The Best Movies About Getting A Second Chance

Jason Bancroft
Updated April 29, 2024 35 items
Ranked By
1.0K votes
322 voters

We all love a good second chance movie because they make us feel like we can make-up for past mistakes and who doesn't want to change something they regret. Second chance movies tend to be about a relatable character who gets knocked down, but through hard work and determination, they manage to get back up and come out on top. With that in mind, we've compile the best new and classic movies about getting a second shot, giving it another try, and not wasting that opportunity. The Way Back is a drama that stars Ben Affleck as an alcoholic who is given a second chance at life by coaching a basketball team at his former high school. There are also sequels on this list like Top Gun: Maverick where Tom Cruise's character is given another opportunity to be an instructor at Top Gun. Second chances don't come around that often but lucky for us, there are plenty of movies about giving life another shot. There are also second chance romance movies on this list where characters are reunited with a former lover. But which one of these movies deserves the top spot on our list? You can help decide with your votes.

Vote up your favorite movies about a second chance and vote down the ones that you think do not deserve a first chance. Thanks to great streaming services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Apple TV+ you can start streaming most of these movies right away. 

  • The Replacements
    1

    The Replacements

    Keanu Reeves, Gene Hackman, Orlando Jones
    43 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Sports, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This feel-good sports comedy stars Keanu Reeves as Shane Falco—a former star quarterback given another chance at glory when he is recruited by Coach Jimmy McGinty (Gene Hackman) during an NFL players' strike. Assembling a motley crew of misfit replacements, Falco must overcome self-doubt and lead his team on an underdog quest for victory. The Replacements serves as an entertaining reminder that oftentimes, second chances are about embracing adversity and stepping up when it matters most.

    In the heart of a pro football lockout, an unlikely group of ragtag players are assembled under the guidance of seasoned coach Jimmy McGinty (Gene Hackman). This motley crew, led by Shane Falco (Keanu Reeves), a washed-up quarterback, is tasked with keeping the Washington Sentinels' season alive. In this sports comedy-drama, The Replacements, the team's journey from underdogs to champions is as unpredictable as it is entertaining. With each game, they learn to overcome their individual shortcomings and work together, proving that sometimes second chances can make you a winner.
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  • Destroyer
    2

    Destroyer

    Nicole Kidman, Toby Kebbell, Tatiana Maslany
    37 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This intense crime drama featuring Nicole Kidman follows an LAPD detective haunted by her past, seeking redemption by solving the case that broke her many years ago. Showcasing an impressive performance from Kidman and demonstrating the power of resilience, Destroyer offers viewers an emotional journey into the heart of regret, forgiveness, and growth. The film resonates with those looking for stories about personal transformation and finding meaning amid chaos.

    As a young cop, Erin Bell went under cover to infiltrate a gang in the California desert -- with tragic results. Bell continues to work as a detective for the Los Angeles Police Department, but feelings of anger and remorse leave her worn-down and consumed by guilt. When the leader of that gang suddenly re-emerges, Erin embarks on an obsessive quest to find his former associates, bring him to justice and make peace with her tortured past.
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  • Cinderella Man
    3

    Cinderella Man

    Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul Giamatti
    45 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Sports, Drama, History
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This powerful biopic follows the real-life story of James J. Braddock (portrayed by Russell Crowe), a former boxing champion who makes an extraordinary comeback during the Great Depression. Through sheer grit and determination, Braddock manages to defy all odds and restore his family's financial stability while re-establishing himself as a respected athlete. Cinderella Man showcases how hope can triumph even in the most challenging circumstances—making it an inspiring watch for anyone seeking a boost in their own pursuit of second chances.

