11 Emotional Movies That Will Restore Your Faith in Humanity

In a world often filled with chaos and uncertainty, movies have the power to touch our hearts and remind us of humanity’s inherent goodness. Whether through acts of kindness, resilience in the face of adversity, or the bonds that connect us all, these films offer hope that can reignite our faith in the human spirit. Here are 11 emotional movies that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired:

The Pursuit of Happiness (2006)

This movie is based on the true story of Chris Gardner’s life and struggles. It reminds us of how determination and a strong will can overcome failures and setbacks. Chris Gardner is a struggling salesman on the brink of homelessness who has to provide for his son as well. Chris faces several rejections, but despite them all, he hopes for a better life for himself and his son. The love between Chris and his son significantly portrays how families can overcome hard times together.

Pay It Forward (2000)

“Pay It Forward” is all about kindness and its unlimited potential. It revolves around the life of Trevor McKinney, a young boy working on a social studies project to improve the world. He started a movement that challenged people to do favors for someone else rather than pay them back. Trevor’s journey shows us how much empathy, compassion, and selflessness can change the world. It also reminds us that no act of kindness is too small.

The Blind Side (2009)

“The Blind Side” is also based on the true story of Michael Oher’s life. He is a homeless teenager with potential who fails to recognize it. However, Leigh Anne Tuohy, a strong-willed and compassionate woman played by Sandra Bullock, takes him in. Despite their racial and class differences, Leigh Anne and her family help Michael recognize his worth and potential to achieve greatness through their love and unconditional support. Oher went on to play in the NFL in real life, too. 

Wonder (2017)

“Wonder” explores the life of August Pullman, a young boy suffering from facial deformity, and is based on the bestselling novel by R.J. Palacio. August enrolls in a new school and is bullied because of his physical differences. However, with August’s family’s unconditional love and the constant support of the new friendships he forms, Auggie learns to accept himself.

Schindler’s List (1993)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, Schindler’s List takes us back to the horror of the Holocaust. It also sheds light on the change a single person can bring. It’s based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Polish Jews during World War II. The movie portrays Oskar’s transformation from a self-serving businessman looking to profit from the war to a person who risks his safety and wealth to save as many lives as possible.

The Intouchables (2011)

“The Intouchables” is a French comedy-drama that beautifully portrays the unexpected friendship between Philippe, a wealthy man with complete paralysis of both arms and legs, and Driss, his caregiver who was previously in prison. It is based on a true story and proves that true friendship knows no class, race, or ability boundaries. The movie also highlights the importance of finding joy in the most minor things and how, if appropriately supported, one can rediscover one’s love for life.

Life is Beautiful (1997)

A cinematic masterpiece, “Life is Beautiful,” tells the story of a Jewish father and son suffering the horrors of the concentration camps in the backdrop of World War II. Guido, the father, extraordinarily uses his humor and creativity to make sure his son, Joshua, is shielded from the terrors of the Holocaust. The love between Guido and his son and Guido’s willingness to go to extraordinary lengths for Joshua is proof of how parents sacrifice everything for their children.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

“Good Will Hunting” is the journey of Will Hunting, a troubled young janitor at MIT who is incredibly talented in mathematics. However, because of his troubled past, he continues to self-doubt and fails to realize his true potential. That’s where the iconic role of Robin Williams as Sean Maguire comes in. He’s a caring therapist who helps Will face his fears and believes in his abilities to work for a brighter future.

The Help (2011)

Based on the bestselling novel by Kathryn Stockett, The Help explores the life of African American maids working for white households in Mississippi in the 1960s. Skeeter Phelan — the lead character— decides to write a book that exposes the systemic racism and discrimination that these young maids had to bear. Through her book, the maids’ voices finally get heard by the status quo, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in standing up for justice. The story captures how America changed over the decades and left much of its racial discrimination behind.

A Beautiful Mind (2001)

“A Beautiful Mind” revolves around the struggles of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician with schizophrenia. It is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of the human mind that Nash displays to overcome his demons. The movie is based on real-life events. The movie highlights the importance of family and friends in overcoming personal challenges. The film also shows how the human brain can achieve incredible things, even in the face of mental illness.

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

My favorite, The Shawshank Redemption, is a timeless classic highlighting the importance of hope and friendship in hard times. Andy Dufresne is a banker who gets wrongly convicted for the murder of his wife and is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary. Here, Andy refuses to give in to hopelessness despite facing injustices and cruelty and remains optimistic. Through his companionship with fellow inmate Ellis “Red” Redding, Andy finds support and strength, and together they make history!

Conclusion

The plot of these 11 emotional movies is so well thought-out that you will relate to much of what they stand for. The actors brought their characters to life with such effectiveness that you’ll be reminded of the kindness, resilience, and compassion within us all. So, in the future, when you’ve got some free time, watch these movies and see your faith in humanity restored!

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