- Top 10 Classic Films Every Movie Buff Should Watch
- Top 10 Iconic Movie Quotes of All Time
- Top 10 Tear-Jerker Films That Will Make You Cry
- Top 10 Must-See Foreign Language Films
- Top 10 Film Scores and Soundtracks in Cinema History
These movies have a unique power to touch the deepest corners of our hearts, evoking tears that are both sorrowful and cathartic. In this exploration of the “Top 10 Tear-Jerker Films That Will Make You Cry,” we dive into stories of love, loss, and human resilience, where the emotions on screen resonate so profoundly that they elicit a visceral response. These films are not just about shedding tears; they are profound emotional journeys that leave an indelible mark on our souls.
1. “Schindler’s List” (1993)
Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List” is a masterful portrayal of the Holocaust and the remarkable true story of Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson), a German businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Polish-Jewish refugees. This film is a top choice because it is a harrowing and deeply moving portrayal of the horrors of the Holocaust, juxtaposed with the selflessness and humanity of one man. The tears shed while watching “Schindler’s List” are not just for the tragedy but for the triumph of the human spirit.
2. “Terms of Endearment” (1983)
James L. Brooks’ “Terms of Endearment” is a heartwarming and heart-wrenching family drama that spans three decades. The film is a top choice because it beautifully captures the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship between Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) and Emma Horton (Debra Winger). The tears that flow throughout the film are a testament to the profound emotional connection between the characters and the audience.
3. “The Fault in Our Stars” (2014)
Josh Boone’s “The Fault in Our Stars” is a young adult romance that tells the love story of Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley) and Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort), two teenagers who meet in a cancer support group. The film is a top choice because it explores themes of love, mortality, and the indomitable human spirit. The tears that flow while watching “The Fault in Our Stars” are both sorrowful and a tribute to the power of young love in the face of adversity.
4. “Marley & Me” (2008)
David Frankel’s “Marley & Me” is a heartwarming tale of a family and their mischievous but lovable Labrador, Marley. The film is a top choice because it beautifully portrays the joys and challenges of life, love, and the bond between humans and their pets. The tears shed while watching “Marley & Me” are not just for the beloved dog but for the resonance of the film’s themes in our own lives.
5. “My Girl” (1991)
Howard Zieff’s “My Girl” is a coming-of-age film that follows Vada Sultenfuss (Anna Chlumsky) and her best friend, Thomas J. (Macaulay Culkin), as they navigate the complexities of growing up and dealing with loss. The film is a top choice because it delicately explores themes of friendship and grief, and the tears it evokes are a testament to the emotional impact of the story.
6. “Life Is Beautiful” (1997)
Roberto Benigni’s “Life Is Beautiful” is a tragicomedy set during World War II that follows the journey of a Jewish father, Guido (Roberto Benigni), who uses humor to shield his young son from the horrors of a concentration camp. The film is a top choice because it brilliantly blends humor and tragedy, and the tears it elicits are both laughter and sorrow combined. “Life Is Beautiful” is a touching tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
7. “Beaches” (1988)
Garry Marshall’s “Beaches” is a tale of an enduring friendship between CC Bloom (Bette Midler) and Hillary Whitney (Barbara Hershey). The film is a top choice because it explores the depth and complexity of female friendship, the challenges life presents, and the enduring bond between these two women. The tears shed while watching “Beaches” are a tribute to the power of friendship and the nostalgia for those we’ve loved.
8. “The Green Mile” (1999)
Frank Darabont’s “The Green Mile” is a prison drama that delves into themes of injustice, compassion, and the supernatural. The film is a top choice because it explores the depths of human cruelty and kindness within the confines of death row. The tears that flow throughout “The Green Mile” are for the injustice and the profound humanity that the characters reveal.
9. “Dancer in the Dark” (2000)
Lars von Trier’s “Dancer in the Dark” is a devastating musical drama that tells the story of Selma (Björk), a Czech immigrant who is going blind and is desperately trying to secure a better future for her son. The film is a top choice because it is a gut-wrenching exploration of sacrifice and the cruelty of fate. The tears shed while watching “Dancer in the Dark” are not just for the character’s suffering but for the indictment of a society that fails to protect its vulnerable.
10. “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
Gabriele Muccino’s “The Pursuit of Happyness” is a biographical drama based on the true story of Chris Gardner (Will Smith), a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son. The film is a top choice because it showcases the power of determination and resilience. Will Smith’s portrayal of Gardner’s journey from homelessness to success is nothing short of inspiring, reminding us that with unwavering perseverance, we can overcome the toughest of circumstances and achieve our dreams.
These top 10 tear-jerker films are not just about shedding tears; they are emotional journeys that touch the depths of the human soul. They remind us of the power of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds of friendship and family. These films are a testament to the emotional impact that cinema can have, leaving us with a profound sense of catharsis and a deeper appreciation for the human experience.
