Wild Strawberries (1957)

Ingmar Bergman's "Wild Strawberries" (1957) follows the introspective journey of Professor Isak Borg, a renowned physician on his way to receive an honorary degree from Lund University. As he travels, accompanied by his pregnant daughter-in-law Marianne, Isak encounters a series of individuals – hitchhikers, relatives, and figures from his past – who trigger vivid memories and profound reflections on his life. Through dreams and waking encounters, Isak confronts his past regrets, particularly his coldness and inability to connect with others, and grapples with the fear of having lived a life devoid of true meaning and love. This introspective road trip becomes a powerful exploration of mortality, memory, and the search for understanding and redemption. While not a traditional romance, "Wild Strawberries" earns its place on a list of the best romance movies through its deep exploration of human connection and the devastating consequences of emotional detachment. The film examines the lost opportunities for love in Isak's life, highlighting the enduring impact of his past relationships, particularly his failed romance with his cousin Sara. Through flashbacks and dream sequences, we witness the warmth and joy he missed out on, contrasting it with the loneliness and isolation he faces in his old age. The film poignantly demonstrates that the absence of love, the inability to express affection, and the failure to nurture meaningful relationships can lead to a profound and lasting sense of emptiness, making it a powerful, albeit unconventional, romantic tragedy.