17 Movies That Will Make You Cry Disgustingly for a Good Cathartic Release
Sometimes, we all need a good cry—a movie that tugs at our heartstrings and lets us release pent-up emotions. Whether it's a story of love, loss, or the human spirit, these films have a way of moving us to tears. If you're looking for a movie that will bring on the waterworks, this list features 17 movies that will make you cry, and not just a few delicate tears, but the kind of crying that leaves you emotionally drained and feeling like you've been through an intense emotional journey.
Why These 17 Movies Are Perfect for a Cathartic Cry
These movies are more than just sad stories; they are powerful cinematic experiences that tap into the deepest emotions. From heart-wrenching tales of loss to uplifting stories of love and resilience, these films have been chosen for their ability to evoke intense emotional responses. Whether you need a good cry to release some stress or simply want to experience the raw power of cinema, these movies will not disappoint.
More: 50 Must-Watch Movies Before You Turn 50
1. Manchester by the Sea (2016)
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This devastating drama follows a man who is forced to confront his tragic past after being named the guardian of his nephew. The film’s exploration of grief, guilt, and redemption is so powerful that it leaves viewers utterly heartbroken.
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An animated film from Studio Ghibli, this harrowing tale of two siblings trying to survive in war-torn Japan is a gut-wrenching exploration of the horrors of war. The emotional impact of their story is unforgettable and almost unbearable.
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This film adaptation of the beloved children’s book is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of friendship and imagination. The unexpected tragedy at the heart of the story has left countless viewers in tears.
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A coming-of-age story about a young girl dealing with loss, My Girl is both heartwarming and deeply sad. The film’s portrayal of innocence lost and the pain of growing up resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one.
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This biographical drama tells the story of the Von Erich family, a legendary wrestling dynasty marked by triumphs and tragedies. The film’s exploration of the family’s intense highs and devastating lows leaves a lasting emotional impact.
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This Pixar masterpiece delves into the themes of family, memory, and the afterlife. The journey of young Miguel through the Land of the Dead to uncover his family's history is as joyous as it is heart-wrenching, culminating in a tear-jerking finale.
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A visually stunning exploration of the afterlife, this film tells the story of a man who goes to great lengths to reunite with his wife in the afterlife. The film’s portrayal of love, loss, and sacrifice is profoundly moving.
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A romantic drama with a twist of time travel, About Time is a film that beautifully explores the importance of cherishing life’s fleeting moments. The movie’s emotional depth and the relationships at its core will leave you reaching for tissues.
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Based on a true story, this film follows a doctor who discovers a revolutionary treatment for catatonic patients. The film’s exploration of the fragility of life and the fleeting nature of happiness is both uplifting and heartbreaking.
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This documentary is a heart-wrenching tribute from a filmmaker to his murdered friend, chronicling the shocking twists of a real-life tragedy. The raw, emotional intensity of the story makes it impossible to watch without tears.
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A romantic drama that explores the relationship between a caregiver and a paralyzed man, Me Before You is a film that examines the complexities of love and the difficult choices that come with it. The emotional ending is sure to leave viewers in tears.
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This dark comedy-drama set during World War II follows a young boy whose imaginary friend is Adolf Hitler. The film blends humor with heart-wrenching moments, especially as it delves into the horrors of war and the loss of innocence.
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A supernatural drama set on death row, The Green Mile explores themes of justice, compassion, and the extraordinary. The bond between the guards and an inmate with miraculous abilities makes for an emotionally charged and tearful viewing experience.
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This Italian classic blends humor and tragedy as it tells the story of a father who uses his imagination to shield his son from the horrors of a concentration camp. The film’s heartbreaking conclusion leaves viewers in tears while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
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A dystopian drama based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, this film explores the lives of three friends who grow up in a mysterious boarding school. As the truth of their existence is revealed, the film becomes a poignant meditation on mortality and love.
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This fantasy drama explores the strained relationship between a father and his son, told through a series of fantastical stories. The film’s exploration of life, death, and the reconciliation of their relationship is both magical and deeply moving.
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Based on a true story, this film tells the tale of a loyal dog who waits for his deceased owner every day at the train station. The unwavering devotion of Hachi and the heartbreaking reality of his wait make this one of the most tear-jerking films ever made.
