Let’s face it—we’ve all been there. When you’re this close to boiling over, sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is simply let it all out. Honestly, there is little better than the relief that comes from a good, much-needed ugly cry. But it can be hard to cry. Sometimes no tears come no matter how angry or emotional you are. It is these times that call for a great movie. A movie that is tragically sad. Overly emotional. A movie that will summon those tears right out of you. Here are five movies that are perfect for just that. These movies will have you crying to your heart’s content! Give it a try, Gulls!
5. Hachi: A Dog’s Tale
Starting off strong, with a movie based on a true story! And let’s be honest—nothing hurts worse than losing a pet. This movie however, is unique in that the main character, Parker, doesn’t lose his dog Hachi. Instead, Hachi loses Parker to a fatal stroke. This astounding and emotional story is not only heartfelt but downright tragic.
4. My Girl
This classic film produced in the early 1990’s has never lost its emotional appeal. Following a young girl named Vada, the plot centers around her connection with her best friend Thomas. As you may have guessed however, the storyline is not all rainbows and unicorns. For the sake of keeping this post spoiler-free I will not say what exactly happens, only that it is sure to have you grabbing a box of tissues.
3. Awakening’s
Another film based on a true story, Awakenings takes place in a worn-down mental institution in the Bronx. While this film is rather long and slow to gain momentum in terms of emotional connection, I can assure you the wait is well worth it. This movie is not another classic sob story about a break-up or even a death. It deals with real-world afflictions that are arguably, much much worse.
2. A Man Called Otto
This is a film I happened upon recently and let me tell you I was SOBBING. Featuring Tom Hanks as main character Otto Anderson, viewers follow Otto as he grapples with the loss of his wife, the monotony of his life, and his new budding relationship with his new neighbors. Slowly unraveling Otto’s complicated and tragic past, I can promise you your eyes will be stinging throughout the entire movie!
1. The Art of Racing in the Rain
And finally, my personal favorite movie when I need a good cry, The Art of Racing in the Rain. I originally read the book back in Elementary school, and it immediately became one of those books that I will never stop thinking about. The movie was just as good (or bad, depending on how you look at it). Not an eye in the theater was dry walking out of that movie. The story is told through the eyes of Enzo, a golden retriever who absolutely loves his owner Danny. This interesting, innocent perspective only makes the tragedies of this story more emotional. This movie is a must watch, even if you don’t necessarily want to cry.
Honorable Mentions:
The Dead Poet’s Society
Marley And Me
The Boy In the Striped Pajamas
A Walk To Remember