We spend most of our waking hours chasing happiness but often forget that there’s something undeniably cathartic about shedding a tear. Contrary to what people believe, indulging in a good cry isn’t always an exercise in melancholy. It can be a way to release pent-up grief. Plus, there’s solace in shared experiences. What better place to find such cathartic treasures than Netflix?
Sad films, in particular, have the remarkable ability to touch the deepest corners of our hearts. And Netflix, as usual, has plenty of options for those who do not want to cry a river in movie halls.
With a vast library of films from various genres, including poignant and tear-jerking masterpieces, Netflix has become a haven for those in search of a good cry.
So, grab a cosy blanket as we bring your our curated list of essential binges—sad films edition this time. If you needed a reminder that there’s beauty even in life’s darkest moments, these are meant for you.
Five essential sad movies to make you ugly cry:
Titanic
Titanic, directed by James Cameron, is a timeless epic that has left audiences sobbing since its release in 1997. This tragic tale revolves around the ill-fated love story between Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet) aboard the luxurious RMS Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage.
Set against the backdrop of the ship’s tragic sinking, the film captures the overwhelming intensity of first love and the heart-wrenching sacrifices made in the face of tragedy.
Les Misérables
Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Les Misérables is a musical masterpiece that has touched the hearts of millions. This adaptation, directed by Tom Hooper, follows the struggles of Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), a former prisoner seeking redemption, and the relentless pursuit to capture him by Inspector Javert (Russell Crowe).
Anne Hathaway’s raw and heart-wrenching performance as Fantine is also worth a tear or two if musicals do not phase you.
Roma
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, Roma is a poignant portrayal of domestic workers and their relationships with the families they serve. Set in 1970s Mexico City, the film revolves around Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), a maid working for a middle-class family who navigates personal struggles amid political and social unrest.
Roma captures the intricacies of human connections and the profound impact that seemingly ordinary lives can have on one another. The film inspired Billie Eilish to write ‘When I Was Older’.
Still Alice
Still Alice is an emotionally charged drama starring Julianne Moore, who delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Dr Alice Howland, a linguistics professor diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
The film follows her journey as she grapples with the loss of her memories, identity, and connection with her loved ones. It is a poignant exploration of the fragility of life.
La La Land
La La Land is a unique addition to this list as it is more of a bittersweet romantic drama that celebrates love, dreams and the pursuit of one’s passion. Directed by Damien Chazelle, the film revolves around Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress, and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz musician, who find their lives intertwined in the bustling city of Los Angeles.
As they strive for success in their respective careers, they discover the inevitable complexities of balancing ambition with love.
Masaan (Crematorium)
This Indian gem, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, explores the intersecting lives of several characters grappling with loss, societal norms, and the pursuit of happiness. Set in the sacred city of Varanasi, India, Masaan weaves together multiple narratives that converge at the ghats of the Ganges River, where funeral pyres burn relentlessly.
Through its poignant storytelling, the film touches on themes of love, death, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit in a world divided by caste, class, and communal disharmony.
