Everyone has been there. You had a bad day at work, the partner said something that set you off, or maybe you just woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Whatever the reason, it feels like you need to let out some steam and cry it all out. But what films should anyone watch to get the job done? Here are films sure to make you ugly cry by the time they’re over. So grab your tissues and watch these movies when you need a good cry.

Titanic (1997)

Titanic is a classic when it comes to making people cry. Starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, this movie tells the story of two star-crossed lovers who meet amidst the chaos of the ship’s sinking in 1912. Watching Jack and Rose’s love story cut short will make anyone tear up.

The dominant theme in this movie is heartache. Jack and Rose have fallen deeply in love, yet their romance is ultimately doomed by the tragedy they face. Besides, since the two love birds are from two different worlds, they have no idea if they will ever see each other again.

The poor boy-rich girl narrative may be cliche, but the emotions between these two are palpable. This is it if you’re searching for a movie to make you cry. Know that you’ll shed some tears throughout this entire movie and possibly afterward.

The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Another tearjerker for the books, The Fault in Our Stars, follows Hazel and Gus as they fall deeply in love despite their terminal illnesses. Watching these two go through the struggles brought on by their diseases will break your heart. The movie does an excellent job of showing the impact of illness. From Hazel’s realization that she may not have a future to Gus’ courage and determination, each scene will tug at your heartstrings and make you cry until no tears are left. The story is beautiful, and you cannot help but be moved by their struggles. The plot of the story is accurate on many levels and will make anyone feel all the emotions of a romantic tragedy. Besides, the main theme of acceptance is sure to leave an impact.

Mourning Sun (2018)

Short films can tug at the heartstrings just as easily as full-length movies and Mourning Sun is a perfect example. This film tells the story of a young girl who has to face her mother’s death head-on. It follows her journey through grief and how she learns to come to terms with it to move on. This movie is full of raw emotion. It accurately depicts the pain that loved ones go through when they lose a parent and how it changes them forever. 

The overwhelming sadness that the main character experiences can be felt through the screen, which makes it even more heartbreaking to watch. The Director and Fashion Photographer Mark Slater was perfect on that front, tugging on the audience’s heartstrings the entire time. Mourning Sun is sure to do the trick if you want to watch a film that will make your tear ducts work overtime. It is a beautiful short film that deals with grief honestly and meaningfully. 

The drama brings out all the emotions, from anger and frustration to feeling helpless and alone. It’s also a reminder of how important it is to have people around you to help through tough times. Most importantly, it conveys that life must continue even when it seems almost impossible.

Atonement (2007)

This is a story about a young girl, Briony, who makes an irrevocable mistake and then spends the rest of her life trying to make it right. It follows the consequences of her actions and how they affect her and the people around her. The film is filled with heartbreaking scenes that will make anyone cry. The movie perfectly captures the power of a single moment and how it can change your life forever. It is a story of tragedy, loss, and regret that will move you to tears. Besides, the acting from all cast members is superb, with special mention of James McAvoy and Keira Knightley in their lead roles. This movie reminds people how their actions have consequences and that even if you regret something deeply, it may be too late to fix it. Atonement is an emotionally-moving film that will make you cry buckets by the end of it.

Me Before You (2016)

An emotional roller coaster of a movie, Me Before You (2016) captivated audiences from the offset. It follows the story of Louisa Clark, a young woman struggling to make ends meet who takes a job as a companion to Will Traynor, a wealthy businessman confined to a wheelchair after suffering an accident. Though initially unlikely candidates for friendship and romance, the two eventually get close and face some complex decisions regarding their future together. The dramatic events throughout the story have left many viewers wiping away tears at its conclusion and moved others to deep contemplation. For those looking for an uplifting story filled with moments of joy and sorrow, Me Before You is certainly worth watching.

Up (2009)

This is an animated movie about a grumpy old man who ties thousands of colorful balloons to his house to fly away. Although it may seem like a children’s movie, the first ten minutes will make you cry without fail. It’s a reminder that life can be beautiful even when things don’t go according to plan. This movie conveys a powerful message about growing old and how life can be fulfilling even in adversity. The animation is stunning, and the soundtrack will make you feel all the feels. Up is one of those movies that will make you appreciate your life and all its imperfections.

Million Dollar Baby (2004)

It’s a story about an amateur boxer who dreams of becoming a professional fighter. It follows her journey to the top and all the struggles she faces along the way. This movie evokes emotions, despite it being about boxing. Clint Eastwood’s and Hilary Swank’s acting is outstanding, and the plot is incredibly moving. It shows that sometimes, despite our best efforts and intentions, things don’t always turn out the way we want them to. This movie will not only make you cry and also encourage you because of its powerful message about hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

These are just some of the movies that can make anyone cry. Whether you need a good cry or want to watch something emotional, these films will surely bring out the tears. Just remember to have some tissues handy.