Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that everyone — and I mean everyone — is talking about the Thai hit drama film, How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.
Whether it be the countless TikToks of people bawling their eyes out or the fact that this movie has become one of the top-grossing movies in Southeast Asia, the 2024 film directed by Pat Boonnitipat is pretty much the talk of the town.
Heck, even the leading star herself, Usha Seamkhum, who plays “Amah” (the granny), came down to Singapore to greet her adoring fans. At this point, she’s everyone’s grandma.
If you’re facing post-movie depression or simply looking to discover more films to cry your heart to, you’ve to add these 7 underrated tearjerker movies or shows to your watchlist now.
Oh, and no fret, there are no spoilers here!
1. Miss Granny (2014)
Here’s another granny you can bond with and shed tears over.
Miss Granny (2014) is a South Korean film directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk that soon became a blockbuster hit after it was released.
The movie essentially follows the life of Oh Mal-soon (Shim Eun-kyung and Na Moon-hee), a 74-year-old woman who’s not only foul-mouthed and overly controlling but also bitter about her life and circumstances. A bizarre incident causes her to regain her 20-year-old body, presenting her a second chance to relive her youth.
While the movie has comedy parts here and there, there are scenes that are bound to tug at your heartstrings. One particular scene that stands out is when the protagonist expresses her willingness to relive her past life just to have her son with her.
Mind you, she has experienced a string of hardships, such as losing her husband at an early age (thus explaining her bitterness). It’s truly amazing to see the extent of dedication women have towards motherhood.
However, what makes Miss Granny similar to How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is how the protagonist is surrounded by family members who don’t have good intentions and the ways she deals with this scenario.
The overall story will make you see the beauty in your life and why you should always be kind to your mom (or grandma, in this case).
Available on Netflix
2. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Any Studio Ghibli fans here? As one myself, I gotta put this movie out here.
Grave of the Fireflies (1988) does not need to be introduced as it’s one of the most legendary anti-war (and certified tearjerker!) films in cinematic history. If there’s one thing you should know about Hayao Miyazaki, one of the founders of Studio Ghibli, it’s that he’s very against war and violence.
This film is a perfect testament to that.
Commonly labelled as “the best movie I’ll never watch again” among fans, Grave of the Fireflies is painful to watch, for lack of a better word. That’s because we as viewers are left feeling hopeless after witnessing the horrifying ordeal of a brother and sister duo forced to survive in a bomb-devastated Japan.
No one, especially children, should experience hunger to the point of death but that’s exactly what this movie highlights. On top of societal inequality during the war and extreme nationalism, difficult topics are prominently exhibited throughout the film.
So, do get some tissues ready.
Available on Apple TV+
3. CODA (2021)
The 2022 Academy Awards is defined by just one moment — the iconic Will Smith slap. It’s unfortunate though, as this means that CODA (2021), the biggest winner of the night, was overlooked.
This movie stands out due to its starring of deaf actors using American Sign Language but don’t worry, there are subtitles, so you won’t miss a thing!
If you’re a young adult trying to make your mark in the world, you might find yourself relating to the protagonist. I’ll be forthright and say that I am.
Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) is one hardworking 17-year-old, juggling school while working at her family’s fishing business. The issue arises when as the business is facing hard times, Ruby discovers her passion for music and gets accepted into a prestigious music school.
Should she chase her dream or fulfil the role of a filial daughter? I can bet that this question pops up in the minds of many, especially in a society that values both career and family (aka Singapore).
Available on Apple TV+
4. Lighting up the Stars (2022)
Lighting up the Stars (2022), directed by Jiangjiang Liu, is the furthest thing to a Marvel film there is. There are no special effects, stunts or even melodramatics in this film, yet boring it’s not.
The show follows the life of mortician Mo Sanmei (Zhu Yilong) as he forms a father-daughter relationship with orphan Wu Xiaowen (Yang Enyou) during a funeral. This decision was not a voluntary one, which led to Mo facing more problems than he already had. Eventually, this relationship allows him to view his mortifying job and life in a new light.
You can treat this movie as somewhat of a wise teacher, someone who’s telling you to be kinder to yourself and give yourself a second chance. It also touches on the struggles of coping with grief and loss.
Available on Netflix
5. Sandcastle (2010)
For something that hits close to home, Boo Junfeng’s Sandcastle (2010) is what you should watch. This movie is in the history books as it’s the first-ever Singaporean-made film to be showcased during International Critics’ Week at the Cannes Film Festival. Truly flying our flag high.
You’ll get to witness the coming-of-age of 18-year-old En (Joshua Tan) as he prepares to enlist in the Singaporean army. Given the turbulent nature of this age, imagine the challenges our protagonist must confront when his family’s troubles and secrets resurface.
Boo Junfeng is known for commenting on taboo topics on our shores through his films, and this tearjerker movie is no different. Sure, some scenes may be uncomfortable for some viewers but I can guarantee that everyone will be moved by feelings of sadness and nostalgia.
Available on Apple TV+
6. Abang Adik (2023)
Since we’ve a locally made film, it feels right to feature one from our neighbours as well. What’s more, it’s a critically acclaimed one, having been nominated for several Golden Horse awards.
Abang Adik (2023) is written and directed by Jin Ong, and depicts the story of a pair of undocumented orphans living in a poverty-stricken and crime-ridden area in Malaysia. It can be hard to see how brothers Abang (Wu Kang-ren) and Adik (Jack Tan) survive in such an unforgiving environment, but I guess you have to make do with what you’ve.
Family is the most important thing in the world, which this film will never fail to remind you of.
Available on Netflix
7. If Anything Happens I Love You (2020)
This is a bonus pick as it’s neither a film nor a show but instead a short film lasting only 12 minutes. However, these 12 minutes are enough to make you weep uncontrollably.
The best description I have of If Anything Happens I Love You (2020) is that it’s a love letter from a daughter to her parents. Directed by Michael Govier and Will McCormack, this Oscar-winning short film is inspired by real-life events (which makes things a whole lot worse) and talks about one of the most pressing issues in the United States: gun violence.
See how the death of their 12-year-old daughter led to the breakdown of her parents’ marriage and how she ultimately brought them back together through hope and reassurance.
Available on Netflix
Each of these tearjerker films, with its unique narrative and profound themes, offers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and resilience.
Which of these tearjerker films will be the next to leave you reaching for the tissues?
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