Hollywood has undeniably been making the inspiration all the more effective and fun with powerful storylines, excellent characters, and incredible locations that hit you right in the feels. The characters in these movies are so well created that they don’t fail to leave a remarkable impression on the viewer.
In this article, I’ve picked the best 20 motivational English movies that are evergreen and truly inspiring. In case you have missed any of them, get your popcorn ready and watch them right now!
#1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) Official Trailer 1 – Will Smith
Directed by Gabriele Muccino, this movie is a true classic! The film received good reviews and was mostly praised for Will Smith’s excellent performance as Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman. Smith’s co-stars in the movie are Jaden Smith and Thandie Newton.
The story revolves around Chris and his struggles with life. His professional downfall leads his wife to separate which leaves him financially wrecked. An unpaid internship in a brokerage firm and the pressure of being a single father is all that he’s left with.
Based on the series of true events, this movie is a must-watch for everyone!
PS: The film was also nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor!
#2. The Fisherman’s Friends – Keep Hauling
Fisherman’s Friends is a British romantic comedy based on a true story. On some days when you are too overwhelmed to watch any overly emotional or grisly horror film and want to watch something pleasing, Fisherman’s Friends is the way to go.
The story revolves around a bunch of small-town men residing in the village of Port Isaac, Cornwall. Most of them are lobster fishermen and share a close relationship.
These ten fishermen are certified to Universal Records by a London music director and accomplish a Top 10 hit with their debut album of traditional sea shanties.
This feel-good film will touch your soul as you will witness the perfect balance of humor, warmth, and emotion.
#3. Facing the Giants Official Trailer (2006)
Based on Christian sports drama, you necessarily don’t have to be a sports lover to love this film. Facing The Giants is an action-packed drama directed by and starring Alex Kendrick. Kendrick plays the role of a losing coach with an underdog football team and a chain of events that take place on the field.
The movie showcases a series of inspirational and profound Biblical statements that may fascinate a lot of people. It will bring you closer to the Almighty God. All in all, the movie is a must-watch. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll clap, you’ll cheer!
#4. Pay It Forward – Trailer
Pay it Forward is based on a book of the same title by Catherine Ryan Hyde. Shot in Las Vegas, this film is about the story of a young boy, Trevor, and his goodwill movement, “Pay it Forward”.
A random class assignment inspires young Trevor to come up with an idea that transforms many lives. He decides to not return any favor from now on and rather pay it ahead by performing good actions for three people.
The film is an expression for describing the virtue of kindness and a good deed. It is undeniably wonderful to watch the young boy’s attempt at making the world a better place.
#5. Apple Mortgage Cake – Based on a True Story
Directed by Michael M Scott, Apple Mortgage Cake is based on the story of a single mother of three sons, Angela Logan. With an already chaotic life, she has a childhood home that’s falling apart. The home possesses the memories of her listening to her grandmother’s anecdotes about the delights of baking.
To avoid giving her home up to foreclosure, Angela attempts to bake and sell 100 cakes in 10 days. Driven by the force of saving her home and her family, Angela proves that hard work and determination always pay off.
#6. Courageous
Courageous is another film on the list starring Alex Kendrick. Kendrick plays the role of a Sheriff’s deputy, Adam Mitchell who has to undergo an awful personal tragedy that makes him question everything around him.
In the attempt to seize solace in his religion, Adam vows that he will strive to become nicer to his teenage son, Rusty Martin. He also manages to convince all of his friends to sign a pledge to become better parents and better Christians.
An interesting fact about the film is that almost half of the film’s cast and crew were volunteers from Sherwood Baptist Church.
Available on:
#7. Flywheel
The movie, Flywheel is a refreshing none-Hollywood style drama. It is a great illustration of how God works. The story is based on a dishonestly used car salesman who eventually chooses to become the salesman that God wants him to be.
The writer has made use of several humorous dialogues in the script that enhance the beauty of the film. Believers or non-believers, this movie is a must-watch for everyone!
Available on:
#8. Fireproof
Fireproof is a story about a married couple, Catherine and Caleb who are having a hard time coping with marital difficulties as the marriage has reached the verge of divorce. After finding out about the same, Caleb’s dad challenges him for the Love Dare which is a 40-day experiment of loving Catherine unconditionally.
If you’re already getting curious about the result of this Love Dare, hop onto your couch and watch this beautiful movie!
