Intimate scenes have long been a part of cinema. Yes, they don’t always seem realistic, but in the best cases, they help develop characters, show relationship development, and enhance the drama. And, of course, some are so sensual that they remain in viewers’ memories for years to come.

We recall some of the most memorable scenes—from cult classics to bold and provocative stories.

Pretty Woman (1990)

This iconic romantic comedy, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, tells the story of a wealthy businessman and a Hollywood escort. Despite the film’s many echoes of its era, it remains a favorite with audiences.

Attraction Factor:

Roberts and Gere’s on-screen chemistry was so powerful that audiences literally waited for their next scenes together. Most Memorable Moment:

Their intimacy, ignited on the piano lid, became one of the most recognizable scenes of 1990s romantic cinema.

Shakespeare in Love (1998)

The film tells the fictional story of the romance between playwright William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) and aspiring actress Viola (Gwyneth Paltrow), who is forced to hide her identity to play a role in a theater production.

Attraction Factor:

Their relationship begins with deception, but the attraction between them quickly takes over.

Most Sensual Moment:

When the characters finally reveal the truth to each other and give in to their feelings, the scene is filled with tenderness and inspiration—it is after this scene that the idea for “Romeo and Juliet” is born.

Jamón Jamón (1992)

This Spanish drama starring Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem was renowned for its candor long before their real-life marriage. The story revolves around a love triangle and a complex relationship where passion and jealousy intertwine.

Attraction Factor:

The film doesn’t shy away from bold scenes and deliberately balances on the edge of provocation.

Most striking scene:

One of the most talked-about moments is a flash of passion in a public place, where the heroine decides to act on her feelings, oblivious to those around her.

“Cruel Intentions” (1999)

This late-’90s teen drama explores manipulation, betting, and unexpectedly genuine feelings. It centers on the complex relationships between Ryan Phillippe, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Reese Witherspoon.

Attraction Factor:

What begins as a cynical game gradually develops into a genuine emotional connection. Most Romantic Moment:

Their intimacy, accompanied by the melancholy music of Counting Crows, was far more touching than anyone could have expected.

Ghost (1990)

This mystical melodrama starring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze tells the story of a love that endures even after tragedy.

Attraction Factor:

The actors’ chemistry made the incredible story compelling.

Iconic Scene:

The pottery wheel sequence has long been a symbol of romantic sensuality in cinema.

9½ Weeks (1986)

Adrian Lyne’s film explores the tense and gradually complicated relationship between a successful financier (Mickey Rourke) and an art gallery employee (Kim Basinger).

Attraction Factor:

The film was one of the first mainstream films to explore the theme of power and control in relationships. The most famous scene:

The scene in the kitchen, lit by the refrigerator, where food becomes part of an intimate game, has become one of the most recognizable scenes of the 1980s.

These films explore passion in different ways, from romantic tenderness to provocative frankness. But they all share one thing in common: scenes that viewers discuss decades later.