1.) Up
You turn up to the cinema expecting some classic Pixar entertainment – instead the opening sequence of this beautiful animated comedy is some of the most heart wrenching drama ever. Only watch when armed with a box of tissues and a mate’s shoulder to weep on.
2.) The Impossible
The tension has been built up during the entire film as to whether the family will find each other after the Boxing Day tsunami struck while they were on holiday in Thailand. When they are reunited the emotions are high and so are the levels of viewer’s tears (from personal experience).
3.) The Shawshank Redemptiom
When the protagonist finally escapes from prison and experiences freedom for the first time we get the happy-sad-adrenalin-exhausted sort of feeling that only fantastic films can offer. A must see – if you think you can handle it!
4.) Marley and Me
OK – we know he’s a dog, but you can’t help but shed a tear when the most hilarious dog in cinema is put down. The fact that the film is based on a true story makes it even harder to cope. I am not (very) ashamed to admit that I was a mess when I came out of the cinema.
5.) Edward Scissorhands
When the neighbourhood turns against this harmless character – which is a bit rude considering how nice he made their hedges look – it’s heart-breaking! Johnny Depp’s performance enhances the empathy we feel for Edward who is alienated for being different.
6.) Bridge To Terabithia
You expect a harmless fantasy film when two lonely kids find happiness in an imaginary world, but this cheery tale is destroyed when one of the main characters, Leslie, dies. Warning: it is not harmless. Do not watch without something to cuddle to get you through, I have only been able to watch it once.
7.) My Sister’s Keeper
This film about a young girl who has been raised to be a donor to her sister who is suffering with cancer is filled with sad and beautiful moments. It’s difficult to choose which broke our hearts the most. Both the death scene at the end or when Anna explains to the law room why she is fighting for the rights to her own body come close, but whatever’s left of our hearts is shattered when the family sneak Kate out of hospital so she can have one last trip to the beach.
8.) Moulin Rouge
We know it’s coming, but that doesn’t make Satine’s death any easier to cope with. It’s just so tragic after all the couple have been through. Sob.
9.) The Lion King
When Mufasa dies and Simba is left alone – who knew lions could evoke such sadness – I still have to fast-forward this scene when I watch the film.
10.) Castaway
It may be a ball, but its loss is still very much felt. WIIIIILLLLSSSOOOONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!