Top 20 Feel Good Movies of the Century (So Far)
It's good to crack a smile once in a while... Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at the most inspiring, positive, and/or cheerful live-action films of the 21st century. Possible spoilers ahead!
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00:00 "Now let's get out there and melt some faces!"
00:02 "Yeah!"
00:03 "Go get ready."
00:04 Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're looking at the most inspiring,
00:08 positive and/or cheerful live-action films of the 21st century.
00:12 Possible spoilers ahead for the following movies.
00:15 "Well, what do you think?"
00:17 "It's wonderful!"
00:18 Number 20, Barbie.
00:22 Becoming a cultural phenomenon,
00:24 Greta Gerwig's film transcends the typical movie experience.
00:27 Traveling to the human world in order to fix herself,
00:30 Barbie brings along Ken and discovers that she has much more potential.
00:34 "The real world isn't what I thought it was."
00:36 "It never is. And isn't that marvelous?"
00:40 "Who are you?"
00:44 Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling play their parts perfectly,
00:47 with the latter almost stealing the show with his over-the-top performance.
00:51 There's also the bright set design and intricate costumes that bring happiness to every frame.
00:56 Gerwig and Noah Baumbach's script pokes fun at the brand while also setting up hilarious jokes.
01:01 "And if it weren't for these technicalities like MBAs, medical degrees and, I don't know,
01:06 swim lessons, I could have ruled that world. But I don't need any of those things here."
01:12 Along with bringing people back to theaters,
01:15 the release has an empowering message for women.
01:17 Number 19, The Princess Diaries.
01:20 What if, while you were still in high school, you found out you were actually royalty?
01:25 The Princess Diaries takes this high-concept idea and runs wild with it,
01:29 taking wish fulfillment to the next level.
01:31 "Me? A princess? Shut up!"
01:36 "I beg your pardon?"
01:40 "Shut up."
01:41 Audiences even get some romance, heartbreak and coming-of-age drama.
01:45 And the lead character also receives a classic glow-up that everybody dreams about.
01:50 Julie Andrews' elegant presence and a breakthrough role for Anne Hathaway add to the fun.
01:54 "Do you wear contact lenses?"
01:57 "Well, I have them, but I don't really like to wear them that much."
02:00 "Now, you do."
02:02 "You broke my glasses."
02:07 After giving audiences an amusing fantasy set among the nobility,
02:10 the story reminds everybody that family and friendship are more important.
02:14 The funny script keeps people coming back for more, as does Andrews' delightful work.
02:19 Number 18, Love, Simon.
02:22 Known as a groundbreaking Hollywood film,
02:24 Love, Simon deals with the trials and tribulations of a gay teenager.
02:28 Simon Spear, who is not open about his sexual orientation,
02:32 suddenly finds himself being blackmailed by someone who discovers he is gay.
02:35 "Martin, I mean, what are you gonna do? You're gonna tell the whole school that I'm-
02:37 You're gonna leak my emails? You're gonna post them on Greek Secrets?"
02:42 "I just think that we're in a position here where we can help each other out, is all.
02:46 So think about it. Good talk."
02:50 His everyday teenage life also comes with many life lessons that people of all walks of life
02:55 can look at with both humor and honesty.
02:57 Helping to break stigmas about LGBTQ+ relationships,
03:00 this movie does a great job reminding us all to accept each other's differences.
03:04 "You get to be more you than you have been in...
03:07 in a very long time."
03:12 In addition to asking for more empathy in society,
03:15 it also carries a hopeful energy for more diverse representation in the industry.
03:19 #17. Akeela and the Bee
03:22 Discovering she can spell, Akeela Anderson embarks on a quest to win a spelling bee.
03:27 "Just do this contest. And if you make it all the way to D.C.,
03:31 I will parachute down to C. Would you like that?"
03:34 She also learns about the highs and lows of young life.
03:39 Keke Palmer, Angela Bassett, and Laurence Fishburne all help to make the story feel
03:43 that much more impactful. Even if she isn't a perfect kid, the main character's quest
03:48 to prove herself can warm even the most cynical heart.
03:51 "You'll consume it. You will own it. And then you know what you'll be?
03:55 Tired. You'll be a champion."
04:00 Any movie that compels us to hit the books or play more Scrabble can't be all that bad.
04:05 In the end, Akeela and the Bee helps every viewer believe in themselves once again.
04:10 #16. 13 Going on 30
04:13 The plot may be familiar, but Jennifer Garner's presence livens it up.
04:18 She plays the older version of a girl that wishes to be grown up.
04:20 Getting more than she expected, the character finds herself in a future where she can be
04:32 successful and popular. There are also some awkward encounters with guys that generate laughs.
