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Get ready to feel all the feels as we explore the enchanting world of Disney magic and heartfelt stories. In this article, we reveal the top tearjerker and sad movies on Disney Plus that will have you reaching for the tissues and pondering the depths of the human experience.
From timeless animations to touching dramas, the streaming giant offers a selection of films that beautifully capture the intricacies of human emotions. Whether you’re looking for a cathartic sob or a soul-stirring narrative, we’ve curated a collection of sad movies on Disney Plus that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. Let’s dive in!
Bao
Bao tells the story of a loving Chinese-Canadian mother struggling with empty nest syndrome. As she prepares a delicious homemade dumpling, it magically comes to life as a joyful, animated baby boy. She pours her love and devotion into nurturing him, cherishing every precious moment.
But as time passes, the baby dumpling grows and begins to assert his independence, leading to a heartbreaking rift between mother and son.
Big Hero 6
Hiro Hamada, a brilliant young inventor, forms an extraordinary bond with a compassionate healthcare robot named Baymax. Together, they assemble a team of talented friends to combat a dangerous villain threatening their city.
However, things turn upside down when Hiro suffers an unimaginable loss, leaving him devastated and consumed by grief. Then, he struggles to find meaning in a world empty and devoid of hope.
Brother Bear
Kenai is a young Inuit boy who loses his beloved older brother in a devastating bear attack. Consumed by grief and guilt, Kenai sets out on a treacherous path of vengeance. He’s determined to hunt down the bear responsible for his brother’s death.
But Kenai’s quest for revenge unexpectedly twists when he magically transforms into a bear. Stripped of his humanity and forced to see the world through the eyes of his former enemy, Kenai embarks on a soul-searching journey to regain his human form and seek redemption.
Finding Nemo
Marlin, a loving clownfish, becomes a single parent after a devastating barracuda attack claims the lives of his mate and almost all of their eggs. Left with only one surviving offspring, Nemo, Marlin becomes fiercely overprotective, fearing the dangers of the vast ocean.
But sorrow returns when Nemo is captured by a scuba diver and taken far away from his father. Marlin’s world crumbles as he embarks on a desperate journey to find Nemo, facing countless dangers and encountering a colorful cast of characters.
The Lion King
The Lion King revolves around Simba, a young lion prince whose path is tragically altered when his malevolent uncle, Scar, ruthlessly plots to usurp the throne. Simba’s idyllic childhood is shattered, and he embarks on a harrowing journey of self-discovery, haunted by the memories of his father’s untimely demise.
With the guidance of newfound companions, Simba must confront the ghosts of his past, summoning the strength to reclaim his rightful place as king. Through bittersweet encounters and emotional trials, he strives to restore balance and harmony to a kingdom torn apart by betrayal and sorrow.
Toy Story 3 (2010)
In Toy Story 3, Andy prepares for college; a bittersweet chapter begins for his cherished toys – Buzz, Woody, and their loyal comrades. They find themselves unexpectedly relocated to a nearby childcare facility, where the prospect of bringing joy to new children initially sparks hope.
However, their excitement dwindles upon discovering that their new neighbor, the tyrannical Lotso, is anything but kind. Determined to return to their beloved home before Andy’s departure becomes permanent, Woody becomes the mastermind behind a daring escape plan for himself and his faithful companions.
The Fault in Our Stars
During their support group sessions, Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley), a sixteen-year-old battling cancer, encounters Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort), a fellow teenager with the same illness. Amidst their struggles, Hazel discovers a deep connection with Gus, recognizing that he truly comprehends her inner world.
Their bond strengthens as they possess a sharp sense of humor and a profound passion for literature. When an opportunity arises for Gus to meet the elusive author, they embark on a transformative journey that becomes the highlight of their limited time together. This one ought to make you cry!
Up! (2009)
Up follows the extraordinary adventures of 78-year-old balloon vendor Carl Fredricksen, who is dealing with the recent separation from his wife and relocation to a retirement community. Carl does something incredible in a remarkable attempt to save his house and embark on a journey across the wilderness of South America.
He takes off on his South American expedition by attaching many balloons to his home. Along the way, he encounters his childhood hero, develops a deep bond with a fatherless child, and rediscovers the true meaning of life.
Inside Out (2015)
If you’re looking for the best animated sad movies on Disney Plus, there’s no way you can miss out on Inside Out!
When Father Riley secures a job in bustling San Francisco, his family is uprooted from their quiet Midwestern life and thrust into the chaotic rhythm of a crowded city. The abrupt change triggers a dramatic shift in the emotions of Riley, their daughter. Sorrow, Rage, Terror, Displeasure, and Joy become erratic and disrupt the harmony within the Headquarters—the central control center of Riley’s thoughts and emotions.
As a pivotal event unfolds, Riley’s cherished memories are profoundly affected, altering her outlook. In a race against time, Joy and Sorrow must embark on a quest to locate her joyful memories and restore equilibrium to the Headquarters, allowing Riley to find her way back to emotional stability. Amidst the challenges and turmoil, it becomes a critical moment for Happiness and Sorrow to reclaim the essence of Riley’s happiness and guide her back to the core of her being. This one’s an absolute rollercoaster of emotions, literally!
Coco (2017)
Twelve-year-old Miguel is a disobedient Mexican youngster who vehemently disagrees with his family’s prohibition on all music. His family’s objection to his desire to pursue music baffles him. Especially given that Ernesto de la Cruz, the best guitarist, is revered in their community.
