If you were captivated by the haunting and tragic tale of 'The Story of Adèle H.' (1975), you're likely searching for more films that explore obsession, unrequited love, and historical drama. This article highlights 10 movies and shows with similar themes, ensuring you find your next emotional and thought-provoking watch.

The Hours (2002)
Description: A multi-narrative film that intertwines the lives of three women across different time periods, all connected by Virginia Woolf's novel 'Mrs. Dalloway.' The film's exploration of inner turmoil, societal expectations, and the search for meaning resonates with themes of introspection and emotional depth.
Fact: Nicole Kidman wore a prosthetic nose to portray Virginia Woolf. The film's score was composed by Philip Glass, who also wrote the music for 'The Truman Show.'


The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)
Description: A historical drama centered on the rivalry between Anne and Mary Boleyn for the affections of King Henry VIII. The film's focus on power, betrayal, and the sacrifices made for love aligns with themes of passion and political intrigue.
Fact: Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, who play the Boleyn sisters, are close friends in real life. The film was shot in various historic locations across England.


Atonement (2007)
Description: A sweeping romantic drama that examines the consequences of a young girl's lie, which alters the lives of two lovers. The film's intricate narrative structure and themes of guilt, redemption, and lost love mirror the emotional complexity and tragic undertones.
Fact: The famous five-minute Dunkirk evacuation scene was shot in one continuous take. The typewriter sound in the score was created by hitting a piano string with a nail.


Bright Star (2009)
Description: This film delves into the passionate yet tragic love story of poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne, capturing the intensity of unfulfilled desire and the pain of separation. Its lyrical storytelling and focus on emotional depth align closely with the themes of longing and heartbreak.
Fact: The title is taken from a sonnet written by John Keats. The film's costumes were meticulously researched to reflect the fashion of the early 19th century.


The Duchess (2008)
Description: This historical drama portrays the life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, focusing on her tumultuous marriage and public scrutiny. The film's depiction of a woman trapped by societal expectations and her quest for personal happiness echoes themes of emotional confinement and resilience.
Fact: The costumes in the film were inspired by actual portraits of Georgiana. The production used over 1,000 extras for the crowd scenes.


An Education (2009)
Description: A coming-of-age story about a young woman's romantic entanglement with an older man, set in 1960s London. The film's exploration of innocence, betrayal, and self-discovery aligns with narratives of personal growth and emotional awakening.
Fact: Carey Mulligan was relatively unknown before her breakout role in this film. The screenplay was adapted from a memoir by journalist Lynn Barber.


Jane Eyre (2011)
Description: A period drama that explores themes of love, loss, and personal resilience, set against a backdrop of societal constraints. The protagonist's emotional journey and the film's gothic undertones mirror the intense, introspective narrative style.
Fact: The film was shot in various historic locations across England, including Haddon Hall, which doubled as Thornfield Hall. Mia Wasikowska learned to speak with a Yorkshire accent for her role.


Far from the Madding Crowd (2015)
Description: A romantic drama about an independent woman who attracts three very different suitors, set in rural Victorian England. The film's exploration of love, independence, and societal expectations mirrors themes of emotional conflict and personal choice.
Fact: Carey Mulligan learned to ride sidesaddle for her role. The film was shot on location in Dorset, England, to capture the authentic countryside setting.


Little Women (2019)
Description: A modern adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, focusing on the lives and loves of the March sisters. The film's emphasis on female agency, creativity, and the complexities of familial and romantic relationships aligns with narratives of personal growth and emotional resilience.
Fact: Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet reunited for this film after working together in 'Lady Bird.' The screenplay was written and directed by Greta Gerwig.


Colette (2018)
Description: A biographical drama about the French novelist Colette, highlighting her struggle for independence and creative expression in a male-dominated society. The film's exploration of identity and defiance against societal norms resonates with themes of personal liberation.
Fact: Keira Knightley performed many of her own stunts, including a scene where she rides a bicycle in a long skirt. The film was shot on location in Hungary and Belgium.