04:38 Don't underestimate the lead actress' ability to charm everybody in such a way that'll have
04:42 you smiling the whole time. "Should I go to his place? Alone?"
04:47 "Yeah, why not? Go play. You deserve it."
04:50 "Play? I mean, like games and stuff?"
04:53 "Yeah, games."
04:56 Ultimately, Garner's chemistry with Mark Ruffalo gives this rom-com another enjoyable bonus.
05:01 Add in a fun dance number and you have an underrated gem that plays out like a fun fantasy.
05:06 #15. Mamma Mia
05:09 Adapting the stage musical, this film successfully turns ABBA's greatest hits into a cinematic
05:14 dance party. The main story concerns a wedding where the bride invites three men, each of whom
05:19 may be her father. "Harry Bright." "Sam Carmichael."
05:23 "You are expecting us."
05:32 It might not be Shakespeare, but this plot has this energy that never seems to wane.
05:36 It also has a beautiful location to gaze at in between all the family drama.
05:40 Some of the actors can sing and others can't, but that never detracts from this being an
05:44 entertaining experience. Mamma Mia knows exactly what it is and doesn't pretend to be anything
05:50 other than a good time. "Young and sweet, only 17."
05:57 #14. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
06:00 In this film adaptation of the first book in the series, the titular boy finds out he's a wizard.
06:06 He's whisked away from his dreary life into a magical time at Hogwarts.
06:10 "You're a wizard, Harry." "I'm a what?"
06:15 "A wizard."
06:15 The audience cannot help but feel a sense of wonder at every turn.
06:19 The film's greatest asset is its ability to amaze viewers with its fantasy elements.
06:24 Daniel Radcliffe's every kid quality allows audiences to empathize with his character's
06:28 extraordinary circumstances. "And Slytherin will help you on the way to greatness,
06:34 there's no doubt about that. No? Well, if you're sure, better be Gryffindor!"
06:44 Potter also meets an incredible ensemble that has us all wishing we could attend school with them.
06:49 Whether you're a superfan or not, you'll likely return so you can fall in love with this world
06:54 all over again. #13. My Big Fat Greek Wedding
06:58 Written by the lead actress Nia Vardalos, this movie feels like a love letter to crazy families
07:03 everywhere. A Greek-American woman finds the confidence to go to school,
07:07 start dating, and assert herself in her family life.
07:10 "Hey." "Hi."
07:14 "Did you want to see some brochures?"
07:21 When she finds a man to marry, she clashes with her loved ones about her choices.
07:29 The film is full of laugh-out-loud scenes as misunderstandings and different ethnic
07:32 backgrounds struggle to mix. The compelling romance at the film's center also tugs at
07:37 the heartstrings. "We take our first steps as husband and wife." "So?" "Are you ready?" "I'm
07:46 ready." Through it all, the script and characters of My Big Fat Greek Wedding do an excellent job
07:51 of making us feel happier. #12. Remember the Titans
07:56 Even if it isn't completely accurate, Remember the Titans still taps into our love of sports
08:01 film tropes. Denzel Washington heads up an impressive cast of performers as the coach
08:06 trying to bring together black and white football players. "Each one of you will spend time every day
08:12 with a teammate of a different race. You will learn about him and his family, his likes,
08:19 his dislikes. You'll report back to me until you meet every one of your teammates."
08:25 His dedication ultimately forges a bond that transcends racial barriers,
08:30 making for a successful team. There are several lessons to learn here about prejudice,
08:34 racism, and friendship that feel vital to this day. Whether or not you're an athlete,
08:39 this heartwarming story pushes you to support others and do your best.
08:43 "This goes, out of time, everybody in. Out of time, out of time, out of time. Titans on three.
08:47 One, two, three." "Titans!"
08:50 It also stands out among a decade of great sports movies, including the stellar work in Miracle.
08:56 Number 11 - Billy Elliot
08:59 Sometimes, a simple story can be as emotionally resonant as a complicated one.
09:04 Billy Elliot proves this point with a crowd-pleasing plot about a boy that wants to dance.
09:08 With a hard road ahead of him, Elliot follows his passions despite his father's disapproval.
09:18 His promising ballet career eventually brings his family together in an exhilarating way.
09:23 Jamie Bell's star-making performance anchors this film, convincing audiences to believe
09:28 in the character's journey and encouraging them to cheer him on. The emotional finale
09:33 will have you crying tears of joy knowing that it all works out.
09:36 Number 10 - The Muppets
09:39 While they've been on the screen before, these characters revitalize themselves for
09:43 the 2010s in this movie. The Muppets feels like a non-stop celebration of the legendary ensemble.
09:49 "Okay, Muppets. You've got yourselves a show."
09:52 "Yes, yes!"
09:53 "Thank you, thank you so much. You will not be sorry. I promise, I promise."
