Love may be in the air this Valentine's Day, but not everyone is swept up in romantic fervor. While couples exchange chocolates, roses, and enjoy lavish dinners, others might prefer a night on the sofa with snacks and a decidedly unromantic movie selection. If you're tired of meet-cutes and happily-ever-afters, we've curated 11 films available for streaming in the UK that will cool any romantic ardour.
The Loved Ones
Where to watch: StudioCanal via Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
Rejection is painful, but revenge takes a dark turn in this horror film. Directed by Sean Byrne, The Loved Ones follows high school student Brent, who declines classmate Lola's invitation to the school dance. His decision leads to a terrifying ordeal when Lola and her father kidnap him, subjecting him to brutal violence. The film explores obsession and the horrific consequences of unrequited affection.
Gone Girl
Where to watch: Disney Plus, Now TV, Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
Based on Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel, this David Fincher thriller became a box office sensation. Teacher Nick Dunne's life unravels when his wife Amy disappears on their fifth anniversary. As media scrutiny intensifies, Nick becomes the prime suspect in a case that exposes the dark underbelly of their marriage. The film masterfully depicts manipulation and the disintegration of trust.
Gerald's Game
Where to watch: Netflix
Mike Flanagan's adaptation of Stephen King's novel offers a chilling cautionary tale about intimacy gone wrong. Married couple Jessie and Gerald attempt to spice up their relationship during a secluded getaway, but when Gerald handcuffs Jessie to the bed and suffers a fatal heart attack, she must fight for survival alone. This psychological thriller turns romantic experimentation into a nightmare of isolation and desperation.
Fatal Attraction
Where to watch: Paramount Plus and Now
This iconic 1987 thriller introduced the term "bunny boiler" into popular lexicon. Dan Gallagher's brief affair with book editor Alex turns deadly when she becomes obsessively possessive. What begins as marital infidelity escalates into a terrifying stalking campaign that threatens Dan's entire family. The film remains a powerful exploration of obsession and consequences.
The Tinder Swindler
Where to watch: Netflix
This documentary exposes the dangers of modern dating through the story of conman Simon Leviev. Using the popular Tinder app, Leviev manipulated multiple women into funding his luxurious lifestyle by pretending to need money to escape enemies. The film serves as a sobering reminder that not all connections are what they seem, particularly around Valentine's Day.
Marriage Story
Where to watch: Netflix
Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson deliver heartbreaking performances in this intimate portrayal of marital breakdown. The film follows theater director Charlie and actress Nicole as their decade-long marriage dissolves amid geographical separation and a bitter custody battle. Their story captures the painful reality that sometimes love isn't enough to sustain a relationship.
It Follows
Where to watch: ITVX, Mubi, Plex, Curzon, Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
This innovative horror film uses supernatural elements to explore themes of sexuality and consequence. After having sex with her boyfriend, college student Jay learns she's been cursed with a relentless entity that only she can see. The being will pursue her until she passes the curse to someone else through sexual contact, creating a powerful metaphor for sexually transmitted infections and moral responsibility.
Get Out
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Now, Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
Jordan Peele's groundbreaking directorial debut transforms the meet-the-parents scenario into a social horror masterpiece. When Black photographer Chris visits his white girlfriend's family estate, he discovers disturbing secrets about their treatment of Black servants. The film expertly examines racial dynamics and the terrifying possibilities of hidden agendas in relationships.
Closer
Where to watch: Apple TV and the Sky Store
This psychological drama featuring an all-star cast explores the destructive nature of infidelity and deception. The interconnected relationships between four Londoners reveal how lies and manipulation can unravel even the strongest connections. The film's uncomfortable honesty about human relationships makes it perfect for those seeking romantic disillusionment.
Revolutionary Road
Where to watch: Paramount Plus, Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet reunite in this adaptation of Richard Yates' novel about suburban disillusionment. Frank and April Wheeler's dreams of escaping conventional life are shattered by unexpected pregnancy and societal pressures. Their crumbling marriage serves as a poignant examination of how external circumstances can destroy even the most passionate relationships.
Blue Valentine
Where to watch: StudioCanal via Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store
This raw portrayal of a failing marriage alternates between the hopeful beginnings and painful dissolution of Dean and Cindy's relationship. As they struggle to raise their young daughter, their connection deteriorates through miscommunication and unmet expectations. The film's devastating conclusion demonstrates how love can transform into resentment over time.
All these films are currently available for streaming in the UK, offering perfect alternatives to traditional romantic fare. Whether you're seeking psychological thrillers, heartbreaking dramas, or social commentaries on relationships, this selection provides ample material for a Valentine's Day spent questioning the very nature of love and connection.
