If you find yourself in an unproductive rut, push away the need to force yourself to be more productive and watch an inspirational movie or two. No one guarantees that you will feel better after, but you will want to make something more out of life. Watching someone live out your dream, or overcome a million hurdles life throws at them, is the best motivator ever to exist. So if you want to get back to feeling like you have to fulfill something, watching a few inspirational movies on Netflix is the way to go. Here is a list of 15+ movies that take it up high with you.
1 – Begin again (2013)
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Begin Again is a movie that tells the story of Greta, a singer who moves to New York with her boyfriend to pursue music. However, once they arrive, her boyfriend becomes consumed by the fame and fortune that comes with a successful music career, leaving Greta alone and heartbroken. Struggling to find her way, Greta meets Dan, a disgraced record executive, who believes that Greta’s singing is something special.
Together they embark on a journey to record an album on the streets of New York, creating music that is honest and authentic. Begin Again is a heartwarming and inspiring film, reminding us that sometimes the end is just the beginning of something new and beautiful.
2 – The Little Prince (2015)
The Little Prince is a heartwarming and visually stunning adaptation of the beloved French novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The film revolves around a young girl who befriends an eccentric old aviator and discovers the story of a prince from a far-off planet. As she delves deeper into the prince’s tale, she begins to learn important lessons about the beauty of life, friendship, and the power of imagination.
With its charming characters, poignant messages, and breathtaking animation, The Little Prince is a must-see for adults and children alike. This adaptation is sure to evoke emotions and leave viewers with a sense of wonder and inspiration.
3 – Lion
The lion is a majestic animal that captivates us with its sheer power and majesty. It’s no wonder that the movie industry has produced countless films that feature this iconic creature. But one particular movie stands out from the crowd – the Lion movie. This emotional drama tells the story of a young lion cub named Simba, who must navigate the harsh realities of growing up in the wild.
Along the way, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including his loyal friend Nala and the wise old monkey Rafiki. With breathtaking animation and a powerful message about the circle of life, the Lion movie is an unforgettable cinematic experience that will both entertain and inspire.
4 – The Karate kid (2010)
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The Karate Kid, released in 2010, is a remake of the 1984 classic that captivated audiences with its inspiring message. The story follows a young boy named Dre who moves from Detroit to China with his mother. After a run-in with a group of bullies, Dre turns to an unlikely source for help – maintenance man Mr. Han, who also happens to be a martial arts master.
Together, they embark on a journey that teaches Dre the true essence of karate – that it’s not always about fighting, but rather about self-discipline, respect, and inner strength. With its heartwarming storyline and breathtaking fight scenes, The Karate Kid (2010) is a movie that continues to inspire viewers of all ages.
5 – Forrest Gump (1994)
Forrest Gump is a classic American film that captured hearts with its inspiring story and unforgettable characters. The movie follows the life of Forrest, a simple man with a big heart who manages to navigate complex social issues and personal challenges with grace and humor. Through a series of flashbacks, we see Forrest’s journey from a young boy with leg braces to a courageous war hero and successful business owner.
Along the way, he meets some of the most important people in his life, including his true love Jenny. With its iconic soundtrack, beautiful cinematography, and outstanding performances from Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and Gary Sinise, Forrest Gump is a timeless masterpiece that never fails to captivate audiences.
6 – The boy who harnessed the wind (2019)
Based on the inspiring true story of William Kamkwamba, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a touching coming-of-age tale that is sure to tug at your heartstrings. Set in rural Malawi in the early 2000s, the film follows a determined and curious teenager who, facing overwhelming odds, teaches himself how to build a wind turbine. His goal? To provide electricity for his small village and lift his family out of poverty.
Through sheer grit and determination, William’s story serves as a reminder of the incredible power of the human spirit, and the potential we all have to create change in the world around us.
7 – The bucket list (2007)
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The Bucket List, released in 2007, is a heart-warming film that explores the beauty of life’s journey. The movie follows two strangers, played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, who are diagnosed with terminal illnesses and decide to create a bucket list of things they want to do before they kick the bucket. From skydiving to visiting Egypt, the pair embark on a series of exciting adventures that push them out of their comfort zone and bring them closer together.
The Bucket List reminds us that life is short, and we should make the most of it while we can. It encourages us to step out of our routine and try new things, to make memories that last beyond a lifetime. The film is a touching tribute to the power of friendship and the importance of living life to the fullest.
8 – Four minutes (2006)
Four Minutes (2006) is a gripping film that will take you on an emotional journey. The story revolves around Traude, a piano teacher who teaches at a women’s prison in Germany. She comes across a young woman named Jenny, who has a natural talent for playing the piano. However, Jenny is harboring a dark secret that Traude is determined to unravel. As the two women work together, their relationship deepens, and the audience is drawn into their struggles to confront their pasts and find hope for their futures.
The film’s musical performances are breathtaking, and the acting is superb, making Four Minutes a must-watch for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and moving cinematic experience.
