The Best Movies for Heartbreak

Ranker Film
Updated April 1, 2024 46.8K views 60 items
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The films on this list of the best movies for heartbreak have been ranked by the community and are sure to warm your heart as you deal with your own heartbreaks. This list features the best heartwarming movies and is compiled from the most popular titles on this subject. What are the best movies to watch when you're heartbroken?

This list includes titles that have been top box office hits and many of the heartbreak films on this list have received multiple awards as well. Some of the titles here feature true events that inspired the making of the movie, while others are completely fictional in nature. A variety of genres are also covered, including drama, comedy, and romance.

This list includes the top movies for heartbreak such as Annie Hall, Where the Heart Is, Forrest Gump, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Little Miss Sunshine, and Moonrise Kingdom. Vote up the films that you think are the best for getting through heartbreak or add a movie you think is great but isn't already on the list.

Most divisive: Happy Feet
Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies for Heartbreak
  • Up
    1

    Up

    Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
    152 votes

    This animated masterpiece follows an elderly widower named Carl, who, after losing his beloved wife, embarks on a poignant journey to fulfill their shared dream of visiting Paradise Falls in South America. By tying thousands of balloons to his house, Carl inadvertently takes along a young, enthusiastic Boy Scout named Russell. Throughout their adventure, viewers witness the importance of forming new connections and embracing life's challenges in the face of loss.

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  • Forrest Gump
    2

    Forrest Gump

    Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
    184 votes

    This critically acclaimed drama revolves around the life of Forrest Gump, played by Tom Hanks, a simple man with a low IQ who manages to find himself unintentionally present at historical events. As Forrest recounts his life story, audiences experience the ups and downs of his loving relationship with childhood sweetheart Jenny, as well as the impact that love, loss, and friendship have on his life. While navigating various obstacles and hardships, the film illustrates the resilience of the human spirit in coping with life's inevitable heartaches.

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  • Dead Poets Society
    3

    Dead Poets Society

    Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke
    110 votes

    Robin Williams stars as unconventional English teacher John Keating, who inspires a group of high school boys to appreciate poetry, seize the day, and question conventional ideas. Set in an all-boys preparatory school in the 1950s, the movie grapples with themes of friendship, conformity, and the power of individuality. As tragedy unfolds in the wake of rebellion, the film leaves a lasting impression on audiences about the consequences of societal pressures and the importance of staying true to oneself.

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  • The Green Mile
    4

    The Green Mile

    Tom Hanks, David Morse, Michael Clarke Duncan
    127 votes

    Set in the 1930s, this emotional drama takes place in a Louisiana penitentiary and tells the tale of a gentle giant named John Coffey, who has been falsely accused of murdering two young girls. Through the compassionate eyes of the prison guard Paul Edgecombe, viewers get to know the innocent inmates on death row, each with their own story of pain and redemption. This emotionally charged film confronts the harsh realities of life, death, and forgiveness while emphasizing the importance of empathy in a seemingly cruel world.

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  • The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
    5

    The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

    David Thewlis, Vera Farmiga, Rupert Friend
    95 votes

    This heart-wrenching drama brings together two unlikely friends: eight-year-old Bruno, the son of a Nazi officer, and Shmuel, a Jewish boy confined within a concentration camp. Unaware of the atrocities unfolding around them, their innocent friendship offers hope amidst the darkness of the Holocaust. With its deeply emotional and thought-provoking message, this film reminds viewers of the horrors of war while showcasing the purity of childhood friendships that can transcend the worst of circumstances.

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  • Ghost
    6

    Ghost

    Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg
    105 votes

    In this iconic romantic drama, viewers follow the story of Sam Wheat, played by Patrick Swayze, who is tragically killed and left to navigate the afterlife as a ghost. Unable to communicate with his heartbroken girlfriend Molly, played by Demi Moore, Sam enlists the help of a psychic named Oda Mae to bring closure and protect Molly from danger. Through a captivating mix of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements, the film highlights the enduring power of love beyond the boundaries of life and death.