    Set in the Great Depression, Cinderella Man is a biographical sports drama that tells the tale of James J. Braddock (Russell Crowe), a once-successful boxer forced into retirement after a string of losses. Struggling to support his family, Braddock makes an unexpected comeback under trainer Joe Gould (Paul Giamatti), defying the odds and redefining the world's perception of a hero. Directed by Ron Howard, this film won multiple awards for its authentic portrayal of a historic era and one man's indomitable spirit. Renee Zellweger also stars as Mae, Braddock's steadfast wife.
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  • It's a Wonderful Life
    4

    It's a Wonderful Life

    James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore
    44 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Family, Fantasy, Holiday
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: As one of the most timeless films ever made about second chances, It's A Wonderful Life delves into themes like gratitude, self-worth, and interconnectivity between people. When George Bailey feels hopeless after losing his business and contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve, guardian angel Clarence intervenes to show him what life would be like without him—and ultimately inspires George to embrace his existence anew. An inspiring classic for anyone seeking encouragement during dark times or motivation to treasure their own impact on others' lives.

    In the heartwarming film It's a Wonderful Life, George Bailey (James Stewart) teeters on the brink of despair. His small-town existence, full of missed opportunities and financial struggles, seems unbearable. Luckily, his guardian angel Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers) steps in, showing George what life would be like if he'd never been born. This 1946 classic, directed by Frank Capra, brilliantly blends elements of drama and fantasy. It won an Academy Technical Achievement Award and has been lauded for its enduring message about the value of every individual life.
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  • Burnt
    5

    Burnt

    Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Omar Sy
    51 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Food
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Bradley Cooper stars as Adam Jones in this deliciously dramatic culinary tale about overcoming past mistakes and pursuing greatness once again. Through compelling storytelling, Burnt illustrates how determination, passion, and learning from one's errors can make all the difference when it comes to redemption. Fans of food, personal growth, and the art of reinvention will be satiated by this delightful journey through the world of haute cuisine.

    Adam Jones (Bradley Cooper) was once a top chef in Paris until drugs and alcohol led to a meltdown that put his career on hold. After moving from New Orleans to London, Adam gets a shot at redemption when his former maitre d' (Daniel Brühl) reluctantly hires him as the head chef of his fine-dining restaurant. Demanding perfection from his newly formed staff (Sienna Miller, Omar Sy), the acerbic and temperamental Jones gets a second chance to fulfill his dream of earning a third Michelin star.
  • Click
    6

    Click

    Adam Sandler, Kate Beckinsale, Christopher Walken
    44 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Family
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: The concept of getting a second chance at life is beautifully illustrated through this innovative story, as Adam Sandler's character learns the hard way that fast-forwarding through life can lead to regrets. The movie masterfully showcases the importance of cherishing every moment and making wise decisions for a fulfilling existence. It serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes, life grants us a rare opportunity to change our choices and make things right.

    In Click, Michael Newman (Adam Sandler) is an overworked architect juggling career demands and family life. He stumbles upon a remote control, handed to him by the eccentric Morty (Christopher Walken). This isn't your everyday device; it controls time. With a click, Michael can fast-forward through unpleasant or tedious moments in life. As he starts to misuse this power, he realizes the cost of his choices. The movie uniquely blends comedy, drama, and fantasy elements, delivering a thought-provoking narrative on life's fleeting moments. Kate Beckinsale plays Donna, Michael's loving wife caught within his temporal manipulations.
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  • Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
    7

    Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

    Michael Keaton, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Norton
    46 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Comedy, Art-House & International
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: A masterful exploration into the human psyche, Birdman tells the story of Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up Hollywood actor attempting to revive his career with one last shot at Broadway glory. Featuring innovative cinematography and stellar performances, this film delves deep into themes like ego, redemption, and artistic struggle—offering viewers an exhilarating ride through one man's search for validation and purpose in life.

    Birdman is a black comedy-drama, a tour-de-force of cinema from director Alejandro González Iñárritu. The story revolves around Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up Hollywood actor known for his role as the superhero Birdman. In an attempt to reclaim his past glory and artistic credibility, he directs and stars in a Broadway adaptation of Raymond Carver's short story What We Talk About When We Talk About Love. Balancing his deteriorating personal life with professional challenges, Riggan grapples with self-doubt, ego, and his alter-ego Birdman. Aided by stellar performances from Emma Stone (as Sam, Riggan's daughter) and Edward Norton (as Mike Shiner, a volatile method actor), Birdman earned four Academy Awards in 2015 including Best Picture and Best Director.
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  • Crazy Heart
    8

    Crazy Heart

    Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Robert Duvall
    50 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Music, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Jeff Bridges' Oscar-winning performance as Bad Blake, a washed-up country singer seeking redemption through his music and newfound love interest, forms the emotional core of this beautiful character study. Infused with soulful melodies and compelling story arcs, Crazy Heart showcases how true change can come from within—even in the face of addiction, heartbreak, and fading fame.