9 – Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
The Fundamentals of Caring (2016) is a heartwarming film that explores the beauty of human relationships. Starring Paul Rudd and Craig Roberts, the movie follows the story of a young man, Trevor, with muscular dystrophy and his caregiver, Ben, who is struggling with his own personal loss. As they embark on a road trip, they encounter a series of unexpected events that teach them about life, love, and the importance of genuine human connection.
The film is a true testament to the power of empathy and compassion and serves as a beautiful reminder that, no matter how different we may seem on the surface, we are all united by our shared experience of being human.
10 – 13th (2016)
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13th is a thought-provoking documentary that takes a deep dive into the history of race, justice, and the criminal justice system in the United States. With stunning visuals and interviews from activists and experts, the film explores the ways in which the 13th amendment, which abolished slavery, has been exploited to continue the oppression of Black Americans through the prison industrial complex. From the war on drugs to mandatory minimum sentencing, 13th unmasks the systemic racism that has led to disproportionate rates of incarceration for Black Americans.
The film illuminates how, even after slavery ended, the systems in power found a way to perpetuate slavery through mass incarceration. 13th is not only a must-watch documentary but also a call to action to work towards a more equitable justice system.
11 – Seven Pounds (2008)
The movie Seven Pounds, released in 2008, is a riveting drama that explores the depths of human emotion and sacrifice. Will Smith delivers an outstanding performance as Ben Thomas, a man who is haunted by his past mistakes and seeks redemption by selflessly helping others. As the plot unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as we witness the lengths that Ben will go to in order to make amends for his past.
The story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the value of human life. Without a doubt, Seven Pounds is a movie that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
12 – Into the Wild (2007)
“Into the Wild” captures the essence of adventure and self-discovery in the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young graduate who leaves his comfortable life behind to embark on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Directed by Sean Penn, the film starkly contrasts the materialistic world of McCandless’ past with the beautiful yet treacherous wilderness he chooses to explore.
As he navigates through the unforgiving terrain, McCandless learns valuable lessons about himself and the world around him, ultimately realizing the importance of human connection and the dangers of isolation. Through stunning cinematography and a compelling performance by Emile Hirsch, “Into the Wild” is a captivating exploration of the human spirit and the search for meaning in life.
13 – 12 years a slave (2013)
“12 Years a Slave” is a powerful, emotionally-charged film that takes us on a journey back in time to pre-Civil War America. The movie tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. We follow Solomon’s harrowing journey as he struggles to survive in the harsh conditions of the Deep South where he is forced to work on a plantation.
The film packs an emotional punch as it portrays the brutal reality of slavery and challenges us to confront the injustices of our past. With top-notch acting and a moving score, “12 Years a Slave” will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on anyone who sees it.
14 – Marriage story (2019)
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“Marriage Story” is a heart-wrenching masterpiece of a film that speaks to the complexity and fragility of relationships. Through the stunning performances of Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson, we follow Charlie and Nicole as they navigate the painful process of divorce. Director Noah Baumbach deftly captures the nuances and contradictions of human emotion, painting a portrait of a love that has wilted under the weight of growing apart.
The film reminds us that though we may think we know what we want, life has a way of throwing curveballs that challenge our assumptions about ourselves and each other. A must-watch for anyone who has ever loved and lost, “Marriage Story” is a cinematic treasure that will leave you breathless.
15 – Truman show (1998)
The Truman Show, released in 1998, is a satirical film that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. The movie provides a glimpse into the life of Truman Burbank, who is, without his knowledge, the star of a reality show that has been airing non-stop since his birth. As the movie progresses, the audience follows Truman’s journey as he attempts to uncover the truth about his life and the people around him. This cleverly crafted movie is a fascinating commentary on our obsession with reality shows and the impact that constant exposure to media has on us.
With a compelling story, fantastic performances, and stunning cinematography, The Truman Show is a movie that is not to be missed. So, it is a must-watch for any film enthusiast who is looking for a movie that will both entertain and make them think.
16 – The Trial of The Chicago 7 (2020)
The Trial of The Chicago 7 is a historical drama film that takes its audience on a journey to the turbulent times of the late 1960s. The movie follows the events that led to the trial of seven anti-war activists who were charged with conspiracy and inciting violence during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. The film is a compelling examination of the socio-political context of the time and the impact of the Vietnam War on American society.
It features a talented cast, including Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who deliver powerful performances that capture the spirit of the era. The Trial of The Chicago 7 is an essential watch that shows how activism and dissent can lead to testaments that can change the course of history.
17 – Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (2018)
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In 2018, audiences across the world were captivated by the heart-warming documentary, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” based on the life and legacy of the legendary children’s television host, Fred Rogers. For more than three decades, Rogers taught children valuable life lessons through his thoughtful, gentle words and delivery. The film takes viewers on a nostalgic journey as those who knew him best – his wife, family, and close friends – reflect on his unyielding kindness and unwavering dedication to children’s education and development.
With touching interviews and archival footage, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” celebrates the profound impact that Rogers had on the world and the enduring legacy of his timeless message of love, kindness, and compassion.
Whether these movies inspire you or not, they are must-watch movies. Inspiration strikes from within, and these movies may be the fuel that lights up your passion.
