5 Sad Movies on Netflix to Watch This Week

Are you in the mood for an emotional rollercoaster? Sometimes, we all need a good cry to release pent-up emotions and connect with our vulnerable side. Netflix offers a diverse collection of movies that can evoke deep emotions and leave a lasting impact on viewers.

Here, we have curated a list of five sad movies on Netflix that are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings. From heart-wrenching dramas to thought-provoking tales, these movies will take you on an emotional journey. 

So grab some tissues, settle into your comfiest spot, and get ready for an emotional movie marathon.

1. Title: Tell Me Who I Am 

Release Year: 2019
Director: Ed Perkins
Runtime: 1 hr 26 min

In the poignant documentary “Tell Me Who I Am,” the heartbreaking story of identical twins Alex and Marcus unfolds. At age 18, Alex loses his memory due to a tragic accident, forcing him to rediscover his identity with the help of his only familiar face, Marcus. However, as the documentary progresses, Alex begins to question the honesty of the idyllic memories Marcus has shared. Revealing information gradually, the film takes on a thrilling tone. The emotional impact is palpable as the now 54-year-old brothers open up directly to the camera, their pain evident in close-up shots. “Tell Me Who I Am” will undoubtedly bring tears, but it also offers a glimmer of hope.

2. Title: Purple Hearts 

Release Year: 2022
Director: Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum
Runtime: 2 hrs 2 min

In the poignant documentary “Tell Me Who I Am,” the heartbreaking story of identical twins Alex and Marcus unfolds. At age 18, Alex loses his memory due to a tragic accident, forcing him to rediscover his identity with the help of his only familiar face, Marcus. However, as the documentary progresses, Alex begins to question the honesty of the idyllic memories Marcus has shared. Revealing information gradually, the film takes on a thrilling tone. The emotional impact is palpable as the now 54-year-old brothers open up directly to the camera, their pain evident in close-up shots. “Tell Me Who I Am” will undoubtedly bring tears, but it also offers a glimmer of hope.

3. Title: Fatherhood 

Release Year: 2021
Director: Paul Weitz
Runtime: 1 hr 49 min

In the touching drama “Fatherhood,” Kevin Hart showcases his unexpectedly sensitive side under the direction of Paul Weitz. The film follows Matt (Hart), who finds himself raising his newborn daughter alone after the devastating loss of his wife during childbirth. Adapted from Matthew Logelin’s heart-wrenching memoir, “Fatherhood” tells a true story of family, love, and resilience that will bring tears to your eyes. With an incredible supporting cast including Alfre Woodard, as well as comedic powerhouses Lil Rel Howery and Anthony Carrigan, Hart’s performance shines through the script co-written by Weitz and Dana Stevens. “Fatherhood” is a powerful and emotionally gripping film that highlights the strength of a father’s love.

4. Title: 18 Presents 

Release Year: 2020
Director: Francesco Amato
Runtime: 1 hr 55 min

“18 Presents” is an emotional film based on a true story, following Elisa (Vittoria Puccini), a pregnant woman who discovers she has breast cancer. Knowing she may not see her daughter Anna (Benedetta Porcaroli) grow up, Elisa leaves her 18 heartfelt gifts to be opened each year until Anna becomes an adult. Through these gifts, Anna learns about her mother’s love and the sacrifices she made. The film beautifully portrays the bond between mother and daughter, evoking powerful emotions. Be prepared with a box of tissues or two as “18 Presents” delivers a heartfelt and touching narrative that will tug at your heartstrings.

5. Title: Pieces of a Woman 

Release Year: 2020
Director: Kornél Mundruczó
Runtime: 2 hr 8 min

The opening sequence of “Pieces of a Woman” is undeniably heart-wrenching, compelling enough to make you consider turning it off midway. Vanessa Kirby delivers a powerful performance as a woman who experiences the devastating loss of her child during a home birth, creating one of the most memorable and heartbreaking scenes in recent film history. While the movie doesn’t reach that emotional intensity again, it doesn’t need to. It gracefully explores the journey of healing after unimaginable loss, with Kirby portraying a character who feels disconnected from life in a heartbreakingly authentic way. Kirby’s remarkable performance rightfully earned her an Academy Award nomination.