Editorials10 Emotional Movies That Will Shatter Your Heart

10 Heartbreaking Movies That Will Shatter Your Heart

Written by Matt Nelson & Likewise Pix | Sep 19, 2024 These 10 heartbreaking movies will tug at your heartstrings and leave you in tears. Be sure to have a box of tissues nearby as we delve into these poignant tales of love, loss, and redemption.

1. Grave of the Fireflies

Grave of the Fireflies
© Photo: Provided by Likewise

Set in the final months of World War II, the story of 14-year-old Seita and his sister Setsuko is a poignant tale of survival and love. The duo becomes orphaned when their mother is killed during an air raid in Kobe, Japan. With no surviving relatives and only depleted rations, the siblings take refuge in an abandoned bomb shelter. The heart-wrenching depiction of their struggle is a testament to the human spirit's resilience amidst unimaginable adversity. Watch now

2. Up

Up
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Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old man, had always dreamed of exploring the world. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he meets Russell, an enthusiastic 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer. Together, they share a touching and adventurous story that captures the essence of fulfilling unachieved dreams and finding new beginnings. Watch now

3. A Single Man

A Single Man
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George Falconer, portrayed by Colin Firth, navigates life after the sudden death of his longtime partner. His journey is a melancholic exploration of grief, punctuated by moments seeking solace in the company of his close friend Charley. The film beautifully showcases the complexities of love and loss, underscored by powerful performances. Watch now

4. Me Before You

Me Before You
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This tale of unexpected love begins with a small-town girl and a wealthy man now bound to a wheelchair after an accident. Over time, their relationship evolves from a rocky start to one that opens new emotional landscapes for both of them. Their journey is intimately captured, depicting the power of love to transform and heal. Watch now

5. Mustang

Mustang
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In a small Turkish village, five orphaned sisters live under the watchful eyes of their conservative family. Facing the threat of arranged marriages, they band together in defiance, yearning for freedom. Their story offers a heartfelt look at the oppressive realities faced by many young women and their enduring spirit to resist and dream. Watch now

6. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
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Set against the backdrop of WWII, this film tells the story of young Bruno, who befriends Shmuel, a boy living on the other side of a fence. Unaware of Shmuel’s condition as a Jewish prisoner, Bruno's innocent friendship blossoms, leading to an emotional and devastating journey of discovery. Watch now

7. The Whale

The Whale
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Brendan Fraser stars as a reclusive English teacher who battles severe obesity while trying to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter. This intimate tale of redemption is both heartbreaking and hopeful, exploring themes of forgiveness, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of love. Watch now

8. Reign Over Me

Reign Over Me
© Photo: Provided by Likewise

This film delves into the life of a man grieving the loss of his family during the September 11 attacks. Reuniting with his old college roommate becomes a beacon of hope for his healing journey. It is a touching portrayal of friendship’s power to mend shattered lives and bring solace amidst profound loss. Watch now

9. Sophie's Choice

Sophie's Choice
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Meryl Streep stars in this harrowing story about Sophie, a Holocaust survivor. Set in 1947, Stingo, a young writer, moves to Brooklyn and becomes intertwined with Sophie and her troubled lover Nathan. Through powerful flashbacks, the film unveils Sophie’s painful past, laying bare the effects of trauma and the complexities of human relationships. Watch now

10. Father Stu

Father Stu
© Photo: Provided by Likewise

Based on a true story, ‘Father Stu’ chronicles the life of boxer-turned-priest Stuart Long. After an injury derails his boxing career, he embarks on a spiritual journey following a chance meeting with a Sunday school teacher. His path to priesthood, marked by a motorcycle accident and introspection, becomes a moving tale of redemption and purpose. Watch now

These films are a testament to the power of storytelling in capturing the depths of human emotion. Each movie presents a unique portrayal of love, loss, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster and remember to have tissues at the ready.