Are you having bad day? Don’t feel low, as we can offer you a list of top feel-good movies that can offer you a fresh dose of happiness and optimism.
Movie buffs are always eager to watch any kind of movie that can inspire and intrigue them. While there is nothing wrong with the intellectually and psychologically enchanting movies, you might not want to watch them when you are having a bad day or a bad week. Sometimes, you just need to watch feel-good and light-hearted movies that can share with you some positivity and good feelings. These uplifting movies can help to elevate your mood and help you get back into the groove. If you are not sure where to start, here is a list of the top 30+ feel-good movies that you can watch anytime.
- ‘The Parent Trap’ (1998)
This movie by Nancy Meyers is the breakthrough movie for Lindsay Lohan as a child artist in the Hollywood industry. The story for this movie is based on two twin sisters who are separated at birth, and then they finally meet at a summer camp, but they are not sure about their identities. After they find out the blood relation, the sisters decided to reunite their parents and prevent their father from marrying his girlfriend, who does not seem to be good for the family. It is a wholesome family drama that can captivate audiences of all ages.
- ‘The Holiday’ (2006)
This rom-com flick is another masterpiece by Nancy Meyers, where two women decide to swap their homes to spend an amazing holiday that could change their perspectives on life. The female characters are played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, and both of them nailed their performances. The movie offers a fresh perspective, along with comfort and a better vision of life. The movie takes place in idyllic landscapes, and the charming characters surely make it more engaging. Thanks to Jack Black and Jude Law for their amazing chemistry with the co-actors.
- Chef (2014)
Long before series like ‘Bear’ appeared on the OTT platforms, this movie was the ultimate chef’s kiss in the genre. The movie is directed by Jon Favreau, whom you would better know as Happy from Marvel or the MCU. He has also acted as the protagonist of the movie, who is a chef, winning at life with his passion and a food truck. This underrated comedy-drama is a delight to watch and offers a positive slice of life along with delicious Cuban sandwiches that come from a long queue. Not only food, but the movie also shares different flavors of life and family which makes it warm and more wholesome to watch.
- ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ (1986)
Directed by John Hughes, this movie released back in 1986 and showcased the simple joy of taking a day off. While we adults struggle to take a day off at work, this movie showed how taking a day off does not mean just staying at home. The protagonist, a brash high school senior, is tired of skipping school and staying at home, and he finally decides to take a day off from skipping and go out on an adventure with his friend and girlfriend. They not only explore Chicago but also the freedom of youth, the importance of friendship, and the hardships of growing up. This coming-of-age film is the best in the category.
- ‘Home Alone’ (1990)
Directed by Chris Columbus, Home Alone is the comfort Christmas movie for people of all ages. This movie offers a lot of fun-filled moments and highlights important virtues of life such as kindness, love and acceptance. The eight-year-old kid named Kevin McCallister gets left behind by their family accidentally while going out for a vacation, and then he protects his home from the burglars who wanted to break into the house. His intelligence, ingenuity, and wit allow him to beat up the burglars through numerous booby traps, and it is an absolute delight to watch for the audience.
- ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ (1993)
This is a beautiful movie, directed by Nora Ephron, and it offers a warm hug to the listeners. The rom-com is focused on the main character, Sam Baldwin, and his son, and the character of Sam is played by young Tom Hanks. Sam finds himself struggling after the death of his wife, and his son Jonah calls a radio station, urging for a wife for his father so that he can find a mom. Sam becomes a sensation overnight, and a woman named Annie Reed wants to connect with Sam. The story develops with many other simple moments of tension and love, which offer a soft, fuzzy feeling.
- ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ (2009)
Every movie by Wes Anderson is an eye-opener, and so is the stop motion film ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’, which is based on a Roald Dahl adaptation where an urban fox seems to can’t resist his wild instincts of farm–raiding. It is not just a visually appealing movie, but also showcases the duality of our nature and spirit, and the constant struggle of how to navigate our lives while loving and depending on our families. This beautiful movie will leave you with a motivated spirit and a lot of positivity.
- ‘Paddington’ (2014)
Directed by Paul King, Paddington is the ultimate feel-good movie that can leave you crying with kindness. The story is based on a small bear from Peru who embarked on a life-changing journey to London after his home was destroyed by an earthquake. Here, he gets adopted by the Brown family, who already had two kids. They initially struggled with his clumsiness, and they finally accepted him for who he is. A villainous taxidermist wanted to turn Paddington into her stuffed possessions, but could not do it. It is an open letter to kindness, and you should definitely watch it, even the second part.
- ‘Aladdin’ (1992)
Not sure about Disney now, but the classic Disney films were on a different level, such as ‘Aladdin’ from 1992. This classic story of Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu, the Magic Carpet, Kali, and the wish-granting genie is ingrained among the ‘90s kids, and it can offer a hefty dose of nostalgia. This animated movie is one of the best of all time, which not only shows sorcery but also love and humility, where Aladdin never asks for anything grand, even though he could. More than greed, wealth, and power, we need love!
