The 200+ Best Feel-Good Movies Of All Time

Ranker Film
Updated April 23, 2024 3.6M views 247 items
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Vote up the escapist, uplifting films that leave you feeling happy.
Latest additions: The Long Game, Sense and Sensibility, An American in Austen
Most divisive: Schindler's List
Over 59.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 200+ Best Feel-Good Movies Of All Time

Want to feel warm and fuzzy inside? This is a ranked list of the best feel-good movies that make us experience all the good feelings. Featuring wholesome sports movies, light-hearted romantic comedies, and comedy family movies, this list of the top feel-good movies includes nice movies that are easy to watch.  What is the best feel-good movie? These are the movies that have the ability to make us feel. They make us want to believe, be inspired, and live vicariously through the stories we see on screen. Whenever you are feeling down, you can simply watch one of these upbeat movies, and it will make you happy.

This list of heartwarming movies includes such classic titles and throwback movies, like Rudy, It’s a Wonderful Life, Big, and Cool Runnings. These really good movies vary in their genre, but they all have the ability to lift our spirits no matter how many times we’ve viewed them. If you are sad, feeling sick, or just looking for a film to get lost in, these titles from the list of the best feel-good movies are what you should be watching.

Whether it’s a drama that has you cheering on the underdog, living a fanciful life in another country, or are just completely silly, these ultimate feel-good films provide something for viewers to enjoy and aspire to. If you’re looking for “the greatest feel-good movie ever” you can find it on this list.

  • Finding Nemo
    1
    Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
    7,777 votes

    This heartwarming animated adventure follows a small clownfish named Marlin as he braves the open ocean to rescue his captured son, Nemo. Through perilous journeys and unexpected friendships with other sea creatures like the absent-minded Dory, Marlin learns the importance of trusting others and letting go of fear. The film's enchanting underwater landscape and family-oriented themes make it an uplifting experience for audiences of all ages.

  • Shrek Franchise
    2
    Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz
    1,157 votes

    The lovable green ogre Shrek takes center stage in this wildly successful series of animated films that offer a fresh take on classic fairy tales. Through his unlikely alliance with a wisecracking Donkey and a strong-willed Princess Fiona, Shrek comes to learn that true love can be found in many forms. With its sharp humor, memorable characters, and heartwarming storylines, the franchise continues to captivate viewers and spread messages of self-acceptance and friendship.

  • Ratatouille
    3
    Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano
    7,794 votes

    In this delightful animated film set in Paris, a young rat named Remy dreams of becoming a gourmet chef despite his society's disdain for rodents. With determination and passion for cooking, Remy forms an unlikely partnership with Linguini, a clumsy human who discovers Remy's extraordinary culinary talents. Together they create magic in the kitchen while breaking boundaries and proving that anyone can achieve greatness when they follow their passions.

  • Toy Story Franchise
    4
    Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, John Ratzenberger
    8,122 votes

    This groundbreaking series focuses on the secret lives of toys when their owners are not around, exploring themes such as friendship, loyalty, and growing up throughout several installments featuring iconic characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Mr. Potato Head among others animate objects brought to life through witty writing and cutting-edge animation techniques make these movies both visually stunning timeless stories that resonate with audiences young old alike providing laughter tears along way.

  • Forrest Gump
    5
    Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
    13,341 votes

    Through this epic journey spanning several decades, the audience witnesses the life of Forrest Gump, a kind-hearted and intellectually challenged man who inadvertently shapes history through his extraordinary experiences. The film touches on themes such as love, friendship, family, and perseverance as it weaves together moments of laughter and heartache. With its nostalgic soundtrack and memorable quotes, this movie leaves viewers with an emotionally uplifting experience.

  • The Blind Side
    6
    Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron
    3,249 votes

    Based on a true story, this inspiring drama tells the tale of Michael Oher, a homeless young man taken in by a wealthy family who helps him overcome adversity to become a successful professional football player. Sandra Bullock's powerful performance as the loving but tough matriarch Leigh Anne Tuohy drives home messages about compassion, determination, and the importance of family support in achieving greatness.

  • The thrilling animated saga follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking who befriends Toothless – an elusive dragon he was initially tasked to kill – leading both to develop an unbreakable bond while embarking on various adventures across unique worlds filled with diverse creatures whose stories highlight bravery teamwork overcoming obstacles finding one's own path empowering message that resonates deeply viewers all ages making these films instant classics.

  • Mulan
    8
    Ming-Na, Eddie Murphy, BD Wong
    4,887 votes

    This captivating animated feature showcases the story of Mulan disguising herself as a male soldier to protect her father from being drafted into war. Alongside her loyal companions - Mushu the dragon and Cri-Kee - she must learn courage and self-discovery transcending societal expectations demonstrating female empowerment within a traditionally male-dominated setting strong character development vibrant colors stirring melodies round movie's engaging nature making one that leaves lasting impact viewers.

