Florida, with its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, and lush landscapes, has long been a backdrop for tales of love, passion, and heartbreak. This curated list of melodramas set in Florida offers viewers a chance to escape into stories where the state's unique charm plays a pivotal role in the unfolding of romance. Whether it's the allure of Miami's nightlife, the tranquility of the Everglades, or the historic charm of St. Augustine, these films capture the essence of Florida's romantic spirit, making them a must-watch for anyone looking to indulge in a cinematic love affair with the Sunshine State.

Key Largo (1948)
Description: A classic film noir set in the Florida Keys, where a World War II veteran finds himself caught in a storm of love, crime, and danger.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Key Largo, Florida, providing an authentic setting.


The Firm (1993)
Description: This legal thriller set in Memphis and Florida features a love story intertwined with themes of corruption and escape, with Florida serving as a refuge.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Florida, including Key West.


The Birdcage (1996)
Description: This comedy-drama set in Miami explores themes of love, family, and acceptance, with Florida's vibrant culture playing a significant role.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Miami, capturing the city's nightlife and cultural diversity.


The Truman Show (1998)
Description: Although not strictly a melodrama, this film explores themes of love, identity, and freedom within the artificial world of Seahaven, a town built in Florida for the show.
Fact: The entire town of Seahaven was constructed on a soundstage in Florida.


Wild Things (1998)
Description: This erotic thriller set in South Florida involves a complex love triangle, deceit, and murder, showcasing the darker side of Florida's allure.
Fact: The film features a memorable pool scene that has become iconic in cinema.


The Perfect Storm (2000)
Description: Although not entirely set in Florida, the film's narrative begins in Gloucester, Massachusetts, but the storm's impact is felt in Florida, with a subplot of love and loss.
Fact: The film was based on a true story, and parts of it were filmed in Florida.


Out of Time (2003)
Description: A tale of love, betrayal, and redemption set in the fictional town of Banyan Key, Florida, where the protagonist, a police chief, navigates through personal and professional turmoil.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Florida, including Miami and Key West.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: This poignant coming-of-age story set in Miami explores themes of identity, sexuality, and love, capturing the essence of Florida's diverse communities.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, making history as the first film with an all-black cast to do so.


The Florida Project (2017)
Description: While not a traditional melodrama, this film captures the essence of Florida through the eyes of a young girl living in a budget motel near Disney World, highlighting the bittersweet aspects of life and love.
Fact: The film was shot on location at the Magic Castle Inn and Suites in Kissimmee, Florida, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


The Hurricane Heist (2018)
Description: While primarily an action film, it features a romantic subplot set against the backdrop of a hurricane in Florida, showcasing the state's vulnerability and resilience.
Fact: The film was shot in Bulgaria, but the setting is meant to be Florida.
