The Notebook: Romance Classic Surges in Popularity on HBO Max

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Even after 22 years, people still love the movie! The popular 2004 adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ novel has become a favorite on HBO Max, with fans around the world watching Noah and Allie’s love story again as Valentine’s Day approaches.

According to data from Flix Patrol, The Notebook climbed to fifth place on the streamer’s list of the top 10 most popular films as of February 12th. This is a big jump from its previous position of ninth place, which it had held since at least February 6th. The film is also performing well internationally, currently ranking ninth in Spain and seventh in Portugal on HBO Max’s top 10 lists.

Filmed across various South Carolina locations, including the city of Charleston, The Notebook tells the love story of Noah and Allie over many years. Their relationship faces challenges from different social classes, World War II, and eventually, Allie’s Alzheimer’s disease. The film features Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams in the lead roles, alongside a strong supporting cast including Sam Shepard, Joan Allen, James Marsden, James Garner, Kevin Connolly, and Gena Rowlands – the director Nick Cassavetes’ mother.

Released in June 2004, the movie quickly became a success, earning $118.3 million – almost four times its $29 million production cost. While audiences loved it – it currently has an 85% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter – professional critics were more divided. The film received a 54% rating on the site’s Tomatometer, with some reviewers praising the performances of Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, and others finding its romantic story too predictable.

Nick Cassavetes Says The Notebook ‘Holds Up Pretty Good’ 20 Years Later

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Notebook in 2024, director Cassavetes shared his thoughts on the film’s lasting impact. He said the movie still resonates with audiences years after its release, and explained how significant it was for both him and the actors involved.

Cassavetes shared with Entertainment Weekly that his former costars, Ryan and Rachel, have achieved successful careers and changed significantly since their early days. Sadly, both Garner and Shepard have passed away, and his mother is now battling Alzheimer’s. He mentioned this while discussing the film and its cast, including Rowlands, at the time the interview was published.

The director explained that times have changed. While many of us have made good films that didn’t succeed, this one really connected with the current mood and has become a cherished memory. He’s just glad people are enjoying it and that it’s being shared.

The Notebook is currently available to stream on HBO Max.

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2026-02-13 04:08