Our favorite sexy sex scenes in recent movie history

It’s pretty rare to watch a movie where a sex scene feels authentic. But when they’re done right, sex scenes from movies are works of art — especially when coupled with building music and those crazy romantic, “oh my God just do it already, you have so much chemistry” plots.

Here are just a few of our favorite movie sex scenes that (almost) beat the real thing.

Titanic (1997)

When you’re on an inevitably sinking boat that may not only lead to your untimely demise but the end of a forbidden flame, how could you NOT run off to a car and have passionate, window-steaming sex, amirite? Even though this scene isn’t *exactly* relatable, Rose’s hand hitting the window and the rocking car are sexy every single time.

Love & Basketball (2000)

Is there really anything steamier? This scene cemented the fact that a) having sex with Maxwell playing in the background is a very, very good idea, and b) first-time sex doesn’t have to be awkward.

Romeo + Juliet (1996)

And while we’re on a ’90s Leo kick, we gotta talk about that hot-as-hell scene between the sheets featuring our fave star-crossed lovers. Just another reason why this adaptation is perfect.

Velvet Goldmine (1998)

Ewan McGregor and Christian Bale make love under the stars while Jonathan Rhys Meyers sings along in full ’70s glam rock regalia? Be still, our hearts.

Love and Other Drugs (2010)

Okay, Jake Gyllenhaal’s chemistry with Anne Hathaway simultaneously charmed us and turned us on in a major way after casual sex was transformed into something beautiful. Like, daaamn.

The Fault In Our Stars (2014)

After months of flirtation combined with personal obstacles, a trip to Amsterdam is what does it. Gus and Hazel lose their virginities together, and the reason this is so sexy is because it’s so true to life: The first time is awkward and often funny, yet can be so special if it’s with someone you care about. WELL DONE, JOHN GREEN.

Cruel Intentions (1999)

Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Philippe were in a relationship IRL during this movie, and you can totally tell, because their chemistry is spot on. When Sebastian takes Annette’s virginity, it’s a little less realistic than TFioS, but still — one of the best love scenes of the past two decades for sure. Oh, and it’s changed Counting Crow’s “Colorblind” for us forever.

Y Tu Mamá También (2001)

Nothing quite like a steamy, forbidden threesome.

The Notebook (2004)

For a lot of us ’90s babies, this movie came out when we were early teens, and it gave us a bit of a sexual awakening. That scene when Noah and Allie, the two *ultimate* lovebirds, finally are reunited after all those years? Unfff.

How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)

It’s hard to pick just one scene in this movie, TBH, because the chemistry between Stella and Winston is just so hot. But a particular shower scene comes to mind. . .

Happy watching, friends!