    With too many years of hazy days and boozy nights,former country-music legend Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) is reduced to playing dives and bowling alleys. In town for his latest gig, Blake meets Jean Craddock (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a sympathetic reporter who has come to do a story on him. He unexpectedly warms to her and a romance begins, then the singer finds himself at a crossroads that may threaten his last shot at happiness.
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  • Never Been Kissed
    9

    Never Been Kissed

    Drew Barrymore, David Arquette, Michael Vartan
    44 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Romance, Teen
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Drew Barrymore stars as Josie Geller—a shy journalist given an opportunity at professional redemption when she goes undercover as a high school student to expose teenage culture. As she navigates her new persona, Josie makes amends with her awkward adolescence while blossoming into a confident adult under the watchful eyes of her editor (John C. Reilly) and an intriguing teacher (Michael Vartan). Never Been Kissed offers a heartening look at how embracing vulnerability can lead to growth, self-discovery, and ultimately, second chances.

    In the heartfelt romantic comedy, Never Been Kissed, Josie Geller (Drew Barrymore) is a Chicago Sun-Times copy editor with dreams bigger than her cubicle. With winning enthusiasm, she's assigned to go undercover at a high school, reliving her own torturous teen years while attempting to pen an exposé on contemporary adolescence. Along the way, she crosses paths with English teacher Sam Coulson (Michael Vartan), leading to unexpected romantic sparks. As Josie grapples with her assignment and newfound feelings, a story of self-discovery and first love unfolds. With a dash of humor and a sprinkle of charm, this film navigates the often choppy waters of high school life and love.
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  • Sweet Home Alabama
    10

    Sweet Home Alabama

    Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey
    39 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Romance, Southern
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Reese Witherspoon stars as Melanie Carmichael—a successful New York fashion designer forced to confront her past when she returns to her small Southern hometown to finalize her divorce from childhood sweetheart Jake (Josh Lucas). As long-buried secrets emerge and Melanie grapples with conflicting feelings regarding city life versus country roots, Sweet Home Alabama offers up a charming blend of romance and nostalgia—proving that sometimes the path toward happiness requires revisiting old haunts and making amends with previous mistakes.

    In Sweet Home Alabama, Melanie Carmichael (Reese Witherspoon), a successful New York fashion designer, prepares for her wedding to the city's most eligible bachelor, Andrew Hennings (Patrick Dempsey). However, her past in rural Alabama holds an unresolved issue - a husband, Jake Perry (Josh Lucas), who refuses to divorce her. The romantic comedy-drama unfolds as Melanie returns to her roots, navigating through a web of old friendships and past love. It is a tale of self-discovery and second chances that emphasizes the significance of one's origins amidst the dazzle of success and city life.
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  • The Way Back
    11

    The Way Back

    Ben Affleck, Al Madrigal, Janina Gavankar
    40 votes

    For Fans Of: Sports, Drama, Basketball
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Ben Affleck delivers a powerful performance as Jack Cunningham—a former high school basketball star turned alcoholic construction worker given an opportunity for personal growth when he is asked to coach his alma mater's struggling team. As Jack mentors his young players and confronts his own demons, The Way Back tells an inspiring story about perseverance, healing, and the potential for second chances even amid adversity.

    Jack Cunningham was a high school basketball superstar who suddenly walked away from the game for unknown reasons. Years later, he's now stuck in a meaningless job and struggling with alcoholism -- the very thing that ruined his marriage and his hope for a better life. But Jack soon gets a shot at redemption when he becomes the basketball coach for his alma mater, a program that has fallen on hard times since his teenage glory days.
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  • Field of Dreams
    12

    Field of Dreams

    Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones
    42 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Sports, Fantasy
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This classic baseball fantasy-drama follows Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner), who hears a mysterious voice urging him to build a baseball field on his land—a decision that ultimately leads him to rediscover lost dreams and forge new connections. Filled with enchanting moments and heart-tugging themes, Field of Dreams offers an uplifting message about following one's intuition and embracing second chances in life.

