholy tone of "The Third One," but both films highlight the transformative power of desire and connection.

15. Beach Rats (2017)

Directed by Eliza Hittman, "Beach Rats" follows the story of Frankie, a young man living in Brooklyn who struggles with his sexuality and the pressures of his environment. As he navigates his feelings, he engages in secret encounters with older men he meets online while maintaining a façade of heterosexuality with his friends and family. The film is a raw and realistic exploration of identity, desire, and the complexities of adolescence.

"Beach Rats" and "The Third One" explore self-discovery and the challenges of navigating one's identity in a repressive environment. Both films depict the characters' struggle with societal expectations and the impact of their connections on their journey toward self-acceptance. The gritty and realistic portrayal of Frankie's life in "Beach Rats" mirrors the intimate and confined setting of "The Third One," highlighting the characters' emotional and physical journeys.

16. The Handmaiden (2016)

Directed by Park Chan-wook, "The Handmaiden" is a visually stunning and intricate tale set in 1930s Korea. The film follows Sook-hee, a young woman hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko. Unbeknownst to Hideko, Sook-hee is part of a plot to defraud her of her inheritance. Sook-hee and Hideko develop a deep and passionate relationship as the story unfolds, leading to unexpected twists and revelations.

"The Handmaiden" shares with "The Third One" a focus on the complexities of intimate relationships and the impact of external factors on personal connections. Both films explore love, desire, and deception themes, highlighting the characters' navigation of their feelings and identities in a world that often does not understand or accept them. The lush and detailed setting of "The Handmaiden" contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," but both films emphasize the transformative power of love and connection.

17. Beautiful Thing (1996)

Directed by Hettie MacDonald, "Beautiful Thing" is a heartwarming story set in a working-class neighborhood in London. The film follows Jamie, a shy teenager who develops feelings for his neighbor, Ste, who is dealing with his family issues. As their relationship blossoms, they navigate the challenges of acceptance and understanding within their community. The film is a tender and uplifting exploration of young love and self-discovery.

"Beautiful Thing" and "The Third One" depict the journey of self-discovery and the exploration of identity within a marginalized community. Both films emphasize the importance of personal connections in shaping one's understanding of self and the world. The vibrant and dynamic setting of a working-class neighborhood in "Beautiful Thing" contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," but both films highlight the universal themes of love, acceptance, and the search for belonging.

18. The Hours (2002)

Directed by Stephen Daldry, "The Hours" interweaves the stories of three women in different periods, all connected by Virginia Woolf's novel "Mrs. Dalloway." The film follows Virginia Woolf as she writes the novel Laura Brown, a 1950s housewife who finds solace in the book, and Clarissa Vaughan, a modern-day woman planning a party for her AIDS-stricken friend. The film explores love, identity, and the passage of time.

"The Hours" and "The Third One" explore identity and the impact of personal connections on one's understanding of self and the world. Both films depict characters who navigate their feelings and relationships in a world that often does not understand or accept them. The multi-layered narrative structure of "The Hours" contrasts with the more straightforward storytelling of "The Third One," but both films highlight the universal challenges of love, acceptance, and self-discovery.

19. Paris 05:59: Théo & Hugo (2016)

Directed by Olivier Ducastel and Jacques Martineau, "Paris 05:59: Théo & Hugo" follows the story of Théo and Hugo, who meet in a sex club and embark on an emotional and transformative journey through the streets of Paris. As they get to know each other, they navigate the complexities of their feelings and the impact of a shared experience on their lives. The film is a raw and intimate exploration of love, desire, and connection.

"Paris 05:59: Théo & Hugo" and "The Third One" depict the transformative power of intimate relationships and the exploration of sexual identity. Both films emphasize the importance of personal connections in shaping one's understanding of self and the world. The vibrant and dynamic setting of Paris in "Paris 05:59: Théo & Hugo" contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One." Still, both films highlight the universal themes of love, desire, and self-discovery.

20. Love, Simon (2018)

Directed by Greg Berlanti, "Love, Simon" follows the story of Simon Spier, a high school student struggling to come out to his friends and family while dealing with a secret online relationship with an anonymous classmate. As Simon navigates his feelings and the challenges of high school life, he learns the importance of honesty, acceptance, and love. The film is a heartwarming and relatable exploration of identity, friendship, and self-discovery.

