11 Inspiring Movies That Feel Genuine and Not Overly Cloying

      Here’s our compilation of uplifting films that avoid being fake and irritating.

      But First: What Do We Mean by Fake and Annoying?

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      You know the type: those films that are overly sentimental and patronizing, attempting to extract your money while pretending to warm your heart. We hesitate to single out The Blind Side again, but it serves as an example of a movie many find quite insincere.

      William Goldman, who penned two of the films on our list, often referred to disingenuous, tear-jerking movies as “Hollywood horses—.” Rest assured, our list does not include any of that.

      Additionally, while some films here are based on actual events, others are not; what's important is that they feel genuine.

      Without further delay, here are 12 uplifting films that are neither annoying nor fake.

      Dunkirk (2017)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      A key aspect of a successful uplifting film is restraint, and Dunkirk excels in understatement. Christopher Nolan’s World War II movie illustrates how British and Allied forces managed to survive against a seemingly insurmountable evil. While not explicitly stated, a failure could have meant a Nazi victory in World War II.

      The Dunkirk evacuation necessitated not only the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers on land, air, and sea but also the courage of ordinary civilians who acted without hesitation. Given the subject matter, one might expect a heavy, tedious narrative, but Nolan’s expertly crafted, ticking-clock storytelling allows Dunkirk to move swiftly.

      How true is Dunkirk? Very true. It stands out in our list because it adheres closely to real events.

      Glory (1989)

      Credit: Tri-Star Pictures

      The narrative of an all-black Union Army regiment during the Civil War is primarily recognized for Denzel Washington’s Oscar-winning role, making it a rare epic historical film that focuses on character development and subtle moments.

      As early as 1990, some critics, including Roger Ebert, noted that it's presented from a white perspective—specifically that of Col. Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick). However, we might not have Glory without screenwriter Kevin Jarre drawing heavily from Shaw's actual letters to his mother, which provide a frame for the story. Additionally, James Horner’s score for Glory might be among the best in cinema.

      While Glory incorporates some composite characters, it closely follows significant events. It prominently features on our list of 12 ‘Based on a True Story’ Movies that are Actually Quite Accurate.

      All the President’s Men (1976)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      There was indeed a time when well-researched, factual reporting could make a difference.

      No one captures sentiment-free inspiration quite like screenwriter William Goldman, who wins over skeptics by treating the Woodward and Bernstein versus Nixon story as a gritty procedural. It's the reporters challenging the president, facing a torrent of misinformation and deceit. Ultimately, the reporters triumph. Yes, it’s a true story.

      While the events in All the President’s Men are factual, William Goldman did craft a few elements—such as the famous line “Follow the money.”

      The Princess Bride (1987)

      Credit: 20th Century Fox

      Another masterpiece by William Goldman.

      It’s ostensibly a film about love, but most movies proclaiming that love conquers all are unbearable, while The Princess Bride is nearly impossible to resist. Its brilliance lies in its unexpectedly warm relationship with despair. Each dark twist is hilariously bleak, yet characters maintain their dry humor. Our flawed heroes expect disaster but navigate the chaos with flair. Does love truly overcome all, or is it humor?

      To the best of our knowledge, nothing in The Princess Bride actually occurred. However, its perspective on life rings very true, making it one of the most reliably uplifting films.

      A League of Their Own (1992)

      Credit: Columbia Pictures

      Penny Marshall’s comedy-drama depicts female athletes who consistently prove themselves in the real-life All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

      Its sardonic humor propels the narrative, with stars Geena Davis, Lori Petty, and Madonna delivering deeply relatable performances, while Tom Hanks shines in one of his best grumpy-guy roles. As he reminded us, there’s no crying in baseball.

      Crying is allowed only on planes, especially while watching Queen of Katwe. More on that later.

      Malcolm X (1992)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Spike Lee’s biopic explores personal growth.

      Malcolm Little transforms into Malcolm X and eventually El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, a man whose righteous calls for justice are matched by a commitment to unity.

      However, Malcolm X does not shy away from the pain or struggle involved, nor does it offer easy comforts to those who uphold the injustices Malcolm X sought to dismantle. It’s an extraordinarily inspirational film because of its universal themes and unwavering honesty. The ending, "I am Malcolm X!" is breathtaking.

      Malcolm