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There’s nothing like a good movie to start the new year off right!I’ve put together this list based off of some of my very favorite films – ones that encourage me and help me rethink the meaning of life – what really matters when it’s all said and done. So, corral your family or gather together a few friends. Get some candy, popcorn, a fun beverage, and chose one of these twelve inspirational movies raise up your spirit!
Happy New Year!!
Here’s the list:
It’s a Wonderful Life
The classic is often thought of as a Christmas movie, but it’s a perfectly good new year movie as well. George Bailey has an opportunity to see how much he matters to those around him. It gives us an opportunity to remind ourselves that we, too, have a unique and unrepeatable role in the world.
“What is it you want, Mary? What do you want? You want the moon? Just say the word and I’ll throw a lasso around it and pull it down. Hey. That’s a pretty good idea. I’ll give you the moon, Mary.”
Little Women
One of my favorite classic books, this film is the best adaptation I’ve seen. The March family endures hardships with an enduring spirit.
“I want to do something splendid…something heroic or wonderful that won’t be forgotten after I’m dead. I don’t know what, but I’m on the watch for it and mean to astonish you all someday.”
Three Godfathers
John Wayne and John Ford star in this Western variation of the story of the three wise men. Bank robbers on the run come across a stranded woman who is dying while giving birth. Promising to carry the woman’s newborn to safety, the repentant criminals struggle to reach the village of New Jerusalem. Intriguing, right!?
Life is Beautiful
This Italian film is said to be one of St. John Paul II’s favorite movies, this one is a tear jerker – but really wonderful! A Jewish Italian book shop owner uses his imagination to shield his son from the horrors of internment in a Nazi concentration camp.
Sense and Sensibility
Because every year should start off with a good healthy dose of Jane Austen. Sense and Sensibility is my favorite novel, and this film is my favorite of all the Austin book to film adaptations. Sense and Sensibility reminds us to seek true love, to be patient, to not let ourselves swayed by every emotion and intriguing person who comes along. But rather to wait and have hope that something good and true waits for us around the corner.
And, that’s right, if you’ve been missing Matthew from Downton Abbey – it’s your lucky day. Dan Stevens makes a perfect Edward in this film!
The Pursuit of Happyness
I love this movie staring Will Smith and his son Jaden. Based on the true story of Chris Gardner – a man who was willing to do anything to support his child. It is a story of having big dreams and not giving up on them even when the road ahead looks impossible.
It Could Happen to You
Nicolas Cage plays Charlie, a simple, kindhearted New York City cop. When he realizes he has no money to tip his waitress he offers her half the winnings of his lottery ticket. Amazingly, the ticket happens to be a winner, in the sum of $4 million…. you’ll have to watch to find out what happens. This isn’t an earth-shattering film, but fun and sweet and uplifting!
The Family Man
Nicolas Cage (because there should always be several Nick Cage films…) is Jack Campbell turned his back on love and chose a career on Wall Street. Thirteen years later his life is empty and love-less. But on Christmas Eve, he has a chance to see how things could have been if he had chose love over money and success.
I Am David
One of my all-time books, the film adaption is really nice, as well. David’s entire twelve-year life has been spent in a grisly prison camp in Eastern Europe. When he is given the chance to escape, he seizes it. His mission is to return home. To find his mother. And he does not give up.
Apollo 13
An all-American film about real flesh and blood heroes. While we did have to fast-forward through one scene when watching with our children, it was worth it. And epic story of struggle, hard work and faith. We love this movie!
Big Miracle
Based on a true story, Big Miracle is the true story of a small-town news reporter and a Greenpeace volunteer who seek the help of rival superpowers to save three majestic gray whales trapped under the ice of the Arctic Circle. Our whole family loves this movie!
The Blind Side
Michael, a homeless black teen, has drifted in and out of the school system for years. One strong and feisty woman (played by Sanra Bullock) decides to buck to norm and take him in. Michael becomes a formidable football player, and with help from his new family and devoted tutor, he realizes his potential as a student and football player.
