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9 Most Inspirational Movies

Jenny Kim |
April 16, 2014 | 6:29 p.m. PDT

From making us laugh to making us cry, from scaring us out of our seats to putting us on the edge of our seats — films are so multi-dimensional that we movie-goers experience a load of emotions with one trip to the movies. Here are some films that have gone the extra-mile and have inspired us in so many ways, impacting the way we view the world and ourselves.

A Beautiful Mind @Marcus_Theatres
A Beautiful Mind @Marcus_Theatres
A Beautiful Mind (2001)

This film, inspired by the true story about Princeton University professor John Nash, accounts for the life experiences of this unsociable genius that later finds out about his debilitating case of schizophrenia. He overcomes the difficulties and eventually receives the Nobel Laureate for Economics, despite his disorder.


The Pursuit of Happyness @mohammedsalama
The Pursuit of Happyness @mohammedsalama

 

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Funny guy Will Smith and his then little boy Jaden Smith join family forces in this film to create the unbelievably moving and inspiring “The Pursuit of Happyness." The movie beautifully relays the financial and emotional struggles of a man who strives to recalibrate his life and provide a comfortable lifestyle for his son and himself. This film reminds us that with the right motives and the will to succeed, anything can happen.

Hotel Rwanda @JamesEdw001
Hotel Rwanda @JamesEdw001
Hotel Rwanda (2004)

In the civil war-torn country of Rwanda, a hotel manager takes it as his duty to protect and save the Rwandan refugees by utilizing the hotel he manages as a haven. This true story speaks of the bravery and selflessness of a singular man who saves the lives of over a thousand people at the risk of his own safety. 

Million Dollar Baby @cinema_21online
Million Dollar Baby @cinema_21online

Million Dollar Baby (2004)

Hillary Swank and Clint Eastwood come together to create this film about determination, growth, and the pursuit of dreams. Swank plays the hardened amateur boxer Maggie Fitzgerald that pursues her dream of boxing as she develops an unexpected partnership with her coach Frankie Dunn (Eastwood) as they both strive to achieve their goals with the help of each other. Despite her lack of experience and criticism from her family, Maggie Fitzgerald’s thirst for success drives her to victory.  

 

Forrest Gump @iTweetFacts
Forrest Gump @iTweetFacts
Forrest Gump (1994)

Tom Hanks plays the lovable titular character Forrest Gump in a movie admired throughout the world. This story of the young man, who is born with a disability, speaks about the trials of love, isolation, and friendship throughout the course of life. Though initially bullied and looked down upon, Gump utilizes his charm and unconditional love to touch the lives of everyone he has met, on-screen and off. This film speaks to the underdogs and reminds the audience that despite the obstacles, just keep running.

Harold and Maude @palacesyracuse
Harold and Maude @palacesyracuse
Harold and Maude (1971)

This eccentric film speaks of living life and the need to appreciate our youth and take advantage of opportunities to try something new. Harold, though young, lives looking forward to his death…until he meets seventy-nine year old Maude. This unconventional couple, together, defy all the rules and regulations as they experience true love as they learn to appreciate life and understand one another.

The Shawshank Redemption @fiupifilm
The Shawshank Redemption @fiupifilm
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Two prisoners, played by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, defy obstacles as they forge an unbreakable bond of friendship during their time served in prison. "Shawshank Redemption” speaks to the power of friendship and resilience as they create unexpected friendships with their fellow inmates and bond over their shared fight for survival. Together, they dig their way to freedom.

Slumdog Millionaire @qptester5
Slumdog Millionaire @qptester5
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

From the slums of Mumbai to the stage of a national gameshow, Jamal Malik is a representation of hope and ambition for the underdogs. Though raised on the streets and later orphaned, this character is testament of success and hope for those underprivileged and defeated through his resilience, but also his determination to defy all societal expectations through his success and ultimate triumph. 

Life is Beautiful @adammartinhq
Life is Beautiful @adammartinhq
Life is Beautiful (1997)

Even in the darkest of times, Roberto Benigni’s character Guido Orefice never fails to bring light and happiness wherever he goes. Despite living in a time stricken by World War II and eventually being sent to a concentration camp with his family, Guido Orefice goes to extreme measures to preserve the innocence and purity in his son through comedy. Director and actor Benigni utilizes this movie to remind that though times may get tough, life really is beautiful.

Reach Staff Writer Jenny Kim here.



 

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