    Field of Dreams, a fantasy-drama, orbits around Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner), an Iowa farmer who hears a mysterious voice. Guided by this voice, he transforms his cornfield into a baseball diamond. The ghost of Shoeless Joe Jackson (Ray Liotta) materializes on this field, followed by other specters from the 1919 Chicago White Sox. As events unfold, Ray uncovers life-altering truths about passion and regret. This 1989 film won an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, redefining the blend of reality and fantasy in mainstream cinema.
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  • The Rookie
    13

    The Rookie

    Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez
    44 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Sports, Family
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Based on the true story of Jim Morris (played by Dennis Quaid)—a high school teacher given an unexpected opportunity at professional baseball success after promising his students he would try out for the major leagues—The Rookie is an inspiring tale of perseverance and determination against all odds. As Morris navigates the challenges of balancing family life with newfound fame, this heartfelt sports drama reminds viewers that it's never too late for second chances or pursuing long-forgotten dreams.

    In The Rookie, Jim Morris (Dennis Quaid), a high school chemistry teacher, finds an unexpected path back to his forgotten dream of playing professional baseball. A bet with his baseball team turns into a life-altering pursuit when he discovers that, despite being in his mid-thirties, he can still throw a fastball faster than most major leaguers. This family-friendly sports drama, based on a true story, sees Morris's journey from the classroom to the big leagues as he becomes the oldest rookie in Major League Baseball history.
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  • Second Act
    14

    Second Act

    Jennifer Lopez, Vanessa Hudgens, Leah Remini
    36 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Jennifer Lopez shines as Maya Vargas—a big-box store employee who gets an unexpected opportunity at a high-profile corporate job when her friends create a fake resume for her. As she navigates her new life, Maya learns valuable lessons about success, self-worth, and the importance of embracing one's authentic self. Second Act is an inspiring comedy that reminds viewers it's never too late to redefine personal and professional lives.

    Value Shop assistant manager Maya Vargas wants only one thing for her 43rd birthday -- a promotion. While her résumé may not scream upper management, her track record certainly does. Vargas is an innovator who listens to her customers and delivers results. When she loses the job to a college-educated candidate, Maya sets out to prove to Madison Avenue that street smarts are as valuable as book smarts -- and it's never too late for a second act.
  • Down to Earth
    15

    Down to Earth

    Chris Rock, Regina King, Chazz Palminteri
    43 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Chris Rock stars as Lance Barton—a struggling comedian who unexpectedly dies before his time but is given a second chance at life when he returns to Earth in another man's body. Faced with newfound wealth and power as well as an ambitious romantic pursuit, Lance must learn important lessons about humility and gratitude. Down to Earth provides a humorous take on the idea that sometimes it takes extraordinary circumstances for individuals to reassess their values and appreciate what truly matters.

    When amateur comedian Lance Barton (Chris Rock) finds himself at Heaven's door, he is convinced there has been a mistake. Miraculously he is right. Since returning to his own body is not an option, a heavenly agent places him into the corpse of a rich Manhattan mogul who has just been murdered by his wife -- until a more suitable replacement can be found. Ironically, it is as this new person that Lance ultimately discovers his true self, falls in love and improves his comedy act in the process.
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  • Forever My Girl
    16

    Forever My Girl

    Alex Roe, Jessica Rothe, Abby Ryder Fortson
    33 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Music, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: An emotionally charged romance about country music star Liam Page (Alex Roe) returning to his hometown after years of fame to rekindle lost love with former fiancée Josie (Jessica Rothe). As Liam's past mistakes come to light and he seeks redemption, Forever My Girl presents an uplifting story that emphasizes forgiveness, growth, and embracing change for the benefit of oneself and one's loved ones.

