Share your favorite uplifting movies or add a review to vote for the ones already listed.
Guidelines
Movies should be inspiring but need not be overtly spiritual. To know whether a movie fits this criteria, ask yourself, “Did I feel more peace, more inner freedom, more self-expansion, or more joy when I finished watching it?”
Add a MovieList of Movies
Song of Bernadette, The
In 1858 France, Bernadette has a vision of the virgin Mary. The government officials to their best to suppress the girl and her followers, but the phenomenon transforms the lives of everyone in the town.
Billy Elliot
A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected love of dance and the disintegration of his family.
Reviews
- Good to see it on the list.—Fox
- Great movie about overcoming messages from your environment and following your heart.—Lori Ritchie
- I don't know if this movie is as much inspiring as it is entertaining: and it is extremely entertaining. It has one of the most gut-wrenching movie scenes ever, too, involving a piano. Lots of fun, though, lots of fun..—Jack B
- Set in a small mining town during the sociopolitical unrest of the 1984 miner's strike, a heartwarming coming-of-age tale of an 11-year-old whose passion for Ballet confuses his proud miner father.—Priti issar
Finding Happiness
Profiles journalist Juliet Palmer (Elisabeth Rohm of Law and Order and American Hustle) embarks on a journey at Ananda Village that will open her eyes and change her life.
Reviews
- I enjoyed the movie, but I wish it were more of a documentary. The fictional aspect with a very recognizable actress was a bit distracting for me.—Charles Rhinehart
- This movie is an opportunity to witness truth in action.—Josette
- Part documentary, part fiction, this is a gentle but joyful show with a deep spiritual tone. The cinematography is often fantastic, as well.—Jack B
- Definitely my favorite movie ever. One of Swami Kriyananda's most precious contributions to this world!—kalidas
It's a Wonderful Life
An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed.
Reviews
- Such a delightful movie ! Simply warms the heart.—Vernika Chauhan
- I watch this movie every year! It's that good! It is a wonderful reminder of how one person can make a huge difference in many lives.—Josette
- Beautiful movie!—Mary Kretzmann
- George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams in order to help others but is shown all the lives he has touched and how different life in his community would be had he never been born by an Angel.—Will Benshoof
Gandhi
Biography of Mahatma Gandhi, the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest.
Reviews
- Life story of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi turning to Mahatma. Vivid experiences of his life, his strength, purity and devotion for truth and non-violence.—Anuj Dwivedi
- This is a stunning portrait of the humble man who changed the world. The making of the film itself--against all odds--by noted actor and producer Richard Attenborough is itself an inspiring story. This movie rightfully took top awards at the 1981 Oscars.—Jack B
- This film helped me begin to believe in God back when I was in high school. "If someone as great as Gandhi believed in God," I thought, "there must be something to spirituality."—Nabha
Miracle on 34th Street
When a nice old man who claims to be Santa Claus is institutionalized as insane, a young lawyer decides to defend him by arguing in court that he is the real thing.
Reviews
- Wow! This is a fun show: one of the best Christmas movies ever. With a young Natalie Wood. (1947)—Jack B
- I should add that the 1947 version is superior to the recent remake, which doesn't begin to measure up to the charm of the original.—Rajarsi Fuller
- Santa comes to New York to see if the Christmas spirit is alive and well. He is held for questioning, but in a court of law proves indisputably that he is, indeed, the real Santa. Lots of fun.—Rajarsi Fuller
October Sky
The true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner's son who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to take up rocketry against his father's wishes.
Reviews
- Loved this...—Mary Kretzmann
- Inspired me as a college student.—Vinay kumar
- fascinating true story of a Kentucky coal miner's son who became a space engineer—Usha Dermond
Peaceful Warrior, The
A chance encounter with a stranger changes the life of a college gymnast.
