Sometimes, all we need is a good movie to remind us that life is still beautiful—even when it’s tough. If you’re craving uplifting stories filled with hope, laughter, and heart, Netflix has some truly inspiring films waiting for you.
From underdog triumphs to soul-stirring journeys, here are 11 feel-good movies streaming on Netflix right now that will leave you smiling, crying (the good kind!), and feeling renewed.
🎬 1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Will Smith delivers a powerful performance as Chris Gardner, a man who refuses to give up despite facing homelessness while raising his young son. It’s a real-life story of resilience, hope, and the power of a father’s love.
📌 Best for: When you need motivation to keep going.
👨👦 Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Smith
🏃♂️ 2. Forrest Gump (1994)
An unforgettable tale of a simple man who ends up living an extraordinary life. Forrest reminds us that kindness, love, and doing your best can take you further than you think.
📌 Best for: Believing in destiny.
🎭 Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright
🤝 3. The Intouchables (2011)
A touching friendship forms between a wealthy man with disabilities and a spirited caregiver from the projects. It’s funny, real, and full of heart.
📌 Best for: Restoring your faith in humanity.
🎬 Language: French (with subtitles)
🍳 4. Julie & Julia (2009)
Two stories—one famous chef, one modern blogger—intertwine in this delicious celebration of food, passion, and finding purpose.
📌 Best for: Food lovers & dream chasers.
👩🍳 Starring: Meryl Streep, Amy Adams
🌍 5. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Feeling stuck? This visual treat will nudge you out of your comfort zone as Walter trades daydreams for daring adventures across the globe.
📌 Best for: Finding the courage to live boldly.
📸 Starring: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig
🌿 6. Eat Pray Love (2010)
After a painful divorce, one woman sets out across Italy, India, and Bali to rediscover herself. A soulful journey of healing and self-love.
📌 Best for: Life transitions & self-discovery.
🌺 Starring: Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem
👩🍳 7. The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)
East meets West as an Indian family opens a restaurant next to a French fine-dining spot. Expect delicious clashes and even better friendships.
📌 Best for: Cultural harmony & tasty scenes.
🇫🇷 Starring: Helen Mirren, Om Puri
💼 8. The Intern (2015)
A 70-year-old widower becomes an intern at a fashion startup—and proves that wisdom never ages. Heartwarming and humorous.
📌 Best for: Office burnout and warm fuzzies.
👴 Starring: Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway
🚚 9. Chef (2014)
After losing his job, a chef starts a food truck and reconnects with his love for cooking—and his son. Equal parts funny and delicious.
📌 Best for: Reinvention and family bonding.
🌮 Starring: Jon Favreau, Sofia Vergara
🚘 10. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
A quirky road trip between a caregiver and a teenager with muscular dystrophy turns into a journey of emotional healing and unexpected joy.
📌 Best for: Laughs with a side of heart.
💬 Starring: Paul Rudd, Selena Gomez
📝 11. The Bucket List (2007)
Two terminally ill men escape the hospital to live life on their terms—skydiving, traveling, and checking off everything on their bucket list.
📌 Best for: Laugh-crying and appreciating life.
🎭 Starring: Morgan Freeman, Jack Nicholson
