- The American Friend (1977)
- Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
- Ocean's Twelve (2004)
- The Last Days of Emma Blank (2009)
- The American (2010)
- The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
- The Diary of Anne Frank (2009)
- The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988)
- The Discovery of Heaven (2001)
- The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole: The Cappuccino Years (2001)
Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, has long been a muse for filmmakers. This curated collection of melodramas set in Amsterdam offers viewers a chance to experience the city's romantic allure through the lens of cinema. From tales of love and loss to stories of unexpected encounters, these films not only showcase the beauty of Amsterdam but also explore the complexities of human relationships against its enchanting backdrop.

The American Friend (1977)
Description: Although primarily set in Germany, this film by Wim Wenders includes scenes in Amsterdam, where the characters' relationships develop amidst the city's charm.
Fact: The film was inspired by Patricia Highsmith's novel "Ripley's Game."


Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
Description: Set in 17th-century Delft but with scenes in Amsterdam, this film explores the unspoken love between a painter and his muse, capturing the city's historical charm.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, to recreate the era's atmosphere.


Ocean's Twelve (2004)
Description: While not a traditional melodrama, this heist film includes a significant subplot involving romance in Amsterdam, showcasing the city's allure and its role in the characters' lives.
Fact: The film features scenes shot at the famous Rijksmuseum and the canals of Amsterdam.


The Last Days of Emma Blank (2009)
Description: This Dutch film, while dark in tone, includes elements of romance set against the backdrop of Amsterdam's unique atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in a house in Amsterdam, creating an intimate setting for the story.


The American (2010)
Description: Although primarily set in Italy, the film includes a romantic subplot that unfolds in Amsterdam, highlighting the city's role in the characters' emotional journey.
Fact: George Clooney, who stars in the film, also served as an executive producer.


The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: This film, based on John Green's novel, features a poignant love story where Amsterdam serves as a pivotal setting for the characters' journey. The city's romantic and melancholic atmosphere perfectly complements the narrative.
Fact: The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam was used for filming, and the film's release was delayed to allow the cast to visit the real location.


The Diary of Anne Frank (2009)
Description: While not a traditional melodrama, this adaptation of Anne Frank's diary includes scenes in Amsterdam, capturing the city's wartime atmosphere and the poignant love story within.
Fact: The film was shot in Amsterdam, including at the actual Anne Frank House.


The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988)
Description: Although set in Prague, the film includes scenes in Amsterdam where the characters' romantic lives intertwine, reflecting the city's role in their narrative.
Fact: The film was banned in Czechoslovakia for its political content.


The Discovery of Heaven (2001)
Description: This epic tale spans multiple locations, including Amsterdam, where the characters' romantic and existential journeys unfold.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations across Europe, with Amsterdam playing a significant role.


The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole: The Cappuccino Years (2001)
Description: This TV film adaptation of Sue Townsend's book includes scenes in Amsterdam, where Adrian Mole's romantic escapades take place.
Fact: The series was adapted for television multiple times, with this installment focusing on Adrian's life in his 30s.