Reviews
- Nick Nolte is a wise sage and soul and shares his wisdom with a young competitive athlete who needs inspiration to be the best and gets it from listening, watching and leaing from this guru.—Amy
- It throws light on understanding spirituality through the back drop of a aspiring trampoline champion.. Inspiring, uplifting,..... U end up with the feeling that anything is possible ....and.... All that matters is love and surrendering to the moment in its entirety...One of the most spiritual movies i ve ever seen—Lakshmi
- It is about a teen gymnast who loses all hope in a forthcoming competition as he has an accident and the doctor declares incapable of ever being a gymnast. He finds new hope through a mentor.—Heena
Seven Years in Tibet
True story of Heinrich Harrer, an Austrian mountain climber who became friends with the Dalai Lama at the time of China's takeover of Tibet.
Reviews
- So fun! Gives a glimpse of the beautiful Tibetean culture before the Chinese invasion in all its authenticity as well as regalia. Also gives us a chance to meet the very young Dalai Lama. Added treat.—Vernika Chauhan
- Great story of sheer endurance in a person which every one should imbibe.—Vinay kumar
- True story of Austrian Heinrich Harrer, British POW during WWII who escapes & travels across Tibet to wait out the war in Lhasa, eventually becoming the young Dalai Lama's tutor. 2 thumbs up!—Rajarsi Fuller
St. Giuseppe Moscati: Doctor to the Poor
Giuseppe Moscati, "the holy physician of Naples," was a medical doctor and layman in the early 20th century who came from an aristocratic family and devoted his medical career to serving the poor.
Reviews
- An interesting, well-made film. [in Italian, but English subtitles are available on the DVD]—Jack B
- This is one of the most inspiring movies I've ever seen. It is about a doctor who could have had wealth and prestige but risked his life and gave up his possessions to help the poor. He showed such compassion and understanding of peoples needs. He truly lived his spiritual beliefs every day.—Judith Hollywood
- This Italian movie is about a medical doctor who was a truly caring and loving doctor to people's souls who gave away most of his posessions to help others. Today he is seen as a saint.—Greg Traymar
Brother Sun, Sister Moon
This is a dramatization of events in the life of St. Francis of Assisi from before his conversion experience through his audience with the pope, including his friendship with St. Clare.
Reviews
- The inspiring true story of St. Francis with a kind of trippy-hippy retelling by filmmaker Franco Zefferelli. (with music by "Donovan")—Jack B
- Early life of St. Francis—Kerey
Come To the Stable
Two nuns from a French convent arrive in a small New England town with a plan to build a children's hospital. They enlist the help of several colorful characters in achieving their dream ...
Reviews
- The film is a beautiful tale of the power of faith of two innocent nuns who set out on a task that seems almost impossible. With their innocence and complete faith in god's will they ride a wave of grace that takes them through twists and turns that all finally meet with a happy ending!—Saiganesh
- A story about two French nuns who come to a small town in New England to build a children's hospital. The story shows over and over examples of solution oriented consciousness. 1949. Loretta Young—Marilyn Mills
Contact
Dr. Ellie Arroway, after years of searching, finds conclusive radio proof of intelligent aliens, who send plans for a mysterious machine.
Reviews
- I love this movie! Great story about triumph and faith.—Lori Ritchie
- A wonderful story about following you inspiration.—Jagrav Quinn
Forrest Gump
Forrest Gump, while not intelligent, has accidentally been present at many historic moments, but his true love, Jenny Curran, eludes him.
Reviews
- This is a brilliant, sometimes hilarious romp through postwar 20th century American history. We are given the gift of '...life is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you're gonna get' and the 'Bubba Gump Shrimp Company' by this movie. Tom Hanks brilliant performance is complemented by great performances by Sally Field, Gary Sinese and others. "Run, Forrest, Run!"—Jack B
- There is no sweeter example of the beauty, strength, & courage of simplicity, than Forrest Gump. A must see film.—Josette
Groundhog Day
A weatherman finds himself living the same day over and over again.
