Buzz
In today’s world, maintaining mental well-being feels increasingly difficult, whether dealing with clinical depression or the constant unease from relentless negative news. A bit of self-care can go a long way—and while this isn’t medical advice, I’ve found that a heartfelt cry often brings relief. Just as melancholic songs can soothe during tough times, emotional films can be the perfect remedy when you need a good weep.
Some films genuinely earn their emotional impact, while others rely on manipulation—often labeled as tearjerkers. However, the distinction may not matter much: We often question entertainment that stirs deep emotions, yet, like a well-crafted scare or an exhilarating action scene, there’s undeniable skill and artistry in touching our hearts. Merely recalling some of these films—guaranteed to make even the most stoic viewers cry—brings a lump to my throat.
A quick heads-up before diving in: discussing what makes these movies so emotional inevitably involves spoilers. Proceed with care.
Past Lives (2023)
Greta Lee stars as Nora, a woman who moved from South Korea to the U.S. as a child. Over the years, she reconnects with her childhood friend Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), prompting her to reflect on her current life and the paths she didn’t take.
The emotional highlight: While there isn’t a single tearjerking moment (this isn’t that kind of film), the ending—filled with themes of love, loss, and missed opportunities—delivers a deeply moving impact. Even watching the trailer brings tears to my eyes.
Where to stream: Paramount+, Digital rental
Dancer in the Dark (2000)
A unique blend of Dogme 95’s minimalist filmmaking and Douglas Sirk’s melodramatic flair, this film pays homage to the stylized artifice of classic Hollywood musicals. Featuring the iconic Icelandic artist Björk (who reportedly struggled during production), it tells the haunting tale of a Czech immigrant facing increasingly desperate circumstances as she fights to save her son’s eyesight.
The emotional peak: Björk and the cast craft such an immersive, albeit grim, world that the film’s devastating conclusion leaves a lasting impact.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Sounder (1972)
Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield star as sharecroppers in rural Louisiana whose lives are upended when Winfield’s character, Nathan Lee Morgan, is jailed for stealing food to feed his family.
The emotional moment: While Sounder, the dog, plays a smaller role in the film and does suffer an injury, there’s no need to worry about a tragic canine fate. The real tears flow during the family’s heartfelt reunion.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Peacock, Tubi
Beaches (1988)
Bette Midler delivers one of her most sentimental performances in this film, which traces the lifelong friendship between her character and Barbara Hershey’s, starting from their childhood years with Mayim Bialik playing the young Midler. Though Beaches isn’t considered an all-time classic, its iconic song “Wind Beneath My Wings” was everywhere for years. A word of caution: I played this soundtrack on repeat when the movie first aired, and I’m convinced it played a role in shaping my identity.
The tearful scene: The inevitable death scene is foreshadowed from a mile away, but even the most stoic viewers will feel a pang of emotion as C.C. and Hillary share one last sunset together.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Love Story (1970)
While perhaps not a cinematic masterpiece, Love Story excels as a masterclass in emotional manipulation, standing as a quintessential tearjerker in its genre. The famous line, 'Love means never having to say you’re sorry,' remains iconic, and I stand by recommending this film without hesitation.
The emotional moment: After witnessing the charming meet-cute, the blossoming romance, and the marriage of Oliver (Ryan O’Neal) and Jenny (Ali McGraw), the story takes a heartbreaking turn when Oliver discovers Jenny’s terminal illness and tries to hide it from her—a practice seemingly acceptable in 1970. Unfortunately, this isn’t a tale of recovery or hope.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939)
A spirited suffragette (Greer Garson) softens the rigid, overly formal demeanor of schoolteacher Charles Edward Chipping (Robert Donat).
The emotional moment: After the tragic loss of his wife during childbirth, Mr. Chips returns to teaching, maintaining his composed exterior. However, it’s evident that he has not only lost his love but also the newfound zest for life she inspired in him.
Where to stream: Digital rental
If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)
Adapted from James Baldwin’s novel and helmed by Barry Jenkins of Moonlight fame, this film tells the heartbreaking tale of a young couple (KiKi Layne and Stephan James) whose lives are shattered by a wrongful accusation and systemic injustice.
The emotional moment: The film’s non-linear narrative avoids pinpointing a single tearful scene, instead weaving a pervasive sense of sorrow and unfairness throughout. The most poignant moment arrives near the end, when Tish comes to terms with the irreversible injustice that has imprisoned Funny.
Where to stream: Peacock, Starz, Digital rental
The Color Purple (1985)
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film stars Whoopi Goldberg as Celie, a woman enduring abuse and separation from her sister in early 20th-century rural Georgia. Despite its mixed reception, it remains a powerful adaptation of Alice Walker’s celebrated novel.
The emotional moment: The most heart-wrenching scenes occur early on, though the film is filled with tearful moments. The true emotional release comes when Celie and her companions finally find hope and happiness. You’ll cry during the sorrowful moments and the uplifting finale.
Where to stream: Tubi, Digital rental
Steel Magnolias (1989)
Once labeled a “chick flick” simply for its female-dominated cast, this film boasts an ensemble of legends including Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, and Julia Roberts. Set primarily in a beauty salon, it’s often hailed as the Avengers of heartfelt dramas.