Manchester by the Sea (2016), Kenneth Lonergan #NeSahneydiAma pic.twitter.com/k7ow3lbFhk
— FilmLoverss (@filmloverss) August 15, 2019
2. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
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An animated film from Studio Ghibli, this harrowing tale of two siblings trying to survive in war-torn Japan is a gut-wrenching exploration of the horrors of war. The emotional impact of their story is unforgettable and almost unbearable.
3. Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
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This film adaptation of the beloved children’s book is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of friendship and imagination. The unexpected tragedy at the heart of the story has left countless viewers in tears.
4. My Girl (1991)
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A coming-of-age story about a young girl dealing with loss, My Girl is both heartwarming and deeply sad. The film’s portrayal of innocence lost and the pain of growing up resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one.
5. The Iron Claw (2023)
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This biographical drama tells the story of the Von Erich family, a legendary wrestling dynasty marked by triumphs and tragedies. The film’s exploration of the family’s intense highs and devastating lows leaves a lasting emotional impact.
6. Coco (2017)
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This Pixar masterpiece delves into the themes of family, memory, and the afterlife. The journey of young Miguel through the Land of the Dead to uncover his family's history is as joyous as it is heart-wrenching, culminating in a tear-jerking finale.
7. What Dreams May Come (1998)
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A visually stunning exploration of the afterlife, this film tells the story of a man who goes to great lengths to reunite with his wife in the afterlife. The film’s portrayal of love, loss, and sacrifice is profoundly moving.
8. About Time (2013)
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A romantic drama with a twist of time travel, About Time is a film that beautifully explores the importance of cherishing life’s fleeting moments. The movie’s emotional depth and the relationships at its core will leave you reaching for tissues.
9. Awakenings (1990)
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Based on a true story, this film follows a doctor who discovers a revolutionary treatment for catatonic patients. The film’s exploration of the fragility of life and the fleeting nature of happiness is both uplifting and heartbreaking.
10. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008)
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This documentary is a heart-wrenching tribute from a filmmaker to his murdered friend, chronicling the shocking twists of a real-life tragedy. The raw, emotional intensity of the story makes it impossible to watch without tears.
11. Me Before You (2016)
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A romantic drama that explores the relationship between a caregiver and a paralyzed man, Me Before You is a film that examines the complexities of love and the difficult choices that come with it. The emotional ending is sure to leave viewers in tears.
12. Jojo Rabbit (2019)
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This dark comedy-drama set during World War II follows a young boy whose imaginary friend is Adolf Hitler. The film blends humor with heart-wrenching moments, especially as it delves into the horrors of war and the loss of innocence.
13. The Green Mile (1999)
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A supernatural drama set on death row, The Green Mile explores themes of justice, compassion, and the extraordinary. The bond between the guards and an inmate with miraculous abilities makes for an emotionally charged and tearful viewing experience.
14. Life Is Beautiful (1997)
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This Italian classic blends humor and tragedy as it tells the story of a father who uses his imagination to shield his son from the horrors of a concentration camp. The film’s heartbreaking conclusion leaves viewers in tears while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
15. Never Let Me Go (2010)
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A dystopian drama based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, this film explores the lives of three friends who grow up in a mysterious boarding school. As the truth of their existence is revealed, the film becomes a poignant meditation on mortality and love.
16. Big Fish (2003)
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This fantasy drama explores the strained relationship between a father and his son, told through a series of fantastical stories. The film’s exploration of life, death, and the reconciliation of their relationship is both magical and deeply moving.
17. Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)
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Based on a true story, this film tells the tale of a loyal dog who waits for his deceased owner every day at the train station. The unwavering devotion of Hachi and the heartbreaking reality of his wait make this one of the most tear-jerking films ever made.
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Conclusion
These 17 movies are not just tear-jerkers; they are powerful emotional experiences that stay with you long after the credits roll. Whether you're looking for a cathartic release or simply want to feel deeply moved, these films will take you on an unforgettable emotional journey. So grab some tissues and get ready to cry, because these movies are sure to bring on the tears.
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