20 Inspiring Movies to Watch at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Life is filled with highs and lows for everyone. Sometimes the difficulties we face seem insurmountable at first. But we have a choice in these tough times: give in to a feeling of helplessness, or muster the will to face these challenges head-on. Sometimes, even watching a movie can instantly lift our mood. That’s why we’ve compiled a collection of inspiring movies for you to peruse; perhaps your next favorite film is waiting for you.

1. Forrest Gump

This comedy-drama film is based on Winston Groom’s 1986 novel of the same name. This is the journey of Forrest Gump, a simple-minded character reared by a supporting mother and living an unrestrained existence. From playing in college football to serving in Vietnam and captaining a shrimp boat, his childish optimism inspires people around him.

Despite his low IQ, Forrest recounts his life story, intertwined with key historical events. His current major ambition is to reunite with his problematic childhood love, Jenny. The film depicts Forrest’s unusual perspective on life.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 8.8/10

2. Pride and Prejudice

Inspired by Jane Austen’s most popular novel, this depicts the romantic journey of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, set in the late 1700s to early 1800s in England. Mrs. Bennet strives to secure advantageous marriages for her five daughters. Rich bachelor Mr. Bingley shows interest in Jane, the eldest daughter, while Elizabeth’s initial prejudices clash with Mr. Darcy’s pride.

As Elizabeth and Darcy’s feelings for each other evolve, Darcy’s true nature comes to light. Can they overcome their own prejudices and pride?

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.8/10

3. Inside Out

An 11-year-old girl named Riley moves from Minnesota to San Francisco, leaving behind her happy life. Riley, a hockey enthusiast, grapples with this significant change alongside her five emotions: Fear, Anger, Joy, Disgust, and Sadness. The movie is set inside Riley’s mind, anthropomorphizing her emotions as characters that influence her actions and reactions. Led by Joy, these emotions aim to navigate Riley through the challenges of her new life.

However, the stress of the move brings Sadness to the forefront. When Joy and Sadness get lost in Riley’s mind, only Anger, Fear, and Disgust remain in charge at Headquarters. The film explores how different emotions work together and how it’s okay to feel sad sometimes.

You can find this movie on Disney+.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 8.1/10

4. Matilda

Matilda is a gifted girl who copes with distant and crude parents and a terrifyingly strict principal, Agatha Trunchbull. At school, she despises the principal’s cruelty and a teacher’s actions, prompting her to use her telekinetic abilities to defend herself and her friends. The tale unfolds as Matilda discovers her power and stands up against the mistreatment from both her parents and the oppressive school authority figures.

Despite her difficult life, Matilda is exceptionally intelligent and finds solace in books and learning. Based on a novel, Matilda’s life remains a beloved adaptation of Roald Dahl’s timeless story.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.0/10

5. Good Will Hunting

The plot focuses on Will Hunting, a janitor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with exceptional mathematical abilities. Despite his intelligence, Will battles with personal difficulties arising from a difficult childhood in South Boston. When Professor Gerald Lambeau discovers Will’s mathematical ability, he risks legal consequences but is offered the opportunity to be rehabilitated.

Rather than spending time in jail, Will agrees to work with therapist Sean Maguire. Sean’s sessions help Will address his history and overcome emotional roadblocks. The film also explores Will’s friendships, especially Chuckie, and his romantic involvement with Skylar.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 8.3/10

6. The Pursuit of Happyness

After losing his life’s earnings, Chris Gardner takes an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm. His wife leaves him, leaving him with sole custody of his son. Facing eviction, the father-son duo confronts homelessness and numerous challenges.

Despite securing an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage, Chris remains determined, refusing to succumb to despair. His relentless struggle is focused on creating a better life for himself and his son amid adversity.

You can find this movie on Peacock.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 8.0/10

7. Sierra Burgess Is a Loser

A high school student, Sierra Burgess, becomes involved in a case of mistaken identity, pretending to be someone else to win the affection of a popular football player named Jamey. The film explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and the consequences of deception in the digital age, blending humor and heart in the story of a teenager navigating romance and personal identity.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 5.8/10

8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower

A 15-year-old introvert named Charlie enters high school and forms a bond with charismatic seniors who help him navigate the challenges of adolescence. With the support of his friends, including free-spirited Sam and his stepbrother Patrick, Charlie learns about friendship, first love, and the joys of life. Their influence also inspires him to pursue his dream of becoming a writer.

However, as his friends prepare to leave for college, Charlie grapples with inner sadness that jeopardizes the confidence he has gained. The story explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the impact of past traumas on one’s present.

You can find this movie on Paramount Plus.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.9/10

9. About Time

Possessing the family’s ability to time travel, Tim Lake, guided by his father, uses this power to pursue a romance with Mary. At 21, he learns about his family’s unique traits and decides to enhance his life by finding a girlfriend. Through time travel and clever tactics, Tim meets Mary, falls in love, and wins her heart.

However, as his life unfolds, he discovers that his special ability doesn’t exempt him or his loved ones from the challenges of ordinary life. The story explores the intersection of love, time, and the complexities of navigating everyday problems.

