10 Great Films About Forbidden Love

One of the most original and surprisingly affecting films of the last ten years, Spike Jonze's bizarre but soulful romantic drama casts Joaquin Phoenix as a depressed and socially distant writer who, in the midst of divorce from his wife (Rooney Mara) falls in love with an intelligent AI system (voiced by Scarlett Johansson).

An inventive and smart premise, Her is a film all about acceptance and falling in love with what makes you happy. Theodore's ex-wife doesn't understand his new relationship when she learns about it, and Theodore himself feels continuously confused by his own feelings on the matter.

Her, despite its strange sci-fi write-up and potentially off-putting subject, works wonders as a wholly human, thoughtful drama. It's darkly funny, tragic, and anchored by Phoenix's commanding lead performance and Johansson's impeccable voice work.

Admittedly, Her might be a touch too odd for some people, but between its thoughts on what love means and how relationships work, as well as Spike Jonze's inspired script, it's nonetheless a moviemaking masterclass with more than enough heart to keep itself afloat.