Uplifting Films

To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

A small town lawyer in the Deep South is appointed to defend a black man accused of raping a white woman. A tale of justice, raising children the right way, friendship, growing up and progress in society. Great adaptation of Harper Lee's masterpiece, and Gregory Peck as literary hero Atticus Finch is perfectly cast.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

A young man without prospects finds his calling when working as a janitor at MIT. But only the support of a mentor helps his embrace his new opportunities. The late Robin Williams in one of his best roles. 

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

A timeless, moving love story. Precocious Elio is spending the summer with his parents in their house in Italy, and experiences his first love. The wonderful novel by André Aciman provides a perfect basis for this charming and atmospheric film, which catapulted leading actor Timothée Chalamet to stardom.

The Help (2011)

A young tomboy woman in segregated America has high aspirations of becoming a journalist. Her hometown provides enough material when tensions between white families and their black live-in help begin to brew. Seven female Oscar-winning actresses make this worth watching.

Billy Elliot (2000)

A boy from a British coal-mining area falls in love with dancing, and has to fight against prejudice, financial hardship and lack of prospects to follow his dreams. Powerful story and great performances by the young Jamie Bell and Julie Walters as his dancing instructor.

The Blind Side (2009)

Based on the true story of a teenager from a difficult background, who is taken in by a wealthy family out of compassion. His protective instincts help him in finding a purpose both with his family and as an athlete. Sandra Bullock as the supportive but resolute mother gives a memorable performance.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

One of Frank Capra's many wonderful films, which is still very current. An unhappy man is shown the essence of life by an angel, and reconsiders his priorities. Has aged well, in both message and craft. And James Stewart is of course always worth watching.

Rain Man (1988)

Two brothers that could not be more different are brought closer on a road trip after their father passed away. Great performances by Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman, and an unusual story that lingers in the audience's mind make this an unmissable experience.

Captain Fantastic (2016)

A father of six uses an unconventional education method for them, living with them in the forest and teaching them things that are far from standardised school syllabi. A wonderful quirky family story that thrives also because of Viggo Mortensen's great acting.

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Notting Hill (1999)

Besides being an ode to London, this is a story filled with plenty of British humour. A shy book shop owner encounters a film star and falls in love. Their relationship is made more difficult by nuisances such as the media and his flatmate. The essence of what matters in life is shown in a very quirky and entertaining way.