Are you a diehard fan of the Twilight Saga who just can’t get enough of Bella and Edward’s epic supernatural romance? Do you crave more tales of forbidden love between humans and mystical beings? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the 18 best movies like Twilight that are sure to satisfy your craving for swoon-worthy fantasy adventures. From gothic romances to dystopian thrillers, these films will transport you to new worlds full of magic, danger, and desire. Get ready to fall under their spell!
1. Beautiful Creatures (2013)
Beautiful Creatures is a hauntingly romantic fantasy film based on the bestselling novel by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. Set in a small Southern town, it follows the story of Ethan Wate (Alden Ehrenreich), a thoughtful teenager who dreams of escaping his provincial life. Everything changes when he meets Lena Duchannes (Alice Englert), the mysterious new girl at school who possesses strange powers. As Ethan uncovers the secrets of Lena’s cursed magical family, the two fall deeply in love. But with Lena’s 16th birthday approaching, a momentous decision looms that will determine her fate – and possibly Ethan’s as well.
With an atmospheric Gothic setting, a stellar cast that includes Emmy Rossum, Jeremy Irons and Viola Davis, and an achingly poignant romance at its center, Beautiful Creatures is a must-watch for Twilight fans. The chemistry between Ehrenreich and Englert is electric, making you believe in the world-altering power of first love. While not as action-packed as Twilight, it offers a more contemplative take on the fantasy genre that will leave you spellbound.
2. Warm Bodies (2013)
For a fun and quirky twist on the paranormal romance, check out Warm Bodies. Based on Isaac Marion’s novel, this delightfully offbeat film imagines a post-apocalyptic world where zombies roam the earth and humans live in walled-off enclaves. Our hero is R (Nicholas Hoult), a zombie who spends his days shuffling around an abandoned airport and grunting with his undead best friend. But when he meets Julie (Teresa Palmer), a feisty human survivor, something begins to change within him. As R starts to regain his humanity, he embarks on a mission to save Julie and possibly reverse the zombie curse.
Combining horror, comedy and romance, Warm Bodies is a fresh and heartfelt take on the star-crossed lovers trope. Hoult is endearingly awkward as R, a zombie with an inner poet’s soul, while Palmer brings spark and courage to her role. The film cleverly uses its premise to explore what it means to be alive, drawing parallels between the numbness of the undead and the disconnection of the living. Sweet, funny and unexpectedly moving, this is a zombie love story with real brains and heart.
3. Red Riding Hood (2011)
Fans of Twilight’s blend of romance and danger will find much to love in Red Riding Hood, a dark fantasy thriller loosely based on the classic fairy tale. Set in a medieval village haunted by a werewolf, the story centers on Valerie (Amanda Seyfried), a beautiful young woman torn between two men – her childhood love Peter (Shiloh Fernandez) and the wealthy Henry (Max Irons). As the town descends into paranoia over the wolf’s killing spree, Valerie begins to suspect that the beast’s true identity is someone close to her.
Directed by Catherine Hardwicke, who also helmed the first Twilight film, Red Riding Hood has a similar moody, intensely romantic vibe. The love triangle between Valerie, Peter and Henry simmers with repressed desire, while the werewolf attacks add an element of gothic horror. With its sumptuous visuals, lush costumes and smoldering cast, the film creates an immersive world of dark enchantment. Though it may not be as deep as other entries on this list, Red Riding Hood is a stylishly entertaining fairy tale for grown-ups.
4. The Host (2013)
Based on the novel by Twilight author Stephenie Meyer, The Host is a science fiction romance set in a future where alien parasites have taken over most of humanity. Melanie (Saoirse Ronan) is one of the few remaining humans, until she is captured and implanted with a “soul” called Wanderer. But instead of fading away, Melanie’s consciousness fights back, forcing Wanderer to confront the moral dilemma of her species’ invasion. As the two minds battle for control, Melanie guides them to find her loved ones in hiding, including her boyfriend Jared (Max Irons) and brother Jamie (Chandler Canterbury).
