There’s something beautiful about an ugly cry. That cathartic, no-holds-barred kind of release just makes you feel human, which probably explains why so many of us love sad movies.
From tragic romances to sorrowful period pieces to heartbreaking adaptations of true stories, the best tearjerkers bring the good with the bad: empathy, gratitude, new perspectives, and a comfort that comes from feeling less alone in the face of our own hardships.
If you’re in need of a good cry, you’ve come to the right place. These 12 films feature tales of star-crossed lovers, grieving mothers, and ill-fated victims of circumstance, all ready and waiting to wet your cheeks and sucker punch you right in the feels. Grab the tissues and your emotional support blanket, because you’re going to need them.