The movie is a perfect blend of drama and romance. So well, single or married, this movie is a must-watch for everyone.
Available on:
#9. War Room
War Room is a 2015 film that succeeded in becoming the 7th highest-grossing Christian film in the United States. The plot revolves around the Jordan family which looks perfect on the surface but hides many cracks underneath. A large house and plenty of money are expected to cover them up but unfortunately, fail to.
When Miss Clara comes about to discover this, she can’t resist guiding them and helping them unite again.
The movie won two awards for being the most inspiring film of the year.
Available on:
#10. God’s Not Dead 3 – Full HD Christian movie
Directed by Harold Cronk, God’s Not Dead is a family drama that revolves around the discovery and faith in God.
The story begins with Professor Jeffrey Raddison (who is an atheist)demanding his students to sign a declaration “God is dead” to pass. Josh Wheaton is the only student who refuses to do the same. This leads to a debate between the two and the story moves forward.
All in all, the movie is thought-provoking, spiritual, and truly inspiring.
Available on:
#11. The Wolf Of Wall Street
Leonardo DiCaprio is the only name that strikes our minds as we read the movie name! Released in the United States, this movie was the first to be released completely through digital distribution. It was a major blockbuster on the screens and became Scorsese’s highest-grossing film!
The movie is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort and the turn of events that take place in his life. From his rise to a rich stockbroker living an outstanding life to his downfall comprising of crime, corruption, and the federal government, this movie is truly worth the watch!
#12. The Ultimate Gift
The Ultimate Gift is a story of a young man, Jason Stevens who lives a life of wealth and privilege. After his grandfather’s death, he expects to obtain a substantial inheritance. However, it turns out that Jason must set out on a journey of self-discovery to receive the true gift that his grandfather wishes for him to have.
The story plays out as a mystery and is extremely fun to watch. The actors have played outstandingly and the movie is a must-watch.
#13. Good Will Hunting | Matt Damon | Full movie
Released in 1997, Good Will Hunting is a perfect blend of drama and romance.
The story revolves around Will Hunting who is a genius in mathematics and can solve the most difficult mathematical problems.
However, he is soon hit with an emotional crisis that pushes him to get help from a psychiatrist, Dr. Sean Maguire to help him recover.
Matt Damon has played the complex character of Will just perfectly fine. The movie has also been awarded two Oscars!
#14. Peaceful Warrior full movie with subtitles
The plot, which is based on a Dan Millman novel, follows a college gymnast with great potential, but the whole drive for success is one of the big roadblocks to realizing that potential. Our hero’s true challenge, in its most basic form, is to find happiness by being present and taking interest and love in what is right in front of him.
This film succeeds because it adheres to one of the most fundamental story-telling principles: it reveals rather than tells. While certain fundamental spiritual concepts are represented in words, the plot and character development show that those words are real.
#15. The Greatest Game Ever Played Movie 2005
The Greatest Game Ever Played is based on the real-life careers of two genius golf champions, British Harry Vardon (StephenDillane) and American Francis Ouimet (Shia LaBeouf), and follows their very different childhoods. Since they both come from working-class families, they must conquer racism on separate continents to play together.
The Greatest Game Ever Played, like Hoosiers, Recall the Titans, The Rookie, and Miracle belongs to the sports sub-genre. The aim of these films is to re-mythologize sports by using true stories, bucking the trend of digging up dirt to smear celebrity reputations. Those stories have their place, too, but it’s nice to see an inspirational story now and then, The Greatest Game Ever Played is as feel-good as any sports film you’ll see.
#16. Christian Movie: The Shack
The Shack is based on the novel by Canadian author, William P. Young. The plot revolves around a grieving man, Mack Phillips who had to undergo a terrible family tragedy. He is pushed into a deep depression that induces him to question his innermost principles.
One day, he receives a mysterious, personal invitation to meet with God in a place called ‘The Shack’. The movie is truly inspiring and a must-watch for everyone!
#17. The King’s Speech
The King’s Speech is a richly entertaining, immediately absorbing true-life drama written by David Seidler and directed by Tom Hooper about the morganatic bromance between introverted stammerer King George VI played by Colin Forth, and exuberant Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue played by Geoffrey Rush: an affair brokered by George’s shrewd wife in her pre-Queen-Mum incarnations as the Duchess of York, and then Queen Elizabeth.
