Ten Films to Restore Your Hope in the World and Humanity
Recommendations
The world is dark and dreary to say the least. As a queer woman living in the United States, every day currently feels like a nightmare. I find myself unable to consume much dark or relatable media in this time, so I decided to create a list of ten films that bring me hope, joy, and remind us all of just how strong, courageous, kind, and beautiful the human spirit can be.
1. Up (2009)
A widowed balloon salesman chases a long-delayed dream, only to discover that new connection—not old adventure—is what keeps the human spirit alive.
2. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
An overwhelmed Chinese laundromat owner and her family are pulled into a multiverse-spanning battle that ultimately reveals a quieter truth: in the chaos of infinite possibilities, kindness and connection are radical and life giving values we must continually choose.
3. The Sound of Music (1985)
A young, spirited governess brings music back into a grieving household of seven children against the looming backdrop of war.
4. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
A chaotic family crams into a yellow van to chase a child’s improbable dream, stumbling toward grace and love through dysfunction and devotion.
5. Life is Beautiful (1997)
A father uses imagination and humor to shield his young son from the horrors of a concentration camp.
6. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
Two dogs and a cat undergo a daring and dangerous adventure across the wilderness to reunite with their family.
7. Sing Sing (2024)
Inside a maximum-security prison, incarcerated men find freedom through a theater program.
8. Soul (2020)
A middle-school band teacher chasing a big break learns that life’s purpose isn’t a single achievement but the everyday miracle of being alive.
9. Groundhog Day (1993)
Trapped in the same day on repeat, a cynical weatherman slowly begins to see the world and his behavior differently.
10. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
On the brink of financial despair, a man is shown the invisible impact of his ordinary life by a guardian angel.
What are your go to comfort films surrounding home, resilience, and the human spirit?
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