Reviews
- Phil, a self-centred weatherman, is sent to the town of Punxsutawney for an assignment. He is left aghast when he wakes up the next morning and realises he is reliving the same day over and over.—Viraj
- A metaphor for the cycle of reincarnation, Murray finds himself experiencing the same day over and over, gradually learning that living for others in selfless service brings the greatest joy.—Rajarsi Fuller
Invictus
Nelson Mandela, in his first term as the South African President, initiates a unique venture to unite the apartheid-torn land: enlist the national rugby team on a mission to win the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
Reviews
- This is one of my favorite films — Morgan Freeman portrays Nelson Mandela as intuitive, strong, and selfless. Never fails to bring tears to my eyes.—Nabha
- It is about one of the means Nelson Mandela used to unite and reconciliate the people of South Africa under his presidency; the world championship for rugby, which was hosted by South-Africa.—Wilma
Kung Fu Panda
In the Valley of Peace, Po the Panda finds himself chosen as the Dragon Warrior despite the fact that he is obese and a complete novice at martial arts.
Reviews
- "There is no secret ingredient!"—Radhika
- A panda discovers his inner divinity from a turtle guru who actually goes into mahasamadhi at the climax of the movie. Leaves you with a happy heart!—kalidas
Local Hero
An American oil company sends a man to Scotland to buy up an entire village where they want to build a refinery. But things don't go as expected.
Reviews
- Mac learns from the Scottish community what is important in life and how to get along without being competitive.—Will Benshoof
- The story of a small town in Northern Scotland, and how they prevailed over corporate greed.—Surya Crisman
To Kill a Mockingbird
Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice.
Reviews
- I loved the movie and I loved the book.—Mary Kretzmann
- A movie about a single father's strength and courage, and how he imparted those qualities to his two children. Probably my favorite movie of all time.—Surya Crisman
Whale Rider
A contemporary story of love, rejection and triumph as a young Maori girl fights to fulfill a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize.
Reviews
- Whale rider relates poignantly and with gently beauty the passion of the Maori people and of a young girls "ride" into claiming her power. This movie is a wonderful example showing the grace and strength of feminine energy, and how healing can occur when "we" honor that energy.—Josette
- Here is a link to Roger Ebert's excellent review of this movie: http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/whale-rider-2003—Sraddha Williams
Wizard of Oz
Dorothy Gale is swept away to a magical land in a tornado and embarks on a quest to see the Wizard who can help her return home.
Reviews
- This movie is about the Self. How Dorothy believed she had to go 'out there' to find 'home' when it resided within her the whole time. The munchkins, unhealed childhood aspects of self-- The tin man, lion and scarecrow were all aspects of herself that she was looking for... courage, her true heart, peace... the poppy field represented how easy it is to 'fall asleep' to truth along the way, the witches, the good witch--'higher self' and the egoic self that when we 'throw water on it' is just an illusion.. Water represents emotions... fear keeps us prisoner, and when we discover that there is nothing to fear because we have traveled through the darkness and discovered the light of truth beyond, we don't need a 'Wizard" or Guru, it is already within.—Angelica Christi
- I'm not gonna leave here ever, ever again, because I love you all, and - oh, Auntie Em - there's no place like home!—Will Benshoof
10 questions for the Dalai Lama
Ray examines some of the fundamental questions of our time by weaving together observations from his own journeys throughout India and the Middle East, and the wisdom of an extraordinary spiritual leader.
Reviews
- The questions were probably some of the same we would all ask. My entire being was at peace with the answers.—Fox
A Hard Day's Night
A 'typical' day in the life of the Beatles, including many of their famous songs.
Reviews
- A fun filled frolic with the Fab Four. Great songs and antics, as well as "a laugh a line with Lennon".—Rajarsi Fuller
A Rumour Of Angels
An old woman helps a young boy resolve his feelings over the death of his mother.
Reviews
- Living, loving, feeling the joy of life and KNOWING death is only a transition. The story was (to me) a beautiful gift for humanity.—Fox
All Is Lost
After a collision with a shipping container at sea, a resourceful sailor finds himself, despite all efforts to the contrary, staring his mortality in the face.