The King’s Speech was a box office blast. The visual design, art direction, screenplay, directing, score, and acting were all highly appreciated by film critics. The film won several awards and nominations, with Colin Firth’s performance winning him his first Academy Award for Best Actor. The King’s Speech earned 12 Oscar nominations, more than any other film that year, and went on to win four, including Best Picture, at the 83rd Academy Awards.
#18. The World’s Fastest Indian
Burt Munro of Invercargill, New Zealand, and his heavily modified 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle are the subject of The World’s Fastest Indian, a biographical sports drama film released in 2005. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Munro set numerous land speed records for motorcycles with engines less than 1,000 ccs at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Roger Donaldson produced, wrote, and directed the film, which stars Anthony Hopkins.
The film premiered to positive reviews in New Zealand on December 7, 2005, and quickly became the highest-grossing local film in the region, grossing NZ$7,043,000 and over US$18,297,690 worldwide.
The World’s Fastest Indian is at its best at the start and end of the run. The center has a slight sag. The road movie vignettes are unremarkable, including the adorable fish-out-of-water scenes.
#19. The Founder
The Founder is a 2016 biographical drama film written by Robert Siegel and directed by John Lee Hancock. The film, which stars Michael Keaton as businessman Ray Kroc, tells the story of how he founded the McDonald’s fast-food restaurant chain. Richard and Maurice McDonald, the creators of McDonald’s, are played by Nick Offerman and John Carroll Lynch.
The Founder is one of those unusual biopics that catch your attention right away and don’t let go. A studio film that is well filmed, scored, and acted and tells a compelling story. The Creator is a fascinating glimpse into the roots of the McDonald’s brand that also introduces us to an equally fascinating real-life figure and another chance for Michael Keaton’s comeback to begin.
And it is a wrap for this article! I hope that you enjoyed every bit of it and that it was worth your time. I will see you in the next article. Until then, stay safe and happy watching!!
#20. Overcomer
Due to an unfortunate chain of events, a high-school basketball instructor, John Harrison is forced to train cross-country athletes. In the process, he discovers Hannah Scott who possesses rare talent but along with it, asthma.
It is truly inspiring to watch the young girl overcome her obstacles as the story rolls along. It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry. The film is an eye-opener and will also help you discover so many parts about yourself.
#1 The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) Official Trailer 1 – Will Smith
Directed by Gabriele Muccino, this movie is a true classic! The film received good reviews and was mostly praised for Will Smith’s excellent performance as Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman. Smith’s co-stars in the movie are Jaden Smith and Thandie Newton.
The story revolves around Chris and his struggles with life. His professional downfall leads his wife to separate which leaves him financially wrecked. An unpaid internship in a brokerage firm and the pressure of being a single father is all that he’s left with.
Based on the series of true events, this movie is a must-watch for everyone!
PS: The film was also nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor!
#2 The Fisherman’s Friends – Keep Hauling
Fisherman’s friends is a British romantic comedy based on a true story. On some days when you are too overwhelmed to watch any overly emotional or grisly horror film and want to watch something pleasing, Fisherman’s Friends is the way to go.
The story revolves around a bunch of small-town men residing in the village of Port Isaac, Cornwall. Most of them are lobster fishermen and share a close relationship.
These ten fishermen are certified to Universal Records by a London music director and accomplish a Top 10 hit with their debut album of traditional sea shanties.
This feel-good film will touch your soul as you will witness the perfect balance of humor, warmth, and emotion.
#3 Facing the Giants Official Trailer (2006)
Based on Christian sports drama, you necessarily don’t have to be a sports lover to love this film. Facing The Giants is an action-packed drama directed by and starring Alex Kendrick. Kendrick plays the role of a losing coach with an underdog football team and a chain of events that take place on the field.
The movie showcases a series of inspirational and profound Biblical statements that may fascinate a lot of people. It will bring you closer to the Almighty God. All in all, the movie is a must-watch. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll clap, you’ll cheer!
#4 Pay It Forward – Trailer
Pay it forward is based on a book of the same title by Catherine Ryan Hyde. Shot in Las Vegas, this film is about a story of a young boy, Trevor, and his goodwill movement, “pay it forward”.
A random class assignment inspires young Trevor to come up with an idea that transforms many lives. He decides to not return any favor from now on and rather pay it ahead by performing good actions for three people.
