Top 10 Movies That Will Make You Feel Better

Don’t let this film’s premise fool you. While “Little Miss Sunshine” seems like a quirky comedy, it’s actually about the strength that comes from family. The movie follows the dysfunctional Hoovers on a road trip to reach a child beauty pageant. As expected, hijinks ensue along the way. While they start at odds, the family grows closer during the journey, learning that they can get through anything if they stick together. “Little Miss Sunshine”’s offbeat humor and moving soundtrack balances its tragic moments, connecting us with the Hoovers and their personal arcs. It doesn’t have the standard “happy” ending, but it does reassure us that when all seems lost, we can lean on our family for support.

An entire generation associates their childhood with the “Harry Potter” series. Still, if there’s one entry that makes us feel all warm and comfy, it has to be the first one. Although Harry faces various dangers, it’s also the year he feels at home at Hogwarts, makes friends, and experiences true acceptance. The school is at its most magical in its debut, as every part of Hogwarts lives and breathes marvelous wonder. The battle between good and evil is firmly tipped in the heroes’ favor, and Harry’s defiance of Lord Voldemort is still as inspiring as ever. With further themes like friendship, courage, and love, “the Philosopher’s Stone” never fails to spark that wonderful belief that anything is possible.

Coming-of-age teen films can serve up a ton of emotions. However, they can also deliver a barrel of laughs and feel-good sentiment. “Clueless” leans all the way toward the latter. Wealthy and popular Cher Horowitz is our very likable protagonist, who takes it upon herself to help anyone she pleases. Cher’s style, attitude, and kind-hearted personality are entirely unique, absorbing everyone around her with her infectious charm. With an equally relatable set of supporting characters, “Clueless” shows why you should surround yourself with people who get you. Along with endless one-liners that never fail to make us laugh, the film builds toward a heartwarming conclusion that ties everything up in a neat little bow.

A story set right on the cusp of WWII doesn’t exactly sound like a happy one. And yet, “The Sound of Music” eschews the usual war setting to be just that. Captain von Trapp and his children’s lives are changed forever when they meet Maria, the new governess. Taken with her free-spirited, upbeat nature, the characters come to realize that they, too, deserve happiness. The war brewing on the horizon perfectly contrasts “The Sound of Music”’s cheerful tone, highlighting the importance of love and laughter amid trying times. Of course, with Julie Andrews in full singing form, it’s hard not to get wrapped in all the fun and dance that the film offers.

Sometimes, movies don’t need a central plot to be entertaining. Take “Amélie,” for example, where the protagonist simply looks to spread joy and expects nothing in return. Filled with a sense of purpose, Amélie tries to enrich the lives of people around her. And that’s it – the story is about being kind for the sake of kindness. Although the minimalist plot might seem odd compared to its 123-minute runtime, we can’t get enough of “Amélie.” The Parisian cinematography, bright set design, and bubbly tone are all ingredients for a perfect cinematic recipe. It’s a film designed to pick up your mood when you need it most, showing just how easy it is to be kind.

Will Ferrell’s over-the-top antics can be found in most of his works. But put that together with a character who just wants to be accepted, and we’ve got a lovably dorky protagonist in Buddy Hobbs. Raised as one of Santa’s elves, Buddy arrives in New York to reunite with his biological dad. While the initial impression he leaves is questionable, Buddy’s kindness and endless optimism ultimately win everyone over. The film turns what should be a wacky premise into a wholesome story about finding love against all odds. Regarded as a modern Christmas classic, “Elf” can be enjoyed on your own or with the entire family.

If you’re looking for a film that is quintessentially the ‘80s, then look no further…or back. You get it. Marty McFly’s trip to the past isn’t just your usual sci-fi fare. It’s about learning from your mistakes and making the right choices. After accidentally meddling with his parents’ romance, Marty’s involvement gives them a second chance for a better tomorrow. The snazzy soundtrack, cool visuals, and the chemistry between Marty and Doc Brown are all timeless. “Back to the Future” doubles as both a sci-fi and romance film, as Marty’s time-traveling antics bring his parents closer. Two equally beloved sequels heightened its appeal. Fans worldwide still hope to hop into their own time-traveling Delorean for the adventure of a lifetime.

For a film with so many trials and tribulations for the main character, it sure does make it worth it. After Andy Dufresne gets a life sentence for a crime he may or may not have committed, he suffers under the cruel regime of prison warden Samuel Norton. But thanks to a friendship with fellow inmate Red, Andy’s fighting spirit is never diminished. “The Shawshank Redemption” illustrates how it’s never too late to take matters into your own hands. It celebrates the value of grit and determination, as well as the triumph of the human spirit. Andy’s bid for freedom is littered with pain and heartbreak, but the film keeps our hopes alive until its closing moments.

Looking for a film that ticks all the boxes for a fairytale? Here’s one, as you wish! Within the framing device of a fantasy novel, “The Princess Bride” is filled with witty references, hilarious one-liners, and a battle between good and evil. While we get invested in the love story between Westley and Buttercup, the film builds a sparkling world around them. Watching “The Princess Bride” is like getting lost in a storybook where each page offers something new. With romance, adventure, and magic all in store, it’s a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. So, when life gets tough, head on over to the kingdom of Florin for a swashbuckling ride like no other.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Overcoming Stereotypes & Looking Flawless While At It. What? Like It’s Hard?

Everyone Deserves a Happy Ending, Even Anthropomorphic Bears

Phil Connors’ Time Loop Ultimately Makes Him a Better Man

Sing, Dance, & Fall in Love In a World Where ABBA Rules!

Classic Family Fun With a Twist

The feel-good movie to end all others, “It’s a Wonderful Life” is the defining film of the genre. Jimmy Stewart stars as George Bailey, whose guardian angel takes him on a life-altering journey on Christmas. Having considered his existence meaningless, George learns how much he matters to the ones around him. Most people have had similar feelings, so George serves as the perfect POV character. The movie hits hard with the message that we all matter, even if we don’t realize it. Simultaneously a tear jerking and uplifting affair, “It’s a Wonderful Life” lives up to its title in more ways than one. By the end, you’ll want to hug your loved ones a little tighter, as the film encourages you to pause and count your blessings.