Who doesn’t love crying? It’s a great way to release energy, emotion, and clean out your eyeballs. Sometimes, happiness can be overrated. Here are some tear-inducing films that will keep you well hydrated.
1. The Little Prince (2015)
A new adaptation of the classic St. Exupéry book, this film has an inventive frame story that flashbacks to the tale of how a fallen aviator met a special little boy that was especially good at intergalactic travel. With lessons about love, innocence, and the inevitability of death, this seems like a children’s story that’s suitable for any adult with a heart.
2. Toy Story 3 (2010)
When Andy’s off to college, his beloved toys get donated to a day care. But Woody’s convinced that they’re not abandoned and doomed to their new life, and plots a plan to escape. Don’t watch this right before you go to college. It will make you pack up all of your toys and bring them with you. Toys have feelings, too.
3. Marley & Me (2008)
Based on the book by John Grogan, this film tears at the heartstrings of every animal-lover. (Everyone on the planet?) Marley is so much more than man’s best friend.
4. The Theory of Everything (2014)
Young Stephen Hawking is a talented physicist — one of the greatest minds England has ever seen. But when he develops a degenerative muscular condition, it threatens the relationship he has with his wife and his work. A touching meditation on the preciousness of holding on to everything you have before it’s lost.
5. Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)
A searing portrait of adolescence, this film is important for anyone who’s ever had an impossible love. When Adèle is enchanted by a woman with blue hair, her whole life is changed. The film doesn’t shy away from the rawness of the transition from girlhood to womanhood.
6. The Virgin Suicides (1999)
Being sheltered can lead to some tragic consequences. In the case of the Lisbon family, tragedy is all too familiar. A group of boys becomes obsessed with their unbelievable story. The film is based on the book by Jeffrey Eugenides.
7. Up (2009)
An old man travels in a house tied to balloons, and some adorable and sweet things happen on his adventure to Paradise Falls. An emotional soundtrack ties this whole film into one beautiful and timeless knot.
8. The Notebook (2004)
You know this one. It’s the movie adaptation of the beloved Nicholas Sparks book. Love can last a lifetime, even if it’s long forgotten.
9. Beloved (1998)
There’s ghosts, there’s slavery, and there’s family. This haunting tale, adapted from Toni Morrison’s brilliant book, will stay with you long after it’s over.
It’s okay to cry. Cry by yourself or cry with friends. If you need some help crying, these movies are there for you. If you need some tissues, though, you’re on your own.