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Movies guaranteed to make you cry

Looking for a good cry? Get your tissues ready because these movies are sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you in tears.

Manchester by the Sea
The Green Mile
The Pursuit of Happyness

Sometimes, you just need a good, cathartic cry. Whether it's the tragic tale of love lost, the heartbreaking reality of injustice, or the simple beauty of human connection, some movies just have a knack for hitting us right in the feels. This list is a collection of films known for their emotional power, stories that explore the depths of human experience, loss, and resilience. From historical dramas that remind us of the darkest chapters in history, like Schindler's List, to animated classics that teach us about love and loss with The Lion King and Japanese animation with Grave of the Fireflies, these movies offer a poignant look at life's most difficult moments. And who could forget films about the sacrifices we make for love, or the devastating impact of addiction, like in Requiem for a Dream? So grab a blanket, settle in, and prepare for a wave of emotions with these unforgettable tearjerkers.

14. Requiem for a Dream (2000)

Darren Aronofsky's Requiem for a Dream is a psychological drama that explores the devastating consequences of addiction. The film follows four characters – a widowed mother, her son, and his girlfriend – as they spiral into addiction and despair. Known for its graphic and disturbing imagery, its unflinching portrayal of drug abuse, and its haunting score, Requiem for a Dream is not for the faint of heart. Prepare for an intense and emotionally draining cinematic experience that will leave you deeply disturbed. Viewer discretion is advised.

Requiem for a Dream

13. The Lion King (1994)

Disney's The Lion King is an animated musical drama that tells the story of Simba, a young lion cub who is destined to become king of the Pride Lands. After the death of his father, Mufasa, Simba is manipulated by his uncle Scar into believing that he was responsible for the tragedy and flees into exile. With the help of his friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba eventually returns to reclaim his rightful place as king. The film is known for its memorable songs, stunning animation, and its themes of family, courage, and responsibility. While it is a family-friendly film, The Lion King contains several emotional scenes, particularly the death of Mufasa, that are guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes. Be prepared for a classic Disney experience that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

The Lion King

12. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

Directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a surreal and thought-provoking romantic drama that explores the complexities of love, memory, and loss. Joel Barish (Jim Carrey) and Clementine Kruczynski (Kate Winslet) undergo a procedure to erase each other from their memories after a painful breakup. However, as Joel relives his memories with Clementine during the erasure process, he begins to question his decision. The film is known for its innovative visual effects, non-linear storytelling, and its exploration of the human condition. While it has moments of humor and whimsy, the film's underlying themes of heartbreak and regret make it a deeply moving experience. Prepare for a cinematic journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

11. A Walk to Remember (2002)

Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel, A Walk to Remember tells the story of Landon Carter (Shane West), a rebellious high school student who falls for Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore), a quiet and devout girl. Their unlikely romance blossoms despite their differences, but they soon face a difficult challenge when Jamie reveals that she has leukemia. The film explores themes of love, faith, and the power of redemption. Moore's heartfelt performance and the film's emotional storyline make it a tearjerker. Be prepared for a touching and inspirational story about finding love in the face of adversity.

A Walk to Remember

10. The Notebook (2004)

Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel, The Notebook is a romantic drama about Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams), two young lovers from different social classes who fall deeply in love during the summer of 1940. Their love story is epic, facing numerous obstacles including societal expectations and family disapproval. The film explores themes of enduring love, memory, and the choices we make in life. Known for its romantic and emotionally charged scenes, The Notebook is a go-to film for those seeking a good cry. Prepare for a sweeping romance that will leave you believing in the power of true love.

The Notebook

9. My Girl (1991)

Howard Zieff's My Girl is a coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1972, focusing on Vada Sultenfuss (Anna Chlumsky), a young girl grappling with the complexities of life, death, and first love. Vada is an hypochondriac, and the film explores themes of grief, friendship, and self-discovery. While it has heartwarming moments, the film is most remembered for a particular plot point that is incredibly sad and unexpected, making it a classic tearjerker for audiences of all ages. Be prepared for a nostalgic and emotionally resonant film that will remind you of the bittersweet nature of growing up.

