A Breakdown of the Best Tear-Jerkers: 10 Must-See Sad Movies


As much as we all love a good comedy or action movie, sometimes we just need a good cry. Sad movies, or tear-jerkers, have the power to make us feel a range of emotions and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s a heartbreaking romance or a tragic true story, these 10 must-see sad movies are sure to leave you emotional and moved.

1. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Based on the best-selling novel by John Green, The Fault in Our Stars follows the love story of two teenagers with terminal illnesses. Starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, this film is a beautiful and heart-wrenching portrayal of love and loss.

2. The Notebook (2004)

A true classic in the world of tear-jerkers, The Notebook tells the story of a young couple in the 1940s who fall in love despite their different social backgrounds. Starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, this film has become a timeless love story that is sure to bring tears to your eyes.

3. A Walk to Remember (2002)

Another classic from the early 2000s, A Walk to Remember follows the love story of two high school students, one of whom has a terminal illness. Starring Mandy Moore and Shane West, this film is a beautiful and heartbreaking tale of young love and tragedy.

4. The Green Mile (1999)

Based on the novel by Stephen King, The Green Mile tells the story of a Louisiana correctional officer who discovers that one of the inmates on death row has a special gift. Starring Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan, this film is a powerful and emotional tale of justice and humanity.

5. Steel Magnolias (1989)

Starring an all-star cast including Sally Field, Julia Roberts, and Dolly Parton, Steel Magnolias tells the story of a group of women in a small Louisiana town who are connected through their friendships and experiences. This film is a beautiful portrayal of friendship, love, and loss.

6. Schindler’s List (1993)

One of the most powerful and poignant films of all time, Schindler’s List tells the true story of a German businessman who saved the lives of over 1,000 Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. Starring Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes, this film is a gut-wrenching portrayal of the horrors of WWII and the power of one person to make a difference.

7. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Starring Will Smith and his real-life son Jaden, The Pursuit of Happyness tells the true story of a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son but never gives up on his dream of success. This film is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the American dream and the sacrifices we make to achieve it.

8. Forrest Gump (1994)

Starring Tom Hanks in an Oscar-winning performance, Forrest Gump tells the story of an endearing and simple-minded man who finds himself at the center of some of the biggest moments in American history. This film is a beautiful portrayal of love, loss, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

9. The Color Purple (1985)

Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, The Color Purple tells the story of a young black woman in the South who overcomes racism and abuse to find love and happiness. Starring an all-star cast including Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover, this film is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

10. Life is Beautiful (1997)

Starring and directed by Roberto Benigni, Life is Beautiful tells the story of a Jewish man in Italy during WWII who tries to protect his young son from the horrors of the concentration camp they are sent to. This film is a beautiful and heartbreaking portrayal of the power of love and hope in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

In conclusion, these 10 must-see sad movies are sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you emotionally moved. Whether you’re in need of a good cry or just looking for a powerful and poignant story, these films are sure to stick with you long after the credits roll.