Reviews
- This movie could be titled staying unshaken amidt crushing world deep in the Indian ocean after collision. A man against the lements with strength clmnes and courage.—Inney
Beauty and the Beast
Belle, whose father is imprisoned by the Beast, offers herself instead and discovers her captor to be an enchanted prince.
Reviews
- This traditional Disney movie reminded me of the importance of seeing God in everyone, and that a person does not need to be outwardly attractive in order to be beautiful.—Radhika
Being There
Chance, a simple gardener, has never left the estate until his employer dies. His simple TV-informed utterances are mistaken for profundity.
Reviews
- Being There' with Peter Sellers: Chance, a simple gardener, has never left the estate until his employer dies. His simple TV-informed utterances are mistaken for profundity. Guaranteed 2 uplift—Steve
Born Free
Joy Adamson and her husband, Kenya game warden George Adamson, raise Elsa, a lion cub. When Elsa approaches maturity, Joy determines she must re-educate Elsa to living in the wild so that ...
Reviews
- I was inspired by the relationship between Elsa the lion and her caregivers. The bond and love between that was against all odds. The greatest love was that they let Elsa go to thanksgivinbe free.—Linda Jenkins
Chariots of Fire
Two British track athletes, one a determined Jew and the other a devout Christian, compete in the 1924 Olympics.
Reviews
- Uplifting! Two athletes in the 1924 Olympics: Eric Liddell, a devout Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams, an English Jew who runs to who runs to overcome prejudice.—Mary Kretzmann
Cloud Atlas
An exploration of how the actions of individual lives impact one another in the past, present and future, as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero, and an act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution.
Reviews
- Complex tale of the tapestry of interwoven karmas. "Our lives are not our own. From womb to tomb, we are bound to others. Past and present. And by each crime and every kindness, we birth our future"—Saiganesh
Cold Comfort Farm
In England in the early 1930's, 20 year old Flora Poste, recently orphaned and left with only 100 pounds a year, goes to stay with distant relatives on Cold Comfort Farm. Everyone on the ...
Reviews
- A woman brings out the best in a backward rural family. (One of Devi's favorite movies.)—Surya Crisman
Conversations with God
Chronicles the dramatic true journey of a struggling man turned homeless, who inadvertently becomes a spiritual messenger and bestselling author.
Reviews
- True story. Wonderful movie very close to the book.—Fox
Daens
In the 1890s, Father Adolf Daens goes to Aalst, a textile town where child labor is rife, pay and working conditions are horrible, the poor have no vote, and the Catholic church backs the ...
Reviews
- A priest is shocked by seeing the poverty and the severe suffering of the working people. He stands up for them against the powerful factory owners and even against the Roman Catholic Church.—Andre Yogannes September
Dharm
The movie is about a Hindu priest Pandit Chaturvedi (Pankaj Kapur) who is one of the most highly respected priests in the entire city of Varanasi.
Reviews
- This movie has a beautiful message, a great soundtrack, and a great Brahmanic ambiance. Those who have an interest in Hindu religion will be thrilled the entire time.—Brock
Emmanuel's Gift
If you are born disabled in Ghana, West Africa you are likely to be poisoned, or left to die by your family; and if you are not poisoned or left for dead, you're likely to be hidden away in...
Reviews
- Enjoyed this one.—Sanjan
Frozen
Fearless optimist Anna teams up with Kristoff in an epic journey, encountering Everest-like conditions, and a hilarious snowman named Olaf in a race to find Anna's sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom in eternal winter.
Reviews
- A beautiful and charming story of dharma and the bond between sisters. Elsa runs away when her icy powers trap her kingdom in eternal winter, and her sister Anna must rescue her before it's too late.—Radhika
Gods Must Be Crazy, The
A comic allegory about a traveling Bushman who encounters modern civilization and its stranger aspects, including a clumsy scientist and a band of revolutionaries.
