Sure, rom-coms are fun to watch, but they also rub in every aspect of the perfect relationship you don’t have. A devoted partner, open communication and trust. Even if you aren’t in a relationship, sometimes you don’t need that reminder, and you just need to have a good cry. If you fall under either of these categories, here are the top three movies to watch when suffering from a broken heart. 

The Notebook

The main characters exhibit almost everything you want in a relationship, which is why it is such a good one to cry about. Set in the 1940s, Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling), a miller worker, continuously pursues Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams), a young rich girl, until she says yes to a first date. Noticing how much effort he puts into getting Allie to go on a date with him makes me tear up. The most memorable scene from this movie is when the two get caught in a downpour. I love this part in the movie because the two found each other again after being apart for so long. While some may say this is a rom-com, I think it is the perfect movie for a good cry for two reasons: First, Noah spent his entire life chasing Allie for what seems like nothing because he lost her for so long, and second, it makes you realize that you’re worth being fought for.

Romeo + Juliet

This is not only one of my all time favorite movies, but it also makes me ugly cry every time I watch it. The 1996 version puts a modern spin on Shakespeare’s classic play, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. This movie is visually appealing, containing detailed costumes, scenery and lots of action. Romeo + Juliet has been told in a million different ways, but this is by far my favorite version. It could be that I just love young Leonardo DiCaprio but it could also be the message behind this film, ‘dying for your one true love’.

Titanic

This unlikely love story ends tragically and will leave you in tears. Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet) is a wealthy 17-year-old aboard the Titanic. While on the boat, she meets Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a poor young artist, who won his third class ticket in a poker game. Watching the two form a friendship from Rose’s distress over her loveless engagement warms my heart, just to break it by the end of this movie. The two fall deeper in love as the boat hits an iceberg and starts to sink. I can’t help but to get anxious every time this part of the movie comes around. Knowing that their end is soon, the two promise to never let go of each other. Jack keeps his promise, and you either know what happens next, or you’ll be bawling your eyes out by the end of this movie. He saves Rose’s life and this movie displays a real version of  ‘if he wanted to he would.’