A Substantive Romance (spoilers galore)

I think this is a substantive romance on so many levels:

It is not based exclusively on physical attraction. In fact, she doesn't even like Tom at first while he seems to be intrigued by her, but it is not love at first sight thing.

They begin to get to know each other as he takes her on walks, teaching her about things that she never even knew existed. "Look up" They begin a friendship based on sharing these things. Unlike so many other Rom Coms, the focus is not on the two lovers preening into each other's eyes.

The scene between them in the apartment is so real, showing two people who care for each other: Tom's conversation about how she shouldn't rush into physical intimacy and how she should recognize how much energy is expended when one is emotionally intimate; the kiss that demonstrates the romantic interest that is mutual

The scene at the bench: Tom's concern for that she not need become "dependent" on him-all focused on her. How many people worry about that in a relationship? His hesitancy to tell her the truth about himself right away, concerned about whether she can handle it now or not. All this showing his devotion to her, his concern for her-his unselfish desire for her goodness and well being

Finally, their final meeting-after we discover that Tom has done. True love is nourished only by giving, and Tom has given of himself even after death by donating his heart. That gift of himself resonates with the gift/sacrifice aspect any romantic relationship and it is romantic as he admits to her, holding her heart: "Because it is your heart. You would have ended up with it, ONE WAY OR ANOTHER"

Beautful. Didn't care for the subplots though with the family