    Liam Page is a country music superstar who left his bride Josie at the altar to pursue fame and fortune. Page never got over Josie, his one true love, or forgot his Southern roots in the small community where he was born and raised. Now, he must unexpectedly face the consequences of his actions when he returns to his hometown for the funeral of his best friend from high school.
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  • The Suicide Squad
    17

    The Suicide Squad

    Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena
    37 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Comic Book, Superheroes
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This action-packed superhero film directed by James Gunn follows a group of dangerous, incarcerated supervillains who are given a chance at redemption by undertaking a perilous mission to save the world. With their lives on the line, these misfits learn to work together and embrace their inner heroes, showcasing that even the most flawed characters can change for the better. The Suicide Squad serves as an entertaining reminder that everyone deserves a shot at redemption.

    The government sends the most dangerous supervillains in the world -- Bloodsport, Peacemaker, King Shark, Harley Quinn and others -- to the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese. Armed with high-tech weapons, they trek through the dangerous jungle on a search-and-destroy mission, with only Col. Rick Flag on the ground to make them behave.
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  • Top Gun: Maverick
    18

    Top Gun: Maverick

    Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly
    44 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Drama, Military & War
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Tom Cruise reprises his iconic role as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, returning to the Naval Aviation School as an instructor more than three decades after his initial adventures. As Maverick confronts ghosts from his past and trains a new generation of pilots, this adrenaline-fueled action movie explores themes of personal growth, loss, and the power of second chances.

    After more than 30 years of service as one of the Navy's top aviators, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. Training a detachment of graduates for a special assignment, Maverick must confront the ghosts of his past and his deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who choose to fly it.
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  • All Dogs Go to Heaven
    19

    All Dogs Go to Heaven

    Dom DeLuise, Burt Reynolds, Daryl Gilley
    34 votes

    For Fans Of: Animation, Family, Comedy, Fantasy
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This charming animated film tells the story of Charlie B. Barkin—a canine con artist granted the opportunity for redemption when he returns from heaven after being killed by his former business partner. As Charlie forms an unexpected bond with orphan Anne-Marie and uses his newfound powers for good, All Dogs Go to Heaven provides viewers with a heartwarming tale of friendship, transformation, and second chances.

    In the animated feature All Dogs Go to Heaven, Charlie B. Barkin (Burt Reynolds) is a rogue German Shepherd with a charming spirit. After being killed by his former friend and business partner, Carface Carruthers (Vic Tayback), Charlie finds himself in heaven. Yet, he yearns for a second chance at life. He returns to earth, befriends an orphan girl who can talk to animals, Anne-Marie (Judith Barsi), and embarks on a mission of redemption. This film, filled with whimsical songs and quirky characters, offers a unique perspective on the age-old debate of good versus evil.
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  • Defending Your Life
    20

    Defending Your Life

    Albert Brooks, Meryl Streep, Rip Torn
    36 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This thought-provoking comedy-drama written and directed by Albert Brooks is set in the afterlife, where souls are judged on their past lives before being reborn or advancing to higher levels of existence. The film's protagonist, Daniel Miller (played by Brooks himself), learns about love, fear, and growth as he faces the ultimate trial—literally defending his life choices to move forward. A whimsical exploration of personal evolution and self-improvement, Defending Your Life suggests that even beyond death, there's room for redemption.

    Daniel Miller (Albert Brooks) isn't having a good week. For starters, he died after he got hit by a bus. Then he discovers that in the afterlife he must defend his actions on Earth in order to ascend to a higher plane of existence. While awaiting judgment, he falls in love with Julia (Meryl Streep), whose near-perfect life on Earth seemingly makes her a shoe-in for ascension. However, Daniel's actions in his lifetime might not be enough for him to move on.
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  • The Woodsman
    21

    The Woodsman

    Kevin Bacon, Kyra Sedgwick, Eve
    42 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Kevin Bacon stars as Walter, a convicted pedophile released from prison and attempting to reintegrate into society while confronting his past actions. This intense drama raises challenging questions about redemption, forgiveness, and the possibility for change, encouraging viewers to examine their own beliefs and moral judgments.