While the premise may sound strange, The Host is a thought-provoking exploration of identity, free will and what it means to be human. Ronan is exceptional in her dual role as Melanie/Wanderer, conveying both characters’ distinct personalities and inner struggles. The romance between Melanie and Jared, as well as Wanderer’s growing bond with another human, Ian (Jake Abel), is tender and bittersweet. With its sleek futuristic aesthetic and high emotional stakes, The Host is an underrated gem that deserves more love from Twilight fans.
5. Beastly (2011)
A modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast, Beastly stars Alex Pettyfer as Kyle, a vain and cruel high school student who is cursed by a witch (Mary-Kate Olsen) to look as hideous on the outside as he is on the inside. Given a year to find someone to love him in his new form, Kyle hides away in a luxury apartment, with only his maid and a blind tutor for company. Hope arrives in the form of Lindy (Vanessa Hudgens), a kind-hearted classmate who agrees to live with Kyle in exchange for her drug-addicted father’s safety. As the two grow closer, Kyle must learn to see himself and others in a new light.
While it may not be a masterpiece, Beastly has an undeniable charm that makes it a guilty pleasure for fans of fairy tale romances. Pettyfer and Hudgens have genuine chemistry, and their scenes together are sweet and affecting. The film’s message about looking beyond appearances is hardly subtle, but it still resonates in our image-obsessed culture. With its dreamy New York setting and swoony soundtrack, Beastly is a enchanting modern fairy tale that will make you believe in the transformative power of love.
6. The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013)
Based on the bestselling YA series by Cassandra Clare, The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones is an action-packed urban fantasy that follows Clary Fray (Lily Collins), a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers she is part of a hidden world of demon hunters known as Shadowhunters. When her mother is kidnapped by evil forces, Clary must team up with the mysterious and handsome Jace (Jamie Campbell Bower) and his fellow Shadowhunters to navigate the dangerous underworld of vampires, werewolves and warlocks that exists alongside our own.
While it may not reach the heights of the Twilight films, The Mortal Instruments still offers plenty of supernatural thrills and swoon-worthy romance for fans of the genre. Collins is likable as the headstrong heroine Clary, and her chemistry with Campbell Bower’s snarky yet sensitive Jace sparks with tension. The world-building is impressively immersive, from the gothic grandeur of the Shadowhunters’ Institute to the gritty streets of New York City. With its fast-paced plot, witty dialogue and attractive cast, this film is a fun and flashy addition to the YA fantasy canon.
7. Vampire Academy (2014)
Vampire Academy brings a welcome dose of humor and girl power to the vampire romance genre. Based on Richelle Mead’s popular series, the film is set in a world where vampires are divided into three classes: the peaceful Moroi, the half-human/half-vampire Dhampirs who protect them, and the evil Strigoi. Rose (Zoey Deutch) is a rebellious Dhampir teenager training to be the guardian of her Moroi best friend, Lissa (Lucy Fry), a princess with unique magical abilities. When a forbidden romance and a political conspiracy threaten to tear them apart, Rose must risk everything to keep Lissa safe.
While it was a box office flop, Vampire Academy has gained a devoted cult following for its snarky tone, badass heroines and playful subversion of vampire clichés. Deutch is a revelation as Rose, imbuing the character with both fierce physicality and vulnerable heart, while Fry brings an ethereal grace to Lissa. The mythology is refreshingly complex, with a society that feels fully realized. But what really sets the film apart is its focus on female friendship and empowerment, as Rose and Lissa support each other through every challenge. Funny, action-packed and unapologetically feminist, Vampire Academy is a criminally underrated gem.
8. Divergent (2014)
Based on Veronica Roth’s bestselling YA trilogy, Divergent is a dystopian thriller set in a future Chicago where society is divided into five factions based on personality traits. Tris (Shailene Woodley) is a young woman who doesn’t fit into any one category, making her a threat to the system. As she uncovers a sinister plot that could destroy her world, Tris must learn to harness her unique abilities and fight for what she believes in.
