Life throws curveballs, but these inspiring movies can help you build the mental strength to overcome challenges.
1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
IMDb Rating: 9.3
Director: Frank Darabont
Story: Andy Dufresne, wrongly convicted of murder, finds hope and redemption through perseverance and the power of the human spirit within the walls of Shawshank prison.
Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Movie Theme: inspirational movie, hope in dark times, overcoming adversity
2. Whiplash (2014)
IMDb Rating: 8.3
Director: Damien Chazelle
Story: An ambitious young drummer endures a ruthless instructor’s brutal training methods in his pursuit of musical greatness.
Cast: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, Melissa Benoist
Where to Watch: Hulu (not included in our list, but worth mentioning)
Movie Theme: perseverance movie, following your dreams, teacher student relationship
3. Rocky (1976)
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Director: John G. Avildsen
Story: A small-time Philadelphia boxer gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at the heavyweight title.
Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Movie Theme: underdog story, against all odds, classic sports movie
4. Wonder Woman (2017)
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Director: Patty Jenkins
Story: Princess Diana, raised on a secluded Amazonian island, leaves her home to fight in World War I and discovers her full potential.
Cast: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Movie Theme: female empowerment movie, superhero origin story, World War I movie
5. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Director: Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli)
Story: Two sisters move to the countryside with their father and encounter friendly forest spirits, including the giant Totoro.
Cast: Shigesato Itoi (voices)
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Movie Theme: heartwarming movie, Studio Ghibli film, childhood innocence