  • Ferris Bueller's Day Off
    9
    Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara
    5,195 votes

    In this iconic 80s comedy classic about seizing life's opportunities for joy and adventure defying adult expectations rules protagonist hatches elaborate plan skip school day enjoy everything city has offer with best friend Sloane girlfriend Cameron roller coaster ride humor quotable lines make it film encourages laugh loud remind themselves importance taking occasional break from routine embrace spontaneity fun.

  • Beauty and the Beast
    10
    Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Richard White
    3,954 votes

    The timeless tale of love and redemption between Belle, a kind-hearted bookworm, and the cursed Beast is brought to life through masterful animation and a memorable soundtrack in this adored film fit for all ages. As their feelings grow, they learn about the transformative power of love while individuals such as Gaston orchestrate chaos in the background amidst stunning visuals unmatched storytelling captivating experience guaranteed leave heart warmed.

  • Jumanji
    11
    Robin Williams, Bonnie Hunt, Kirsten Dunst
    2,684 votes

    This action-packed family adventure combines fantasy with reality as four unsuspecting children discover an enchanted board game that unleashes wild creatures into their small town. With each roll of the dice, they must navigate dangerous situations in order to finish the game and restore order, learning valuable life lessons along the way; including teamwork, courageously facing fears it's never too late right wrongs engaging story thrilling sequences mesh well solid humor make it enjoyable movie whole will appreciate.

  • Up
    12
    Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
    10,068 votes

    With genuinely emotional storytelling combined outstanding visuals Pixar delivers another masterpiece introducing Carl Fredricksen and Russell who embark incredible journey South American wilderness aboard floating house carried thousands helium balloons heartwarming comedy-drama explores themes love loss friendship discovery reminding power lifelong dreams determination pull heartstrings keeping entertained throughout film fitting both young aged alike providing ample enjoyable moments.

  • Cool Runnings
    13
    Leon, Doug E. Doug, Malik Yoba
    2,901 votes

    Based on the improbable true story of Jamaica's national bobsled team, this inspiring sports comedy follows four underdogs with little experience in winter sports as they pursue their Olympic dreams against all odds. Along the way they form an unbreakable bond and defy naysayers, proving to the world that determination and teamwork can lead to greatness. The film's uplifting message about believing in oneself and never giving up resonates deeply with audiences.

  • Mrs. Doubtfire
    14
    Robin Williams, Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan
    7,158 votes

    The incomparable Robin Williams delivers a heartwarming performance as Daniel Hillard, who disguises himself as a female housekeeper named Mrs. Doubtfire in order to maintain contact with his children after a bitter separation from his wife Miranda (played by Sally Field). Through this transformation, Daniel learns important lessons about selflessness and family values while providing ample humor for viewers entertainment enjoy every minute stellar performances touching storyline.

  • The Incredibles
    15
    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson
    9,264 votes

    The animated adventure introduces a family of superheroes forced into retirement by a society that no longer appreciates their heroic deeds but returns action save day from new supervillain under director Brad Bird's clever storytelling effortlessly blends wit relevant social commentary engaging action sequences spirited characters explores themes self-identity self-worth love loyalty alluring mix humor thrilling excitement leaves viewers feeling good long after credits roll.

  • The Princess Diaries
    16
    Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Héctor Elizondo
    5,247 votes

    This heartwarming tale showcases the transformation of an awkward high school student Mia Thermopolis (played by Anne Hathaway) upon the discovery that she is actually royalty in line for her small European country's throne Guido (Julie Andrews) undertakes teach manners diplomacy grace navigating pitfalls teenage life process delightful coming-of-age story provides laughs warmth perfect blend humor sincerity making ideal feel-good movie.

  • Mean Girls
    17
    Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tina Fey
    3,557 votes

    A sharp-witted comedy that delves into high school cliques and social hierarchies with biting satire to create an endlessly quotable experience about self-discovery standing up bullies navigating treacherous waters teenage life leading lady Cady Heron played by Lindsay Lohan navigates new environment after moving from Africa America becoming entangled infamous Plastics led manipulative Queen Bee Regina George memorable characters relatable scenarios catchy phrases resulted cult following resonates audiences across generations showing importance kindness authenticity face adversity.

  • Matilda
    18
    Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman
    4,837 votes

    Based on Roald Dahl's beloved children's book, this enchanting film adaptation follows young Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson) as she discovers her telekinetic abilities while attempting to navigate through life surrounded by neglectful parents and a tyrannical school principal Ms. Trunchbull (Pam Ferris). Throughout her journey, she finds solace in books and eventually uses her newfound powers to help herself friends endearing movie that celebrates intelligence courage face adversity leaving audiences feeling empowered inspired.

  • Kung Fu Panda Franchise
    19
    Jack Black, Ian McShane, Angelina Jolie
    2,364 votes

    Jack Black lends his voice to Po, an enthusiastic panda with dreams of being a kung fu master despite seemingly insurmountable odds in this hilarious and inspiring animated film series. Throughout the franchise, Po learns valuable lessons about embracing his uniqueness, self-discovery, and the importance of determination while providing laughs with an array of colorful characters amid dazzling animation.