- ‘Marcel the Shell With Shoes On’ (2021)
This is more of a modern movie or more like a mockumentary, which is written and directed by Dein Fleischer Camp, and the voice for Marcel is offered by voice actress Jenny Slate. This delightful movie is about a documentarian who wanted to write a documentary about the talking shell that is living in his apartment. While it is a cute character with beautiful visuals, there are subtle undertones in the story that explore the aspects of family, love, loneliness, and others, which makes it a perfect watch for people of all ages. It is one of the most heartwarming movies that you can ever find.
- ‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)
This classic cult movie can bring a big smile to everyone’s face. It is a story that a grandfather reads to make his grandson happy, and it is absolutely mesmerizing with fairy tale moments and a hefty dose of dynamic emotions. Even the darkest moments of the movie come with a bright shine that can melt your heart. If you are into classic movies, this is a must-watch.
- ‘An American Tail’ (1986)
It is another classic animation movie by Don Bluth that starts with an anti-Semitic attack and a rebellious ocean crossing. It is a relevant movie to watch in modern times as it showcases the struggles of immigrants in America and how they struggle throughout their lives. More than the feel-good essence, the movie showcases reality with a metaphoric layer that includes a charming mouse of Russian Jewish heritage. The happy ending of Fievel Mousekewitz will show you how kindness and courage to do something positive can bring a greater change in society with cohesive relations.
- ‘Clueless’ (1995)
Directed by Amy Heckerling, Clueless is the perfect movie to watch on a bad day and then laugh later. Comprised of breezy comedy and a simple storyline, there are heavy emotions, but a free flow of happiness and laughter. Whether it is the optimistic characters, pure high school comedy, or the amazing writing of the script, this movie is a perfect treat for you when you are no longer interested in investing yourself in the blues.
- ‘School of Rock’ (2003)
A lot of people have fallen in love with Jack Black after watching this crazy rock. It can be considered one of the best movies by Richard Linklater that grabbed the attention of all kinds of rock lovers as well as movie lovers. Linklater is a master of creating feel-good movies, and this optimistic and infectious movie is the perfect example of that. Black plays the character of man-child music mentor who motivates to create a rock band with the school students. His band blows the roof off with their rock performance in the local battle, and the smile on their faces will bring joy to you as well. It is the best musical ever made.
- ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)
Well, there is not a single bad movie by Studio Ghibli or Director Hayao Miyazaki, as he appreciates true art in this age of AI. ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ is the perfect example his beautiful animation works that are not only fluid but also offers happiness that comes from within. This life-affirming movie shows how nature is always guiding us who are kind to it. The nature spirit Totoro seems like a big squishy animal that looks like a plushie. The relation between humans and nature is well depicted in the movie, but in a wholesome way and in the presence of children, which makes it even better.
- ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)
We are going back to the classics again, as this movie by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly is a must-watch for everyone. This feel-good movie also showcases the golden age of Hollywood when actors acted without CGI, and it can offer an amazing viewing experience. It is a “backstage musical” movie that took place during the transition of silent movies to talkies. Not only an amazing concept, but the directors also made a great attempt in the movie to mix musicals in a more organic way.
- ‘The Last Days of Disco’ (1998)
This film is directed by Whit Stillman, and he did a great job in depicting the age of disco with colorful characters that stand out. The story is based on a diasporic group of school students, with the main focus on Kate Beckinsale, who has learnt how to be in the near-ruin state without smudging her makeup. This movie is based on young people and their dynamic lifestyle, where they often find themselves in some kind of trouble and then finally seek it on their own. Stillman is able to make his story hilarious without trying too hard or pointing out the humorous elements. It is organic and more enjoyable.
- ‘Rushmore’ (1998)
This is another fantastic movie by Wes Anderson, who is best known for his symmetries and stories. ‘Rushmore’ is the perfect example of how there can be optimism even in the toughest times of life. It is an amazing coming-of-age movie that showcases Jason Schwartzman as the main character of Fisher. The story continues with young Fischer falling in love with his mysterious and European teacher and making friends with a businessman. The movie deals with the complexity of relations, but the climax of the movie will make you drop puppy tears of joy, which can be more cathartic than laughs.
- ‘Sing Street’ (2016)
This is a coming-of-age movie that is directed by John Carney and perfectly captures the importance of music in life to channel our deeper emotions. The story takes place in the 80s, where a young Irish guy starts his own band to impress his crush. In order to impress the girl, they also performed a few tracks in the movie, and that is quite romantic. A movie about pure love, music, and unbreakable friendship is surely something that can tantalize your heart with happiness.
