Top 10 Exact Moments a Perfect Pairing Couple Said Goodbye

#10: Duckie Lets Andie Go to Blane

Pretty in Pink (1986)

If youre anything like us, the ending to Pretty in Pink doesnt sit well with you. Its a 1980s classic, but we sometimes think Duckie got a raw deal. Jon Cryers character escorts Andie into the dance and then lets her go to Blane. Its a mature move for a sidekick thats so smitten by the hero. While Molly Ringwalds protagonist lives out her fantasy, her friend watches his dreams get crushed. The film then hints at Duckies future with someone else despite all the trouble. Written by John Hughes, this iconic teen movie doesnt skimp on the heartbreak.

#9: Beth Leaves Jamie Hanging

Certain Women (2016)

Beth Travis teaches a night class, while Jamie is a rancher with a curious heart. The latter sits in class and goes to a diner just to be near Travis. All of this builds to a turning point. When the teacher disappears without explanation, the ranch hand tracks her down to a far away law office. Lily Gladstones character doesnt say much, but its clear that she feels some connection with the instructor. When the two meet for the last time, the lawyer doesnt reciprocate any feelings. Its a heartbreaking moment of unrequited love. With so little dialogue, the expressions alone tell the whole story. Gladstones masterful and understated performance sells the scene as she drives away.

#8: Francesca Spots Richard in the Rain

The Bridges of Madison County (1995)

After her family heads for a state fair, Francesca Johnson meets photographer Robert Kincaid. The latter arrives at her farmhouse and makes her reconsider marriage. Kincaid finally gives her an ultimatum, but Johnson cant go through with it. Its a tragic scene on its own before the movie kicks it up a notch. If youre not crying during their last dinner, you might be much later when it starts to rain. Clint Eastwoods character spots the woman waiting in her husbands truck. With the weather pouring down, the two share a long look that puts a knot in your stomach. Will she go to him or stay with her old life? The decision might be more complicated, but its no less powerful to watch.

#7: Hae Sung Goes Home

Past Lives (2023)

After knowing each other as kids, Nora Moon and Hae Sung talk over the internet. Their lives take several turns before the latter wants to meet again in person. In New York, the two spend a short time together reminiscing and questioning their futures. You might be wondering whether or not theyll decide to upend their lives. By the end, the moving film breaks them apart for the last time. Hae Sung prepares to leave as he shares another quiet moment with his childhood friend. Its a sentimental scene, giving their complex relationship a moving send-off. They might not be meant for each other, but theyll likely never forget each other.

#6: Jesse & Célines Train Platform Promise

Before Sunrise (1995)

After a chance meeting, Jesse and Céline spend time together in Vienna. They hit it off while knowing theyll both have to leave at some point. At the last moment, the pair decide to make a promise to each other. Youre hopeful that theyll be together again, but also know how much the odds are stacked against them. The sequel delves into this choice even more, but the original film ended on a cliffhanger. Richard Linklaters laid back romance develops an organic relationship, before making you wonder whatll happen next. The adventure comes to an end while encouraging viewers to consider how theyd react in the same situation.

#5: Bob Whispers to Charlotte

Lost in Translation (2003)

You dont have to know what Bill Murrays hero says to enjoy this ending. Following a brief time together, Lost in Translation builds to a climactic meeting between the central characters. When Bob spots Charlotte on the street, he hopes to give her a proper goodbye. The two reconnect on the streets of Tokyo for a fond and affectionate farewell. This includes a cryptic message, with the movie leaving audiences to fill in the gaps. Its an enigmatic way to depict the end of a relationship, with a sweetness that few films can capture. The two actors sell the beauty of an intimate moment.

#4: Olivers Call to Elio

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

It only lasted for a summer, but the union meant something to these two characters. The brief romance of Elio and Oliver ends when the latter leaves. As the effects of the relationship linger, the younger protagonist contemplates his feelings. Then a phone call gives him some false hope. The two speak one last time, remembering what they meant to each other. This cathartic conversation isnt easy for the teenager. After realizing that he must move on, Timothée Chalamets hero cries by the fire. Its easy to see why the audience could be crying along with him. As we think of our first loves, we cant help but feel for the guy.

#3: Su Misses Chows Opportunity

In the Mood for Love (2000)

After discovering that their spouses are having an affair, Su Li-zhen and Chow Mo-wan develop an unlikely relationship. Their friendship becomes something more in this enchanting romance. After developing a bond, Chow wants Su to follow him to Singapore. The characters couldve been happily ever after, but the film doesnt give you the satisfaction. Maggie Cheungs hero doesnt make it in time and leaves her would-be partner to travel alone. This puts a permanent separation between them, with the two never being the same again. Director Wong Kar-wai asks deep questions about the nature of love and timing.

#2: Rick Puts Ilsa on a Plane

Casablanca (1942)

Near the end of this iconic movie, Rick Blaine helps Ilsa Lund and her husband escape. She thinks hes coming with her, but Blaine hasnt revealed all of his plans. The hero gives an emotional farewell as he prepares to send his former love away. Its a heart wrenching scene, bringing this cinematic romance to a dramatic close. Humphrey Bogarts character ultimately chooses to do something selfless for his old flame. While Lund boards the plane, he stays behind to make sure shes safe. Casablanca tugs at your heartstrings with a dramatic and effective twist.

#1: Alec Touches Lauras Shoulder

Brief Encounter (1945)

Fate brings Laura Jesson and Alec Harvey together, but they have an uphill battle. They both see each other despite their separate lives. After a while, the pair know they have to break it off. Their final meeting ends unceremoniously, but theres one more gesture to seal the moment. Harvey touches Jessons shoulder before leaving her for good. Its a tender move, but its only fleeting. For being such a straightforward scene, you can get more emotional at the end result. Its almost unbearable for the one hero and we can imagine why. This David Lean classic makes you wonder about missed connections, or to wonder what life would be like if you broke the rules of romance.

Did we forget another time someone slipped through anothers fingers? Let us know in the comments below.