  • The Goonies
    20
    Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen
    4,139 votes

    A classic 80s adventure filled with treasure maps, hidden caves, and booby traps awaits viewers when they join a group of misfit kids known as The Goonies led by Sean Astin and Mikey Walsh on their quest save hometown from being demolished by greedy developers heartwarming tale friendship camaraderie unforgettable cast characters makes coming-of-age story has stood test time continues delight generations fans young old alike.

  • The Little Mermaid
    21
    Jodi Benson, Pat Carroll, Christopher Daniel Barnes
    3,149 votes

    Disney enchants viewers with this gorgeously animated musical about mermaid Princess Ariel who longs explore human world falls love Prince Eric embarks daring adventure trade voice legs order find true happiness amidst colorful underwater landscapes catchy tunes delightful sidekick characters such Flounder Sebastian film explores themes curiosity sacrifice deeper message moves hearts leaving them warm fuzzy inside.

  • Aladdin
    22
    Scott Weinger, Robin Williams, Linda Larkin
    5,383 votes

    Disney delivers a magical Arabian night filled with wonder music this iconic animated musical revolving around street-smart Aladdin who befriends Genie voiced incomparable Robin Williams changes life forever embarking fantastical adventures alongside Princess Jasmine endearing sidekick Abu carpet discover importance trust honesty love sumptuous visuals catchy songs blend seamlessly create captivating experience inspires transports viewers another world leaves them feeling enchanted uplifted.

  • It's a Wonderful Life
    23
    James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore
    2,907 votes

    Directed by Frank Capra, this classic film tells the poignant story of George Bailey (played by James Stewart), who is given an opportunity to see what life would be like if he never existed with the help of guardian angel Clarence (Henry Travers). Through this enlightening journey, George learns to appreciate the value of his own life and the impact he has made on those around him; leaving audiences with a renewed sense of hope, love, and gratitude.

  • The Breakfast Club
    24
    Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
    6,390 votes

    This iconic 80s coming-of-age drama follows five high school students from different social cliques as they spend a day in detention together. Through sharing their stories and struggles with one another in an authentic manner over time spent confined to school library director John Hughes expertly weaves themes such self-identity acceptance transcending labels woven compelling narrative showcases transformative power empathy understanding making heartwarming memorable experience elicits feelings nostalgia introspection audiences all ages.

  • Lady and the Tramp
    25
    Peggy Lee, Barbara Luddy, Larry Roberts
    2,618 votes

    This charming animated classic tells the heartwarming story of two dogs from different backgrounds - pampered cocker spaniel Lady meets streetwise mutt Tramp - who embark on an unexpected romantic adventure together across a beautifully rendered cityscape. As they overcome various obstacles and challenges to forge a lasting bond, the film explores themes of love, trust, and the importance of looking beyond appearances, filling audiences with warmth and joy.

  • Despicable Me Franchise
    26

    Despicable Me Franchise

    Steve Carell, Sandra Bullock, Miranda Cosgrove
    3,490 votes

    The entertaining animated franchise follows the transformation of supervillain Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) as he experiences fatherhood after adopting three orphaned girls Margo Edith Agnes - setting him on path redemption filled hilarious misadventures lovable Minions unique characters heartfelt moments throughout installments these films captivate audiences all ages importantly provides heart laughs in abundance leading feel-good experience.

  • Legally Blonde
    27
    Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair
    4,956 votes

    Reese Witherspoon shines in this delightful comedy as Elle Woods, a seemingly ditzy sorority girl who defies stereotypes when she enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend but ultimately discovers her true potential intelligence wit navigating world lawyers legal education storyline emphasizes importance remaining true oneself empowerment strength despite doubts judgements others smart engaging humorous manner entertains uplifts.

  • The Proposal
    28
    Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen
    4,178 votes

    This romantic comedy stars Sandra Bullock as Margaret Tate, a Canadian executive who faces deportation from the United States unless she marries her assistant Andrew Paxton (played by Ryan Reynolds). Along their trip to Alaska visit Andrew's quirky family duo come understand true value relationships compromise give take masterfully interweaving humor pathos create irresistible feel-good story that leaves viewers charmed satisfied.

  • The Pursuit of Happyness
    29
    Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandie Newton
    1,893 votes

    Starring Will Smith as Chris Gardner in a powerful performance based on true story audiences witness an inspiring portrait perseverance resilience face adversity when salesperson takes custody his young son (played Jaden Smith) while struggling homelessness achieving professional success broker firm determination courage displayed this rousing tale overcoming obstacles triumph over hardship leaves viewers deeply moved uplifted.

  • The Shawshank Redemption
    30
    Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
    10,897 votes

    In this profound drama based on Stephen King's novella, Tim Robbins plays Andy Dufresne - a man wrongfully imprisoned for murder who befriends fellow inmate Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman) over years spent within walls notorious penitentiary power friendship resilience hope forms core film astounding acting gripping narrative captures hearts minds audiences leaving them encouraged contemplative better days ahead.