1) Hoop Dreams (1994)
At nearly three hours in length, this documentary is, in many ways, the definitive tale of the uphill struggle for success against the odds. Depicting the lives of two boys on their journey towards adulthood, we follow these professional basketball hopefuls in their quest to make it big in a sport they love. We witness all of the events and everyday dramas that shape their story, as well as that of the people around them. Simply put, this is a massively stirring and comprehensive work.
2) Shine (1996)
Appropriately titled, Shine really does brighten up your day a little. This drama follows the life of David Helfgott from troubled child to gifted musician and his later severe mental health problems. The emotional climax towards the end of the film gives it a heart-warming quality that is hard to not be moved by, while the Oscar-winning performances from Geoffrey Rush, Armin Mueller-Stahl and further support from British thespian John Gielgud bring extra sparkle to this glowing story.
3) The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Apologies if you're tired of hearing about this mid-nineties gem, but a list of inspirational films would simply be incomplete without including The Shawshank Redemption. What is it that has made this stunning work so popular and so beloved? Whatever it is that gives this classic that 'extra something', the resolution to the plot of this indelible prison drama is a safe-bet for perking-up your spirits whenever you decide to put it on.
4) Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
One of the biggest movie stars of our time, it can be easy perhaps to overlook the more weighty and challenging films that Tom Cruise has featured in. Here Cruise plays the part of Ron Kovic, a Vietnam vet' who is left wheelchair-bound following an exchange of gunfire during his armed service in the conflict. Returning home to face unemployment, despair and an anti-war movement that he comes to support, Kovic's battle with the situation around him and himself is truly riveting. Made by the controversial Oliver Stone, Born On The Fourth Of July is upsetting, yet it will also leave you with a warm smile across your face.
5) Sicko (2007)
Similarly controversial to the director of the above masterpiece, Michael Moore is a filmmaker that cannot help but elicit a reaction. And while he certainly has his critics, this doc', coming after the endlessly explosive Fahrenheit 9/11, is arguably a more subtle film. It does, however, have an undeniable message of hope. As the credits roll to this health service polemic, accompanied by a joyous Cat Stevens melody, you may find that this movie has gathered you up in a wave of elation that will carry you happily through the rest of your day.
6) Erin Brokovich (2000)
Erin Brokovich is a gripping based-on-actual-events film that demonstrates that no matter how large the obstacle in front of you may be, and how relatively ineffectual you may seem, standing firm with what you know is right will make a real difference. Anchored by the acting talents of Albert Finney and a stand-out, Oscar-winning performance from Julia Roberts, this is a hugely involving account of resistance against the recklessness of the corporate world. Watch it whenever and get an extra little boost to get you through any challenges that are coming your way.
7) Last Days Here (2011)
When we first see Bobby Liebling in this under-acknowledged music doc', he doesn't exactly look like a rock or metal star. Nor does he look like someone who used to be a rock star either. In fact, the leader of influential 70s metal band Pentagram appears as someone who isn't capable of being left alone without regular monitoring and supervision. There's seemingly no possibility that this man can re-emerge from the situation he is trapped within. But this is a story filled with twists and surprises. Prepare to be shocked, and prepare to be inspired.
8) Rocky (1976)
The timeless underdog, “The Italian Stallion”'s journey is one that carries a charm that can always be relied upon to cheer you up. Widely remembered for the jogging through the streets of Philadelphia with the rousing score booming in the background, Rocky is also imbued with an inescapable damp and dank realism, a harsh reality that can only be transcended through determination and the support of others. It should get you inspired. And if you really feel as though you need a boost, just keep Mick's fiercely motivating shouts lodged firmly in your head.
9) Forrest Gump (1994)
A bouncy trip through 20th Century American history. A simple man's fascinating journey across an extraordinary life. A colourful tapestry of characters and moments with dozens of quotable lines. Whatever your response is to Forrest Gump, it's pretty much impossible to not become engrossed in the life of its eponymous character. A definite pick-me-up that shows what one person can achieve.
10) 1- Life On The Limit (2013)
This may seem like a choice that would only appeal to enthusiasts of Formula One racing. But the truth is that this documentary is sure to grab anyone, and will leave them feeling much better when it finally let's go. By piecing together the history of Formula One, it presents the kind of levels of success reached by its many drivers over the years. What makes this really special though is its focus on the safety of the races themselves. This tells doc' us of the staggering amount of F1 drivers who have died, making the efforts towards increased safety both poignant and truly heart-warming.
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