Top 50 Hollywood Inspirational Movies That Will Lift Your Spirits and Touch Your Heart

Aishwarya Choudhury

Entertainment

We all need inspiration or a pick me up, on some days. And movies, no matter how unrealistic they can be, can also help do that. There are a number of Hollywood motivational movies that can be added to the binge-list. These are some of the best motivational movies to pick you up on bad days. While some are simple 9 to 5 movies, there are others on the list that are the perfect motivational movies for students.

So, here’s what you need!

S.No.Movie Name and YearIMDb rating
1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)9.3
2.Rocky (1976)8.1
3. 50/50 (2011)7.6
4.Into The Wild (2007)8.1
5. Schindler’s List (1993)9
6. It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)8.6
7. Freedom Writers (2007)7.6
8. Amelie (2001)8.3
9. The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)7.8
10.Forrest Gump (1994)8.8
11.The Green Mile (1999)8.6
12.The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)8
13.A Beautiful Mind (2001)8.2
14.Life of Pi (2012)7.9
15.The Pianist (2002)8.5
16.Rush (2013)8.1
17.Life is Beautiful (1997)8.6
18. 12 Angry Men (1957)9
19.The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)7.4
20.The Blind Side (2009)7.6
21.The Aviator (2004)7.5
22.The Terminal (2004)7.4
23.Moneyball (2011)7.6
24.Cast Away (2000)7.8
25. Dead Poets Society (1989)8.1
26.Good Will Hunting (1997)8.3
27. Invictus (2009)7.3
28.Seven Pounds (2008)7.6
29.One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)8.7
30.Little Miss Sunshine (2006)7.8
31.To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)8.3
32.The Elephant Man (1980)8.2
33.October Sky (1999)7.8
34.The Intouchables (2011)8.5
35.Saving Private Ryan (1998)8.6
36.42 (2013)7.5
37.Lincoln (2012)7.3
38.Remember the Titans (2000)7.8
39.Million Dollar Baby (2004)8.1
40.Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)8.1
41.King Richard (2021)7.5
42.Scent of a Woman (1992)8
43.12 Years a Slave (2013)8.1
44.Cinderella Man (2005)8
45.Hoosiers (1986)7.4
46.Hacksaw Ridge (2016)8.1
47.Hotel Rwanda (2004)8.1
48.Rudy (1993)7.5
49.The Fighter (2010)7.8
50.The Kite Runner (2007)7.6

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

IMDb

The Shawshank Redemption tells the tale of banker Andy Dufresne’s 19-year term in prison. The film gives a strong message of friendship and perseverance and lets us have an insight of the lives at Shawshank. The film just doesn’t end with innocent Andy’s escape but also his mate, Red’s redemption making it an inspiring story of hope, faith and bonding.

Also Read: 18 Bollywood Movies Which Will Alter Your Perception Towards Life

2. Rocky (1976)

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The story of Rocky Balboa is not just of boxing, but of struggle and hard work. The difficulties of daily life that he struggles to earn for, his relationship with his best friend’s sister and the formation of his career are all well-knit parts of the plot, and this overall view of his life is what makes the movie so special. This story of a man, who from a ‘nobody’ becomes a ‘somebody’ is truly an all-time inspiring watch.

3. 50/50 (2011)

IMDb

50/50 is loosely inspired by a true story of film’s screenwriter, Will Reiser’s experience of beating cancer. The film follows the story of Reiser who learns that he is diagnosed with a cancerous tumour in his spine.

4. Into The Wild (2007)

IMDb

As the name aptly reveals, Into The Wild is a story of breaking free. ‘I don’t believe in careers Mr. Franz, I think careers are a 20th century invention,’ is a dialogue that well reflects this sentiment. Christopher McCandless, leaving his profitable career as an athlete behind, chooses to give his possessions for charity and embarks on a journey to Alaskan wilderness. An inspiring story of choosing an alternate life path in today’s competitive world makes Into The Wild an unconventional treat.

Also Read: Bollywood Movies about Life

5. Schindler’s List (1993)

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At a time of genocide, this film tells the story of a true hero. Oskar Schindler’s arrangement to keep his Jewish workers protected to ensure his factory is still in operation did not only work for his benefit, but saved many innocent lives too. The plot of the story is a masterpiece, bringing out humanity warped in business in a time of war. The movie ends with the tragic fate of Schlinder despite the endeavors of the ones on his ‘list’ – a truly inspiring conclusion that will leave you in tears.

