Movies touch us. Irrespective of whether they're critically acclaimed or panned, whether they're popular obscure, whether they're mega blockbusters or unknown indie hits, they touch us, they inspire us, and sometimes they make us better. These particular films have motivated me to be better, to aspire to more, to try harder. I want to share them with you in the hopes that they'll touch you, too.
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1. Dear Zachary
This is a documentary, and it is heartbreaking. It will rip you to shreds, but even as you're watching it and probably bawling, Andrew Bagby will inspire you. His life will touch yours.
2. The Shawshank Redemption
There are many reasons this movie will make you a better person. It proves that all of us have the potential for redemption, and that not everything is black and white. Beyond that, I think everyone can benefit from just a sliver of Andy Dufresne's spirit.
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3. Pay It Forward
I think this one goes without saying.
4. Stand by Me
Have you ever had friends like the ones you had when you were 12?
5. The Color Purple
This movie, and the beautiful book, continuously inspire me. I am not exaggerating when I say that I daily draw strength and inspiration from Celie, Sofia, and Shug.
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6. And the Band Played on …
Films like this, The Normal Heart, Angels in America, and so many others chronicle an important era in LGBTQIA+ history. The books is even more heartbreaking than the film, but whether you watch or read, you'll walk away angry, agonized, and eager to make a difference.
7. Gandhi
I think this one pretty much goes without saying, as well.
8. Dead Poets Society
This is a bit dark, true, but it makes such an impact – even all these years later.
"Dead Poets Society" is a coming-of-age drama that follows a group of students at an all-boys prep school as they are inspired by their unconventional English teacher, John Keating (played by Robin Williams). The film tackles themes of conformity, individualism, and the power of literature and poetry. It received critical acclaim and has become a cult classic, known for its iconic "Carpe Diem" scene and the powerful message of seizing the day and following your passions. Despite its dark ending, the film continues to inspire audiences to think critically and live life to the fullest.
9. A Raisin in the Sun
This is quite honestly one of the most powerful movies I've ever watched. If you haven't seen it, please make it a point. Soon.
10. Lean on Me
All it takes to make a change is someone with a passion ... even if that passion is very passionate.
11. The Pursuit of Happyness
Everything about this movie is inspiring. It's especially good to watch when you're feeling defeated with life, whether it has to do with your job or life in general.
12. The Blind Side
What I love about this movie is that you still hear from this wonderful, warm family. You still see the love they have for each other.
13. Erin Brockovich
You can't sit back in silence when someone is doing something wrong. It doesn't matter if you catch someone littering or poisoning the water. When you do nothing, you're exhibiting a kind of passive approval.
14. Milk
Harvey Milk is one of my heroes. This movie shows what a force he was, but I advise anyone interested to check out other materials as well. There's no denying his impact on my community, but it's wonderful to get a glimpse at what this brave, beautiful man was like as a person, as well.
15. Amelie
Amelie is a saint. I want to be like Amelie.
16. Billy Elliot
See the play, see the movie, see something. Billy's story never gets old.
17. August Rush
Neither does August's, for that matter. This movie even makes my dad cry.
Inspiration strikes everyone differently. Different films, books, songs, and even TV shows may inspire you to be better, do better, do more, be more – so spill. What inspires you to be a better person? Have you ever watched a movie that hit you so deeply, it impacted your entire life?
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