Breaking up in real life is hard. But watching other people break up on screen can be So. Much. Fun.
Maybe I’m just a bad person and a masochist who enjoys the torture of watching others end their relationships (entirely possible), but hear me out. Some scenes require several boxes of tissues handy. Others will make you laugh so hard it hurts. But the hallmark of a truly great breakup scene is that it makes you feel both of those emotions at once.
Take, for example, any one of the many Ross and Rachel breakups. We laugh at “Rachem” and “We were on a break” (we mostly just laugh at Ross), but man — that look on Ross’ face when he truly realizes that the love of his life is leaving him? Well, that’s enough to make you call up the Monica in your life and pry open the emergency Ben & Jerry’s.
The best breakup scenes are entertaining, soul-wrenching, riveting, and cathartic. And we’ve rounded up some of the most iconic. So, whether you’re in the mood for a good cry, a laugh, or a cry-laugh, we’ve got you covered. Go emote.
Sex and the City has as many break-ups as it has get-togethers (a lot). Yet none have been quite as cinematic as the end of Carrie and Aidan’s tumultuous relationship. Aidan proposes marriage, and Carrie can’t commit. With the Columbus Circle Fountain backdrop as a cinematic backdrop, Carrie and Aidan’s expectations misalign one last time.
Breaking up is always tough. But you know what makes it extra tough? Not wearing any pants while the love of your life is trampling your heart.
He makes a list. She would never do that. These two were on a break even before they even went on a first date.
What is the point of going to a John Mayer concert if you’re going to miss “Your Body Is a Wonderland?”
Warning: This scene is not for the faint of heart. One of the most gut-wrenching breakup scenarios ever, it’s also one of the most realistic. After all, partners do leave for other people, and there’s no such thing as a clean break.
It’s kind of hard to watch this scene knowing what comes after (sob!), but you have to appreciate the fact that Ygritte uses her signature line.
I mean, does it get any worse than, “I’m sorry. I can’t. Don’t hate me,” scrawled hastily on a yellow Post-It as your lover escapes your bed in the middle of the night?
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