6. It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

IMDb

This movie is one that makes us value relationships. When an angel comes down as an answer to George Bailey’s prayer wishing that he wasn’t born, he begins to see how he has impacted his loved ones. Set in Christmas season, It’s A Wonderful Life is truly a wonderful watch, leaving us inspired by its simple yet captivating plot.

Also Read: Inspiring Quotes From Movies About Life

7. Freedom Writers (2007)

IMDb

The story of Erin Gruwell faced with a class of at-risk teenagers deemed to be incapable learners is a must-watch! The plot of how a teacher can affect the lives of her students in a positive way is brought out as Gruell encourages her students to choose definitive careers for the future and inculcate good habits in them like keeping journals. We can call this movie the best 9 to 5 movie to watch. This film reeks the message of motivation, and is inspiring both for teachers and students.

8. Amelie (2001)

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The film Amelie captures the exquisite charm and mystery of modern day Paris through ingenue eyes. The way Amelie imagines other peoples lives around her, and creates a world of her own making, is an inspiring tale of imagination. The tapestry Amelie knits around her hoping to bring Joy to the peoples lives around her, in her own little way, tells the story of magic, innocence and love.

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9. The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)

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The story of Burt Munro tells us that if you believe in something, don’t give up. Though it took years for the New Zealander to build his 1920 Indian motorcycle, he did not lose hope and it helped him set the land speed record at the 1967 world record at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats. The true story of a man who never gave up on his dreams of doing something big – and doing it very, very fast – provides the basis for this engaging and inspiring plot.

Also Read: Hollywood Suspense Thriller Movies

10. Forrest Gump (1994)

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Whether dominating on the gridiron as a college football star, fighting in the Vietnam war, or captaining a shrimp boat, Forrest leaves an impression on people with his childlike innocence. Growing up under the care of his supportive mother in a protected environment, slow witted Forrest never considered himself disadvantaged. He tried to make people around him happy in his own small way but becomes puzzled while saving Jenny, his childhood sweetheart. The film emanates the sentiment of innocence and love, making us grateful for the simple joys of life.

11. The Green Mile (1999)

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Though Paul had walked the mile with many felons, he was convinced of John Coffey’s innocence. Beyond his naive fear of the dark, Coffey also has a prodigious supernatural gift. The captivating plot of choosing between doing the right thing or performing duty also emanates sentiments of friendship and humanity.

12. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

IMDb

The struggle of father Chris to provide a good future for his son is the inspiring plot of The Pursuit Of Happyness. The movie while highlighting the father and son bond also has the message of never giving up. Being evicted from their home and faced with financial difficulties both father and son encounter numerous struggles everyday. Yet, the small bits of happiness they find in their togetherness provides a heartwarming plot for the film.

13. A Beautiful Mind (2001)

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A story of a mathematical genius on a harrowing path of self discovery, A Beautiful Mind explores various facades of human emotions. John Nash, at the brink of international acclaim, discovers a side of himself he was unaware of. The film based on the book by Sylvia Nasar explores commitment, success and a heartbreaking folly of the human mind.

14. Life of Pi (2012)

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Being the sole human survivor of the ship while travelling to Canada, Pi finds himself in the middle of the ocean stuck in the company of a tiger, a hyena and an orangutan. The struggles and adventures of Pi, added to the extraordinary portrayal of nature, make the movie not only inspirational but also a visual treat. Yes! for students its a best motivational movie to watch.

15. The Pianist (2002)

IMDb

Wladyslaw Szpilman’s struggle for survival in the debris of Warsaw at a time of war provides for an extremely inspiring plot. Based on true events, the movie actually depicts the changes in Warsaw at the time. The film shows how the power of music was the pianist’s only support through his tough times. Besides being motivational, this movie is also a musical marvel.

16. Rush (2013)

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Though the plot is primarily based on the competition between F1 drivers James Hunt and Nikki Lauda, the film goes on to reveal many more sentiments. As the two drivers are pitted against each other to be the best on their gas-filled roller bombs, the film makes us encounter extremes of mental and physical endurance. Competition and the race to be the best are the two cornerstones of the plot that tells the story of two of the best F1 drivers the world has ever seen.

