Arts & Entertainment
5 True Story Films That Will Bring You Tears Of Joy
Hoping to watch a tear-jerker this weekend? Check out true-story films such as "The Pursuit of Happyness," "Seabiscuit" and "Walk the Line."
If you're looking to have a good cry, watching a sad movie will surely do the trick. But the best types of movies produce tears of joy — and if you don't believe us, these real-life story films that we've compiled for your viewing pleasure will have you convinced in no time.
From the heartbreaking story of a homeless man in "The Pursuit of Happyness" to the struggles of an award-winning musician in "Walk the Line," these movies are sure to boost your spirits with an uplifting message in the end.
Check out the full list of sad movies with happy endings below:
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“The Pursuit of Happyness” — Will Smith, Thandie Newton, Jaden Smith; directed by Gabriele Muccino
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Chris Gardner’s bestselling 2006 memoir comes to life in Gabriele Muccino’s biopic, a chronicle of the author’s humble beginnings to his rise to fame in the business world. The film stars Will Smith as Gardner, who struggled in the 1980s as a homeless salesman while raising a toddler son. Despite his unfortunate circumstances, the dad prevails, overcoming poverty in the end.
“Erin Brockovich” — Julia Roberts, Albert Finney; directed by Steven Soderbergh
Julia Roberts shines in her Oscar-winning performance as the titular single mom who, despite her lack of education, helps win a $333 million class-action lawsuit against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in 1996 — the largest of its kind in U.S. history. Not bad for the tenacious Brockovich, who ultimately gets a $2 million bonus payment for her incredible feat.
"The Impossible" — Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor; directed by J.A. Bayona
Based on a true survival story, "The Impossible" is a moving tribute to the determination and courage of one amazing tourist family. Meet the Bennett clan — Henry (Ewan McGregor), his wife, Maria (Naomi Watts), and their three young boys, Lucas (Tom Holland), Thomas (Samuel Joslin) and Simon (Oaklee Pendergast) — who are enjoying their Christmas vacation in a seaside town near Khao Lak, Thailand, in 2004. Moments later, however, a massive 100-foot tsunami sweeps across the area, leaving havoc in its wake. Will the whole family of five ever be reunited?
“Seabiscuit” — Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Elizabeth Banks; directed by Gary Ross
A triumphant, uplifting true story, “Seabiscuit” follows the life and racing career of the titular undersized thoroughbred racehorse who, against all odds, pulls through in a thrilling victory. By the end, this underdog becomes a national symbol of hope to millions whose lives have been shuttered in Depression-era America.
“Walk the Line” — Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon; directed by James Mangold
Based on Johnny Cash’s two autobiographies, the musical biopic chronicles the life of the legendary musician (Joaquin Phoenix), focusing on his rise to stardom, his descent into addiction and his romance with June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). In the end, however, love conquers all.
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