Watching a sad movie can stir up a lot of emotions for anyone. It might serve as a way to release some of the stresses from daily life or help you connect with feelings you usually keep hidden. Interestingly, scientific studies have even found that watching a tearjerker can actually boost your mood. So, if you’re in the mood for a good cry, grab some tissues and check out these top ten emotional films.
1. **Schindler’s List (1993)**
Set in Nazi Germany, this powerful story is one of the most heart-wrenching films ever made. It’s hard not to shed a tear as you watch this moving yet inspiring tale.
2. **The Green Mile (1999)**
This film, based on Stephen King’s book, takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotion—from betrayal and regret to loss. Set in a 1930s death row prison, the story’s mix of flawed heroes and unsympathetic villains will intrigue you and leave you emotionally drained.
3. **Marriage Story (2019)**
This movie captures the raw human pain of broken families and earned Laura Dern an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. You can’t help but feel for Charlie and Nicole as they navigate the challenges of family life amidst a divorce.
4. **Dumbo (2019)**
A new twist on the classic Disney film, this story of a young elephant who wants to fly pulls at your heartstrings and makes you reach for tissues. Its touching portrayal of motherly love and friendship has solidified Dumbo’s status as an unforgettable sad movie.
5. **P.S I Love You (2007)**
Get ready for a touching narrative about love letters from beyond the grave. At its core, P.S I Love You is about enduring love, finding closure, and embracing the future. Plus, it offers some stunning scenic views.
6. **Meet Joe Black (1998)**
Brad Pitt’s unique take on the personification of death manages to be both uplifting and heart-breaking. The film explores themes of love, life, and mortality, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.
7. **Irreplaceable You (2018)**
Facing a terminal cancer diagnosis, Abbie can’t bear the thought of her fiancé being alone, so she tries to find him a new partner to bring him happiness after she’s gone. This tearjerker delves into romantic love’s complexity and the pain of losing a loved one.
8. **Bambi (1942)**
This Disney classic remains one of the saddest animated films ever. When a young fawn faces a life-changing event with the help of his friend Thumper, audiences of all ages struggle to hold back their tears.
9. **The Notebook (2004)**
Nicholas Sparks’ film adaptation tells a story of lost love and reunion. When Noah leaves Allie to fight in WWII, he dreams of returning to her, but she’s married by then. However, their story doesn’t end there—this romantic tale is inspired by the real-life experiences of Sparks’ ex-wife’s grandparents, showcasing the connection between art and life.
10. **Titanic (1997)**
No list of sad movies would be complete without Titanic. This timeless classic had viewers sobbing as they hoped for Jack and Rose’s survival in a tragic disaster. With themes of love, loss, and resilience, Titanic serves as a reminder of the real human suffering that exists.
Spending an evening with a sad movie lets you connect with the characters, feel their pain, and cry along with them. There’s something uniquely powerful about channeling emotions through such films.