We’ve all been there—watching a movie with the hope of simply enjoying the plot, only to find ourselves overwhelmed by emotion and fighting back tears. Some films just have that thing—a heart-wrenching story, unforgettable performances, or a twist that shakes you to your core. You know the ones I’m talking about. These are the movies that will make you cry, even if you try your hardest not to.
So, are you up for the challenge? Here are 32 movies we dare you not to cry while watching—whether it’s joy, sorrow, or sheer emotional overload, these films will make you reach for the tissues every time.
1. The Green Mile (1999)
A Tale of Miracles and Heartbreak
It’s hard to imagine a movie more emotionally devastating than The Green Mile. Based on Stephen King’s novel, this film follows the journey of Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), a death row corrections officer, and John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a man with extraordinary healing powers. It’s a slow burn, filled with kindness and injustice, and by the end, it’ll leave you in tears. The Green Mile blends supernatural elements with raw human emotions, making it nearly impossible to resist shedding a tear.
2. Schindler’s List (1993)
A Gripping Story of Survival and Loss
Schindler’s List is not just a film; it’s a history lesson that will break your heart. Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece chronicles the life of Oskar Schindler, a businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust. With its black-and-white cinematography and haunting performances, this film grips you emotionally from start to finish. The loss, the pain, and the final triumph of humanity will leave you teary-eyed and thoughtful.
3. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Hope Against All Odds
Will Smith’s portrayal of Chris Gardner, a single father struggling to build a better life for his son while facing homelessness, is nothing short of inspirational. The Pursuit of Happyness is a tale of resilience, love, and the strength of the human spirit. The emotional scenes between father and son will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling grateful for everything you have.
4. Forrest Gump (1994)
A Journey Through Life’s Ups and Downs
It’s impossible not to shed a tear while watching Forrest Gump navigate the ups and downs of life. Tom Hanks plays the title character, a man with a kind heart and a low IQ who somehow becomes a part of some of history’s most pivotal moments. From his love for Jenny to his struggles with loss, Forrest Gump will have you crying happy and sad tears in equal measure.
5. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Love in the Time of Cancer
Based on John Green’s best-selling novel, The Fault in Our Stars tells the story of Hazel Grace and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group. Their relationship is sweet, painful, and ultimately devastating. The film’s raw emotion and poignant performances will have you reaching for tissues long before the credits roll.
6. Up (2009)
An Adventure That Will Steal Your Heart
Pixar is known for making animated movies that appeal to all ages, and Up is a prime example. The opening montage, which chronicles the life of Carl and Ellie, is one of the most emotionally impactful scenes in film history. It’s a story about love, loss, and finding new purpose, and it will leave you teary-eyed, even if you try to fight it.
7. A Walk to Remember (2002)
The Beauty of First Love and Heartbreak
Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, A Walk to Remember is a love story that’ll break your heart. The relationship between Jamie and Landon grows in unexpected ways, and the final act is one that will leave you crying for days. This film showcases the power of love and faith, but also the agony of loss.
8. Marley & Me (2008)
The Ultimate Heartbreaking Pet Movie
If you’ve ever had a dog, Marley & Me will hit you hard. The story follows a mischievous dog, Marley, and his owners as they navigate the ups and downs of life together. While the comedic moments provide a lot of laughs, the final scenes about saying goodbye to a beloved pet will absolutely leave you sobbing.
9. The Notebook (2004)
A Love Story for the Ages
The Notebook is one of those classic tearjerkers that you can’t help but watch when it’s on TV. The film tells the story of Noah and Allie, whose love survives years, heartbreak, and tragedy. Their love story is passionate and tragic, and the ending will leave you an emotional wreck.
10. Titanic (1997)
An Epic Love Story That Will Sink Your Heart
Is there any movie more iconic in terms of emotional devastation than Titanic? Jack and Rose’s love story aboard the ill-fated ship is legendary, and its tragic ending will have you in tears every time. The film blends romance with disaster in a way that hits all the right emotional beats.
11. My Girl (1991)
Coming-of-Age Drama That Will Break You
My Girl is an underrated classic about childhood, loss, and friendship. The story of Vada Sultenfuss, a young girl dealing with the death of her mother and the challenges of growing up, is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The film’s tragic ending will leave you teary-eyed and questioning the complexities of life.
12. The Lion King (1994)
A Childhood Classic That Will Make You Weep
Whether you’re a kid or an adult, The Lion King has a way of hitting you right in the feels. The death of Mufasa is one of the most gut-wrenching moments in animated film history. It’s a story about loss, family, and finding the strength to carry on. Every time that moment happens, it’s impossible not to cry.
13. Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
An Emotional Exploration of Friendship and Loss
Bridge to Terabithia is a story of two children who create a magical kingdom to escape their problems. But the tragic death of one of the characters sends the film into a devastating emotional spiral. The movie explores themes of grief and how to cope with loss, making it an emotional rollercoaster.
14. The Bucket List (2007)
Live Fully, Die Happy
When two terminally ill men—played by Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman—embark on a journey to fulfill their bucket list, the film takes you through laughter, regret, and some pretty deep moments. The final scenes will make you reflect on your own life and will have you fighting back tears.
15. Les Misérables (2012)
A Tale of Redemption and Sorrow
Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Les Misérables is an epic story of love, sacrifice, and revolution. With an all-star cast, the film delivers emotionally-charged performances that will have you in tears, particularly during the final moments of Jean Valjean’s life.
Conclusion: Ready to Face the Tears?
So, how did you do? Could you make it through all 32 movies without shedding a tear? If you’ve watched all of them, we’re willing to bet at least one left you emotionally drained. Movies have a magical way of connecting with us on a deep, human level. Whether it’s through love, loss, or redemption, they remind us of what it means to feel deeply. So next time you’re in the mood for a tearjerker, pick one of these films and remember to keep the tissues close.
