Sad movies are beloved by viewers from all corners of the world. While some people prefer action, comedy, or horror movies, others find solace in a heart-wrenching melodramas. While some enjoy the catharsis of sad movies, such films can be emotionally draining, triggering a myriad of emotions ranging from sorrow to anger. While the content of these movies may be sad, the stories often have important themes that resonates with viewers. From family drama to romantic tragedies, here is a look at some of the most heartbreaking sad movies that will leave you in tears.
Finding Nemo
When it comes to sad movies, Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo is often overlooked. Despite the cheerful colorful cast of sea creatures, the film has some of the most emotionally charged scenes. Seeing Marlin, the clownfish, face the challenges that fate has set him in order to find his son evokes an aching sorrow in viewers. The movie culminates in a broad message that transcends its animated genre: no matter how great the challenges may seem, it’s never too late to fight for the one you love.
Titanic
This epic romantic drama is without a doubt one of the greatest sad movies of all time. James Cameron masterfully combines directing and writing to tell the tale of Jack and Rose, two star-crossed lovers from different classes aboard the ill-fated Titanic. The movie culminates with some genuinely heartbreaking scenes as the titanic comes to its final resting place in the chilling waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The movie is a showcase of ambition, devotion, and resilience and despite its sorrowful themes, the movie remains a love affair that transcends the ages.
My Girl
This tear-filled family drama packs an emotional punch. Anna Chlumsky and Macauly Culkin play two young children who form bonds of friendship and devotion in the face of personal tragedy. My Girl tells a captivating story of how childhood innocence can lead to the most profound love. Filled with laughter and tears, the movie’s finale will surely leave even the most hardened of hearts in tears.
The Fault in Our Stars
This poignant romantic tragedy follows the lives of two cancer patients and their star-crossed love story. Adapted from the eponymous novel, The Fault in Our Stars, the movie follows the life of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters as they search for the beauty in life, despite their terminal illnesses. Director Josh Boone and writer Scott Neustadter tackle heavy themes of fighting for present in the face of an uncertain future, while also providing an insight into the fragility of life and the power of love.
Dead Poets Society
This thoughtful drama follows the lives of a group of students who are urged by their eccentric professor to live life to the fullest. The sad movie manages to balance the dark themes of human suffering and mortality with moments of joy, optimism, and understanding. The movie culminates with a heart-wrenching scene of a student who has been forced to abandon his dreams, a moment that many can relate to. Dead Poets Society is an emotional roller coaster that will leave viewers with a refreshed understanding of what it means to value life and strive for our dreams.
Old Yeller
Old Yeller is a story of a young boy and his beloved farm dog. This Disney classic tells a tender story of love and friendship, and also captures the joys and sorrows of grief. The movie serves as a stark reminder that life is fleeting, and the most profound moments can disappear in the blink of an eye. Old Yeller is an iconic movie that will leave even the most heartened of viewers with a heavy heart.
Marley & Me
This sad movie is based on the 2008 film of the same name. Adapted from the eponymous book, Marley & Me tells a story of an uncontrollably naughty Labrador retriever and his owners, John and Jenny. The movie follows Marley’s life from his acquisition as a puppy to his premature death as an old dog. While it may be a story of a talking animal, the story offers an insight into the joys and sorrows of love, family, and life. Marley & Me is a must-watch for those looking for an emotional roller coaster ride.
The Notebook
This classic romantic melodrama is without a doubt one of the all-time greatest tearjerkers. Following the story of two young lovers, Noah and Allie, this movie is full of captivating moments of love and of heart-breaking moments of sorrow and loss. The movie follows the lives of the couple as they go through life, yet it’s the ending that leaves viewers with a lump in the throat that will stay with them for weeks after.
The Pursuit of Happyness
This 2006 movie is based on the memoir of the same name by Chris Gardner. Will Smith stars as Gardner, a single father struggling to provide for his son, despite homelessness and financial hardship. Driven by his pursuit of happiness and of a better life, Gardner perseveres against all odds. The movie traverses themes of the power of courage and resilience in the face of adversity, making it an inspiring story despite being a heartbreaking sad movie.
Sad movies are a powerful and worthwhile genre of filmmaking. They can offer hope in the face of tragedy, or an insight into what it means to experience joy and sorrow throughout our lives. This list is just a glimpse of some of the most heart-breaking movies that will leave you in tears. What would be your go-to sad movie? Tell us in the comments below!