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  • Fried Green Tomatoes
    7

    Fried Green Tomatoes

    Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Mary Stuart Masterson
    76 votes

    Through a series of flashbacks narrated by elderly Ninny Threadgoode, the film explores the lives of two strong-willed women, Ruth and Idgie, and their enduring friendship in 1920s Alabama. As their story unfolds, present-day Evelyn Couch seeks solace and inspiration in their tale while grappling with her own marital problems. This multi-layered narrative not only delivers a moving portrayal of female friendships but also showcases the importance of intergenerational connections and the power of storytelling.

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  • Little Women
    8

    Little Women

    Winona Ryder, Gabriel Byrne, Trini Alvarado
    76 votes

    This beloved adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's novel brings to life the story of the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and personal growth during the Civil War era. Through the eyes of headstrong writer Jo, audiences experience the struggles and joys of sibling relationships, first loves, and the pursuit of one's ambitions. This timeless classic serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of family bonds and the inevitability of change.

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  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
    9

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower

    Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
    80 votes

    This coming-of-age drama tells the story of introverted high school freshman Charlie, who struggles with mental health issues, the loss of his best friend, and the complexities of adolescence. Through befriending seniors Sam and Patrick, Charlie finds solace in shared experiences and learns the value of friendship and self-acceptance. This tender film captures the essence of teenage vulnerability and the resilience needed to overcome life's many obstacles.

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  • My Sister's Keeper
    10

    My Sister's Keeper

    Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin
    78 votes

    Based on Jodi Picoult's bestselling novel, this heartrending drama tells the story of Anna, a young girl who was conceived through in vitro fertilization as a genetic match for her older sister Kate, who suffers from leukemia. When Anna decides to sue her parents for medical emancipation, the family is forced to confront the ethical and emotional consequences of their decisions. This thought-provoking film delves into the complexities of family dynamics, self-sacrifice, and the fragility of life.

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  • Little Miss Sunshine
    11

    Little Miss Sunshine

    Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette
    74 votes

    In this dark comedy-drama, the dysfunctional Hoover family embarks on a cross-country road trip to support seven-year-old Olive in her quest to compete in a beauty pageant. Along the way, each family member encounters personal challenges and ultimately learns the power of love, acceptance, and perseverance. With its quirky humor and touching moments, this film explores the importance of overcoming life's hardships together as a family.

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  • I Am Sam
    12

    I Am Sam

    Sean Penn, Michelle Pfeiffer, Dakota Fanning
    75 votes

    Sean Penn stars as Sam, a developmentally disabled man, fighting for custody of his seven-year-old daughter Lucy. With the help of a high-powered attorney, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, Sam faces off against the legal system in a heart-wrenching battle to prove his competence as a father. This emotional film reminds viewers of the unconditional love between a parent and child, and the importance of accepting others despite their differences.

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  • Under the Tuscan Sun
    13

    Under the Tuscan Sun

    Diane Lane, Sandra Oh, Lindsay Duncan
    48 votes

    After her recent divorce, writer Frances Mayes, played by Diane Lane, takes a leap of faith by purchasing a dilapidated villa in Tuscany. As she sets out to restore the property, Frances forges new friendships, navigates romantic entanglements, and discovers the beauty of starting anew. This picturesque film offers a blend of romance, self-discovery, and an ode to the healing power of change.

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  • Pay It Forward
    14

    Pay It Forward

    Kevin Spacey, Helen Hunt, Haley Joel Osment
    74 votes

    This inspiring drama follows the journey of young Trevor McKinney, who, inspired by his social studies teacher, comes up with a plan to make the world a better place by "paying it forward." Through acts of kindness, Trevor's idea spreads and impacts the lives of countless individuals, proving that even a small act can make a significant difference. The film serves as a powerful reminder of the ripple effect of love and compassion amid life's adversities.