You can find this movie on Rakuten TV.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.8/10

10. Erin Brockovich

Based on a true story, the film follows Erin Brockovich, a legal assistant, as she becomes a crucial figure in an important environmental case. Erin, initially working as a legal assistant, stumbles upon medical records suggesting a cover-up involving contaminated water in Hinkley, California. The water is causing serious health problems for residents, prompting Erin to uncover the truth.

Despite lacking formal legal training, Erin takes on the challenge of proving the company’s wrongdoing. Her hard work pays off, and she helps the people in the town get the justice they deserve. The movie beautifully illustrates how one person, even without powerful backing, can make a significant impact and stand up against a mighty corporation.

You can find this movie on Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.4/10

11. Little Women

In mid-19th-century New England, a mother and her four daughters face challenges and joys as their father serves as a Union Army chaplain. The spirited Jo, lovely Meg, gentle Beth, and romantic Amy navigate growing up, financial struggles, family tragedies, and romantic conflicts.

This 1994 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic is an inspiring tale of sisterhood and resilience, showcasing the enduring bond among the March sisters. This heartwarming tale is a prime example of an inspiring movie.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.3/10

12. A Man Called Otto

A grumpy man, devastated and lonely, named Otto, who lost his wife, plans to do a very drastic step. But then, a happy family moves in next door. They have kids, and one of them is going to have a baby. The pregnant woman, Marisol, becomes friends with Otto, and things start to change for him.

The family brings joy and laughter to Otto’s quiet life, and he learns to be happy again. The friendship helps him feel better, and life becomes brighter for Otto.

You can find this movie on HBO Max.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.5/10

13. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Ferris Bueller, a high school student, masterfully fakes illness to spend the day with his closest friend and lover. Meanwhile, Rooney, the tenacious high school principal, attempts to spy on Ferris as he embarks on a one-day journey around the streets of Chicago, “borrowing” a Ferrari in his final act of skipping classes before graduation.

You can find this movie on Paramount Plus.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.8/10

14. Dead Poets Society

In a highly conservative boarding school, a group of students rebels against the status quo and discovers deeper meaning in life through their new poetry teacher, John Keating. The school is known for its ancient traditions and high standards, with students facing pressure from parents and the institution. Keating, employing unorthodox methods, helps students like Neil Perry and Todd Anderson break out of their shells, pursue their dreams, and embrace the idea of seizing the day.

You can find this movie on Disney+.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 8.1/10

15. Almost Famous

Set in 1973, the story follows 15-year-old William, an avid music fan, given the chance to interview the up-and-coming rock band Stillwater for Rolling Stone Magazine. Despite objections from his protective mother, William embarks on a transformative journey with the band during their tour, leading to self-discovery and personal growth.

You can find this movie on HBO Max.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.9/10

16. 10 Things I Hate About You

Kat Stratford, a smart but abrasive teen, doesn’t attract many boys. House rules stipulate that her younger sister, Bianca, can’t date until Kat has a boyfriend. Efforts are made to set Kat up for romance.

Meanwhile, Cameron, a new student, falls for Bianca but must get Kat to date someone first, despite her reputation as a mean feminist. The story explores whether Kat will let her guard down for the charming Patrick Verona, leading to a transformative romantic journey.

You can find this movie on Disney+.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.3/10

17. Freedom Writers

In a racially divided Los Angeles school, a dedicated teacher takes on a class of at-risk teenagers labeled as incapable of learning. Refusing to give up, she inspires them to take an interest in their education and plan for the future. Assigning relevant reading material and encouraging journaling, the teacher, Erin Gruwell, strives to bridge the divides among the students and guide them towards pursuing education beyond high school.

You can find this movie on Netflix.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.6/10

18. The Breakfast Club

Five high school students from diverse backgrounds endure Saturday detention under a power-hungry principal. The group includes rebel John, princess Claire, outcast Allison, brainy Brian, and jock Andrew.

Each has a chance to share their story, leading to a shift in perceptions among the group. As the day progresses, their initial differences fade, and they develop a close bond. The shared experience prompts them to question whether the school will ever be the same again.

You can find this movie on Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.8/10

19. Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Adapted from Truman Capote’s book, this story revolves around a New York girl, Holly Golightly, who becomes the focus of her neighbor, struggling writer Paul Varjak. Paul, having moved into a new apartment, falls for Holly, the stylish and carefree socialite frequently seen at Tiffany & Co.

As the plot unfolds, it’s disclosed that Holly seeks a wealthy man who will provide her with financial security. Unexpectedly, her plans take a turn as genuine feelings develop for Paul. The film, a romantic comedy, delves into emotional complexities and relationship nuances, standing as a timeless symbol of elegance and sophistication in cinema.

You can find this movie on Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 7.6/10

20. Luck

At 18, orphan Sam, burdened by a streak of bad luck, steps into the real world. Moving into her new house, she bids farewell to her roommate Hazel. As she tries to navigate life’s challenges, a mysterious black cat and a lucky penny enter her world, turning the tables on her luck. Sam ponders the source of luck and its dual nature.

Could Bad Luck be the twin of Good Luck? With newfound companions and a shiny penny, Sam sets out on an adventure, leaving behind her unlucky past and opening up to the limitless possibilities awaiting her in one of the most inspiring movies.

You can find this movie on Apple TV+.
IMDb Rating: ⭐ 6.4/10

When things get tough, you can try to find the good stuff. Life isn’t perfect, but there are little moments that make it really great.