10 Feel-good movies that can lift your spirit if you are feeling low

Life can truly be demanding—whether it’s from stress at work, lingering personal matters, or simply a gloomy day when motivation has gone south. At such times, a good feel-good movie can become a soul’s reset button. There is something almost divine about a story that wraps you in warmth, makes you smile through tears, or simply reminds you that joy still exists somewhere.

From heartwarming character arcs and inspiring true stories to fantastical escapades and soundtracks worthy of a dance party, the right film can always uplift your spirits when nothing else can.

It’s not all about cheap comfort and cliché endings. These ten films are meant to bring you real elevation of the spirit—the kind that offers laughs, catharsis, and a glimmer of hope. Some might be modern classics, others could be foreign treasures, while a few might even surprise you with just how deeply they speak to the soul.

Inspiration, nostalgia, or simply a reason to grin—these feel-good gems exist to remind you that brighter moments are always within reach. Sometimes, all it takes is the press of a play button.

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Will Smith's forceful acting in this biographical rags-to-riches tale remains intensely relevant. Why it's a feel-good story isn’t necessarily the underdog victory, but the relationship between Smith and his real-life son, Jaden, who appears as his on-screen child. The movie shows us that grit and hope are possible even during life's bleakest page-turners. Although released just shy of two decades ago, it was popularized once more on TikTok through motivational edits. Whether it’s Chris Gardner's unyielding determination or that tear-inducing ending, this movie is a powerful reminder that bottoming out isn't the end—it may actually be the beginning of something glorious.

2. Amélie (2001)

This little French gem is a cozy mug of cocoa for the heart. Amélie Poulain's whimsical universe of little pleasures, quirky neighbors, and anonymous acts of kindness still beguiles fans. Its bold cinematography and Yann Tiersen's enchanting music have been rediscovered by Gen Z fans, who now curate "Amélie-core" visual playlists online. The film has inspired real-life “Amélies” around the world, where individuals spread anonymous kindness in their communities. Watching it again is like being enveloped in optimism and creativity. It’s not about romance—it’s about relearning to find beauty in life's little things, even when the world feels dull.

3. Paddington 2 (2017)

Yes, it's about a bear with a fondness for marmalade, but Paddington 2 is quite possibly the most universally adored movie of recent years. It briefly held a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, even surpassing some of that year’s Oscar winners. Hugh Grant's ironic, scene-stealing baddie adds sly charm. More than merely a children's film, it honours kindness, family, and community. In a post-pandemic era, its gentle message of befriending strangers as if they were next-door neighbours rings especially true. Paddington's sheer optimism is contagious, and with recent memes having made him into a wholesome icon, watching it feels like emotional first aid—warm, gentle, and comforting when you need it most.

4. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

A dysfunctional family road-tripping in a broken van shouldn't be this heartwarming, but Little Miss Sunshine pulls it off with lovable chaos. Abigail Breslin's Olive, a feisty pageant contestant, elicits the best (and strangest) from her offbeat family. The film’s message is clear: it's okay to be imperfect, messy, and unconventional. Steve Carell's understated vulnerability and Alan Arkin's Oscar-winning performance as the foul-mouthed grandfather provide both humour and emotional weight. With growing awareness around mental health today, its honest portrayal of depression and failure resonates more than ever.

5. Julie & Julia (2009)

A movie that joins two women together over time, food, and purpose, Julie & Julia is cinematic bliss. Meryl Streep's feisty portrayal of Julia Child became iconic, pouring larger-than-life warmth onto the screen. Alongside her, Amy Adams's present-day Julie reminds us how rededicating oneself to a passion can transform a life. During lockdown, the film's views skyrocketed as home cooking surged in popularity and viewers found comfort in trying out recipes. More than a biopic, it's a love letter to finding joy in everyday acts. Whether you're stuck, bored, or uninspired, this film reminds you: reinvention can begin in your kitchen.

6. The Intouchables (2011)

This French film is inspired by the incredible real-life account of an unlikely friendship between a quadriplegic millionaire and his charismatic caregiver. It's funny without being offensive, and moving without being heavy. Omar Sy's performance catapulted him to international fame, and the film went on to become one of the most successful non-English language movies of all time. Its realistic and uplifting depiction of disability, care, and joy in contrast is powerfully resonant. The 2019 remake (The Upside) brought the story to a wider audience, but the original remains unmatched. For anyone feeling alone or overwhelmed, The Intouchables is a heartwarming reminder of connection, laughter, and resilience.

7. Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods has grown from a pink-suited punchline to a pop-culture icon. What begins as a tale of disproving an ex becomes one of self-worth and shattering stereotypes. With a Broadway musical and a forthcoming sequel (Legally Blonde 3 is officially in the works, with Reese Witherspoon set to return), plus an endless stream of viral quotes, Elle’s message still inspires. She’s not stupid—she’s underestimated, and that’s her strength. Watching her climb through Harvard Law School with heart and flair is a confidence boost in itself. Whatever your aspirations may be, this movie tells you that you can do it—and you can do it in heels.

8. About Time (2013)

This Richard Curtis romantic comedy-drama involves time travel, but it’s really about how time is used. Domhnall Gleeson’s character learns he can relive any day in his life, and he’s not the type to use this power to chase wealth or fame. Instead, he uses it to savour life’s small pleasures. The love story with Rachel McAdams is undeniably charming, but in the end, it’s the father-son dynamic that truly steals the show. Bill Nighy’s advice to live every day twice—once as usual, and once while noticing everything—has become a quiet mantra for many fans.

9. Chef (2014)

After the blockbuster burnout of Iron Man 2, Jon Favreau went back to his indie beginnings with this spicy gem. Chef is about passion, redemption, and finding happiness in simplicity. It follows a once-famed chef who hits rock bottom and heals himself through a food truck road trip with his son. With savory meals, Latin jazz, and authentic father-son chemistry, it's a love letter to second chances. The movie inspired real food truck businesses and even led to a Netflix spinoff (The Chef Show). Amidst a culture of hustle, Chef reminds us: happiness may just be accompanied by hot sauce and salsa music.

10. Mamma Mia! (2008)

If ABBA music, Greek islands, and spontaneous dance numbers can’t brighten your day, then what can? Mamma Mia! is unabashedly cheerful, embracing melodrama, sequins, and catchy tunes with gleeful abandon. Meryl Streep leads a starry cast in a tale that’s as much about mother-daughter relationships as it is about love. It has become a go-to comfort film for many, with sing-along screenings still selling out in 2025. With the success of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, ongoing discussions of a third installment show we can’t seem to get enough of the sunshine this franchise delivers. Unadulterated, bright escapism at its best.