The Best Films to Help You Through Grieving and Loss

Grief and loss are some of life’s most universal experiences, yet they’re also deeply personal. For many, films can provide solace and understanding during these trying times. Movies offer a window into shared experiences, giving us stories, characters, and emotions that help us process our feelings. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt drama, a lighthearted comedy, or even an animated masterpiece, this list explores some of the most impactful films to guide you through grief and loss.

Dramas That Touch the Soul

Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Regarded as one of the most poignant portrayals of grief, Manchester by the Sea follows Lee Chandler (played by Casey Affleck) as he navigates life after a devastating personal tragedy. After his brother’s sudden death, Lee becomes the guardian of his teenage nephew. The film doesn’t shy away from the raw, messy realities of mourning, offering an honest representation of how loss can upend your life. The scene where Lee confesses his inability to forgive himself is heartbreaking yet cathartic, reminding viewers that grief is a process without easy solutions.

The Descendants (2011)

This tragic yet hopeful story follows Matt King (George Clooney), a man grappling with the impending death of his comatose wife while juggling the needs of his two daughters. The plot unfolds in Hawai'i, contrasting the serene beauty of the landscape with the emotional turmoil of the characters. The Descendants excels in highlighting the complexities of family relationships during a crisis. One particularly moving moment is Matt's monologue at his wife’s bedside—a raw and deeply human expression of love and anger.

Steel Magnolias (1989)

This heartfelt drama showcases the strength of female friendship while exploring themes of love, life, and loss. When tragedy strikes one of the group’s most beloved members, the women channel their shared grief into supporting one another. Sally Field’s gut-wrenching outburst at her daughter’s funeral is unforgettable; it captures the complexity of loss with breathtaking accuracy. At the same time, the film is infused with moments of humor and love, making it a deeply cathartic experience.

Comedies That Find Humor in Tragedy

The Farewell (2019)

Lulu Wang’s The Farewell is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. This semi-autobiographical tale follows Billi (Awkwafina) as she travels to China with her family to say goodbye to her terminally ill grandmother—without actually telling her the truth about her condition. The film delicately balances the gravity of loss with moments of laughter, driven by the eccentricities and warmth of family life. It’s a beautiful exploration of cultural differences in grieving traditions, mixed with a universal longing for connection and closure.

Up (2009)

Pixar’s Up is proof that animated films can address grief as profoundly as live-action dramas. The movie opens with a deeply emotional montage that depicts Carl and Ellie’s life together, from their joyful marriage to Ellie’s tragic death. It’s a sequence that brings many viewers to tears—even before the main story begins. Up then transitions into a heartwarming adventure as Carl learns to rediscover purpose and connection through his unlikely friendship with a young scout named Russell. The blend of comedy, tragedy, and hope makes this film enduringly impactful.

Jojo Rabbit (2019)

Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit tackles grief and loss with irreverent humor and surprising poignancy. Set during World War II, the film follows Jojo, a young boy whose world is upended when he discovers that his mother has been hiding a Jewish girl in their home. The tragic loss within the story becomes a turning point for Jojo, forcing him to confront his misconceptions and grow. While the film is packed with humor, it doesn’t shy away from the devastating impact of war and loss, offering moments of emotional resonance.

Animated Gems That Heal All Ages

Coco (2017)

Disney and Pixar’s Coco is a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and the tradition of Día de los Muertos. The story follows Miguel, a young boy who ventures into the Land of the Dead to uncover his family’s secrets. At its core, Coco is about honoring loved ones who have passed while remembering that their love lives on through us. The poignant reunion between Miguel and his great-grandmother, as he sings her the touching song, "Remember Me," is a tearjerker. The film’s message of connection and remembrance resonates deeply for anyone processing loss.

The Lion King (1994)

For many, The Lion King introduced the concept of loss as children. The death of King Mufasa is one of cinema’s most heartbreaking moments and a pivotal event that shapes Simba’s journey. The story is a powerful exploration of grief, guilt, and identity, as Simba learns to face his past and live up to his father’s legacy. With its stunning animation and iconic soundtrack, The Lion King becomes a touching allegory about finding hope and purpose after tragedy.

Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

This Japanese animated masterpiece by Studio Ghibli is one of the most heart-wrenching films about loss. It follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they struggle to survive in war-torn Japan during World War II. The story is devastating yet breathtaking in its depiction of love and sacrifice. While the film is unflinchingly tragic, it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable hardship.

International Perspectives on Grief

Departures (2008)

This Japanese film is a quiet yet profound meditation on life and death. It tells the story of Daigo, an unemployed cellist who finds unexpected meaning in working as a traditional funeral professional. Through his job, Daigo helps families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect. The film portrays death as an integral part of life and highlights the beauty of rituals that help us cope. Its gentle pace and poignant storytelling offer a unique perspective on grief.

A Separation (2011)

From Iran, A Separation is a layered drama that explores the ripple effects of loss, be it of a loved one, a marriage, or a sense of stability. When a couple separates, family tensions and cultural expectations collide, leading to profound emotional consequences. The film masterfully examines how grief intersects with other elements of human experience, such as duty and morality.

Cinema has a way of articulating the inexpressible. It can help us process feelings we can’t put into words and remind us that we’re not alone in our pain. Films about grief and loss aren’t just about sadness; they’re about resilience, growth, and renewal. They show us that even in the face of heartbreak, life continues, often in unexpected and beautiful ways.