9 movies that’ll make you ugly cry—and why that’s actually good for you
Reaching for the tissue box during a movie isn’t a sign of weakness. Research shows crying releases oxytocin and endorphins, natural feel-good chemicals that ease both physical and emotional pain. Emotional tears flush stress hormones like cortisol from your system, helping restore emotional balance and promoting relaxation after intense experiences. These nine films deliver the cathartic cry your body might actually need.
Fox 2000
Marley and Me (2008)
Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston star in this comedy-drama about a mischievous Labrador who transforms from an uncontrollable puppy into the family’s beloved companion. The film perfectly balances humor with heartache, delivering genuine laughs throughout before that devastating final veterinary visit leaves even the toughest viewers sobbing uncontrollably.
(2009) Photo Credit: IMDB
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)
Richard Gere delivers an emotional performance in this true story of unwavering canine loyalty. After his owner dies unexpectedly, Hachi continues waiting at the train station every day for nine years, ranking as the saddest dog movie ever made.
Disney
The Lion King (1994)
Disney’s animated masterpiece proves age doesn’t matter when it comes to tears. That devastating stampede scene where Mufasa falls and young Simba’s heartbroken plea to his lifeless father, created a moment so emotionally powerful it’s continued leaving audiences of all ages sobbing for three decades straight.
Image Credit: IMDB.
Terms of Endearment (1983)
Shirley MacLaine won an Oscar for her performance as a fierce mother watching her daughter battle terminal cancer. The hospital scene where she demands better pain management remains one of cinema’s most gut-wrenching moments, showcasing maternal love facing impossible loss.
Image Credit: Pixar / IMDB.com.
Up (2009)
Pixar’s opening montage depicting Carl and Ellie’s entire life together packs more emotional punch in ten wordless minutes than most films manage in two hours. The sequence masterfully chronicles their dreams, struggles, and enduring love, devastating viewers before the main adventure even begins.
IMDB
The Notebook (2004)
While Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams captured hearts, Gena Rowlands and James Garner delivered true emotional impact. Watching an elderly husband read to his wife battling dementia showcases enduring love.
IMDB
My Girl (1991)
The funeral scene featuring young Vada insisting Thomas J. needs his glasses has destroyed viewers for decades. This coming-of-age story captures childhood innocence confronting mortality.
Disney
Togo (2019)
Willem Dafoe stars in this Disney+ true story about an undersized sled dog who led Alaska’s 1925 serum run. The film chronicles Togo’s journey from unwanted puppy to heroic leader.
Miramaxx
Life is Beautiful (1997)
Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning masterpiece follows a Jewish father using imagination to shield his son from Nazi concentration camp horrors by convincing him their imprisonment is an elaborate game. The Italian tragicomedy balances heartbreaking sacrifice with genuine laughter, making the devastating ending emotionally unbearable.
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The value of a good cinematic cry
Crying during movies serves a real therapeutic purpose, providing safe emotional release that lowers stress and strengthens empathy. So grab those tissues without shame and let these powerful films work their magic.
Related:
- 10 movies that are just as bad as people say they are
- Boomer-era B-movies that are actually masterpieces
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