While not strictly a romance, Divergent has enough swoon-worthy moments between Tris and her instructor Four (Theo James) to satisfy Twilight fans. Woodley brings her signature naturalism and vulnerability to the role of Tris, making her a relatable and inspiring heroine. The film’s sleek, high-tech aesthetic and adrenaline-fueled action sequences create a pulse-pounding viewing experience. At its core, however, Divergent is a coming-of-age story about embracing one’s individuality and standing up for what’s right.
9. The Hunger Games (2012)
Another dystopian YA adaptation, The Hunger Games stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, a teenage girl forced to compete in a televised fight to the death in a totalitarian society. As Katniss becomes a symbol of hope for the oppressed masses, she must navigate a love triangle with her fellow tribute Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) and her childhood friend Gale (Liam Hemsworth).
While the romance is secondary to the political themes, The Hunger Games still offers plenty of heart-stopping moments for shippers. Lawrence’s fierce yet vulnerable performance anchors the film, while the vivid world-building and pulse-pounding action keep you on the edge of your seat. With its thought-provoking commentary on media, power and revolution, The Hunger Games is a smart and thrilling ride.
10. Let the Right One In (2008)
This haunting Swedish film tells the story of Oskar, a lonely 12-year-old boy who befriends Eli, a mysterious girl who moves in next door. As Oskar discovers Eli’s dark secret and falls under her spell, the two form a deep bond that will be tested by the violence and prejudice of the adult world.
With its icy Scandinavian setting and slow-burn approach to horror, Let the Right One In is a far cry from Twilight’s lush romance. But it shares the saga’s themes of outsider love and the pain of immortality. The two young leads give achingly vulnerable performances, capturing the innocence and darkness of childhood. Both a tender coming-of-age tale and a chilling vampire story, Let the Right One In is a singular film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
11. Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
For a more artful and adult take on the vampire romance, check out this stylish indie from director Jim Jarmusch. Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston star as Eve and Adam, centuries-old lovers who reunite in Detroit after years apart. As they wax poetic about art, science and the state of the world, the two must confront the challenges of their immortal existence and the ennui that comes with eternal life.
With its languid pace, lush visuals and intellectual dialogue, Only Lovers Left Alive is definitely not your typical Twilight fare. But it offers a fascinating and deeply romantic exploration of what it means to love someone forever. Swinton and Hiddleston have magnetic chemistry, their world-weary characters finding solace in each other’s presence. For viewers in the mood for a vampire film that’s more contemplative than action-packed, this is a rich and rewarding watch.
12. Byzantium (2012)
Another arthouse take on the vampire mythos, Byzantium stars Saoirse Ronan and Gemma Arterton as Eleanor and Clara, a mother-daughter pair of immortals on the run from their dark past. When they take refuge in a coastal town, Eleanor falls for a local boy (Caleb Landry Jones) and begins to question the secrecy and violence that have defined her existence.
Directed by Neil Jordan (Interview with the Vampire), Byzantium is a moody, sensual and visually stunning film that subverts vampire clichés at every turn. Ronan and Arterton are both excellent, their complex relationship forming the heart of the story. With its feminist themes, gothic atmosphere and poetic dialogue, Byzantium is a haunting and thought-provoking entry in the vampire canon.
13. The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009)
The second installment in the Twilight franchise sees Bella (Kristen Stewart) devastated by Edward’s (Robert Pattinson) sudden departure from Forks. As she struggles with depression and reckless behavior, Bella finds solace in her growing friendship with werewolf Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). But when Edward believes Bella to be dead, he sets off on a suicidal mission to Italy, forcing Bella and Alice (Ashley Greene) to race against time to save him.
While New Moon is often considered the weakest of the Twilight films, it still has its merits. Stewart delivers a raw and emotionally honest performance as a heartbroken Bella, capturing the intensity of first love and loss. Lautner steps up as a charismatic and sympathetic Jacob, providing both comic relief and a tender shoulder for Bella to lean on. The film also expands the mythology of the Twilight universe, introducing the ancient vampire coven the Volturi and delving deeper into the history of the Quileute tribe.