    After 12 years in prison, Walter (Kevin Bacon) returns home. Few people know he's a sex offender and pedophile. Walter finds an apartment where he's regularly visited by his parole officer (Mos Def). He gets a job at a lumber mill and starts seeing a coworker (Kyra Sedgwick). Then his new world begins to unravel. As his past becomes known, he begins a high-risk friendship with a young girl and realizes that a man loitering near a schoolyard is a child molester prowling for his next victim.
  • The Family Man
    22

    The Family Man

    Nicolas Cage, Téa Leoni, Don Cheadle
    42 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Nicolas Cage stars as Jack Campbell—a successful Wall Street executive who wakes up one morning to find himself living the life he could have had with his college sweetheart (Téa Leoni) instead of pursuing wealth and power. As Jack navigates this alternate reality filled with love, family, and simplicity, The Family Man offers viewers a heartening look at the choices we make in life and the possibility for change even when it seems impossible.

    In The Family Man, Jack Campbell (Nicolas Cage), a single, wealthy Wall Street executive, confronts an alternate suburban reality. A glimpse into what life could have been, he wakes up married to his long-lost love, Kate (Téa Leoni), with two kids in tow. The genre blends romance and drama with a dash of comedy. Directed by Brett Ratner, the movie showcases how Jack navigates this unfamiliar world, grappling with domesticity and the demands of a middle-class lifestyle. Notably, it won the ASCAP Award for Top Box Office Films in 2001.
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  • The Gambler
    23

    The Gambler

    Mark Wahlberg, John Goodman, Brie Larson
    39 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Mark Wahlberg stars as Jim Bennett—an English professor with a self-destructive gambling addiction who must confront his demons and settle his debts before it's too late. As Bennett navigates between his personal life, career, and debtors, he is forced to choose between continuing down a dark path or seizing an opportunity for redemption. The Gambler offers viewers an intense exploration of one man's journey toward self-realization and the power of taking responsibility for one's actions.

    Literature professor Jim Bennett (Mark Wahlberg) leads a secret life as a high-stakes gambler. Always a risk-taker, Bennett bets it all when he borrows from a gangster and offers his own life as collateral. Staying one step ahead, he pits his creditor against the operator of an illicit gambling ring while garnering the attention of Frank (John Goodman), a paternalistic loan shark. As his relationship with a student (Brie Larson) deepens, Bennett must risk everything for a second chance.
  • Source Code
    24

    Source Code

    Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga
    35 votes

    For Fans Of: Science Fiction, Thriller, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Jake Gyllenhaal plays Colter Stevens—a soldier participating in an experimental government program that allows him to repeatedly relive the last eight minutes of another man's life in order to prevent an impending terrorist attack. This mind-bending sci-fi thriller explores themes of fate, choice, and sacrifice—all while inviting viewers to ponder what they would do with infinite chances at redemption.

    In Source Code, Captain Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal) is a US Army helicopter pilot who wakes up in another man's body, on a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train. The thriller unfolds as Stevens relives the same eight minutes over and over again, in an experimental government program known as the Source Code. Vera Farmiga plays military officer Colleen Goodwin, tasked with guiding Stevens through his perplexing journey. With each reset, he uncovers more about the bomb, his own life, and the enigmatic Source Code.
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  • Thor: Love and Thunder
    25

    Thor: Love and Thunder

    Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Christian Bale
    43 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Comic Book, Superheroes
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: The upcoming fourth installment in Marvel Studios' Thor series sees Chris Hemsworth's titular hero embark on another epic adventure alongside fan-favorite characters like Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). Expanding on themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption from previous films while introducing new storylines that promise personal transformation for its heroes—Thor: Love and Thunder is set to be a thrilling continuation of the tale that explores second chances in both relationships and personal growth.

    Thor embarks on a journey unlike anything he's ever faced -- a quest for inner peace. However, his retirement gets interrupted by Gorr the God Butcher, a galactic killer who seeks the extinction of the gods. To combat the threat, Thor enlists the help of King Valkyrie, Korg and ex-girlfriend Jane Foster, who -- to his surprise -- inexplicably wields his magical hammer. Together, they set out on a harrowing cosmic adventure to uncover the mystery of the God Butcher's vengeance.
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  • Almost an Angel
    26

    Almost an Angel

    Paul Hogan, Elias Koteas, Linda Kozlowski
    34 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Fantasy, Religion
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Paul Hogan stars as Terry Dean, a career criminal who believes he has been sent back to Earth as an angel in training after a near-death experience. This comedic yet heartfelt film follows Terry's attempts to make amends for his past mistakes and help those around him, showing that even the most unlikely individuals can find redemption through kindness and compassion.

