When you’re in the mood for a poignant cinematic experience, nothing compares to the cathartic release of a heart-wrenching film. The quickest way to find yourself in tears (in a good way) is to immerse yourself in these truly emotional movies. Even if you’re familiar with their story arcs, the powerful narratives and performances are sure to leave a lasting impression, often culminating in an emotional farewell. It is the combination of compelling writing and the actors’ commitment to their roles that enhance these tales of human experience.
These films not only invite tears during the first watch but also resonate deeply with viewers who return to them time and again. Unlike superficial tear-jerkers, the titles listed here carry significant emotional and cultural messages that strike a chord with audiences. Their themes are both relevant and profound, prompting viewers to reflect on their own lives and feelings. These cinematic treasures inspire introspection as they explore universal human experiences.
10
Never Let Me Go (2010)
Directed by Mark Romanek
Never Let Me Go is a complex dystopian drama that intricately weaves various genres together. Featuring Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, and Keira Knightley, the story unfolds around three friends who uncover the haunting truth about their existence as clones bred for organ donation. This tragic backdrop is beautifully juxtaposed with their everyday struggles and bittersweet coming-of-age moments, even as their lives are predetermined.
Adapted from Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, the film transcends cookie-cutter narratives to deliver a profound tale of empathy and humanity. Its contemplative storytelling allows the characters’ rich emotional landscapes to shine through, making their inevitable losses all the more poignant.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXiRZhDEo8A
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Never Let Me Go (2010) |
71% |
70% |
9
Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)
Directed by Eliza Hittman
A captivating yet challenging watch, Never Rarely Sometimes Always demands patience and engagement from its audience. The film follows Autumn, portrayed by Sidney Flanigan, as she travels from Pennsylvania to New York with her cousin, Skylar (Talia Ryder), for an abortion. While it tackles political themes head-on, it is ultimately the tender bond between the two young women that lingers with viewers long after the credits roll.
The narrative unfolds slowly, mirroring Autumn’s tumultuous journey, allowing viewers to empathize with her struggles. The film eschews melodrama, opting for subtlety to convey the emotional turmoil that both characters experience. It’s a poignant piece about resilience and familial support that immerses viewers in their poignant journey.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020) |
99% |
55% |
8
Manchester By The Sea (2016)
Directed by Kenneth Lonergan
Casey Affleck’s Academy Award-winning performance in Manchester By The Sea is a raw and heart-wrenching portrayal of grief. The nuanced chemistry between Affleck and Lucas Hedges, who plays his nephew, provides fleeting moments of relief amidst the overwhelming sadness. As the story unfolds, audiences discover a devastating secret from Lee’s past, making it impossible to brace for its emotional impact.
The film’s strong ensemble cast, including Michelle Williams and Kyle Chandler, adds depth to the narrative, reminding viewers that while some grief is insurmountable, one can still find ways to cope and carry on. Observing Lee’s struggle with profound sorrow will resonate deeply, leaving an indelible mark on viewers.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Manchester by the Sea (2016) |
96% |
78% |
7
The Farewell (2019)
Directed by Lulu Wang
Despite its comedic elements, The Farewell powerfully handles themes of family and personal sacrifice that resonate on a profound level. Lulu Wang draws from her own life experiences, showcasing Awkwafina’s dramatic talent in her role as Billi, who grapples with the ethical dilemma of deceiving her ailing grandmother regarding her terminal illness.
The cultural clash between Eastern and Western values plays a significant role, particularly in how Billi’s family chooses to shield her grandmother from the truth. Amidst this turmoil, Billi confronts her own struggles and questions the meaning of her life. The tender bond between Billi and her grandmother, played by Zhao Shu-zhen, lends an additional layer of complexity and poignancy to the narrative.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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The Farewell (2019) |
97% |
87% |
6
The Iron Giant (1999)
Directed by Brad Bird
Before establishing himself as a key figure at Pixar, Brad Bird directed the touching animated film The Iron Giant. The story follows Hogarth, a lonely boy searching for connection, who befriends a giant alien robot. This unlikely friendship develops into a touching narrative, proving that deep emotional connections can transcend any boundaries.
