The Great Debaters (2007)

While "The Great Debaters" centers on the compelling true story of a debate team, its inclusion on a "Best Romance Movies" list is tenuous and hinges on a specific, less obvious thematic element. The film showcases the burgeoning romantic relationship between the tenacious and ambitious Professor Melvin B. Tolson (Denzel Washington) and the fiercely independent yet vulnerable student, Samantha Booke (Jurnee Smollett). Their interactions are marked by mutual respect, intellectual sparring, and a deep, unspoken affection that simmers beneath the surface of their shared passion for rhetoric and social justice. The film's focus is primarily on the power of words and the fight against racial injustice, the subtle romantic undertones between Tolson and Samantha are integral to the story. Their bond forms a poignant contrast to the racial prejudice and social inequalities of the era, suggesting that love, like the art of debate, can be a powerful force for change. Though the romantic aspect is not the central narrative, the film's exploration of their nuanced connection, the longing glances, and the shared vulnerability, contributes to a well-rounded understanding of human connection and the desire for belonging, making its inclusion justifiable, albeit unconventional.