12 Uplifting Movies That Are Genuine and Not Over-the-Top

      Here’s our selection of motivating movies that aren't phony or irritating.

      First, what do we mean by phony and irritating? We're referring to films that are overly sentimental and patronizing toward their subjects and the audience, while trying to lighten your wallet as they tug at your heartstrings. William Goldman, who penned two entries on our list, called such contrived, emotional films “Hollywood horses—.” Our list contains none of that.

      Additionally, some of these films are inspired by real events while others are not. What matters is that they feel genuine.

      Without further delay, here are 12 uplifting films that avoid being bothersome and inauthentic.

      Dunkirk (2017)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      A key element of an effective uplifting film is restraint, and Dunkirk excels in this area. Christopher Nolan’s WWII film portrays how British and Allied troops persevered against an almost unstoppable enemy. It’s implied, rather than stated outright, that failing to evacuate could have meant a Nazi victory in WWII.

      The Dunkirk evacuation spotlighted not only the bravery of the military personnel on land, sea, and air but also the courage of everyday civilians who took remarkable actions without fanfare. While the topic might suggest a heavy narrative, Nolan’s expertly paced storytelling makes Dunkirk engaging and fast-paced.

      How accurate is Dunkirk? Very accurate. It ranks among our favorite uplifting movies because it closely follows true events.

      Glory (1989)

      Credit: Tri-Star Pictures

      This film about an all-black Union Army regiment during the Civil War is most famous for Denzel Washington’s Oscar-winning role. It stands out as a grand historical film that still delves deeply into character development and quieter moments.

      As early as 1990, critics like Roger Ebert noted that it is told from a white perspective — that of Col. Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick). However, without screenwriter Kevin Jarre's heavy reliance on Shaw’s actual correspondence with his mother, we might not have had Glory. James Horner’s score for Glory might be the best in any film.

      Meticulously researched, Glory features some composite characters but adheres closely to key events. It prominently appears on our list of 12 'Based on a True Story' Movies That Are Actually Pretty True.

      All the President’s Men (1976)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      There was indeed a time when meticulous, factual reporting could enact change in the world.

      No one delivers straightforward uplift like screenwriter William Goldman, who wins over skeptics by presenting the tale of Woodward and Bernstein against Nixon as a gritty procedural. The reporters face off against the president while navigating a torrent of misinformation and lies. The reporters prevail. It’s a true story.

      While the events in All the President’s Men are factual, William Goldman did invent some elements — like the famous phrase “Follow the money.”

      The Princess Bride (1987)

      Credit: 20th Century Fox

      Another masterpiece by William Goldman.

      While it appears to be about love’s power, many films that claim love conquers all tend to be unbearable, yet The Princess Bride is nearly impossible to resist. Its brilliance lies in its surprisingly cozy relationship with despair. Each dark twist is more hilariously grim than the previous, while everyone maintains their dry humor. Our flawed heroes anticipate disaster, yet navigate the chaos. Does love truly conquer all? Or is it humor that triumphs?

      Nothing in The Princess Bride actually occurred, as far as we know. However, its perspective on life is quite accurate, making it one of the most reliably uplifting films.

      A League of Their Own (1992)

      Credit: Columbia Pictures

      Penny Marshall’s comedy-drama narrates the journey of female baseball players striving to prove themselves in the real-life All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

      Its cynical humor drives the narrative forward, and the performances by Geena Davis, Lori Petty, and Madonna are deeply relatable. Tom Hanks delivers one of his finest grumpy-guy portrayals, reminding us that “there's no crying in baseball.”

      Crying is only permissible on airplanes, while watching Queen of Katwe. More on that later.

      Malcolm X (1992)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Spike Lee’s biopic focuses on personal growth.

      Malcolm Little transforms into Malcolm X, and ultimately El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, a man who combines his passionate calls for justice with a sincere commitment to unity.

      However, Malcolm X does not soften the pain or struggle experienced along the journey, nor does it provide easy comfort to those who uphold the injustices that Malcolm X (Denzel Washington) sought to dismantle. It is considered one of the most inspirational films due to its universal themes and its unflinching honesty. The “I am Malcolm X!” conclusion is breathtaking.

      Malcolm X closely follows The Autobiography of Malcolm X, written by Malcolm X and Alex Haley.

      Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

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