09:58 Walter and his human brother Gary both work to save the Muppet theater,
10:01 learning about their true potential along the way.
10:04 It feels like the kind of celebratory and feel-good film that Hollywood made in the
10:07 Golden Age. Filled with amazing cameos, the cast is an endless parade of exciting talent.
10:13 We haven't even mentioned some incredible songs by Brett McKenzie that include the
10:17 funny anthem "Man or Muppet."
10:19 "And I'm always running out of time. I think I've made up my mind. Now I understand who I am."
10:30 Come for the inspiring plot and stay for the upbeat vibes from fan favorites Kermit,
10:35 Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear.
10:37 Number 9 - Legally Blonde
10:40 After being dumped by her boyfriend, Elle Woods follows her ex to Harvard Law School.
10:44 "I'm sorry, are you here to see me?"
10:46 "No, silly. I go here."
10:49 "You go where?"
10:50 "Harvard. Law school."
10:53 "You got into Harvard Law?"
10:56 "What, like it's hard?"
10:58 Surprisingly, this seemingly vacuous sorority girl ends up being an exceptional lawyer in the
11:03 process. Both empowering and hilarious, Legally Blonde works on multiple levels to satisfy viewers.
11:09 At the center of it all, Reese Witherspoon gives one of her career-defining performances as Woods.
11:14 She's endlessly charming, funny and entertaining from start to finish.
11:18 "I just don't think Brooke could have done this. Exorcise gives you endorphins.
11:23 Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands.
11:26 They just don't."
11:30 Her character is also extremely compelling as an underdog legal expert. Viewers will love seeing
11:36 her work in the courtroom in the finale, becoming inspired by the heroine's determination and
11:40 intelligence.
11:42 Number 8. Crazy Rich Asians
11:44 Not realizing that her boyfriend's family is rich,
11:47 Professor Rachel Chu comes to learn about him and his background in this hit comedy.
11:52 "So your family is like, rich?"
11:54 "Quite comfortable."
11:56 "That is exactly what a super rich person would say."
12:00 Crazy Rich Asians features an ensemble of exceptional actors that are able to both
12:05 tell a meaningful story and have fun. Viewers tag along for the amazing views,
12:10 lavish parties and lots of entertaining drama along the way.
12:13 "But having been through it all, I know this much.
12:18 You will never be enough."
12:26 In a plot about acceptance and love, this tale also allows for a genuine romance to build.
12:31 There's something for everyone to enjoy here as the professor becomes a fish out of water
12:36 in Singapore. Packed with a stellar cast and set pieces, this blockbuster
12:40 presents a fun-filled matchup with a rollercoaster of emotions.
12:44 Number 7. Pride and Prejudice
12:47 Jane Austen's classic provides the ingredients for this heartwarming drama.
12:51 As her sisters hope to be married, principled Elizabeth becomes involved in an unlikely
12:55 standoff with the somewhat snobbish Mr. Darcy.
12:58 "I do not deny it."
12:59 "How could you do it?"
13:02 "Because I believe your sister indifferently."
13:04 "Indifferent?"
13:04 "I watched them most carefully and realized his attachment was deeper than hers."
13:07 "That's because she's shy."
13:08 You don't need to enjoy period dramas to find these two adorable.
13:12 Making the best of their roles, Keira Knightley and Matthew McFadyen keep viewers guessing with
13:16 their compelling acting. It's ultimately a timeless romance that brings out both happy
13:20 and sad tears in the best way possible.
13:23 "You must know. Surely you must know. It was all for you."
13:26 Don't get us started on that famous scene in The Rain either.
13:30 As with the best rom-coms, the central relationship leaves viewers with the
13:34 feeling that true love always finds a way.
13:38 Number 6. Little Miss Sunshine
13:40 Little Miss Sunshine examines the complexity of family relationships,
13:44 and puts the strength of them to the test. Young Olive wants to be a beauty queen,
13:48 inspiring her ragtag household to go on a life-changing trip.
13:51 "Are you gonna win?"
13:53 "Yes."
14:00 "We're going to California."
14:04 There are also open references to self-harm, death, and life's shortcomings.
14:09 While this might bring the film down for some, it also reinforces the wonders of being alive
14:14 in the first place. You can't help but root for these people as they try to do something
14:18 nice for each other. "Glad you're talking again, Dwayne.
14:20 You're not nearly as stupid as you look."
14:25 And the climactic dance scene gives us many reasons to be thankful for our loved ones.
14:30 Number 5. The Pursuit of Happiness
14:33 In this inspiring true story, Will Smith delivers one of his best performances.
14:38 He stars as salesman Chris Gardner, who tries desperately to achieve his true potential.
14:42 "We're gonna come out of this. Everything is gonna be fine, all right?"