"Love, Simon" and "The Third One" both explore the theme of self-discovery and the challenges of navigating one's identity in a repressive environment. Both films depict the characters' struggle with societal expectations and the impact of their connections on their journey toward self-acceptance. The high school setting in "Love, Simon" contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," but both films highlight the universal challenges of coming out and accepting in a world that often does not understand or accept them.

21. 120 BPM (Beats Per Minute) (2017)

Directed by Robin Campillo, "120 BPM" is set in the early 1990s and follows the story of Nathan, a newcomer to the activist group ACT UP Paris, which is fighting for action against the AIDS epidemic. The film captures the group's passionate and urgent efforts as they navigate their activism's political and personal challenges. Nathan forms a romantic relationship with Sean, a fellow activist, adding a deeply personal dimension to their struggle.

"120 BPM" and "The Third One" explore love, identity, and the impact of societal challenges on personal relationships. Both films depict characters who find strength and understanding through their connections, ultimately leading to personal growth and acceptance. The intense and urgent setting of "120 BPM" contrasts with the intimate, confined space of "The Third One," but both films highlight the universal challenges of love, acceptance, and the fight for understanding in a world that often does not accept them.

22. Holding the Man (2015)

Directed by Neil Armfield, "Holding the Man" is based on Timothy Conigrave's memoir and tells the true story of Tim and John, who fall in love at an all-boys high school in Australia. Their relationship spans fifteen years, and they face numerous challenges, including societal pressures and the AIDS epidemic. The film is a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and the enduring power of a committed relationship.

"Holding the Man" and "The Third One" depict the complexities of LGBTQ relationships and the impact of external challenges on personal connections. Both films highlight the characters' struggles with societal expectations and the enduring power of love and commitment. The historical context and long-term relationship in "Holding the Man" contrast with the contemporary setting and brief encounter in "The Third One," but both films emphasize the universal themes of love, acceptance, and the search for understanding.

23. Pride (2014)

Directed by Matthew Warchus, "Pride" is a British historical comedy-drama that tells the true story of a group of LGBTQ activists who supported striking miners in Wales during the 1984-1985 miners' strike. The film follows Mark Ashton, the leader of the group Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM), as they raise funds and awareness for the miners' cause. Despite initial resistance from the miners, the two communities unite in solidarity, forging lasting bonds of friendship and mutual respect.

"Pride" and "The Third One" explore the theme of solidarity and the power of community in overcoming adversity. While "The Third One" focuses on a personal and intimate connection between two individuals, "Pride" highlights the collective effort of diverse groups coming together for a common cause. Both films emphasize the importance of understanding, acceptance, and the transformative power of unity, albeit on different scales and contexts.

24. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Directed by Céline Sciamma, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" is a French historical drama set in the 18th century. The film follows Marianne, a painter commissioned to create a portrait of Héloïse, a young woman reluctant to marry. As Marianne paints Héloïse secretly, an intense and forbidden romance develops between them. The film is a visually stunning exploration of love, art, and the constraints placed on women by society.

"Portrait of a Lady on Fire" and "The Third One" explore themes of forbidden love and the profound emotional impact of intimate connections. While "The Third One" focuses on a contemporary setting and a brief encounter, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" is set in a historical context and unfolds longer. Both films highlight the transformative power of love and the struggle for self-expression in environments that restrict personal freedom.

25. My Own Private Idaho (1991)

Directed by Gus Van Sant, "My Own Private Idaho" is a road movie that follows the journey of Mike, a narcoleptic street hustler searching for his estranged mother, and Scott, his best friend and the rebellious son of a wealthy family. As they travel from Portland to Idaho, they navigate the dangerous world of street life and prostitution while exploring their complex, evolving relationship. The film is notable for its poetic, fragmented narrative and exploration of identity, love, and the family search.

"My Own Private Idaho" and "The Third One" explore intimate, emotionally charged relationships and the struggles of self-discovery. While "The Third One" presents a single, impactful encounter in a modern context, "My Own Private Idaho" offers a broader, episodic narrative that delves into the protagonists' quests and their evolving friendship. Both films highlight the profound impact of human connection and the quest for belonging, albeit through different narrative styles and settings.