Sometimes a day doesn't go well: work is overwhelming, motivation is lacking, and mood is at zero. In such moments, the most effective therapy can be to allow yourself to dive into your feelings and let them out. One of the most natural ways to do this is a good movie that can evoke tears.
Research shows that the emotional response to films allows for safe stress relief, alleviates anxiety, and promotes emotional release (Frontiers in Psychology, 2022). Even fictional stories experienced through the screen provide an opportunity to empathize, recognize one's emotions, and feel that you are not alone. Here are 10 films that can evoke tears, help process the bitterness of loss, memories of past love, or simply release inner tension.
1. "Past Lives" (Past Lives, 2023, USA)
A drama about unfulfilled childhood love explores the theme of "What if" and difficult life choices. The story of Nora and Hae Sung, reunited years later in New York, shows how circumstances shape fate and leave room for regrets and nostalgia.
2. "Amour" (Amour, 2012, France/Austria)
Director Michael Haneke created a story about an elderly couple facing illness and aging. The strong emotions, moral dilemmas, and sincere love of the characters make the film a powerful emotional experience.
3. "Waiting to Exhale" (Waiting to Exhale, 1995, USA)
A film about female friendship and the search for love reveals the complexities of relationships, loss of hope, and the strength of support. The stories of the heroines touch not only on personal experiences of loss but also on the universal human desire for happiness.
4. "Marley & Me" (Marley & Me, 2008)
The story of loyalty and love for a pet reminds us of the importance of emotional connections with animals. The loss of a beloved pet, portrayed with tenderness and humor, evokes tears while also providing warmth through memories.
5. Titanic (Titanic, 1997)
An epic romantic drama about Jack and Rose combines personal feelings with historical tragedy. The film intertwines love, hope, and loss, helping the viewer feel the depth of human emotions.
6. "Roma" (Roma, 2018, Mexico/Spain)
Alfonso Cuarón's film about a family's life in 1970s Mexico combines personal dramas with historical events. The subtle handling of emotions and visual language create an effect of complete immersion and deep empathy.
7. "The Break-Up" (The Break-Up, 2006, USA)
Disguised as a light romantic comedy, the film explores the pain of gradual separation and the necessity of letting go of someone with whom it seemed everything would last forever. Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston star in the lead roles.
8. "Steel Magnolias" (Steel Magnolias, 1989, USA)
A comedy-drama about life in a small town in Louisiana through the lens of female friendship balances humor and tragedy. Losses, illnesses, and life's difficulties highlight the value of support from loved ones.
9. "The Notebook" (The Notebook, 2004, USA)
An iconic love story tested by time shows the power of devotion and the ability to maintain feelings despite social obstacles and illnesses. A flawless performance by Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling.
10. "The Vow" (The Vow, 2012, USA)
The story of a couple experiencing memory loss explores the theme of devotion and the need to choose love anew constantly. The film evokes tears, reminding us that true feelings can overcome any trials.
These films help to experience emotions that we often try to suppress and provide an opportunity to feel relief through tears. Psychological studies confirm that experiencing emotions through cinema reduces stress, improves mood, and contributes to restoring psycho-emotional balance (Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 2021). Sometimes the best way to "reset" is to allow yourself to cry sincerely.