The film is an expression for describing the virtue of kindness and a good deed. It is undeniably wonderful to watch the young boy’s attempt at making the world a better place.
#5 Apple Mortgage Cake – Based on a True Story
Directed by Michael M Scott, Apple Mortgage Cake is based on the story of a single mother of three sons, Angela Logan. With an already chaotic life, she has a childhood home that’s falling apart. The home possesses the memories of her listening to her grandmother’s anecdotes about the delights of baking.
To avoid giving her home up to foreclosure, Angela attempts to bake and sell 100 cakes in 10 days. Driven by the force of saving her home and her family, Angela proves that hard work and determination always pay off.
#6 Courageous
Courageous is another film on the list starring Alex Kendrick. Kendrick plays the role of a Sheriff’s deputy, Adam Mitchell who has to undergo an awful personal tragedy that makes him question everything around him.
In the attempt to seizing solace in his religion, Adam vows that he will strive to become nicer to his teenage son, Rusty Martin. He also manages to convince all of his friends to sign a pledge to come to be better parents and better Christians.
An interesting fact about the film is that almost half of the film’s cast and crew were volunteers from Sherwood Baptist Church.
#7 Flywheel
The movie, Flywheel is a refreshing none-Hollywood style drama. It is a great illustration of how God works. The story is based on a dishonestly used car salesman who eventually chooses to become the salesman that God wants him to be.
The writer has made use of several humorous dialogues in the script that enhances the beauty of the film. Believers or non-believers, this movie is a must-watch for everyone!
#8 Fireproof
Fireproof is a story about a married couple, Catherine and Caleb whoare having a hard time coping with marital difficulties as the marriage hasreached the verge of divorce. After finding out about the same, Caleb’s dadchallenges him for the Love dare which is a 40-day experiment of lovingCatherine unconditionally.
If you’re already getting curious about the result of this Love Dare,hop on to your couch and watch this beautiful movie!
The movie is a perfect blend of drama and romance. So well, single ormarried, this movie is a must-watch for everyone.
#9 War Room
War Room is a 2015 film that succeeded to become the 7th highest-grossing Christian film in the United States. The plot revolves around the Jordan family that looks perfect on the surface but hides many cracks underneath. A large house and plenty of money are expected to cover them up but unfortunately, fail to.
When Miss Clara comes about to discover this, she can’t resist guiding them and helping them unite again.
The movie won two awards for being the most inspiring film of the year.
#10 God’s Not Dead 3 – Full Hd Christian movie
Directed by Harold Cronk, God’s Not Dead is a family drama thatrevolves around the discovery and faith in God.
The story begins with Professor Jeffrey Raddison (who is an atheist)demanding his students to sign a declaration “God is dead” to pass. JoshWheaton is the only student who refuses to do the same. This leads to a debatebetween the two and the story moves forward.
All in all, the movie is thought-provoking, spiritual, and trulyinspiring.
#11 The Wolf Of Wall Street
Leonardo DiCaprio is the only name that strikes our mind as we read the movie name! Released in the United States, this movie was the first to be released completely through digital distribution. It was a major blockbuster on the screens and became Scorsese’s highest-grossing film!
The movie is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort and the turn of events that take place in his life. From his rise to a rich stock-broker living an outstanding life to his downfall comprising of crime, corruption, and the federal government, this movie is truly worth the watch!
#12 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞
The Ultimate Gift is a story of a young man, Jason Stevens who lives a life of wealth and privilege. After his grandfather’s death, he expects to obtain a substantial inheritance. However, it turns out that Jason must set out on a journey of self-discovery to receive the true gift that his grandfather wishes for him to have.
The story plays out as a mystery and is extremely fun to watch. The actors have played outstandingly and the movie is a must-watch.
#13 Good Will Hunting | Matt Damon | Full movie
Released in 1997, Good Will Hunting is a perfect blend of drama and romance.
The story revolves around Will Hunting who is a genius in mathematics and can solve the most difficult mathematical problems.
However, he is soon hit with an emotional crisis that pushes him to take help from a psychiatrist, Dr. Sean Maguire to help him recover.
Matt Damon has played the complex character of Will just perfectly fine. The movie has also been awarded two Oscars!