Don’t let its animated format fool you; The Iron Giant is significantly more sophisticated than many live-action projects. With heartfelt themes of friendship, trust, and loss, it speaks to audiences of all ages and is a must-see masterpiece that showcases profound emotional depth.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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The Iron Giant (1999) |
96% |
90% |
5
The Elephant Man (1980)
Directed by David Lynch
Though many expect David Lynch to deliver surreal narratives, his portrayal of Joseph Merrick’s life in The Elephant Man strays into deeply impactful territory. John Hurt’s unforgettable performance as Merrick, alongside Anthony Hopkins as Frederick Treves, invites audiences to explore humanity in an empathetic light.
This film compels viewers to confront their responses to those who are different, challenging societal perceptions and biases. While the film’s conclusion is not surprising, its heartbreaking nature remains undeniable, cementing The Elephant Man’s position as a powerful examination of compassion and dignity.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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The Elephant Man (1980) |
91% |
93% |
4
Moonlight (2016)
Directed by Barry Jenkins
Barry Jenkins’ ability to evoke emotion shines through in Moonlight, which tells the intimate story of Chiron, a young man navigating the complexities of identity over three distinct stages of his life. The film poignantly addresses themes of race, sexuality, and familial relationships, capturing Chiron’s struggles in a world that often marginalizes him.
With each chapter, Jenkins masterfully showcases the emotional turmoil Chiron faces, leading to some deeply impactful performances, notably from Trevante Rhodes as the adult Chiron. The film’s exploration of quiet suffering, particularly through Mahershala Ali’s powerful portrayal, solidifies Moonlight as a cinematic triumph that resonates with viewers long after the credits roll.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Moonlight (2016) |
98% |
79% |
3
Boys Don’t Cry (1999)
Directed by Kimberly Peirce
Helmed by Kimberly Peirce, Boys Don’t Cry is a deeply affecting romantic drama led by Hilary Swank and Chloë Sevigny. Swank delivers an astonishing performance as Brandon Teena, a young trans man seeking love and acceptance in a hostile and violent environment. Though the romance with Lana (Sevigny) is at the film’s heart, the narrative delves into the grim realities of hatred and discrimination.
This film forces the audience to confront complex social issues surrounding LGBTQ+ identities while being rooted in real events. While the overwhelming sadness is palpable, glimpses of love and connection serve to enrich Brandon’s portrayal as a multi-dimensional character rather than a mere victim, enhancing its overall impact.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Boys Don’t Cry (1999) |
91% |
87% |
2
In The Mood For Love (2000)
Directed by Wong Kar-wai
In The Mood for Love stands out as one of Wong Kar-wai’s most exquisite films, exploring themes of unfulfilled love and societal constraints. The intricate relationship between Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung) and Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung) is layered with longing and regret, masterfully crafted through Wong’s signature visual storytelling.
Despite the underlying knowledge that these lovers cannot be together, the film enchants audiences with hopes for an alternate outcome, capturing the heartbreaking essence of relationships shadowed by circumstance. Even during its quiet moments, the film maintains an emotional intensity that lingers long after the credits fade.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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In the Mood for Love (2000) |
92% |
94% |
1
Grave Of The Fireflies (1988)
Directed by Isao Takahata
Grave of the Fireflies transcends the boundaries of a mere war film, delving into a profound exploration of grief and sacrifice. Produced by Studio Ghibli, known primarily for Hayao Miyazaki’s works, Isao Takahata’s masterpiece elicits an immediate emotional response from viewers, beginning with its heartbreaking premise.
The relationship between siblings Seita and Setsuko, struggling to survive in the aftermath of World War II, feels painfully authentic. Seita’s relentless attempts to shield Setsuko from their dire circumstances intensify the film’s emotional weight. However, Grave of the Fireflies does not shy away from illustrating the harsh truths of wartime suffering, leaving audiences with an unforgettable experience marked by resilience and loss.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
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Grave of the Fireflies (1988) |
100% |
95% |