17. Life is Beautiful (1997)

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Life is beautiful is a story of hope and imagination. Though Guido has been separated from his wife Dora, he tries to keep his son happy by convincing him that their time in the concentration camp is just a game. The positive spirit that Guido displays, trying to make life beautiful for his little boy and the belief in his heart of reuniting with his family provides the basis for the motivational plot.

18. 12 Angry Men (1957)

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As a dozen men try to reach an unanimous decision about a guilty verdict, Henry Fonda casts doubts on the elements of the case. This movie reinstates our faith in dialogue and reasoning proving that no decision is beyond change. As the debate heightens, personal issues surface and the fate of the inner city teen becomes secondary. The movie, though shot in one room, elaborately explores various aspects of human behaviour.

19. The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)

IMDb

Francis went on to pursue his passion despite strong disapproval from his father and his social standing. Being a caddy himself, he went on to participate in the ‘rich man’s game’ and found himself being opposed by his childhood idol. The Greatest Game Ever Played, a story of dreams, struggle and success – is definitely one of the most inspiring movies of all time.

20. The Blind Side (2009)

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Who said family ties are only based on blood relationships? When the Tuohys brought Micheal, a homeless black teen back home, they did not realise how it would change both his life and theirs. The film emanates the message of giving without expecting anything in return – a heartwarming movie that leaves its viewers inspired and feeling good.

21. The Aviator (2004)

IMDb

One of the best motivational movie for students. The biopic describing the early life of Hollywood director and aviation pioneer Howard Hughes. Aviator is a powerful story of a successful young man. However the director of big budget movies and the interest of leading industry actresses remains tormented in private suffering from depression and paralyzing phobias. Under Martin Sorcese’s direction, the story of the Aviation pioneer reveals hard hitting facts of human dilemma.

22. The Terminal (2004)

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The film showcases a story of a Eastern European man, Victor Navorski, who gets stuck at an airport after he is denied entering into the US. Victor also struggles to return to his native country due to a military coup.

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23. Moneyball (2011)

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Based on a 2003 non-fiction book, Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game, the movie depicts the story of a general manager of an American football team. The film is all about how the manager assembles a competitive team for a season in limited budget.

24. Cast Away (2000)

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Starring Tom Hanks in a lead role, Cast Away takes you to a journey of a Fed-Ex executive, who gets washed up on a secluded island after his plane crashes. How he survives on the island with no food and water is the highlight of the film.

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25. Dead Poets Society (1989)

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Set in 1959, Dead Poets Society takes you to the journey of students from a boarding school who get inspired from their English teacher through poetry. Robin Williams plays the teacher in the film.

26. Good Will Hunting (1997)

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The movie is about a 20-year-old man named Will Hunting, a genius, who works as a janitor at an university. One day, Will solves a difficult mathematical problem anonymously and stuns everyone. The plot becomes even more interesting when he is introduced to a psychology professor who challenges his defense mechanisms.

27. Invictus (2009)

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The movie showcases how Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela, the first Black President of South Africa, comes out from jail after 27 years. Mandela once attends a rugby game and notices that black people are cheering up for England and not for their country. Later, he decides to unite the nation. The film is based on a book called Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation.

28. Seven Pounds (2008)

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Starring Will Smith, Seven Pounds is a story of a man, a successful aeronautical engineer, meets with an accident killing six van occupants including his fiance. Haunted by their deaths, he then decides to change the lives of seven other people.

29. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)

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Based on a 1962 novel of the same name, the movie stars Jack Nicholsan. Nicholsan plays the role of Randle McMurphy, who admits himself as a new patient in a mental institution.

30. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

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Little Miss Sunshine is all about how a family motivates the daughter to enter into a child beauty pageant. The film was a directorial debut of real-life couple, Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris.

31. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

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Starring Gregory Pack and John Megna, the film is about a widowed lawyer who saves a black man from undeserved rape charges. The movie is based on Harper Lee’s novel of the same name.

32. The Elephant Man (1980)

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The 1980 biographical film takes you to the journey of John Merrick, who has a deformed skull. One day, Merrick meets a surgeon in a freak show and is taken to a hospital. However, hospital authorities don’t allow him to be treated there.

33. October Sky (1999)

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October Sky showcases a true story of Homer H. Hickam Jr., a coal miner’s son, who takes inspiration from the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957. Hickam decides to take up rocketry against his father’s wishes and becomes an engineer in NASA.

