Some movies don’t just entertain you — they change how you see yourself.
These 10 films have inspired millions of people to get up, try harder, and believe in what’s possible.
Watch one when you need a push. You’ll know which scene to remember.
1. Whiplash (2014) 8.4
Genre: Drama, Music, Thriller · Director: Damien Chazelle · Cast: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, Paul Reiser
Under the direction of a ruthless instructor, a talented young drummer begins to pursue perfection at any cost, even his humanity.
2. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) 7.9
Genre: Drama · Director: Gabriele Muccino · Cast: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandiwe Newton
A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he’s poised to begin a life-changing professional career.
3. The Blind Side (2009) 7.7
Genre: Drama · Director: John Lee Hancock · Cast: Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron
The story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who became an All American football player and first round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman and her family.
4. Coach Carter (2005) 7.6
Genre: Drama, History · Director: Thomas Carter · Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Rob Brown, Robert Ri’chard
Based on a true story, in which Richmond High School head basketball coach Ken Carter made headlines in 1999 for benching his undefeated team due to poor academic results.
5. Billy Elliot (2000) 7.6
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Music · Director: Stephen Daldry · Cast: Jamie Bell, Gary Lewis, Julie Walters
County Durham, England, 1984. The miners’ strike has started and the police have started coming up from Bethnal Green, starting a class war with the lower classes suffering. Caught in the middle of th
6. Rudy (1993) 7.3
Genre: Drama, History · Director: David Anspaugh · Cast: Sean Astin, Jon Favreau, Ned Beatty
Rudy grew up in a steel mill town where most people ended up working, but wanted to play football at Notre Dame instead. There were only a couple of problems. His grades were a little low, his athleti
7. Invictus (2009) 7.2
Genre: Drama, History · Director: Clint Eastwood · Cast: Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon, Tony Kgoroge
Newly elected President Nelson Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of
8. Eddie the Eagle (2016) 7.2
Genre: Comedy, Drama, History · Director: Dexter Fletcher · Cast: Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman, Christopher Walken
The feel-good story of Michael ‘Eddie’ Edwards, an unlikely but courageous British ski-jumper who never stopped believing in himself—even as an entire nation was counting him out. With the help of a r
9. Soul Surfer (2011) 7.0
Genre: Family, Drama · Director: Sean McNamara · Cast: AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid
The true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith.
These films are the cinematic equivalent of a great mentor — they push you further than you thought you could go. Bookmark this list for when you need it most.