But what really makes New Moon a must-watch for Twilight fans is its epic romantic moments. From Bella and Edward’s tearful goodbye in the forest to their dramatic reunion in Italy, the film is full of sweeping, swoon-worthy scenes that will make your heart race. With its lush cinematography, moody soundtrack and high-stakes emotions, New Moon is a guilty pleasure that’s impossible to resist.
14. The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010)
The third Twilight film raises the stakes as Bella finds herself at the center of a brewing war between vampires and werewolves. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings, Bella is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob. Meanwhile, the Cullens join forces with the Quileute tribe to protect Bella from a vengeful vampire army.
Directed by David Slade (Hard Candy), Eclipse is a darker, more action-packed entry in the saga that ratchets up the tension and danger. The battle scenes are thrilling and well-choreographed, showcasing the supernatural abilities of the vampires and werewolves. But the film also takes time to explore the characters’ emotional journeys, as Bella grapples with her conflicted feelings and the Cullens confront their past sins.
Of course, the heart of Eclipse is still the epic love triangle between Bella, Edward and Jacob. Stewart, Pattinson and Lautner all deliver strong performances, conveying the depth and complexity of their characters’ relationships. The film also features some of the saga’s most iconic romantic moments, from Bella and Edward’s fairy-tale wedding to Jacob’s heart-wrenching confession of love. With its high-stakes plot, emotional depth and swoon-worthy romance, Eclipse is a satisfying and entertaining chapter in the Twilight story.
15. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)
The final installment of the Twilight saga was split into two films, with Part 1 covering Bella and Edward’s wedding, honeymoon and the birth of their daughter Renesmee. As Bella’s life hangs in the balance during her difficult pregnancy, the Cullens must protect her from the wrath of the Quileute tribe, who believe the unborn child poses a threat to them all.
Directed by Bill Condon (Dreamgirls), Breaking Dawn – Part 1 is a sumptuous and romantic film that provides a satisfying conclusion to Bella and Edward’s love story. The wedding sequence is a gorgeous, fairy-tale affair that will make you swoon, while the honeymoon scenes are steamy and sensual. Stewart and Pattinson have never been better, conveying the depth and intensity of Bella and Edward’s love for each other.
But Breaking Dawn – Part 1 is not just a romance. It also features some of the saga’s most shocking and visceral moments, from Bella’s gruesome pregnancy to the bloody birth scene. These sequences are not for the faint of heart, but they add a layer of horror and stakes to the story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
16. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, the epic conclusion to the hugely popular vampire romance series, left fans thirsting for more tales of forbidden love and fantastical adventure. Bella’s transformation into a vampire and the climactic confrontation with the Volturi provided a satisfying finale, while still leaving viewers wanting to explore more stories in the realm of paranormal young adult fiction.
The Film revolves around the Volturi, the powerful vampire council, mistakenly believing that Renesmee is an immortal child and therefore a threat to the secrecy of the vampire world. This leads to a tense confrontation between the Cullens (and their assembled allies) and the Volturi in a snowy field. The film also introduces some new characters, like vampire Garrett and the Amazon coven, expanding the Twilight universe in interesting ways.
For viewers seeking movies with a similar vibe to Twilight, ‘Breaking Dawn – Part 2’ offers a familiar mix of romance, supernatural elements, and young adult themes that characterize the franchise and its genre contemporaries.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die-hard Twihard or a casual fan of paranormal romance, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of the Twilight Saga. With its epic love story, supernatural thrills and attractive cast, the franchise has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world.
But Twilight is far from the only game in town when it comes to swoon-worthy fantasy films. From the Southern Gothic romance of Beautiful Creatures to the post-apocalyptic charm of Warm Bodies, there are plenty of movies out there that offer similar themes and thrills.
No matter what your tastes, there’s a Twilight-esque film out there for you. So why not dive in and discover your next paranormal obsession? Who knows – you may just find your new favorite movie among these 18 enchanting picks. Happy watching!
