14 Teen Movies That Definitely Made You Cry

Jessica Bedewi
Updated June 6, 2024 55.1K views 14 items
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Voting Rules
Vote up the teen movies that brought the waterworks.

If you think sad teen romance movies skew too young to truly affect you, you're just plain wrong. Just like the heartbreaking moments in every lovable Disney movie, teen films know how to lay on the emotional content. In fact, they can be more overtly sad than some of their adult counterparts. 

By focusing on a younger audience but addressing very real issues, teen movies have the ability to hit you right where it hurts. You don't have to pretend that you just spent an hour cutting onions. It's okay to admit that the cheesy teen rom-com made you cry.

From sweet coming-of-age stories to dramatic tales of loved ones lost to illness, adults and children will find themselves reaching for the nearest box of tissues when they pop one of these films on. Take a look at these teen movies that will definitely make you cry, and vote up the titles that are real tearjerkers. 


  • A Walk to Remember
    1
    Shane West, Mandy Moore, Peter Coyote
    454 votes

    A Walk to Remember artfully navigates the delicate balance between the lightheartedness of high school romance and the somber realities of life's tribulations. In this tear-jerking story, bad boy Landon unexpectedly falls for the religious and introverted Jamie, creating a powerful exploration of the transformative nature of love and its ability to unearth one's true character. As the tragic twist unfolds, the film evokes a profound sense of heartbreak and loss, demonstrating that even the most treasured moments in life are ephemeral. A Walk to Remember ultimately serves as a testament to the enduring power of love, despite the transitory nature of life itself.

    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Adam Shankman
  • Five Feet Apart
    2
    Haley Lu Richardson, Cole Sprouse, Moises Arias
    397 votes

    Five Feet Apart poignantly displays the heartrending challenges faced by two teens living with cystic fibrosis, who must maintain a distance of at least six feet from one another to avoid the risk of cross-infection. The film adeptly reveals the heartache and isolation experienced by those grappling with chronic illness, while simultaneously illustrating the indomitable spirit of love and connection that can flourish against all odds. The palpable chemistry between the two leads, coupled with the looming cloud of uncertainty, makes for a deeply emotive narrative that resonates with audiences. All in all, Five Feet Apart stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transcendent nature of love.

    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Justin Baldoni
  • The Fault in Our Stars
    3
    Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Willem Dafoe
    493 votes

    The Fault in Our Stars captures the heart-wrenching turmoil of young love amidst the harsh reality of terminal illness. This poignant tale follows the burgeoning romance of Hazel and Augustus, two teens who meet in a cancer support group, essentially intertwining the delicate intricacies of teenage relationships with the heavy burden of mortality. The film skillfully portrays the emotional rollercoaster that comes with young love and the complexities of facing one's own mortality, revealing that even in the face of tragedy, hope and healing can still thrive. Through its deeply affecting narrative, The Fault in Our Stars has assuredly earned its place amongst the saddest teen movies of all time.

    • Released: 2014
    • Directed by: Josh Boone
  • What's Eating Gilbert Grape
    4
    Johnny Depp, Juliette Lewis, Mary Steenburgen
    296 votes

    What's Eating Gilbert Grape poetically portrays the complexities of growing up amidst familial struggles, mental health challenges, and the pressure to balance personal desires with responsibilities towards others. The film delves into the tender yet turbulent relationship between Gilbert, a young caretaker for his disabled brother Arnie, and a free-spirited nomad who enters their lives. The poignant narrative captures both heartbreaking and heartwarming moments, illustrating the multifaceted nature of human connections and the inherent power of compassion and empathy. Through its raw and authentic portrayal of life's trials and tribulations, What's Eating Gilbert Grape has undoubtedly cemented its status as one of the saddest teen movies in cinematic history.

    • Released: 1993
    • Directed by: Lasse Hallström
  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
    5
    Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
    313 votes

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower masterfully explores the tumultuous journey of adolescence through the eyes of introverted high school freshman, Charlie. The film deftly interweaves themes of friendship, love, identity, and mental health, creating an evocative tapestry that reflects the complexities of finding oneself amidst the chaos of teenage years. Each character's unique struggles and vulnerabilities serve as a poignant reminder that no one is immune to heartache, and the formation of true connections can create a life raft in stormy seas. With its profound emotional resonance and unflinching portrayal of growing pains, The Perks of Being a Wallflower has firmly established itself as a tear-jerking teen classic.

    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Stephen Chbosky
  • If I Stay
    6
    Chloë Grace Moretz, Mireille Enos, Jamie Blackley
    217 votes

    If I Stay delves into the harrowing aftermath of a car accident, as young protagonist Mia lies in a coma and must decide whether to fight for her life or succumb to the darkness. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit, providing viewers with an emotional journey through the delicate balance between life and death. With its gripping narrative and heart-rendering portrayal of relationships teetering on the brink of catastrophe, If I Stay invokes tears aplenty while emphasizing the power of choice in determining one's own destiny. From its arresting premise to its bittersweet conclusion, this soul-stirring film has made a lasting impact as a profoundly moving teen movie.

    • Released: 2014
    • Directed by: R.J. Cutler