    Petty thief Terry Dean (Paul Hogan) is involved in a car accident that appears to claim his life. But before he can enter the pearly gates, he is stopped in his tracks by God (Charlton Heston), who sends Terry back to the world of the living in order to make up for past mistakes. Back on earth, Terry undertakes an effort to live a better life and decides to volunteer at a shelter for troubled kids. Unfortunately, it isn't long before his criminal past threatens to catch up with him.
  • In the Line of Fire
    27

    In the Line of Fire

    Clint Eastwood, John Malkovich, Rene Russo
    36 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Clint Eastwood stars as Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan—a man haunted by his failure to prevent JFK's assassination—who is given another chance at redemption when he uncovers an assassination plot against the current president. Balancing action-packed suspense with themes of guilt, duty, and personal growth, In the Line of Fire offers a thrilling look at the power of redemption and the potential for change.

    In the heart-pounding thriller In the Line of Fire, seasoned Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan (Clint Eastwood) is haunted by his failure to prevent JFK's assassination. When a cunning and chillingly efficient assassin, Mitch Leary (John Malkovich), threatens to kill the current president, Horrigan is thrust back into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. With Rene Russo as sharp-tongued fellow agent Lilly Raines, the trio traverses a tense landscape filled with political intrigue and imminent danger. This film is an engrossing blend of suspense, action and psychological drama.
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  • The Pursuit of Happyness
    28

    The Pursuit of Happyness

    Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandie Newton
    40 votes

    For Fans Of: Biography, Drama, Family
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: Will Smith delivers an Oscar-nominated performance as Chris Gardner—a struggling salesman turned homeless single father—who battles adversity and seizes an opportunity for personal and professional transformation through an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage firm. Based on the inspiring true story, The Pursuit of Happyness serves as a powerful reminder that even in dire circumstances, hard work, perseverance, and self-belief can lead to second chances and lifelong success.

    In The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner (Will Smith) is a struggling salesman in San Francisco. With his son Christopher (Jaden Smith), he faces the harsh reality of homelessness after an unfortunate series of events. Amidst this, Gardner lands an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage firm. The film, based on a true story, follows their journey as Gardner, with unwavering determination and resilience, fights against all odds for a better future. The movie earned Will Smith an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
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  • Silver Linings Playbook
    29

    Silver Linings Playbook

    Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
    37 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This critically acclaimed drama centers on Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper), a man struggling with bipolar disorder who attempts to rebuild his life after being released from a mental health facility. Alongside fellow outcast Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence), Pat embarks on a journey toward self-improvement, learning valuable lessons about acceptance, resilience, and the power of second chances.

    Silver Linings Playbook is a captivating blend of drama and romance, presented by David O. Russell. The narrative revolves around Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper), who finds himself back in his parents' home after a stint in a mental institution. He's determined to reconcile with his estranged wife, but destiny has other plans when he crosses paths with Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence). Their oddball friendship forms the heart of this movie which won Lawrence an Academy Award for Best Actress. Robert De Niro also shines as Pat's superstitious father. A tale of love, resilience, and second chances unfolds amidst the backdrop of Philadelphia's most vibrant neighborhoods.
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  • Don't Let Go
    30

    Don't Let Go

    David Oyelowo, Mykelti Williamson, Brian Tyree Henry
    39 votes

    For Fans Of: Horror, Mystery, Thriller, Supernatural
    Reasons to Watch if Interested in Getting a Second Chance: This supernatural thriller follows detective Jack Radcliff (David Oyelowo), who receives a mysterious phone call from his murdered niece (Storm Reid) and embarks on a race against time to prevent her death by altering the past. As Jack grapples with the consequences of his actions and strives for redemption, Don't Let Go explores themes of grief, determination, and seizing second chances to change fate.

    Detective Jack Radcliff gets a shocking phone call from his recently murdered niece Ashley. Working together across time, they race to solve the crime before it can happen.