If you loved the emotional depth and tension of 'Breathe In' (2013), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture similar themes of forbidden romance, personal turmoil, and the complexities of human relationships. Whether you're drawn to the film's haunting atmosphere or its intricate character dynamics, these recommendations will keep you engaged and emotionally invested.

Before Sunrise (1995)
Description: Before Sunrise, like Breathe In, is a deeply intimate film that explores the connection between two people over a short period of time. Both movies focus on dialogue and character development, with a naturalistic and heartfelt approach to storytelling. The emotional tone is romantic and contemplative.
Fact: Before Sunrise was inspired by a real-life encounter director Richard Linklater had with a woman in Philadelphia. The film was shot in real locations in Vienna, adding to its authenticity. It is the first installment in the Before trilogy, followed by Before Sunset and Before Midnight.


Lost in Translation (2003)
Description: Lost in Translation, like Breathe In, explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the search for meaning in relationships. Both films feature understated performances and a melancholic yet hopeful tone. The storytelling is subtle and character-driven, with a focus on emotional resonance.
Fact: Lost in Translation won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson's performances were widely praised for their chemistry and depth. The film was shot on location in Tokyo, capturing the city's unique atmosphere.


Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Description: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind shares with Breathe In a profound exploration of love, memory, and emotional pain. Both films use innovative storytelling techniques to delve into the complexities of human relationships. The visual aesthetics and emotional tone are similarly introspective and melancholic.
Fact: The film's screenplay was written by Charlie Kaufman, known for his unique and thought-provoking scripts. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet's performances were highly praised for their depth and vulnerability. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.


Before Sunset (2004)
Description: Before Sunset continues the story of Before Sunrise and, like Breathe In, explores the themes of love, time, and missed opportunities. Both films feature deep emotional connections and a focus on the characters' inner lives. The storytelling is conversational and introspective.
Fact: Before Sunset was filmed in real time, with the narrative unfolding over 80 minutes. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy co-wrote the screenplay with Richard Linklater.


Blue Valentine (2010)
Description: Blue Valentine resonates with Breathe In through its raw and emotional depiction of a relationship's highs and lows. Both films explore the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, with a focus on the intimate and often painful moments that define relationships. The storytelling in both movies is deeply personal and character-driven.
Fact: Blue Valentine was shot in two different time periods to reflect the changing dynamics of the relationship. The film's soundtrack was composed by Grizzly Bear, adding to its emotional depth. Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling lived together in a small house during filming to build chemistry.


The Spectacular Now (2013)
Description: The Spectacular Now shares with Breathe In a coming-of-age narrative that explores young love and self-discovery. Both films feature protagonists who are navigating the complexities of relationships and personal growth. The emotional tone and visual aesthetics of both movies are intimate and reflective.
Fact: The Spectacular Now is based on a novel by Tim Tharp. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley had chemistry reads before being cast to ensure their dynamic felt authentic. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage life and relationships.


Like Crazy (2011)
Description: Like Crazy shares similarities with Breathe In (2013) in its exploration of young love and the emotional complexities of relationships. Both films delve into the intensity of romantic connections and the challenges of maintaining them. Like Crazy, like Breathe In, features a nuanced portrayal of love and longing, with a focus on the emotional and psychological depth of its characters.
Fact: Like Crazy won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 201The film was largely improvised, giving it a raw and authentic feel. Director Drake Doremus used a unique approach to filming, allowing actors to explore their characters deeply without a strict script.


Her (2013)
Description: Her shares with Breathe In a contemplative and emotional exploration of love and human connection. Both films use a unique premise to examine the nature of relationships and the complexities of the heart. The visual aesthetics are warm and intimate, with a focus on the characters' emotional journeys.
Fact: Her won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Scarlett Johansson provided the voice for Samantha, despite never appearing on screen. The film's futuristic setting was inspired by director Spike Jonze's vision of a near-future Los Angeles.


Before Midnight (2013)
Description: Before Midnight, like Breathe In, delves into the complexities of long-term relationships and the passage of time. Both films feature realistic and emotionally charged dialogue, with a focus on the challenges and rewards of love. The tone is both romantic and brutally honest.
Fact: Before Midnight was shot in Greece, with the cast and crew living together during filming. The film completes the Before trilogy, which spans nearly two decades. It was critically acclaimed for its mature and nuanced portrayal of a relationship.


The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: The Fault in Our Stars, like Breathe In, deals with intense emotional experiences and the fragility of life and love. Both films explore deep emotional connections and the impact of external circumstances on relationships. The storytelling is poignant and heartfelt, with a focus on the characters' inner lives.
Fact: The Fault in Our Stars is based on the bestselling novel by John Green. Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, who play siblings in Divergent, starred as love interests in this film. The movie was a box office success, grossing over $300 million worldwide.
