Happiness is a thrilling but also an elusive emotion. For a long time, economists, psychologists, theologians, and philosophers have tried to describe it. Additionally, a distinct area of psychology called positive psychology has been working to define it since the 1990s. Happiness is more than just having a pleasant mood; it’s a state of well-being that includes leading a fulfilling life with a strong feeling of purpose and fulfilment.
Feeling joyful has its health perks as well. A growing body of research suggests that happiness can improve your physical health; feelings of positivity and fulfilment benefit cardiovascular health, the immune system, inflammation levels, and blood pressure, among other things. Happiness has even been linked to a longer lifespan, higher quality of life, and well-being.
Read More: Understanding the Crucial Bond Between Mental and Physical Health
Attaining happiness is a global pursuit. Researchers find that people from every corner of the world rate happiness as more important than other desirable personal outcomes, such as obtaining wealth, acquiring material goods, and getting into heaven. In this world filled with distractions and challenges, sometimes the most profound lessons on life and happiness come from the most unexpected places. Movies, with their compelling storytelling and heartfelt characters, have the power to inspire, uplift, and provide deep insights into what truly matters. Whether it’s through perseverance, self-discovery, or the importance of human connections. In this article, you will explore 10 movies that teach timeless lessons about life and happiness.
1. The Pursuit of Happiness ( 2006 )
The Pursuit of Happiness is a 2006 American biographical drama film directed by Gabriele Muccino and starring Will Smith as Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman. A family’s attempt to succeed in life is the subject of the true story that serves as the basis for The Pursuit of Happyness. The parents of a young kid named Christopher (Jaden Smith) are Chris Gardner (Will Smith) and Linda (Thandie Newton). The pair invested their whole life savings in a business that produces medical scanning equipment. Chris is in charge of sales, but he struggles to market the product. The family has little money and is behind on their rent. To make ends meet, Linda must put in more hours at work. Their relationship becomes increasingly stressed as a result of this.
Chris saw a man get out of a Red Ferrari one day when he was rushing from one sales appointment to another. After speaking with the stockbroker, he finds out that a college degree is not required for his profession and that having strong math skills and people skills is beneficial. Chris determines that he can do it as well if this is all that is required. He concludes that all stockbrokers appear to be very content. After Linda leaves, Chris becomes a single father and decides to pursue a career as a stockbroker. Despite having little money and being homeless, he secures an internship via perseverance. In addition, he has to take care of his young child, study, and work towards his ultimate objective.
2. Forrest Gump (1994)
Forrest Gump defies traditional filmmaking conventions. What sets it apart is not just its complex narrative, its blurred line between reality and fiction, or any art-house techniques—it’s the fact that the film itself refuses to follow any set rules. This is most evident in its storytelling. Unlike typical biopics, which focus on a specific period or pivotal moment in a person’s life, Forrest Gump is entirely centered on the life and experiences of its main character, Forrest. His journey is the only constant throughout the film. Even cradle-to-grave biopics often rely on a central theme or turning point, but Forrest Gump abandons the idea of a conventional plot altogether. In doing so, it redefines the biopic genre—arguably surpassing even Citizen Kane in this regard.
In Gump, all we get is Forrest narrating his life. It’s lovely when a story is told only for its own sake. In this way, we also witness filmmakers fascinatingly experimenting with time. We learn about Forrest’s life up to this point during the first two hours of the movie. Then, all of a sudden, throughout the final 14 minutes of the movie, we watch events unfolding. Even if the story’s framework is based on a tenuous idea, the movie is, nevertheless, quite intriguingly made. In many respects, Gump’s story becomes America’s.
3. The Secret life of Walter Mitty (2013)
The protagonist Walter Mitty changes from a timid, daydreaming office worker to a brave explorer who actively seeks out the life he previously only imagined in his mind, travelling to the unknown across the globe to find a missing negative for a photo shoot, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013) invites viewers to consider the value of stepping outside of their comfort zone, embracing adventure, and turning daydreams into reality. In the end, the film emphasises the strength of facing fears and leading a purposeful life rather than merely daydreaming about it.
4. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) is a heartwarming and timeless classic that tells the story of George Bailey, a man who, feeling overwhelmed by life’s struggles, contemplates suicide. George has spent his entire life putting others before himself, sacrificing his dreams and personal desires for the good of his community. As he faces financial ruin and personal despair, an angel named Clarence intervenes, showing George what life would have been like if he had never been born.
Through this powerful experience, George discovers the profound impact his existence has had on the lives of those around him. He realizes that even small acts of kindness and selflessness can create a ripple effect, shaping the lives of others in ways he never imagined. In the end, George’s perspective shifts, and he understands that happiness and fulfillment don’t come from wealth or success but from relationships, love, and the difference one person can make in the world.
