Ever sat there as the end credits rolled, with tears on your face, shocked by how deeply a movie hit you? Films grab our hearts and won’t let go, leaving us so moved we vow to never see that movie again, no matter how good it was. From sad deaths to lines that stick in your head, these moments show how strong films can be. We will look at the 15 most tear-jerking times in film history, the ones that left us blown away and, for some, unable to press play again.
15. The Last Farewell in Inside Out
When Bing Bong gives himself up so Joy can save Riley, it hits hard, making even tough viewers cry. BuzzFeed says his final words, full of hope and sadness, stick with you.
14. What Happens to Setsuko in Grave of the Fireflies
Few cartoons hit as hard as this one. Seeing Setsuko’s sad end is a lesson in pulling heartstrings, and BuzzFeed notes it’s a moment that stays with you long after the movie ends.
13. Marley’s End in Marley & Me
Dog fans, watch out. Marley’s death is so honest and raw that lots say they can’t watch it again. Both BuzzFeed’s lists of tough movies and sad deaths confirm—it’s a real tearjerker.
12. Mufasa’s Fall in The Lion King
Who didn’t cry when Scar let Mufasa fall off that cliff? This big Disney moment, mentioned by BuzzFeed, is something all movie fans remember.
11. The End for Bruno and Shmuel in The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
Young joy meets harsh history in this tough ending. BuzzFeed says it’s a moment that leaves people lost for words and shocked.
10. The Giving Up in Requiem for a Dream
This film is all about deep sorrow. Its dive into loss and sadness is so heavy that many, as BuzzFeed says, refuse to watch it ever again.
9. The Last Letter in The Blacklist
Sometimes, just a few words break you. When Raymond Reddington writes Ressler a letter after his love dies, those words hit hard, as BuzzFeed shows.
8. Artax’s End in The NeverEnding Story
A horse sinking in a swamp shouldn’t be this upsetting, but Artax’s death scars all ages, as mentioned by BuzzFeed.
7. The Raw Feel of Room
The Room is so full of intense feelings that many, according to BuzzFeed, can’t make themselves see it twice.
6. The Farewell in Titanic
When Rose lets go of Jack’s hand, it’s more than just a love story wrapping up—it’s a film heartbreak that’s now a legend, seen in BuzzFeed’s summary.
5. The Harsh Reality in Schindler’s List
This tough, real look at the Holocaust is so strong that for many, one watch is all they can handle. BuzzFeed points out, it’s a masterpiece too hard to see again.
4. Dobby’s Exit in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1
Dobby’s goodbye surprises even tough Potter fans. BuzzFeed names it one of the most grieved character deaths in recent films.
3. Precious’s Heartache
After finding out she has HIV, Precious’s open, raw reaction—pushed by her teacher—stands out as one of the most strong moments in film, as shown by BuzzFeed.
2. The Hurt in Boy’s Don’t Cry
The real, sad story and tragic end in this film are so heavy that, per BuzzFeed, many can’t watch it a second time.
1. Sophie’s Harsh Choice
Few scenes in movies are as tough as Sophie’s impossible pick. Per BuzzFeed, this moment is pure emotional ruin—one that stays with you even after the movie is over.