- The Time of the Gypsies (1988)
- When Father Was Away on Business (1985)
- The Melody Haunts My Memory (1980)
- The Meeting Point (1989)
- The Fall of Italy (1981)
- The Widowhood of Karolina Žasler (1976)
- The Last Waltz in Sarajevo (1989)
- The Girl from the Marshland (1974)
- The House of Rising Sun (1988)
- The Love Letters (1988)
Yugoslavian cinema has a rich history of storytelling, particularly in the realm of romance. These films not only capture the essence of love but also reflect the cultural and historical backdrop of the region. This curated list of 10 melodramas from Yugoslavia offers a window into the emotional landscapes of its people, showcasing tales of love, loss, and resilience. Whether set against the backdrop of war, political change, or everyday life, these films provide a poignant look at human connections.

The Time of the Gypsies (1988)
Description: While not strictly a romance, this film includes strong romantic elements within its narrative about a young Romani man's journey from poverty to crime, set in Yugoslavia and Italy.
Fact: It was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.


When Father Was Away on Business (1985)
Description: A poignant tale of a family's life during the 1950s in Yugoslavia, where political paranoia and personal drama intertwine. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the impact of political decisions on personal lives.
Fact: It won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in


The Melody Haunts My Memory (1980)
Description: This film, set in the aftermath of World War II, follows the lives of several characters in a small town, weaving together stories of love, friendship, and the quest for personal freedom. It's a melodrama that captures the spirit of post-war Yugoslavia.
Fact: The film was Yugoslavia's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in


The Meeting Point (1989)
Description: This film delves into the lives of a group of people who meet at a train station, each with their own romantic entanglements and personal struggles, set against the backdrop of the late 1980s Yugoslavia.
Fact: The film was directed by Goran Marković, known for his insightful portrayals of Yugoslavian society.


The Fall of Italy (1981)
Description: A love story set during the Italian occupation of Yugoslavia in World War II, where a young couple's relationship is tested by the harsh realities of war and occupation.
Fact: The film was one of the first to openly address the Italian occupation in Yugoslavian cinema.


The Widowhood of Karolina Žasler (1976)
Description: A story of love, loss, and resilience, this film follows a woman's life after her husband's death, exploring her emotional journey and the societal expectations placed upon her.
Fact: The film was directed by Matjaž Klopčič, known for his work on social issues.


The Last Waltz in Sarajevo (1989)
Description: Set during the siege of Sarajevo, this film captures the love story of a couple amidst the chaos of war, highlighting the human spirit's resilience.
Fact: It was one of the last films produced in Yugoslavia before its dissolution.


The Girl from the Marshland (1974)
Description: This film tells the story of a young girl's love affair with a boy from the marshland, exploring themes of innocence, first love, and the harsh realities of rural life.
Fact: It was one of the first Yugoslavian films to be shown at international film festivals.


The House of Rising Sun (1988)
Description: A melodrama about a love triangle set in a coastal town, where personal desires clash with societal norms, leading to dramatic consequences.
Fact: The film was shot on location in the beautiful Adriatic coast.


The Love Letters (1988)
Description: A collection of stories about love, each told through letters exchanged between lovers, capturing the essence of romance in different eras of Yugoslavian history.
Fact: The film was inspired by real love letters found in an old house.