The film’s message resonates deeply with life itself—reminding us that we often overlook the value of our own lives and the positive influence we have on others. In times of struggle or doubt, It’s a Wonderful Life teaches us to reflect on what truly matters: love, kindness, and the connections we build with the people around us. It encourages us to recognize our worth, even when we feel insignificant, and to appreciate the beauty in the simple, everyday moments that make life truly wonderful.
5. Good Will Hunting (1997)
Good Will Hunting (1997) is a powerful film that follows the story of Will Hunting, a young janitor at MIT who has an extraordinary mathematical mind but struggles with his past and emotional issues. Despite his brilliance, Will sabotages his potential, self-doubts and pushing people away, especially those who care about him. After assaulting a police officer, Will is given an ultimatum: go to therapy or face jail time.
He meets Sean Maguire, a therapist who helps him confront his past, his fear of intimacy, and the belief that he doesn’t deserve success or happiness. Through their sessions, Will begins to unravel the emotional scars of his troubled childhood and the deep-rooted fears that have held him back. The film’s turning point occurs when Will realizes that his self-worth is not tied to his intellect or his past and that he deserves a life filled with love, purpose, and opportunities.
The message of Good Will Hunting is deeply connected to life’s struggles and personal growth. It shows that sometimes, our greatest barriers aren’t external but internal—our fears, insecurities, and the unresolved pain from our past. It reminds us that while talent and intelligence are important, the real path to happiness lies in self-acceptance, healing, and embracing the relationships that help us grow. Just like Will, many of us may need someone to challenge our beliefs and encourage us to leap into a fuller, more meaningful life. Good Will Hunting teaches us that, to find true happiness, we must first confront and let go of the emotional baggage that weighs us down.
6 . “Eat Pray Love”
Eat Pray Love (2010) follows Elizabeth Gilbert as she embarks on a journey around the world after a painful divorce, seeking self-discovery and inner peace. She explores Italy, India, and Indonesia, where she indulges in life’s pleasures, seeks spiritual enlightenment, and finds balance and love. The movie highlights the importance of taking time for ourselves, letting go of the past, and embracing new experiences to find true happiness. It teaches that fulfillment comes not from external achievements, but from self-acceptance, healing, and inner peace. Like Elizabeth, we must learn to reconnect with ourselves to live a more meaningful and joyful life.
7. Into the Wild (2007)
Into the Wild tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who rejects societal expectations and sets off on a journey across the American wilderness to find freedom and self-discovery. As he experiences the beauty and harshness of nature, he learns that true happiness isn’t found in isolation but in connection with others. The film teaches that while seeking adventure and independence is important, lasting happiness comes from human relationships and the shared experiences that make life meaningful.
8. The Bucket List (2007)
In The Bucket List, two terminally ill men, Carter and Edward, meet in a hospital and decide to embark on a journey to complete a list of things they want to do before they die. As they check off items from their bucket list, they form a deep bond and discover that life’s true joy comes from embracing every moment and living fully, no matter how much time you have left. This film encourages us to live without regrets, cherish experiences, and prioritize what truly brings us happiness.
9. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
The Shawshank Redemption follows Andy Dufresne, a man wrongly imprisoned for murder, who builds lasting friendships and finds hope even in the most brutal circumstances. Through his resilience and belief in redemption, Andy teaches us that happiness and freedom come from maintaining hope, developing meaningful relationships, and never giving up, even when faced with life’s toughest challenges.
10. Soul (2020)
Soul follows Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a jazz musician. After an unexpected event, Joe ends up in the afterlife and learns valuable lessons about the essence of life and purpose. Through his journey, he discovers that true happiness doesn’t come from fame or success, but from appreciating the small, everyday moments and finding joy in the present. The film highlights the importance of self-reflection, passion, and being present in life’s simple pleasures.
The films we’ve discussed all convey a powerful message about happiness, purpose, and peace. They teach us that true fulfillment doesn’t stem from external achievements or material wealth but from within—through personal growth, meaningful connections, and the courage to embrace life’s challenges. Whether it’s through self-discovery, living with no regrets, nurturing hope, or finding joy in the present moment, these movies remind us that happiness is a journey, not a destination. Peace comes from accepting ourselves, understanding our purpose, and appreciating the little things that make life rich and meaningful. Ultimately, they show us that purpose and peace are found in living authentically and cherishing the relationships and experiences that truly matter.
Read More: 8 Compelling Movies and TV Series That Explore Mental Health Themes
Leave feedback about this