Reviews
- A touching culture clash between a Pygmy 'bushman' innocently trying to return a stray Coke bottle to the Gods and 1980s urban South Africa. You can't watch this movie and not laugh at life and people—Jack B
Happy
HAPPY takes us on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy.
Reviews
- What would really make us happy?—Sal
Interstellar
Reviews
- As humanity approaches extinction, an ex-NASA pilot (Cooper) and a few other scientists are sent to find out habitable planets. A father's love for his daughter transcends time and space.—Kailash
Kite Runner, The
After spending years in California, Amir returns to his homeland in Afghanistan to help his old friend Hassan, whose son is in trouble.
Reviews
- A powerfully moving film about two boys discovering the essence of divine friendship amidst the extreme hardship and struggles of life in the middle east.—kalidas
Little Buddha
Lama Norbu comes to Seattle in search of the reincarnation of his dead teacher, Lama Dorje. His search leads him to young Jesse Conrad, Raju, a waif from Kathmandu, and an upper class Indian girl.…
Reviews
- I think it's available at Amazon {dvd},and on youtube for a couple of bucks.I won't try and describe it,just check it out,you'll like it,{maybe}.—Jim
Lost Horizon (1937 version)
A plane crash delivers a group of people to the secluded land of Shangri-La — but is it the miraculous utopia it appears to be?
Reviews
- This movie was an early inspiration for Swami Kriyananda. It's about Shangri-La, an idyllic valley in the high Himalayas where there is a community led by a High Lama.—Nayaswami Pranaba
Marie's Story
Marie Heurtin is born both blind and deaf. Sister Marguerette wins her trust and teaches her how to express herself.
Reviews
- Based on the true story of Marie Heurtin who was born both blind and deaf and the idealistic Sister Marguerite who sees in Marie a unique potential and vows to help bring her out of her darkness.—Erin
Matrix, The
A computer hacker learns from mysterious rebels about the true nature of his reality and his role in the war against its controllers.
Reviews
- Symbolism of what reality is versus what people think it is. It's about a computer generated reality created by machines in order to use people's energy. It inspired me to remain inwardly focused.—Cat
Mister Rogers & Me
An MTV producer's life is transformed when he meets the recently retired host of 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,' Fred Rogers.
Reviews
- I grew up with Fred Rogers and then forgot about him. Mr. Rogers never forgot about me. I love the man today even more than I did when I was just a tot.—Fox
Notting Hill
The life of a simple bookshop owner changes when he meets the most famous film star in the world.
Reviews
- For the romantic in all of us.—Surya Crisman
Padre Pio Miracle Man
This movie captures the Capuchin friar's intense faith and devotion, and deep spiritual concern for others, as well as his great compassion for the sick and suffering.
Reviews
- This is an Italian production of the life of the great contemporary stigmatist Padre Pio. At 214 minutes it's a long ride, but well worth it. This movie catches you early and doesn't let go.—moksha
Phenomenon
An ordinary man sees a bright light descend from the sky, and discovers he now has super-intelligence and telekinesis.
Reviews
- John Travolta in one of hour s best films. A beautiful film with an amazing soundtrack. Watch it many times!—Amy
Pursuit of Happyness, The
A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional endeavor.
Reviews
- A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional endeavor. An inspiring movie based on real life story of a person bouncing from hardship.—Anand
Resurrection
Ellen Burstyn experiences the afterlife for a brief time after a car accident that kills her husband. As she begins her long process of physical healing, she discovers that she has the ...
Reviews
- 1980, Starring Ellen Burstyn (nominated Best Actress). She sensitively portrays her character's transition from housewife to spiritual healer, after a near death experience. My favorite movie ever!—Nayaswami Savitri
Return with Honor
The story of U.S. fighter pilots shot down over North Vietnam who became POWs for up to eight-and-a-half years.
