The American publication Collider has compiled a ranking of the ten most inspiring and life-affirming films of all time.
The list took into account films that leave viewers with a sense of hope and inspiration, although some of them deal with difficult subjects.
First place went to the classic musical "Singin' in the Rain" (1952) by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly. The publication noted that the film can lift the mood even of viewers who do not usually like musicals.
The top ten:
"Singin' in the Rain" (1952, dir. Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly) – a musical about change in Hollywood and the ability to stay optimistic.
"127 Hours" (2010, dir. Danny Boyle) – a story of an incredible will to live and a fight for survival.
"The Shawshank Redemption" (1994, dir. Frank Darabont) – a drama about hope that even prison walls cannot destroy.
"The Lion King" (1994, dir. Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff) – an animated classic about growing up and responsibility.
"When Harry Met Sally..." (1989, dir. Rob Reiner) – a romantic comedy about love and friendship through the years.
"Marcel the Shell with Shoes On" (2021, dir. Dean Fleischer-Camp) – a touching mockumentary animation about a little hero with a big heart.
"Paterson" (2016, dir. Jim Jarmusch) – the contemplative, quiet poetry of everyday life.
"Inside Out" (2015, dir. Pete Docter) – a Pixar animated film about accepting all emotions for the sake of peace of mind.
"Perfect Days" (2023, dir. Wim Wenders) – a meditative story about finding happiness in routine and simple things.
"It's a Wonderful Life" (1946, dir. Frank Capra) – a timeless Christmas parable about the value of every human life.
The publication stresses that the perception of inspiring cinema is largely subjective and depends on the viewer's personal experience. Nevertheless, in the view of the ranking's authors, all the films on the list are capable of leaving a bright impression.