Yes, I know The Notebook is earning considerable attention lately as a tear-jerker extraordinaire, but here's my list of movies guaranteed to drop a grown man to his knees:

Of Mice and Men (1992) -- This drama starring Gary Sinise and John Malkovich tops the heap. Such a tear-jerker it spawned its own ranking category on Frank's Reel Reviews.

Where the Red Fern Grows (1974) -- Anything involving a boy and his dog is destined for that emotional roller-coaster.

Old Yeller (1957) -- See Where the Red Fern Grows above. Can we please stop talking about boys and their dogs?

Schindler's List (1992) -- This true story of Oskar Schindler's attempt to save Jews from the holocaust gets me every time.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946) -- I think we've all cried at this one. Watch it during the holidays and share a family member's shoulder. Can't help but shed a tear even though we know it's coming.

Glory (1989) -- How can such a macho movie about such a manly war make a wuss out of the toughest of men? Watch it to find out. Denzel Washington gives one of those "once in a career" performances.

My Dog Skip (2000) -- Here's that dog thing again!

Sounder (1972) -- I read the book, then like a fool, I watched the movie! Why would a man put himself through that again? Stars Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield as black sharecroppers in Louisiana in the 1930s. Oh yeah....it's about a dog. Imagine that!

Forrest Gump (1994) -- Another film sure to evoke tears. Bubba was his best friend, his momma was a wise woman. Forrest may not be a smart man -- but he does know what love is.

Titanic (1997) -- The romantic story of rich girl meets poor boy is sure to touch the heart of anyone. Guys beware, it has very high Julia Roberts factor. But on the positive side it sports a high Get Lucky factor. Good luck!

Ghost (1990) -- A chick flick of the highest order. But if forced to sit through one, just remember...it's better than Mystic Pizza. Stars Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze as they dabble with the afterlife.

Brian's Song (1971) -- From that 1970's "Made for TV" mold. But not only is this film one of the top tearjerkers of all time, it's hard to argue that this is not one of the best sports films of all time. True-life drama of Chicago Bears teammates Brian Piccolo (James Caan) and Gale Sayers (Billy Dee Williams). It's numerous Emmy Awards were well deserved.

Rudy (1993) -- Sean Astin's "other" character. RUDY!....RUDY!....RUDY! Please pardon me a moment while I gather myself.

We Were Soldiers  (2002) -- An extremely powerful war film that will cause even the strongest alpha male to shed tears.

Big Fish (2003) -- Although fairly new on the scene, this one's a must see. A tale about a man's relationship with his father. Go see it with your son or your father. [whispered quietly while patting each other on the shoulder] "Now there, there. It's OK....let it go!"

Saving Private Ryan (1998) -- One of the most significant and powerful war movies ever made. World War II finally gets its Deer Hunter.

Fried Green Tomatoes (1991) -- A bevy of powerful actresses lead us through the gamut of emotions in this interweaving story of women's liberation, racism, love, humor, triumph and tragedy. 

(Article also posted on www.franksreelreviews.com.)