Romance on screen: Do all love stories need intimate scenes?
Can love be expressed on screen without making the audience, especially families, feel awkward or uncomfortable?
Hyderabad: In the world of cinema, romance has always been a favourite theme. But today, a growing number of viewers are asking , do romantic films always need to show intimate scenes? Can love be expressed on screen without making the audience, especially families, feel awkward or uncomfortable?
Many romantic films released with a U/A certificate are now including bold scenes that seem unnecessary to the story. These films are available to teens as young as 13 or 16 years, but the content sometimes feels more suitable for adults. For a teenager watching with their parents, or a younger sibling catching a scene on TV, it can become an uneasy moment.
“Why does every romantic moment need bold content to show love?” asks Harika, a 16-year-old student. “There are so many films that made me feel the magic of love without showing anything physical. That’s what I enjoy more,” She added.
Classics that still stay in our hearts
Films like Oohalu Gusagusalade, Andala Rakshasi, Fidaa, Sita Ramam and Ninnu Kori are perfect examples. These films beautifully portrayed love, longing, heartbreak, and emotion, all without crossing the line of comfort. Families still rewatch them today, years after their release.
These stories focused more on emotions than expressions of physical intimacy. The silence between characters, the depth in their conversations, and their actions spoke volumes. These are the films that make people feel connected to the story, no matter their age.
“A good love story stays in your heart,” says Lakshmi, a mother of two teenagers. “It doesn’t need to make you feel awkward while watching it with your children.”
When intimacy is needed, and when it’s not
That said, not all intimate scenes are wrong or avoidable. There are moments in cinema where such scenes help tell the story, build character arcs, or even highlight issues. For example, the romantic scenes in Hi Nanna felt natural and respectful. The liplock in the film was not forced, it felt like a true moment of love and connection between two characters.
But when these scenes are added just for glamour or to sell a film, it feels out of place. That’s when viewers feel disconnected or even disturbed.
“It’s not about saying no to intimacy,” shares Aditya, a 22-year-old film student. “It’s about how it is shown. If the story needs it, it should be done sensitively, not to attract clicks or views.”
A matter of sensitivity and responsibility
Filmmakers have the freedom to tell their stories. But with that comes responsibility, especially when their content is being watched by a wide age group. The line between storytelling and sensationalism is thin, and once crossed, it can damage both the film’s impact and its reach.
This becomes even more important when sensitive topics like sexual assault, harassment, or women’s safety are discussed in cinema. These subjects must be addressed, but with care and respect for survivors and viewers. A little sensitivity in direction and writing can make a huge difference.
Some recent films have done this beautifully, using cinematic language to raise awareness without turning the screen into something uncomfortable.
Sometimes, the simplest romantic scenes touch hearts the most (a look, a walk under the rain, or just a quiet conversation). These are the moments that stay with us.
Not every film needs to rely on bold visuals to show love.
“It’s not about kissing,” says Meghana, a 19-year-old viewer. “It’s about whether the scene makes me feel something. Love is more than just what happens physically.”
In the race to look modern or daring, some filmmakers forget that pure emotions never go out of style.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it’s time to reflect on the kind of romance we want to watch and share. Love, in its true form, is not always loud or bold. Sometimes, it is gentle, respectful, and deeply emotional.
Filmmakers, scriptwriters, and producers must realise that real love doesn’t need too much showing, just honest telling. The audience, young and old, is watching. And they deserve stories that speak to their hearts, not just their eyes.