Best Sad Movies on Netflix: Why go for a heart-pounding action flick or a laugh-out-loud comedy when you can dive into a good cry? Sad movies have a way of touching us deeply, resonating long after the credits roll. They tap into emotions beyond mere entertainment, stirring something within us that craves a more profound connection. They can even mirror aspects of our own lives, evoking memories of lost loves or absent loved ones.
Heartache is a universal experience, something we all share regardless of background or circumstance. It’s what binds us together, forging connections between strangers who’ve felt similar pain or weathered the same storms. Because in sorrow, we find a common ground. So grab your tissues and assure yourself it’s just something in your eye, not tears. Here are the best sad movies currently streaming on Netflix.
A Man Called Otto
“A Man Called Otto” tells the story of a widower named Otto, based on Fredrik Backman’s novel, portrayed by Tom Hanks. Otto yearns to reunite with his late wife in death, but his new neighbors, especially Marisol (played by Mariana Treviño), have other plans for him.
Marisol, with her determination and refusal to let Otto drown in grief, pushes him to rediscover the joys of life. While the movie offers moments of upliftment through their budding friendship, it delves into heavy themes like suicide and the loss of a child, so be prepared for a tearjerker.
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To the Bone
When it comes to films addressing anorexia and eating disorders, sensitivity is paramount. “To the Bone” handles these themes with care, avoiding stigma and portraying the diverse experiences of those affected. Lily Collins shines as Ellen, a young woman battling anorexia, whose journey unfolds in a communal living setting alongside peers facing similar struggles. Collins delivers a profoundly emotional performance, showcasing the depth of her talent.
Adding to the film’s impact is Keanu Reeves‘ standout portrayal of Dr. William Beckham, an unconventional specialist who emphasizes holistic healing. Reeves brings depth to the character, encouraging emotional, physical, and spiritual growth in his patients. “To the Bone” offers a nuanced exploration of these complex issues, anchored by powerful performances that resonate long after the credits roll.
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Pieces of a Woman
The opening of Pieces of a Woman hits you like a ton of bricks. You might even feel tempted to hit pause and take a breather. Vanessa Kirby’s character goes through indescribable pain as she loses her child during a home birth – it’s one of those scenes that stays with you.
But the film isn’t just about that heart-wrenching moment. It’s more about what happens after, the slow journey of healing in the face of unbearable loss. Kirby’s portrayal of someone grappling with grief is raw and powerful, earning her an Academy Award nomination.
Pieces of a Woman doesn’t aim for dramatic highs after that initial gut punch. Instead, it quietly explores how one copes with tragedy and whether seeking retribution truly brings closure. It’s a thought-provoking film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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Marriage Story
Marriage Story isn’t just a movie; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that struck a chord with audiences, thanks to its raw portrayal of love and loss. Directed by Noah Baumbach, it delves deep into the unraveling marriage of Charlie (played by Adam Driver) and Nicole (portrayed by Scarlett Johansson). As their relationship crumbles, they navigate the complexities of divorce, grappling with their own emotional baggage while trying to shield their son from the fallout.
The film garnered numerous Oscar nominations and showcased Laura Dern’s stellar performance as Nicole’s lawyer, earning her an Academy Award. What sets Marriage Story apart is its unflinching honesty—it doesn’t shy away from exposing the flaws of its characters, offering a poignant glimpse into the intricacies of family dynamics. It’s a delicate yet powerful piece of cinema that leaves a lasting impact, resonating with anyone who’s experienced the highs and lows of love and separation.
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Tell Me Who I Am
“Tell Me Who I Am” delves into the deeply personal journey of identical twins, Alex and Marcus, whose lives are forever changed by a tragic accident. At just 18, Alex loses all memory, forcing him to piece together his identity with the help of his brother, Marcus. However, as Alex uncovers unsettling truths beneath Marcus’s carefully constructed narrative, the documentary unfolds like a gripping thriller, gradually revealing the painful reality hidden beneath the surface.
Shot in intimate close-ups, the film captures the raw emotions of the now 54-year-old brothers as they candidly share their experiences. It’s a poignant and moving exploration that will likely bring tears to your eyes, yet it also carries a sense of hope amidst the heartache.
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Beasts of No Nation
Cary Joji Fukunaga’s follow-up to the first season of True Detective was truly remarkable filmmaking. Set in Ghana, the movie revolves around Agu, a young boy navigating a war-torn African country. After escaping the violence that ravages his village, Agu is taken in by a rebel group called the Native Defense Forces, led by Idris Elba’s character known simply as Commandant. Under Commandant’s influence, Agu is shaped into something almost inhuman.
The film paints a heartbreaking picture of Agu’s loss of innocence in the most harrowing circumstances imaginable. He’s subjected to unspeakable horrors early on, which desensitize him to the brutal realities of his world. Agu is transformed into a ruthless killer of women and children, a far cry from the innocent boy he once was. With Elba delivering a chilling performance, the movie leaves an indelible mark on its viewers, prompting us to ponder whether some individuals are beyond redemption.
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The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
This movie’s title alone gives you a clue about what you’re in for. But strangely, knowing how it ends doesn’t spoil the journey; if anything, it helps brace you for the emotional rollercoaster ahead. In this debut directorial effort from Chiwetel Ejiofor, the story unfolds in the stark backdrop of Malawi, a poverty-stricken African nation.
The protagonist, William (played by Maxwell Simba), finds himself in the midst of a historic drought ravaging his village. His father, portrayed by Ejiofor himself, grapples with a deep sense of failure, lashing out in despair as he struggles to provide for his family. As his faith wavers, we witness a gut-wrenching portrayal of a man losing hope.
But amidst the despair, it’s William’s youthful ingenuity that sparks a glimmer of hope for change. This film, while heavy at times, weaves a poignant tale of a father and son, exploring themes of pride, humility, trust, and sacrifice. It’s a story that tugs at your heartstrings in all the right ways.