The tearful scene: While the death scene is devastating, Sally Field’s raw graveside breakdown is even more powerful, both for its emotional intensity and her realization that she’s surrounded by support. The line “Take a whack at Ouiser!” delivers an unexpected yet cathartic moment.
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Joy Luck Club (1993)
Featuring a stellar ensemble cast, including Ming-Na Wen, Rosalind Chao, Tamlyn Tomita, and Lauren Tom, this film revolves around a group of Chinese matriarchs who meet to play Mahjong and share intergenerational stories.
The emotional moment: While the film is filled with poignant vignettes, the most heart-wrenching is Suyuan Woo’s harrowing escape during the Japanese invasion of China. Near death and utterly exhausted, she is forced to leave her twin daughters behind—a decision that profoundly impacts her life and her relationship with her other daughter, June.
Where to stream: Hulu, Digital rental
Imitation of Life (1959)
While not without its flaws, Imitation of Life represents a significant step forward in Hollywood’s racial awareness during the 1950s. Unlike the 1934 original, this version shifts focus from single mother Lora Meredith (Lana Turner) to Juanita Moore’s Annie Johnson and her daughter Sarah Jane, who struggles with her light-skinned identity and the ability to pass as white.
The emotional moment: The strained relationship between mother and daughter never fully heals before Annie’s sudden death. The funeral scene, however, is the emotional climax, with Mahalia Jackson’s rendition of “Trouble of the World” playing as Sarah Jane collapses in grief over her mother’s casket.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Stella Dallas (1937)
Barbara Stanwyck stars as the spirited daughter of a mill worker in Stella Dallas. Her attempts to improve her life repeatedly falter, resulting in a deeply troubled marriage. Ultimately, she pins all her aspirations on her daughter, Laurel.
The emotional moment: Convinced that Laurel’s happiness depends on separation from her, Stella deliberately pushes her daughter away with harsh words. She then watches Laurel’s wedding from afar, her face a mix of sorrow and quiet joy.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Up (2009)
Defying the outdated notion that animated films are just for children, Pixar’s ability to evoke tears from adults is nothing short of legendary.
The emotional moment: The early montage showing Carl Fredricksen’s life with his late wife, Ellie, and their struggle to save for their dream trip, is utterly heartbreaking. Heartbreaking. (Thankfully, a talking dog later lightens the mood.)
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Toy Story 3 (2010)
Once again, Pixar proves its ability to make us weep over animated toys.
The tearful scene: While the ending is poignant, the most gut-wrenching moment comes when the toys, believing their purpose has ended, accept their fate on a conveyor belt heading toward an incinerator. Andy’s farewell to his toys as he gives them to Bonnie is touching, but it’s a gentle nudge compared to the emotional punch of the incinerator scene.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
Widow Tweed adopts an orphaned fox named Tod, while her neighbor, hunter Amos Blade, takes in a hound puppy named Copper. The two animals form a close bond, but circumstances eventually drive them apart, leading to a deeply emotional story.
The emotional moment: The film opens with a tragic scene reminiscent of Bambi, followed by a heart-wrenching abandonment. The most poignant moment comes when Tod and Copper vow to “always be friends forever,” only for life to pull them in different directions.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Old Yeller (1957)
Set in late 1860s Texas, this film tells the story of a young boy (Tommy Kirk) who forms a deep and meaningful connection with a Labrador Retriever named Old Yeller.
The emotional moment: Without giving too much away, Old Yeller’s fate is a tearjerker. It’s hard to believe this heart-wrenching tale was made for children.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Bastian Bux, a 10-year-old bookworm and social outcast, becomes deeply immersed in a magical book, eventually finding himself part of the story. He follows the journey of Atreus, a warrior striving to save The Childlike Empress from the destructive force known as "The Nothing" in the fantastical realm of Fantasia.
The emotional moment: The Swamp of Sadness claims Atreyu’s loyal horse, Artax, in a scene that resonates with profound sorrow. This moment marks a pivotal low for both Atreyu and Bastian, amplifying the emotional weight of their quest.
Where to stream: Digital rental
A Star Is Born (1954)
While the 2018 Lady Gaga adaptation is undeniably moving, this earlier version sets the standard (though it’s not the original, as it’s the second of four iterations). Judy Garland and James Mason portray a Hollywood couple whose careers move in opposite directions—hers rising to fame while his spirals into addiction and decline.
The emotional moment: After her husband’s death, Vicki returns to the stage and introduces herself as "Mrs. Norman Maine." While it may seem outdated today, the moment is deeply moving in its context. It’s also bittersweet, as this film was intended to mark Judy Garland’s triumphant comeback, yet it inexplicably flopped at the box office.
Where to stream: Tubi, Digital rental
The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Based on John Green’s novel, this film features Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort as two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group. They embark on an unforgettable journey to Amsterdam to meet a reclusive author and uncover the mystery behind the unfinished ending of his book.