Reviews
- A man in this documentary, by concentrating on Jesus Christ, finds the power to overcome torture. This was recommended by Nayaswami Devi during a Sunday Service.—Nabha
Rudy
Rudy has always been told that he was too small to play college football. But he is determined to overcome the odds and fulfill his dream of playing for Notre Dame.
Reviews
- About an "against all odds" kid trying to make the Notre Dame football team. Very inspiring movie.—Russell Hill
Schindler's List
In Poland during World War II, Oskar Schindler gradually becomes concerned for his Jewish workforce after witnessing their persecution by the Nazis.
Reviews
- Based on the life of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand mostly Polish-Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.—Vinay kumar
Sea Inside, The
The factual story of Spaniard Ramon Sampedro, who fought a thirty-year campaign in favor of euthanasia and his own right to die.
Reviews
- Quadriplegic man fights for a right to practice euthanasia. Wishing to die,he teaches everyone meaning and preciousness of life.Though he can't move himself, he has an uncanny ability to move others.—Luba Grenader
Secret, The
Interviews with leading authors, philosophers, scientists, with an in-depth discussion of the Law of Attraction. The audience is shown how they can learn and use "The Secret" in their everyday lives.
Reviews
- To those who experience negative thoughts throughout every day this is a great opportunity to change their way of thinking. This documentary encourages people to change their lives in a positive way.—goutham sidhireddy
Seven Samurai, The
A poor village under attack by bandits recruits seven unemployed samurai to help them defend themselves.
Reviews
- Famous directors often include this movie in their top ten greatest movies lists. It is, among other things, a story of sacrifice and dharma. Not exactly your average feel-good movie, though.—Nabha
Shining Soul: Helen Keller's Spiritual Life and Legacy
The true story of the lifelong spiritual inspiration that Hellen Keller derived from philosopher Emanuel Swedenborg. With archival footage, interviews, stills, and dramatic re-enactments.
Reviews
- An extraordinary woman's life captured: live footage of Helen Keller shows a soul whose face is constantly animated with joy that comes from within. What she overcame and what she achieved - beautiful—Anandi
Sound of Music
A woman leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to the children of a Naval officer widower.
Reviews
- This movie is about a girl,Maria and a captain who has 7 children.This movie gave me a hope that we can change people and circumstances with Love and patience.Also,it adds music to life,without which life is incomplete .—Manmohini Tiwari (8years)
Star Wars
Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a wookiee and two droids to save the universe from the Empire's world-destroying battle-station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the evil Darth Vader.
Reviews
- Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Hans Solo, Obi-wan-Kinobe, Darth Vader, R2D2, Yoda, The Force--come on--isn't this one of the best fairy tales ever? This movie changed the world.—Jack B
The Nun's Story
After leaving a wealthy Belgian family to become a nun, Sister Luke struggles with her devotion to her vows during crisis, disappointment, and World War II.
Reviews
- This is one of the best movies I've ever seen. The production got everything right: inspiration, production values, writing and, quite obviously, a compelling need to make a great movie. Audrey Hepburn was superb in her understated portrayal of Sister Luke. Five stars.—moksha
Way, The
A father heads overseas to recover the body of his estranged son who died while traveling the "El camino de Santiago," and decides to take the pilgrimage himself.
Reviews
- A father (Martin Sheen) unexpectedly loses his son as his is departing on a famous pilgrimmage "El Camino de Santiago." Intrigued, the father decides to honor his son by doing the pilgrimmage himself.—Renee
Winslow Boy, The
Early 20th century England: while toasting his daughter Catherine's engagement, Arthur Winslow learns the royal naval academy expelled his 14-year-old son, Ronnie, for stealing five ...
Reviews
- Set against the strict codes of conduct and manners of the age, based on a father's fight to clear his son's name after the boy is expelled from Osborne Naval College for stealing.—Surya Crisman
a walk to remember
Reviews
- A Walk to Remember is a 2002 American coming-of-age romantic drama film directed by Adam Shankman and written by Karen Janszen, based on Nicholas Sparks' 1999 novel of the same name. ... The film, as—paul
Reviews