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  • Pride & Prejudice
    15

    Pride & Prejudice

    Keira Knightley, Matthew McFadyen, Brenda Blethyn
    85 votes

    In this captivating adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, headstrong Elizabeth Bennet, played by Keira Knightley, navigates societal expectations and the pitfalls of love in 19th-century England. As she clashes with the brooding Mr. Darcy, played by Matthew Macfadyen, their story highlights the importance of overcoming initial judgments and allowing oneself to be vulnerable in love. With its unforgettable characters and timeless themes, the film remains a cherished tribute to the complexities of human relationships.

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  • Juno
    16

    Juno

    Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
    95 votes

    This witty, coming-of-age dramedy follows the story of Juno, a pregnant teenager who decides to give her baby up for adoption. As Juno navigates newfound responsibility, emotional struggles, and the complexities of relationships, she learns important life lessons about love, friendship, and sacrifice. Through its engaging storyline and well-crafted dialogue, the film showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of its titular character while addressing difficult topics with humor and sincerity.

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  • (500) Days of Summer
    17

    (500) Days of Summer

    Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Zooey Deschanel, Geoffrey Arend
    91 votes

    This unconventional romantic comedy-drama chronicles the 500-day relationship between aspiring architect Tom Hansen and quirky, independent-minded Summer Finn. As Tom reflects on their time together through a nonlinear narrative, viewers witness the euphoria of new love and the painful reality of heartache. The film resonates with audiences for its authentic portrayal of the highs and lows of modern romance and the importance of self-discovery in the aftermath of a breakup.

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  • The Lovely Bones
    18

    The Lovely Bones

    Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon
    77 votes

    Based on the bestselling novel by Alice Sebold, this compelling drama follows the aftermath of the brutal murder of 14-year-old Susie Salmon, who watches over her grieving family and the man responsible for her death from a surreal afterlife. While Susie seeks closure and justice, her family grapples with their loss and the impact it has on each of their lives. This haunting film explores themes of grief, redemption, and the enduring bond between family members even in the face of tragedy.

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  • Where the Heart Is
    19

    Where the Heart Is

    Natalie Portman, Ashley Judd, Stockard Channing
    51 votes

    After being abandoned by her boyfriend at a Walmart in Oklahoma, pregnant Novalee Nation, played by Natalie Portman, finds refuge and an unlikely support system within the small town's community. As her life unfolds over several years, Novalee learns the true meaning of family, love, and perseverance in the face of adversity. This touching drama showcases the strength of the human spirit and the power of community in overcoming life's obstacles.

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  • Brians Song
    20

    Brians Song

    James Caan, Billy Dee Williams, Jack Warden
    46 votes

    This tear-jerking TV movie recounts the real-life story of two Chicago Bears teammates, Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers, whose deep friendship endures racial tensions, personal hardships, and devastating illness. As Brian battles terminal cancer, the bond between the two men helps them both face adversity with courage and grace. This inspirational film stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of friendship in overcoming even the most challenging circumstances.

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  • About Time
    21

    About Time

    Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
    56 votes

    When Tim discovers he has the ability to time travel, he uses his newfound gift to improve his romantic prospects and relive life's precious moments. As he navigates the complications of his extraordinary abilities, Tim learns that some events are simply out of his control. This heartwarming film explores the beauty of embracing the imperfections of life and cherishing the time we have with those we love.

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  • The Family Man
    22

    The Family Man

    Nicolas Cage, Téa Leoni, Don Cheadle
    39 votes

    When successful Wall Street executive Jack Campbell, played by Nicolas Cage, awakens to find himself living an alternate life as a married man with children, he must navigate the challenges of suburban family life and reevaluate his priorities. As he grows increasingly attached to this new existence, Jack learns valuable lessons about love, commitment, and the true meaning of happiness. This heartwarming film serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing life's simple joys and the people who matter most.

