Pratik Majumdar continues to celebrate Valentine’s Day with eight movies featuring reunions of old sweethearts and urges you to see them too!

In the realm of cinema, few narratives evoke as much nostalgia and emotion as the reunion of old flames after years apart. Whether it’s a chance encounter, a planned rendezvous, or a twist of fate, the theme of rekindled romance has been explored in various films, captivating audiences with its bittersweet allure. From timeless classics to contemporary gems, let’s delve into a selection of movies where old sweethearts meet again after a long time, igniting sparks of love and reminiscence on the silver screen.

Blue Jay (2016)

Directed by Alex Lehmann, “Blue Jay” is a poignant portrayal of two former high school sweethearts, Jim and Amanda, who reunite by chance in their hometown. As they spend a day together, exploring the town and reminiscing about their past, unresolved feelings resurface, leading to a heartfelt exploration of love, regret, and the passage of time.

Before Sunset (2004)

The second installment in Richard Linklater’s acclaimed “Before” trilogy, “Before Sunset” reunites Jesse and Céline, played by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, nine years after their initial encounter in “Before Sunrise.” Set against the romantic backdrop of Paris, the film follows their serendipitous reunion and the intimate conversations that unfold as they grapple with the complexities of their feelings and the consequences of their choices.

Casablanca (1942)

Regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, “Casablanca” tells the timeless tale of Rick Blaine and Ilsa Lund, portrayed by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, whose paths cross again in the titular Moroccan city during World War II. As they confront their shared past and the lingering passion between them, Rick is faced with a moral dilemma that tests the limits of love and sacrifice.

Same Time, Next Year (1978)

Adapted from Bernard Slade’s stage play, “Same Time, Next Year” chronicles the annual rendezvous of Doris and George, played by Ellen Burstyn and Alan Alda, who reunite at the same laid-back inn every year despite being married to other people. Over the course of twenty-five years, their clandestine meetings evolve into a touching portrayal of enduring love, personal growth, and the passage of time.

Changing Times (2004) (original French title Les Temp Qui Changents)

Directed by André Téchiné, “Changing Times” follows the reunion of two former lovers, Antoine and Cécile, portrayed by Gérard Depardieu and Catherine Deneuve, in Tangier, Morocco. Against the backdrop of cultural and political upheaval, their rekindled romance forces them to confront the difficulties of their past and the uncertainty of their future.

Past Lives (2023)

Directed by debutant director Celine Song, “Past Lives” is about the relationship between the characters of Greta Lee and Teo Yoo, two childhood sweethearts and their journey of 24 years when they meet, separate and meet again. Will they be able to rekindle their old love now that so much has changed in both their lives? A poignant tale of the intricacies of the heart and the unpredictability of love and life itself. Past Lives is a warm, tender, beautiful tale. 

Purple Violets (2007)

Written and directed by Edward Burns, “Purple Violets” revolves around the reunion of four friends, Patti, Murph, Chazz, and Kate, whose lives take unexpected turns when former lovers Patti and Murph reconnect after years of estrangement. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the film tackles themes of second chances, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds of friendship

96 (2018)

Directed by C Prem Kumar, this Tamil movie is a quiet gem. Starring Vijay Setupati as Ram and Trisha Krishnan as Janu, the film charts their tender school romance and a chance meeting at a school reunion 22 years later. After their serendipitous meeting Ram and Janu spend a night together, exploring their childhood days and reasons why they drifted apart. A dream-like night soon gives way to the realities of a new morning and real life.  

Whether set against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis or a quaint countryside inn, these movies remind us that true love has the power to transcend distance, time, and circumstance, leaving an indelible mark on the heart long after the credits roll.