My Girl

8. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Based on John Green's bestselling novel, The Fault in Our Stars tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley) and Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort), two teenagers who meet in a cancer support group and embark on a life-affirming journey together. Despite their serious illnesses, they find love, laughter, and meaning in their short time together. The film is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the importance of living life to the fullest, even in the face of mortality. Prepare for an emotional and bittersweet story that will remind you to cherish every moment.

The Fault in Our Stars

7. Titanic (1997)

James Cameron's Titanic is an epic romance and disaster film set aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. The story follows Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a poor artist, and Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet), a wealthy young woman engaged to a cruel aristocrat, as they fall in love amidst the ship's tragic voyage. The film is known for its spectacular visual effects, sweeping score, and the undeniable chemistry between its lead actors. While the historical disaster provides the backdrop, it's the love story that drives the emotional core of the film, making it a timeless tearjerker that has captivated audiences for generations. Prepare for a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience that will leave you reaching for the tissues.

Titanic

6. A Star Is Born (2018)

Starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga, A Star Is Born (2018) is a remake of the classic Hollywood story about a seasoned musician who discovers and falls in love with a talented young singer. As her star rises, his begins to fade, leading to a complex and emotional exploration of love, ambition, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of fame. The film is notable for its powerful performances, especially Gaga's acting debut, and its original music, which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song ("Shallow"). The story will resonate with anyone who has experienced the joys and sorrows of love and the bittersweet nature of success.

A Star Is Born

5. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Starring Will Smith and his real-life son Jaden Smith, The Pursuit of Happyness is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who faces homelessness while trying to raise his young son. The film chronicles Gardner's relentless determination to overcome adversity and secure a better future for his child. It is an inspirational story about perseverance, hope, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son. While the film's ending is uplifting, the journey is filled with challenges and hardships that will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings. Smith's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination, solidifying the film's place as a feel-good, yet deeply moving, cinematic experience.

The Pursuit of Happyness

4. The Green Mile (1999)

Based on Stephen King's novel, The Green Mile tells the story of Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), a death row prison guard during the 1930s, and John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a gentle giant of a man wrongly convicted of a terrible crime. Coffey possesses mysterious supernatural abilities, and his presence profoundly impacts the lives of those around him. It is a film that mixes elements of fantasy, crime, and drama, exploring themes of injustice, redemption, and the power of compassion in the face of cruelty. Duncan's performance is particularly noteworthy. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster with a blend of hope and despair.

The Green Mile

3. Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Kenneth Lonergan's Manchester by the Sea is a somber and deeply affecting drama about loss, grief, and the enduring power of human connection. Casey Affleck delivers a tour-de-force performance as Lee Chandler, a man grappling with a tragic past who is suddenly thrust into the role of guardian for his orphaned nephew. The film's strength lies in its realistic portrayal of grief and trauma. Lonergan avoids sentimentality, instead opting for a nuanced exploration of how loss can shape and define a person's life. Prepare for a moving and emotionally challenging cinematic journey.

Manchester by the Sea

2. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Isao Takahata's Grave of the Fireflies is an animated masterpiece that transcends its medium to deliver a profoundly heart-wrenching anti-war message. Set in Japan during the final months of World War II, it follows the story of two orphaned siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they struggle to survive amidst famine and societal collapse. The film's beauty lies in its delicate animation and its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war, particularly on innocent children. Be warned, this film is known for being an absolutely devastating viewing experience, and is one of the most effective tearjerkers ever created. Its emotional impact is so strong that it stays with you long after the credits have rolled.

Grave of the Fireflies

1. Schindler's List (1993)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, Schindler's List is a harrowing portrayal of the Holocaust through the eyes of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Polish-Jewish refugees during World War II. Filmed in stark black and white, the film's unflinching depiction of brutality and its focus on individual acts of courage in the face of unimaginable evil create an intensely emotional experience. Liam Neeson's powerful performance as Schindler, along with the film's historical accuracy and profound moral questions, makes it not only a cinematic masterpiece but also a deeply moving and unforgettable testament to the resilience of the human spirit. A viewing experience that will leave you contemplating humanity long after the credits roll.

Schindler's List

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