- ‘Zootopia’ (2016)
Zootopia is perhaps the first animated movie that showcased a human society with the metaphors of animals and their personalities. Beautifully constructed characters along with a gripping crime thriller story, this movie blew the minds of the audience with its amazing representation of social consciousness and awareness. It is a delightful watch and showcases how the world operates with a display of power. It is one of the best movies, and gladly, audiences can also enjoy its second part, which is all set to release this year, and the fans are eagerly waiting for it. Who is your favorite from Zootopia? Mine is Sid, the sloth who drives too fast!
- ‘Shakespeare in Love’ (1998)
There is something about the classic tales of love that makes people crave for such romance in the modern world as well. This romantic drama is directed by John Madden, and it won the hearts of millions with its feel-good essence. A delightful story with a beautiful cast, this movie has everything you might seek in a feel-good movie. While there are many adaptations of Shakespeare’s romantic plays, nobody ever attempted to showcase Shakespeare as being in love, and this movie has done that gracefully. Watching this movie feels like having warm blanket in a cold day, it is very comforting and engaging.
- ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ (2001)
Well, well, well; no offense to the other sequels of this series with seven more parts, but the first installment of Happy Potter is still the best one for me, where you can find young Harry, Ron, and Hermione getting introduced to each other and forming a pure bond of friendship. The first part of the movie introduced audiences to Hogwarts, and that feeling is greater than anything. It is a feel-good movie that you can watch anytime, as it shows the triumph of love over hatred and good over evil.
- ‘Love Actually’ (2003)
Ah, talk about a movie that showcases a series of romantic relationships and a bunch of couples with a star-studded cast. It is an ooey-gooey romantic film that will make your heart flutter. This movie is directed by Richard Curtis, and he did a great job in creating this rom-com that comes with a fair dose of romance and comedy at the same time. The performance of the cast is incredible, and the representation of the sentimental romance can offer you feel-good feelings that last long. Along with love, the movie also offers the challenges of love, showing how everything is part of life.
- ‘Matilda’ (1996)
Director Danny DeVito has wonderfully adapted this story from Roald Dahl’s children’s classic, which shows the purity and innocence that can win over the ill intentions. The positive characters in the story are named Miss Honey and Lavender, while the bad guys received grotesque names like Trunchbull and Wormwood. The simplicity and organic elements of the story are what make it so relatable to the audience. This movie is a pure pursuit of humane feelings that often rise with kindness for others. The film is a celebration of humanity, which is slowly fading in the modern world.
- ‘Frozen’ (2013)
Frozen has garnered a lot of attention from children, and its popularity is still buzzing. What is great about the movie is that even adults can enjoy its pure essence, that are quite close to reality. It is Disney’s most progressive work, where the princess is not shown as a soft and meek character, but rather someone who can deal with the whole world alone. Yes, it is a fairy tale with magical powers, but more than the powers, it is the power dynamics among the characters that make it appear very relatable. Watch Frozen on a bad day, and you will never regret that.
- ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939)
This cult classic has been directed by Victor Fleming, and other reboots have taken place, too. You will be amazed to witness the wonderful world of Oz, which has been created in the classic setting without any modern equipment. It is surprising to realize that the movie was released 8 decades ago and still is considered to be one of the best flicks in the genre that will remain an evergreen classic. The fantasy musical has set an example in the industry, and it is reaching its transformative quality.
- The Birdcage (1996)
Talk about Robin Williams and Nathan Lane in the same movie and being partners to each other. It is one of the most beautiful, dramatic, and hilarious movies that you have ever watched, and the best part is the underlying message in it that advocates for the struggle of the LGBTQ+ community and their acceptance in their families more than in society. The movie is brilliantly done, and the charming presence of both actors has made it even more captivating for everyone. It is a comedy of chaos that can make you smile and also teach you something about love that prevails among all, regardless of gender and preferences.
- ‘Design for Living’ (1933)
They say that the idea of polyamorous love is modern, and it did not exist in earlier times. However, this bold take by director Ernst Lubitsch showcases how it is a safe ‘Design for Living’. The movie was released back in 1933. The story is mainly based on a love triangle where they explore Paris from America and find out their love for each other. The free-spirited nature of the main character, Gilda, can win your heart, and the representation of their chemistry is shown in such an organic way that you will feel good about it. Of course, there is tension and complexities, and that is the reality of it.
- ‘Amélie’ (2001)
This masterpiece movie is directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and it set an example for the generations, as this evergreen movie is never going to get old. This movie is the true epitome of good feelings due to the main character, Amelie, who embraces idiosyncrasies, the true essence of humanity. Perhaps the biggest and happiest feelings come from the smallest moments, and that is what makes this movie much more than a whimsical romance between a girl and a boy. It is warm, beautiful, and the piano soundtrack of the movies will linger in your ears for a long time.
- Paddington 2
If the first part was a love letter to kindness then this movie is ode to the power and beauty of kindness. The story showcases how Paddington Bear has now settled down and become a popular member of the local community. He wanted to buy the perfect gift for his Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, but things changed when the gift was stolen. It is one of the best sequels that does not overshadow the first movie but expands it in the most delightful and organic way. It is a tear-jerker for real.