34. The Intouchables (2011)

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The Intouchables (Untouchables) is a story of friendship between two men. Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, hires Driss as a care-taker and thus begins their friendship journey. Driss has a dark past as he was imprisoned for robbery.

35. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

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Set in 1944 during World War II, this Steven Spielberg movie is about a group of soldiers led by Captain John Miller saving Private James Ryan after his three brothers are killed.

36. 42 (2013)

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This 2013 film is based on the life of Jackie Robinson. Robinson was the first Black man to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. Chadwick Boseman essays the lead role in it.

37. Lincoln (2012)

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As the name suggests, Lincoln is a biographical historical movie based on late US President Abraham Lincoln. The film showcases final four months of his life about how he made efforts to abolish slavery and helping in passing Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.

38. Remember the Titans (2000)

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The 2000 biographical sports film is based on the true story of coach Herman Boone and how he assembled a football team from school in Virginia.

39. Million Dollar Baby (2004)

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The 2004 film is all about Margaret Fitzgerald, a waitress and an amateur boxer who is coached by a trainer to achieve her goals, i.e. to become a professional boxer.

40. Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)

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The film is a remake of 1987 Japanese movie called Hachikō Monogatari. The American movie takes you to the journey of Parker Wilson meeting a lost dog at a railway station and how both of them grow closer.

41. King Richard (2021)

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The 2021 biographical sports film is all about Richard Williams, the former tennis coach, aspiring to make his daughters, Serena and Venus, professional players. Will Smith plays the lead role in it.

42. Scent of a Woman (1992)

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The film is a remake of Dino Risi’s Italian movie, Profumo di donna. It is about a school student accepting a temporary job of taking care of a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel. The Vietnam War veteran is blind and alcoholic.

43. 12 Years a Slave (2013)

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The film takes you to the journey of an African-American man who is abducted in Washington D.C. by two conmen and is released after 12 years. The film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor in the lead role.

44. Cinderella Man (2005)

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The 2005 biographical sports film is inspired by the real-life story of James J. Braddock, the heavyweight boxing champion. Braddock is forced to give up boxing after he breaks his hand. Russell Crowe plays the lead role in it.

45. Hoosiers (1986)

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Released in some countries as Best Shot, Hoosiers takes you to the journey of a high-school basketball team entering into the state championship. The film is inspired by the Milan High School team who won the 1954 Indiana high school boys basketball tournament.

46. Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

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The biographical war film is based on a documentary, The Conscientious Objector. It follows the story of American Army Medic Desmond T. Doss, who served during the Battle of Okinawa. Doss refuses to use weapons in the war and becomes the first American to receive a medal of honour without firing a shot.

47. Hotel Rwanda (2004)

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The film takes you to the journey of a hotelier, who saves his family and more than 1,000 other refugees as he provides shelters to them in a hotel. The movie is based on the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

48. Rudy (1993)

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The 1993 biographical sports film is about Daniel ‘Rudy’ Ruettiger, who fulfills his dream of playing football at the University of Notre Dame. Ruettiger doesn’t have money or grades to play college football, however, he overcomes every obstacle and finally plays the game in the team.

49. The Fighter (2010)

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This 2010 biographical sports film takes you to the journey of George Michael Ward Jr., a professional boxer and his older half-brother, Richard Eklund Jr., who was also in the same field, but has now become addicted to cocaine.

Also Read: Hollywood Movies about Life

50. The Kite Runner (2007)

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Based on a novel of the same name, The Kite Runner, is all about a 10-year-old boy named Amir from Kabul, who has a guilt of abandoning his best friend, Hassan. Amir is the son of a rich philanthropist, Agha Sahib. Hassan is the son of Sahib’s servant.

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Get yourself inspired. What are you waiting for?

FAQs

Q. Which is the most inspirational movie?

A: While there are many films that can motivate you, Forrest Gump is the top most inspirational movie.

Q. Which is the most life changing movie?

A: The Shawshank Redemption tops the list of life-changing movies.

Q. What should I watch to get motivated to study?

A: Films like Dead Poets Society and Good Will Hunting can motivate you to study.

Q. What are the 5 perfect movies?

A: According to Twitter, Amelie, Control, Free Solo, The Wind That Shakes the Barley, and The Shawshank Redemption are some of the ‘perfect’ movies.

Also Read: Best Hollywood Movies

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