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  • Serendipity
    23

    Serendipity

    John Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Molly Shannon
    45 votes

    In this enchanting romantic comedy, Jonathan and Sara meet by chance in New York City and feel an instant connection, but they are both committed to other people. Years later, they are engaged to others but can't shake the memory of their brief encounter, leading them on a journey to find one another again. This charming film explores the concept of destiny and the idea that some connections are simply meant to be, regardless of life's obstacles.

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  • Frozen
    24

    Frozen

    Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff
    73 votes

    In this beloved animated musical, sisters Elsa and Anna must overcome their fear, mistrust, and past traumas to save their kingdom from an eternal winter brought on by Elsa's uncontrollable ice powers. As they confront danger and forge new friendships, the sisters learn the importance of love, understanding, and believing in oneself. Full of memorable songs and enchanting visuals, this film captivates audiences with its timeless themes of family and self-acceptance.

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  • Happy Feet
    25

    Happy Feet

    Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy
    77 votes

    This animated musical adventure follows the story of Mumble, a young emperor penguin who is ostracized by his colony for his inability to sing the traditional "heartsong" necessary to attract a mate. In his quest to find acceptance, Mumble discovers his unique talent for tap dancing and ultimately unites his community in a celebration of individuality. Amidst its lively soundtrack and endearing characters, the film delivers a powerful message about embracing one's differences and the importance of self-expression.

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  • Rudy
    26

    Rudy

    Sean Astin, Ned Beatty, Charles S. Dutton
    54 votes

    Based on a true story, this inspiring sports drama follows the journey of Rudy Ruettiger, an undersized football enthusiast who dreams of playing for the University of Notre Dame. Faced with numerous challenges, including learning disabilities and a lack of resources, Rudy's unwavering determination to achieve his goals leaves a lasting impact on those around him. This heartening tale illustrates the power of perseverance, hard work, and inner strength in realizing one's dreams, despite all odds.

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  • Amélie
    27

    Amélie

    Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
    55 votes

    This whimsical French romantic comedy follows the story of Amélie Poulain, a shy and quirky young woman who decides to improve the lives of those around her through anonymous acts of kindness. As she navigates love and new experiences, Amélie learns the importance of embracing life's pleasures, no matter how small. With its vibrant visuals, charming dialogue, and endearing protagonist, this film captures the beauty of human connection and the power of goodwill.

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  • Finding Neverland
    28

    Finding Neverland

    Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie
    62 votes

    This enchanting biographical drama explores the life of playwright J.M. Barrie, who, inspired by his friendship with the Llewelyn Davies family, creates the beloved character of Peter Pan. As Barrie helps both the children and their grieving mother find solace in their imaginations, he discovers the power of storytelling and the importance of never losing sight of one's inner child. This tender film is a moving tribute to the magic of creativity and the healing nature of make-believe.

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  • Forgetting Sarah Marshall
    29

    Forgetting Sarah Marshall

    Jason Segel, Kristen Bell, Mila Kunis
    60 votes

    Marking one of the most relatable entries in the romantic comedy genre, this film follows the hilariously awkward journey of Peter Bretter, played by Jason Segel, as he tries to heal from a devastating breakup with his TV-star girlfriend Sarah Marshall. Peter's attempts to move on involve a disastrous Hawaiian vacation, confrontations with an over-the-top rock star, and unexpected new connections that ultimately lead to personal growth. This laugh-out-loud film highlights the importance of self-discovery, friendship, and vulnerability in the face of heartache.

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  • American Beauty
    30

    American Beauty

    Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch
    56 votes

    This critically acclaimed drama delves into the lives of the Burnham family, who, despite their seemingly idyllic suburban existence, struggle with disillusionment, dissatisfaction, and the complexities of modern life. As each character seeks to find meaning and happiness in their unique way, the film masterfully examines themes such as love, infidelity, and the pursuit of authenticity. With its compelling performances and thought-provoking narrative, this film offers a powerful exploration of the human experience and the search for fulfillment.

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