Miguel accidentally travels to the lively, far-off Land of the Dead on the holy day of the dead. When young Miguel enters the bustling underground to search for a lost relative, he encounters the rogue Skeleton, Hecto, who shows him the way.
West Side Story (2021)
West Side Story, which takes place in Upper West Side Manhattan in 1957, stands among the best sad movies on Disney Plus. Riff’s Jets and Bernando’s Puerto Rican Sharks, two rival gangs, are at war and competing for dominance.
At a high-school dance, young Tony sees Maria and instantly falls in love. However, the Jets and Sharks get riled up by their budding romance. “What’s optimism without love in the face of an unpredictable situation, the movie asks us?”
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Edward (Johnny Depp), an elegant and refined man with an incomplete form, was crafted by a creator who resided on a hilltop. Tragically, the maker passed away before granting Edward the gift of hands, leaving him with scissors as makeshift appendages. Fated to live a solitary existence, Edward’s world takes an unexpected turn when an Avon representative from the area visits the house and discovers his isolated existence. She invites him to her home, where he must adapt to a new way of life and unfamiliar surroundings.
Edward discovers a remarkable hair and hedge-trimming talent in this new environment. Thus, he quickly gains recognition and admiration from those around him. However, his journey turns darker as he realizes that reality is far from his imagined idyllic vision.
Saving Mr. Banks (2013)
Mr. Banks tells the story of a workaholic father named George Banks, who becomes engrossed in his career and neglects his family. So, his children write to a nanny advertisement, and a magical nanny named Mary Poppins arrives. She brings enchantment and whimsy into the Banks family’s lives.
Through a series of unforgettable adventures, Mary Poppins teaches George the importance of prioritizing family and cherishing the joyous moments of childhood.
Old Yeller (1957)
A young boy named Travis forms an unbreakable bond with a stray dog named Old Yeller. Their friendship deepens as they witness the challenges of frontier life, and Old Yeller becomes an invaluable family member. Together, they face wild animals, life-threatening situations, and the harsh realities of survival.
However, when tragedy strikes, Travis must make a heart-wrenching decision that tests his courage and love for his loyal companion.
Emily The Little Matchgirl (2021)
In The Little Matchgirl, one of the best sad movies on Disney Plus, we meet a young girl struggling to survive on the cold and unforgiving streets. She faces rejection and indifference from passersby in her desperate attempts to sell matches. On a freezing New Year’s Eve, she seeks solace in lighting her matches to stay warm and finds comfort in the visions they create.
As the night unfolds, the little matchgirl experiences vivid and enchanting hallucinations. They transport her to a world of warmth, joy, light and magic. These fleeting moments provide a respite from her harsh reality. However, as the last match burns out, she is again left alone in the cold.
Bambi (1942)
Bambi is one of the classic sad movies on Disney Plus. It depicts the poignant and heart-wrenching story of a young deer’s coming-of-age in the forest. From his playful early days to the harsh realities of life, Bambi’s journey is marked by sorrow and loss.
Tragedy strikes when he loses his mother, leaving him alone and vulnerable. As he grows, he witnesses the destructive impact of hunters, facing the devastating consequences that threaten his peaceful world.
Avengers: Endgame
Trapped in the desolation of space, Tony Stark finds himself depleted of sustenance. He’s on the brink of running out of oxygen. In a desperate attempt to reach out to Pepper Potts, his message becomes a poignant farewell as he faces his impending demise.
Simultaneously, the remaining Avengers – Thor, Black Widow, Captain America, and Bruce Banner – grapple with resurrecting their fallen comrades. Their mission is to prepare for an epic confrontation with Thanos. He’s the malevolent demigod who ravaged both the planet and the fabric of the universe.
Remember The Titans (2000)
In Remember The Titans, Schools have long remained segregated in the deeply divided landscape of suburban Virginia. To adhere to federal integration requirements, two high schools, one predominantly Black and the other White, shut down, forcing their students to merge into T.C. Williams Senior High. Against this backdrop, the story unfolds through the lens of the football team.
The once highly successful White coach is displaced from his coaching position. He’s replaced by a new coach recruited from the Black school. As the players and the adults in their lives cope with the challenges of prejudice and racial tension, they begin to forge bonds of reliance and trust. Inspired by the real events of 1971, the team becomes a symbol of unity for the entire community
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
In an unfortunate twist, a newly adopted fox named Tod and a loyal hound dog named Copper form a fast friendship despite being on opposing sides. Tod finds a loving home with a delightful widow. Meanwhile, Copper resides with a treacherous hunter who aims to mold him into a hunting dog.
Their bond is tested when Copper’s owner, fueled by vengeance after an incident involving Tod and his other dog Chief, makes a sinister decision to end Tod’s life. This heart-wrenching turn of events leaves both friendship and loyalty in the balance, with far-reaching consequences.
Togo (2019)
Togo delves into the historical drama of the 1925 Great Mercy Race. Driver Leonhard Seppala and his remarkable dog, Togo, defy expectations as they participate in the grueling race. Despite being frail and undersized, Togo and his driver undertake the longest run in the relay. They prove their indomitable spirit and determination in the face of adversity.
Final Words
And that wraps up our compilation of the top sad movies on Disney Plus. So, when you need an emotional escape, you know where to turn! Whether you find comfort in the timeless tale of a little matchgirl, shed tears for the brave new adventures of cherished characters, or get swept away by the enduring journeys of love and sorrow, these films deliver an experience that will leave you craving more!