By now, we have all heard of the saying, “If he wanted to, he would.” Simply put, actions speak louder than words, especially in romantic contexts. Here are a few memorable examples from movies and literature where characters prove their love or commitment regardless of any obstacles.
Henry Roth’s Dedication and Persuasion
Starting off strong, we have 50 First Dates. After a tragic accident that leaves Lucy with short-term memory loss, she isn’t able to remember anything from the last 24 hours. With her family and their small town being overprotective of her, Henry Roth must prove his love for the girl of his dreams.
Henry does everything in his power, from introducing himself to Lucy every day to proving to her family that he’s in it for love. Even though Lucy has amnesia, Henry knows she’s the girl for him and that they can make it work no matter what. I don’t want to say too much, but this movie will leave you with happy tears at the end.
Ted’s Dangerous Journey
In the movie version of The Lorax, Ted and Audrey live in an artificial town named Thneedville, where they have never seen a live tree. Audrey has always dreamed of seeing a real living tree called a Truffula tree.
To win the heart of the girl he most desires, Audrey, Ted leaves Thneedville to find a Truffula tree for her. The journey to the Once-ler wasn’t an easy task, and Ted put himself and his family in danger, trying to get the girl of his dreams and to reverse the town of Thneedville to the natural state it once was. The lessons in The Lorax never get old, but it wouldn’t be possible without Ted’s desire to make Audrey happy by getting her the one thing she’s longed to see.
Mr. Darcy’s Quiet Actions
In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Mr. Darcy takes it upon himself to quietly resolve the issues that trouble Elizabeth Bennet’s family despite being rejected and initially misunderstood by Elizabeth Bennet. His silent actions include paying off Mr. Wickham to marry Lydia Bennet and save the Bennet family’s reputation. These actions show that he cares deeply for Elizabeth and will go to great lengths to achieve her happiness.
This selfless act, done quietly and without seeking credit, shows that Darcy would do anything for Elizabeth’s happiness and security, even when they aren’t together, and a future isn’t certain for them either.
Landon’s Fulfillment of Jamie’s Wishes
Landon Carter’s change of character in A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks demonstrates his deep love for Jamie Sullivan. Initially a rebellious teenager, Landon undergoes a profound change as he falls in love with Jamie, a sweet and devout girl who reveals she is terminally ill. As Jamie’s condition worsens, Landon devotes himself to making her dreams come true, from being in two places at once to building a telescope so she can see a comet.
Landon goes out of his way to fulfill Jamie’s wishes, including helping her cross items off her bucket list and ultimately marrying her despite knowing she has terminal cancer. The most significant of these gestures is when he marries her in the church, where her parents once wed, fulfilling her greatest wish of experiencing a wedding like her mother’s. Writing and reliving their love story made me tear up just a little.
Captain Wentworth’s Letter
We have another Jane Austen book, Persuasion. But what can I say? She really knows everything about love.
After years of separation, Captain Wentworth writes Anne Elliot a passionate letter, confessing that his feelings for her have never faded. Despite the time and misunderstandings that have passed, he takes the initiative to express his love, proving that he still wants to be with her and is willing to take the risk to make it happen. Small but meaningful gestures like this can mean the world to the receiver.
Mr. Rochester’s Search For Jane
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë showcases the depths someone would go to for the love of their life. Despite the complications of his past, Mr. Rochester does everything he can to be with Jane.
After Jane leaves Thornfield, Mr. Rochester doesn’t just let her go. He searches for her and remains deeply in love with her despite his circumstances. Even after he loses his eyesight and home in a fire, he continues to long for Jane, proving that he would rather live a lonely life than be with anyone else.
Augustus Waters Flying To Amsterdam
In The Fault in Our Stars by John Green, Augustus Waters arranges a trip to Amsterdam for Hazel Grace so she can meet her favorite author despite his worsening condition. This gesture, made despite the physical and financial toll it takes on him, shows that Augustus is willing to go above and beyond to make Hazel happy even though he knows that he won’t be by her side for long.
This book is nothing short of the length someone would go to for the person they cared about most. From smiles to tears, John Green perfectly emulates the best of romantic gestures. And if Augustus isn’t the epitome of selflessness, I don’t know what is.
Rhys’ Thoughtful Actions
During a time when women had so little power, Lisa Kleypas creates a powerful and rough businessman who would do anything for his love in Marrying Winterborne. After a near-death experience, Rhys becomes paranoid about the idea of leaving Helen penniless and “ruined” for his own well-being and safety. He decides to change his will so that everything would belong to Helen, who was only his fiancé then.
Rhys also respects Helen’s independence and supports her decisions, even when they conflict with his own wishes, showing that his love is not just about possession but about truly understanding and cherishing her. He takes on the responsibility of caring and loving for his one true love.
Ryan Shay Learning Sign Language
In The Right Move by Liz Tomforde, Ryan Shay navigates his growing relationship with Indy, who is connected to the deaf community. His effort to learn sign language goes beyond mere communication — it’s an act of empathy and respect. This gesture not only strengthens their bond but also highlights Ryan’s desire to be fully present in Indy’s world, proving that he values her and the people important to her.
Ryan’s dedication to learning sign language is a deeply meaningful gesture and a powerful testament to the lengths he’s willing to go to show his love and support.
Patrick’s Serenade
10 Things I Hate About You will forever be one of my all-time favorite romance movies. And in case you don’t know, 10 Things I Hate About You is also a book by David Levithan. Patrick Verona, aka Heath Ledger, goes all out by serenading Kat Stratford with Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You over the school’s PA system during her soccer practice to apologize and win her back.
Patrick’s willingness to put himself out there to make amends and express his genuine feelings for Kat is a major turning point in their relationship. This scene proves the mutual affection they have for each other and how enemies can truly become lovers. Moreover, nothing will ever top Heath Ledger’s performance as Patrick Verona.
Don’t Settle For Less Than What You Deserve
Someone who truly cares for you and wants you to be in their life would do anything possible to keep you in it. These gestures, whether grand or subtle, have left a lasting impact on the recipients of those gestures.
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