15 inspiring movies to motivate yourself with real life lessons

You know those inspiring movies that chill to the soul? They bring life lessons, learnings, motivations and reasons to believe. If you like this type of movie and you need some inspiration to explore the world or even to give life a little push, check out these 15 wonderful titles!

1. The boy who discovered the wind (2019)

Based on a true story, this film takes place in an African country near Mozambique. It is one of the most inspiring films in the Netflix catalog, as it shows a lesson in life, through the power of education, willpower, belief and persistence. A young man, more than saving his village from hunger, moves many people on the other side of the small screen.

2. Hunger for Power (2016)

If you’ve never heard of the McDonald’s story, you need to see this movie! He talks about the origin of this landmark that is the fast food chain, created in the US in the mid-1940s. A story of innovation and power to inspire entrepreneurs, but also to alert them about their decisions in the business field.

3. Extraordinary (2017)

The extraordinary teaches so much! Inspired by the book by RJ Palácio, author and graphic designer from New York, the film tells the story of Auggie Pullman. He was born with Treacher Collins, a facial deformity. The film portrays his trajectory in facing the prejudice of children and adults. The boy’s response to all this is a gift to humanity: his kindness and intelligence stand out.

4. Joy: the name of success (2015)

Another tip for entrepreneurs! You know the famous Magic Mop? Those mops that became successful in the US and even in Brazil? It is about the story of the inventor of this product that the film is about. This creation earned him millions of dollars, but the path was not easy. If you are in need of inspiration to start a new business or are struggling to believe and keep going, this movie is perfect!

5. The Price of Tomorrow (2011)

One of the inspiring films on the list stars Amanda Seyfried and Justin Timberlake. It addresses a topic that is part of our day, but that goes unnoticed, or rather, flies by. In a world controlled by the value of time, the rich can live forever, while the poor see their time running out. It is against this system that Will Salas, the main character, will fight to reverse history.

6. Happiness by a Thread (2018)

The beauty industry makes billions a year, and much of it is driven by stereotypes and predefined standards. Based on this, the film tells the journey of Violet Jones, a publicist who, since she was a little girl, has suffered from society’s impositions to straighten her hair and discovers the strength of being who one is.

7. Green Book – a guide to life (2018)

No wonder this movie won 5 Oscars in 2019! The Green Book is set in the USA, in 1962, and brings as a backdrop the painful and distressing reality of the time in relation to blacks. In the long run, Dr. Don Shirley is a famous black pianist who embarks on a tour of the US South. The character relies on Tony Lip to face challenges and prejudices along the way. It is a strong film, which makes hard reflections and is not to be missed!

8. A Possible Dream (2009)

American football, family and love form the 8th feature on the list of inspiring films. Michael Oher is a young black man, the son of a drug-using mother, who grew up in this environment. A simple boy, who receives the reception of a completely structured and millionaire family. In the character played by Sandra Bullock, he finds the encouragement, affection and care he never had.

9. In Search of Happiness (2006)

Starring Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith, this feature is a reference for inspiring and motivational films. Based on a true story, Chris finds himself alone to take care of his son, have a career and survive. The character has a difficult trajectory, having to deal with a lack of money and relentlessly looking for better opportunities.

10. Togo

Who doesn’t love inspiring adventure movies with a dog as the main character? Togo is a Siberian husky that makes up a team of Alaskan sled dogs. In this story, the dog has a surprising and inspiring trajectory alongside his owner, Leonhard Seppala.

11. Who wants to be a millionaire? (2008)

A film that inspires to change lives! The famous TV show “Slumdog Millionaire?” This is where the plot of the story takes place. Environmentalized in India and exposing the country’s misery, violence and inequality, the feature focuses on the trajectory of the young Jamal Malik. He participates in the program and surprises everyone by answering the questions ー which causes a series of events and twists.

12. A gentleman intern (2015)

Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway in one movie could only be synonymous with a good story, right? After the death of his wife, widower Ben Whittaker, 70, feels useless for not having a work routine. That’s when he sees an opportunity as an intern at an innovative fashion company. Once hired, the film narrates the trajectory of this gentleman intern who seeks to fit into a new world, with new people, new technologies and new working methods.

13. Untouchables (2011)

Inspired by a true story, The Untouchables is one of those inspiring films that makes you laugh and cry. A quadriplegic millionaire hires a man to be his escort, and from that is born a friendship that is a true life lesson. Film about how good attitudes and doing good can be decisive in people’s lives.

14. The Man Who Changed the Game (2011)

Another one of the inspiring movies is based on a true story. This time about resilience, teamwork and game-changing new ideas. Brad Pitt is Billy Breane, the general manager of a California baseball team called the Oakland A’s. Faced with a low budget to assemble a team, Breane enlists the help of Peter Brand to create data-driven tactics and strategies in order to assemble a winning team.

15. Soul: A Soulful Adventure (2020)

The last movie on the inspirational movies list is a Disney+ animation that won the hearts of many people. Despite looking like just a cartoon, the feature reflects on existential dilemmas and soul connections. Joe is a dreamy music teacher who has an accident. This makes him completely change and still helps a person to find the best in life, in addition to the purposes that make them really want to enjoy every second.

There are other inspiring films that mainly feature female protagonists stories to make you feel powerful, like the characters. To follow along, prepare the popcorn and also see this list of movies to empower women!