The tearful scene: While the film avoids excessive sentimentality, it’s undeniably emotional, focusing on two young cancer patients, one of whom receives a terminal diagnosis. Their first kiss at the Anne Frank House is just one of many poignant moments to choose from.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Brief Encounter (1945)
While David Lean is renowned for his grand epics like Lawrence of Arabia and A Passage to India, this earlier masterpiece is equally remarkable, albeit on a more intimate scale. Laura, a middle-class woman in a monotonous marriage, meets Alec, a married doctor with children, during her shopping trips to a nearby town. As their bond deepens, each parting grows increasingly painful.
The emotional moment: The heartbreak lies in what never comes to pass, as their final meeting is abruptly interrupted, leaving their story unresolved.
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel, Prime Video
Inside Out (2015)
Disney/Pixar has a long history of crafting emotionally resonant films, dating back to Bambi, and Inside Out carries on this legacy brilliantly. The film delves into the mind of 11-year-old Riley, exploring her emotions as she copes with a family move, personified as characters with distinct personalities.
The emotional moment: Bing Bong. Just Bing Bong. Oh, the tears.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
The Iron Giant (1999)
Set in Cold War-era Maine, a colossal alien robot becomes the target of fear and suspicion from the U.S. military, who view him solely as a potential weapon.
The emotional moment: Is it when the Giant realizes he can define his own destiny, uttering “Superman” as he sacrifices himself to save Hogarth and his friends? Or is it the hopeful ending suggesting he might have survived? While the first moment is undeniably heart-wrenching, both scenes pack an emotional punch.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Titanic (1997)
Despite its massive popularity leading to some cynicism—debates about floating doors and Billy Zane’s campy performance—Titanic remains a masterfully crafted Hollywood epic. In 1997, theaters were filled with the sound of sobbing audiences during the final scenes, and even today, the film’s emotional impact remains potent.
The emotional moment: She promises she’ll never let go, but she does. Yet, they reunite on the ship where dreams come true, appearing youthful and radiant as the audience applauds. (Thankfully, they avoided the original ending.)
Where to stream: Paramount+, Prime Video
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Baz Luhrmann’s extravagant, La Bohème-inspired musical, set in early 20th-century Paris, tells the tale of doomed lovers. A completely happy ending was never in the cards.
The tearful scene: The moment you spot blood on the handkerchief, the tragic outcome becomes clear. While tuberculosis may not have been as graceful as depicted, the film’s dazzling spectacle distracts us, making the inevitable ending still feel like a gut punch.
Where to stream: Hulu, Apple TV+
The Farewell (2019)
Billi (Awkwafina), a Chinese-American writer living in New York, discovers her grandmother has been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Her family decides to keep the diagnosis a secret and worries Billi’s American upbringing might prevent her from keeping the truth hidden during a trip to China to visit Nai Nai.
The emotional moment: While the film avoids excessive sentimentality, the scene where Nai Nai urges Billi to live authentically is deeply moving. The unexpectedly uplifting ending also brings tears, especially knowing it’s based on a true story.
Where to stream: Max, Digital rental
The Laramie Project (2002)
A theater troupe visits Laramie, Wyoming, to interview locals following the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard. Adapted from the play of the same name, the film blends elements of cinema, theater, and documentary, featuring a cast of well-known actors.
The emotional moment: As a true story, this film carries a weight that fictional narratives often lack, making it a challenging but essential watch. One particularly moving scene involves a gay resident (played by Bill Irwin) sharing his feelings after attending a parade honoring Shepard.
Where to stream: Max, Digital rental
Sophie’s Choice (1982)
Adapted from William Styron’s novel, the film unravels the story of Sophie Zawistowska, a Polish immigrant and Holocaust survivor who faced an unimaginable decision, as hinted by the title.
The emotional moment: The film’s climax reveals Sophie’s harrowing choice at Auschwitz, where she was forced to decide between her two children.
Where to stream: Peacock, The Criterion Channel, Tubi, Crackle, Prime Video
Ordinary People (1980)
This family drama, elevated by outstanding performances, explores the aftermath of tragedy on a family, particularly focusing on a mother (Mary Tyler Moore) who grows increasingly emotionally detached.
The emotional moment: This drama is filled with poignant scenes, but one standout moment occurs during a therapy session. Timothy Hutton’s Conrad opens up about the sailing accident that claimed his brother’s life, confessing that he views his own survival as his biggest failure—a moment that hits hard.
Where to stream: Max, Digital rental
Just Mercy (2019)
Michael B. Jordan portrays Bryan Stevenson, a real-life lawyer and activist, as he takes on the case of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), a man wrongfully sentenced to death.
The tearful scene: While the criminal justice system often fails Black Americans, the film’s uplifting conclusion—after McMillian endures years on death row—offers a brief but powerful moment of triumph.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Beasts of the Southern Wild (2012)
Quvenzhané Wallis stars as Hushpuppy, a young girl who creates a vivid imaginary world to cope with life in her Louisiana Bayou community and her father’s declining health.
The emotional moment: Facing the dreaded aurochs, Hushpuppy becomes the savior of her island community. After her father’s passing, she honors him with a heartfelt and unforgettable funeral.
Where to stream: Digital rental