14:45 "You said that before. When I got pregnant, it'll be fine."
14:51 "So you don't trust me now?"
14:52 "Whatever. I don't care."
14:54 Will Smith brings a natural charisma to this role, and of course,
14:59 has natural chemistry with his real-life son Jaden, playing Gardner's own son.
15:03 Gardner perseveres despite his daunting unhoused status,
15:06 and has an infectious positivity in his every move.
15:10 While there are plenty of sad moments,
15:12 there are also speeches Gardner gives that inspire audiences to dream big.
15:16 "You gotta protect it.
15:18 People can't do something themselves. They wanna tell you you can't do it.
15:23 You want something? Go get it."
15:31 His continued dedication to his son gives this heartwarming tale an enduring quality.
15:35 By the end, we're all standing and cheering along with the grateful hero.
15:39 For fans of the original film, Paddington 2 arguably offers even more laughs,
15:47 smiles, and general happiness.
15:49 The main character finds himself in even more adventures, including being sent to prison.
15:54 "Paddington Brown.
15:55 Ten years for grand theft."
15:59 "Oh, but I--" "And Grievous Barberley Hall."
16:05 All the while, his eternal optimism finds the best in everyone regardless of position in life.
16:10 There are also entertaining performances from Brendan Gleeson and Hugh Grant.
16:14 In the case of the latter actor, the role allows him to be a giddy villain that steals the show.
16:20 "Well, you're an artist, Mary, like me. Our imaginations run free like bison upon the plain.
16:27 But can I just say, in this particular case, I think dear old Henry might have a point."
16:32 It's a delightful movie for people of all ages,
16:35 presenting a cinematic world that feels as comforting as a big hug.
16:38 Capturing the extraordinary elements of ordinary life,
16:44 Amélie is a magical experience set in France.
16:47 The central character has her own worries, but she also chooses to spread joy to others.
16:52 Her small deeds make both the people around her and the audience believe in kindness.
16:56 "Come, I'll help you. We go down, and hop, let's go.
17:00 There we meet the widow of the tambour of the fanfare.
17:02 She's been wearing her husband's robe since he died.
17:04 Watch out, hop!
17:05 Here, the ensign of the Boucherie Chevaline lost an ear.
17:08 This laugh is the husband of the florist.
17:10 He has little riddles of malice at the tip of his eyes."
17:12 The titular waitress helps out Parisian citizens in moments that are inspiring, heartfelt, and even funny.
17:17 Audrey Tautou's performance brings a delightful whimsy to the character,
17:21 making her later brush with romance all the more satisfying.
17:25 [Heartbeat]
17:27 This lovely film can excite audiences of all languages and backgrounds with its hopeful outlook.
17:33 Number 2 - School of Rock
17:36 You don't have to love rock to love this movie, but it definitely helps.
17:40 Jack Black comes alive in one of the best showcases for his energetic style.
17:44 Pretending to be a teacher,
17:45 his rock musician character decides to let students in on the wonders of music.
17:50 "And because I think you guys have the right attitude,
17:52 I think it's time we started our new class project."
17:55 "A science project?"
17:56 "No, it's called...
17:58 Rock Band."
18:01 This leads to some truly enjoyable classroom lessons and hijinks.
18:05 All the while, there's a sense of positivity and empowerment throughout the film.
18:09 Black's performance brings passion to every single scene,
18:12 as he inspires the kids in unexpected ways.
18:15 [Kids chanting]
18:26 A cast of gifted child actors brings attitude, talent, and humor to this crowd-pleasing comedy.
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18:46 Number 1.
18:49 Elf
18:50 Having become a beloved part of the holiday season,
18:53 Elf is fun for all ages.
18:55 It features a starring role from Will Ferrell that instantly turns frowns upside down.
18:59 "I walked all day and night to find you."
19:02 "You look like you came from the North Pole."
19:04 "Exactly where I came from.
19:06 Santa must have called you."
19:09 "Oh yeah, sure. He, uh, just got off the cell phone with me."
19:12 "He did?"
19:14 Ferrell injects every single scene with a childlike wonder and joy,
19:17 perfectly capturing the feelings of an elf that's lost in New York City.
19:21 His interactions with his confused father and other gruff characters
19:24 make this journey even more hilarious.
19:26 "Okay, people, tomorrow morning, 10 a.m., Santa's coming to town."
19:30 "Santa! Oh my God! Santa here? I know him. I know him."
19:39 Finding love at a department store,
19:41 the hero develops a romance and spreads Christmas cheer throughout this cute adventure.
19:45 The fact that it's a staple of every December only adds to this film's feel-good legacy.
19:50 Did we forget a movie that made you smile? Let us know in the comments below.
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20:12 [music]