Films about achieving dreams

Movie selections

Films about achieving dreams often follow the journeys of individuals who overcome obstacles, pursue their passions, and ultimately realize their aspirations. These films inspire audiences to believe in the power of perseverance, hard work, and self-belief in the face of adversity.

“The Pursuit of Happyness”, 2006

Director: Gabriele Muccino

films about achieving dreams - The Pursuit of Happyness

Based on a true story, this film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while trying to build a better life for himself and his son. Through determination and hard work, he eventually lands a coveted internship at a prestigious brokerage firm.

Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Brian Howe, James Karen, Dan Castellaneta, Kurt Fuller, Takayo Fischer, Kevin West, George Cheung;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 117 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;

More information about the film “The Pursuit of Happyness” on the website imdb.com

“Rocky”, 1976

Director: John G. Avildsen

films about achieving dreams - Rocky

This classic sports drama tells the story of Rocky Balboa, an amateur boxer who gets a shot at the heavyweight championship. Despite facing overwhelming odds, Rocky trains tirelessly and proves that with heart and determination, anything is possible.

Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers, Burgess Meredith, Thayer David, Joe Spinell, Jimmy Gambina, Bill Baldwin, Al Silvani;
Production year: 1976;
Genre: drama, sport;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;

More information about the film “Rocky” on the website imdb.com

“La La Land”, 2016

Director: Damien Chazelle

films about achieving dreams - La La Land

This musical romance follows aspiring actress Mia and jazz musician Sebastian as they pursue their dreams in Los Angeles. Through their ups and downs, they learn the importance of staying true to themselves and never giving up on their passions.

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend, J.K. Simmons, Rosemarie DeWitt, Finn Wittrock, Callie Hernandez, Sonoya Mizuno, Jessica Rothe, Tom Everett Scott;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: musical, drama, melodrama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 128 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;

“The Pursuit of Happyness”, 2006

Director: Gabriele Muccino

films about achieving dreams - The Pursuit of Happyness

This film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while trying to build a better life for himself and his son. Through determination and hard work, he eventually lands a coveted internship at a prestigious brokerage firm.

Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Brian Howe, James Karen, Dan Castellaneta, Kurt Fuller, Takayo Fischer, Kevin West, George Cheung;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 117 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;

More information about the film “The Pursuit of Happyness” on the website imdb.com

“The King's Speech”, 2010

Director: Tom Hooper

films about achieving dreams - The King's Speech

This historical drama tells the story of King George VI of Britain, who overcomes his speech impediment with the help of a speech therapist. Through perseverance and courage, he finds his voice and inspires his nation during a time of crisis.

Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall, Anthony Andrews, Michael Gambon, Claire Bloom, Derek Jacobi, Jennifer Ehle;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;

“Slumdog Millionaire”, 2008

Director: Danny Boyle, Loveleen Tandan

films about achieving dreams - Slumdog Millionaire

This rags-to-riches tale follows Jamal Malik, a young man from the slums of Mumbai who appears on a game show and recounts his life story through a series of flashbacks. Despite his humble beginnings, Jamal proves that destiny and hard work can lead to unexpected success.

Starring: Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Anil Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla, Mahesh Manjrekar, Irfan Khan, Madhur Mittal, Raj Zutshi, Jeneva Talwar, Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: crime, drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;

More information about the film “Slumdog Millionaire” on the website imdb.com

“Whiplash”, 2013

Director: Damien Chazelle

films about achieving dreams - Whiplash

This intense drama follows Andrew Neiman, a young jazz drummer who aspires to become one of the greats. Under the brutal tutelage of his demanding instructor, Andrew pushes himself to the limit to achieve his dream of musical greatness.

Starring: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, Paul Reiser, Melissa Benoist, Austin Stowell, Nate Lang, Chris Mulkey, Damon Gupton, