Top 20 Feel Good Movies of the Century (So Far)
#20: “Barbie” (2023)
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Becoming a cultural phenomenon, Greta Gerwig’s film transcends the typical movie experience. Traveling to the human world in order to fix herself, Barbie brings along Ken and discovers that she has much more potential. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling play their parts perfectly, with the latter almost stealing the show with his over-the-top performance. There’s also the bright set design and intricate costumes that bring happiness to every frame. Gerwig and Noah Baumbach’s script pokes fun at the brand while also setting up hilarious jokes. Along with bringing people back to theaters, the release has an empowering message for women.
#19: “The Princess Diaries” (2001)
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What if while you were in high school you found out you were actually royalty? “The Princess Diaries” takes this high concept idea and runs wild with it, taking wish fulfillment to the next level. Audiences even get some romance, heartbreak, and coming-of-age drama, and the lead character also receives a classic glow-up that everybody dreams about. Julie Andrews’ elegant presence and a breakthrough role for Anne Hathaway add to the fun. After giving audiences an amusing fantasy set among the nobility, the story reminds everybody that family and friendship is more important. The funny script keeps people coming back for more, as does Andrews’ delightful work.
#18: “Love, Simon” (2018)
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Known as a groundbreaking Hollywood film, “Love, Simon” deals with the trials and tribulations of a gay teenager. Simon Spier, who is not open about his sexual orientation, suddenly finds himself being blackmailed by someone who discovers he is gay. His everyday teenage life also comes with many life lessons that people of all walks of life can look at with both humor and honesty. Helping to break stigmas about LGBT+ relationships, this movie does a great job reminding us all to accept each other’s differences. In addition to asking for more empathy in society, it also carries a hopeful energy for more diverse representation in the industry.
#17: “Akeelah and the Bee” (2006)
Discovering she can spell, Akeelah Anderson embarks on a quest to win a spelling bee. She also learns about the highs and lows of young life. Keke Palmer, Angela Bassett, and Laurence Fishburne all help to make this story feel that much more impactful. Even if she isn’t a perfect kid, the main character’s quest to prove herself can warm even the most cynical heart. Any movie that compels us to hit the books or play more Scrabble can’t be all that bad either. In the end, “Akeelah and the Bee” helps every viewer believe in themselves once again.
#16: “13 Going on 30” (2004)
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The plot may be familiar, but Jennifer Garner’s presence livens it up. She plays the older version of a girl that wishes to be grown up. Getting more than she expected, the character finds herself in a future where she can be successful and popular. There’s also some awkward encounters with guys that generate laughs. Don’t underestimate the lead actress’ ability to charm everybody in such a way that’ll have you smiling the whole time. Ultimately, Garner’s chemistry with Mark Ruffalo gives this rom-com another enjoyable bonus. Add in a fun dance number and you have an underrated gem that plays out like a fun fantasy.
#15: “Mamma Mia!” (2008)
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Adapting the stage musical, this film successfully turns ABBA’s greatest hits into a cinematic dance party. The main story concerns a wedding where the bride invites three men, each of whom may be her father. It might not be Shakespeare, but this plot has this energy that never seems to wane. It also has a beautiful location to gaze at in between all the family drama. Some of the actors can sing and others can’t, but that never detracts from this being an entertaining experience. “Mamma Mia!” knows exactly what it is and doesn’t pretend to be anything other than a good time.
#14: “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001)
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In the film adaptation of the first book in J.K. Rowling’s series, the titular boy finds out he’s destined to be a wizard. He’s whisked away from his dreary life into a magical time at Hogwarts. The audience can’t help but feel a sense of wonder at every turn. The film’s greatest asset is its ability to amaze viewers with its fantasy elements. Daniel Radcliffe’s every-kid quality allows audiences to empathize with his character’s extraordinary circumstances. Potter also meets an incredible ensemble that has us all wishing we could attend school with them. Whether you’re a super fan or not, you’ll likely return so you can fall in love with this world all over again.
#13: “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (2002)
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Written by the lead actress Nia Vardalos, this movie feels like a love letter to crazy families everywhere. A Greek-American woman finds the confidence to go to school, start dating, and assert herself in her family life. When she finds a man to marry, she clashes with her loved ones about her choices. The film is full of laugh-out-loud scenes as misunderstandings and different ethnic backgrounds struggle to mix. The compelling romance at the film’s center also tugs at the heartstrings. Through it all, the script and characters of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” do an excellent job of making us feel happier.
#12: “Remember the Titans” (2000)
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Even if it isn’t completely accurate, “Remember the Titans” still taps into our love of sports film tropes. Denzel Washington heads up an impressive cast of performers as the coach trying to bring together black and white football players. His dedication ultimately forges a bond that transcends racial barriers, making for a successful team. There’s several lessons to learn here about prejudice, racism, and friendship that feel vital to this day. Whether or not you’re an athlete, this heartwarming story pushes you to support others and do your best. It also stands out among a decade of great sports movies, including the stellar work in “Miracle.”
#11: “Billy Elliot” (2000)
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Sometimes a simple story can be as emotionally-resonant as a complicated one. “Billy Elliot” proves this point with a crowd pleasing plot about a boy that wants to dance. With a hard road ahead of him, Elliot follows his passions despite his father’s disapproval. His promising ballet career eventually brings his family together in an exhilarating way. Jamie Bell’s star-making performance anchors this film, convincing audiences to believe in the character’s journey and encouraging them to cheer him on. The emotional finale will have you crying tears of joy knowing that it all works out.
#10: “The Muppets” (2011)
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While they’ve been on the screen before, these characters revitalized themselves for the 2010s in this movie. “The Muppets” feels like a nonstop celebration of the legendary ensemble. Walter and his human brother Gary both work to save the Muppet Theatre, learning about their true potential along the way. It feels like the kind of celebratory and feel-good film that Hollywood made in the Golden Age. Filled with amazing cameos, the cast is an endless parade of exciting talent. We haven’t even mentioned some incredible songs by Bret McKenzie that include the funny anthem “Man or Muppet.” Come for the inspiring plot and stay for the upbeat vibes from fan-favorites Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie Bear.
#9: “Legally Blonde” (2001)
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After being dumped by her boyfriend, Elle Woods follows her ex to Harvard Law School. Surprisingly, this seemingly vacuous sorority girl ends up being an exceptional lawyer in the process. Both empowering and hilarious, “Legally Blonde” works on multiple levels to satisfy viewers. At the center of it all, Reese Witherspoon gives one of her career-defining performances as Woods. She’s endlessly charming, funny, and entertaining from start to finish. Her character is also extremely compelling as an underdog legal expert. Viewers will love seeing her work the courtroom in the finale, becoming inspired by the heroine’s determination and intelligence.
#8: “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018)
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Not realizing that her boyfriend’s family is rich, professor Rachel Chu comes to learn about him and his background in this hit comedy. “Crazy Rich Asians” features an ensemble of exceptional actors that are able to both tell a meaningful story and have fun. Viewers tag along for the amazing views, lavish parties, and lots of entertaining drama along the way. In a plot about acceptance and love, this tale also allows for a genuine romance to build. There’s something for everyone to enjoy here as the professor becomes a fish-out-of-water in Singapore. Packed with a stellar cast and set pieces, this blockbuster presents a fun-filled matchup with a rollercoaster of emotions.
#7: “Pride & Prejudice” (2005)
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Jane Austen’s classic provides the ingredients for this heartwarming drama. As her sisters hope to be married, principled Elizabeth becomes involved in an unlikely stand-off with the somewhat snobbish Mr. Darcy. You don’t need to enjoy period dramas to find these two adorable. Making the best of their roles, Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen keep viewers guessing with their compelling acting. It’s ultimately a timeless romance that brings out both happy and sad tears in the best way possible. Don’t get us started on that famous scene in the rain either. As with the best rom-coms, the central relationship leaves viewers with the feeling that true love always finds a way.
#6: “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006)
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“Little Miss Sunshine” examines the complexity of family relationships and puts the strength of them to the test. Young Olive wants to be a beauty queen, inspiring her ragtag household to go on a life-changing trip. There’s also open references to self-harm, death, and life’s shortcomings. While this might bring the film down for some, it also reinforces the wonders of being alive in the first place. You can’t help but root for these people as they try to do something nice for each other. And the climactic dance scene gives us many reasons to be thankful for our loved ones.
#5: “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
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In this inspiring true story, Will Smith delivers one of his best performances. He stars as salesman Chris Gardner who tries desperately to achieve his true potential. Will Smith brings a natural charisma to this role and of course has natural chemistry with his real-life son, Jaden, playing Gardner’s own son. Gardner perseveres despite his daunting unhoused status and has an infectious positivity in his every move. While there are plenty of sad moments, there are also speeches Gardner gives that inspire audiences to dream big. His continued dedication to his son gives this heartwarming tale an enduring quality. By the end, we’re all standing and cheering along with the grateful hero.
#4: “Paddington 2” (2017)
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For fans of the original film, “Paddington 2” arguably offers even more laughs, smiles, and general happiness. The main character finds himself in even more adventures, including being sent to prison. All the while, his eternal optimism finds the best in everyone regardless of position in life. There are also entertaining performances from Brendan Gleeson and Hugh Grant. In the case of the latter actor, the role allows him to be a giddy villain that steals the show. It’s a delightful movie for people of all ages, presenting a cinematic world that feels as comforting as a big hug.
#3: “Amélie” (2001)
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Capturing the extraordinary elements of ordinary life, “Amélie” is a magical experience set in France. The central character has her own worries, but she also chooses to spread joy to others. Her small deeds make both the people around her and the audience believe in kindness. The titular waitress helps out Parisian citizens in moments that are inspiring, heartfelt, and even funny. Audrey Tautou’s performance brings a delightful whimsy to the character, making her later brush with romance all the more satisfying. This lovely film can excite audiences of all languages and backgrounds with its hopeful outlook.
#2: “School of Rock” (2003)
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You don’t have to love rock to love this movie, but it definitely helps. Jack Black comes alive in one of the best showcases for his energetic style. Pretending to be a teacher, his rock musician character decides to let students in on the wonders of music. This leads to some truly enjoyable classroom lessons and hijinks. All the while, there’s a sense of positivity and empowerment throughout the film. Black’s performance brings passion to every single scene as he inspires the kids in unexpected ways. A cast of gifted child actors brings attitude, talent, and humor to this crowd pleasing comedy.
#1: “Elf” (2003)
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Having become a beloved part of the holiday season, “Elf” is fun for all ages. It features a starring role from Will Ferrell that instantly turns frowns upside down. Ferrell injects every single scene with a childlike wonder and joy, perfectly capturing the feelings of an elf that’s lost in New York City. His interactions with his confused father and other gruff characters make this journey even more hilarious. Finding love at a department store, the hero develops a romance and spreads Christmas cheer throughout this cute adventure. The fact that it’s a staple of every December only adds to this film’s feel-good legacy.