#14 Peaceful Warrior full movie with subtitles
The plot, which is based on a Dan Millman novel, follows a college gymnast with great potential, but the whole drive for success is one of the big roadblocks to realizing that potential. Our hero's true challenge, in its most basic form, is to find happiness by being present and taking interest and love in what is right in front of him.
This film succeeds because it adheres to one of the most fundamental story-telling principles: it reveals rather than tells. While certain fundamental spiritual concepts are represented in words, the plot and character development show that those words are real.
#15 The Greatest Game Ever Played Movie 2005 – full movie
The Greatest Game Ever Played is based on thereal-life careers of two genius golf champions, British Harry Vardon (StephenDillane) and American Francis Ouimet (Shia LaBeouf), and follows their very different childhoods. Since they both come from working-class families, they must conquer racism on separate continents to play together.
The Greatest Game Ever Played, like Hoosiers, Recall theTitans, The Rookie, and Miracle belongs to the sports sub-genre. The aim of these films is to re-mythologize sports by using true stories, bucking thetrend of digging up dirt to smear celebrity reputations. Those stories havetheir place, too, but it's nice to see an inspirational story now and then, andThe Greatest Game Ever Played is as feel-good as any sports film you'll see.
#16 Christian Movie: The Shack
The Shack is based on the novel by a Canadian author, William P. Young.The plot revolves around a grieving man, Mack Phillips who had to undergo aterrible family tragedy. He is pushed into a deep depression that induces himto question his innermost principles.
One day, he receives a mysterious, personal invitation to meet with Godat a place called ‘The Shack’. The movie is truly inspiring and a must-watchfor everyone!
#17 The King’s Speech
The King's Speech is a richly entertaining, immediately absorbing true-life drama written by David Seidler and directed by Tom Hooper about the morganatic bromance between introverted stammerer King George VI played by Colin Forth and exuberant Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue played by Geoffrey Rush: an affair brokered by George's shrewd wife in her pre-Queen-Mum incarnations as the Duchess of York, and then Queen Elizabeth.
The King's Speech was a box office blast. The visual design, art direction, screenplay, directing, score, and acting were all highly appreciated by film critics. The film won several awards and nominations, with Colin Firth's performance winning him his first Academy Award for Best Actor. The King's Speech earned 12 Oscar nominations, more than any other film that year, and went on to win four, including Best Picture, at the 83rd Academy Awards.
#18 The Worlds Fastest Indian
Burt Munro of Invercargill, New Zealand, and his heavily modified 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle are the subject of The World's Fastest Indian, a biographical sports drama film released in 2005. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Munro set numerous land speed records for motorcycles with engines less than 1,000 ccs at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Roger Donaldson produced, wrote, and directed the film, which stars Anthony Hopkins.
The film premiered to positive reviews in New Zealand on December 7, 2005, and quickly became the highest-grossing local film in the region, grossing NZ$7,043,000 and over US$18,297,690 worldwide.
The World's Fastest Indian is at its best at the start and end of the run. The center has a slight sag. The road movie vignettes are unremarkable, including the adorable fish-out-of-water scenes.
#19 Film THE FOUNDER full movie ~ kisah awal mula berdirinya MCD ~
The Founder is a 2016 biographical drama film written by Robert Siegel and directed by John Lee Hancock. The film, which stars Michael Keaton as businessman Ray Kroc, tells the story of how he founded the McDonald's fast-food restaurant chain. Richard and Maurice McDonald, the creators of McDonald's, are played by Nick Offerman and John Carroll Lynch.
The Founder is one of those unusual biopics that catch your attention right away and doesn't let go. A studio film that is well filmed, scored, and acted and tells a compelling story. The Creator is a fascinating glimpse into the roots of the McDonald's brand that also introduces us to an equally fascinating real-life figure and another chance for Michael Keaton's comeback to begin.
And it is a wrap for this article! I hope that you enjoyed every bit of it and that it was worthy of your time. I will see you in the next article. Until then, stay safe and happy watching!!
#20 Overcomer – Trailer
Due to an unfortunate chain of events, a high-school basketballinstructor, John Harrison is forced to train cross-country athletes. In theprocess, he discovers Hannah Scott who possesses rare talent but along with it,asthma.
It is truly inspiring to watch the young girl overcome her obstacles asthe story rolls along. It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry. Thefilm is an eye-opener and will also help you discover so many parts aboutyourself.
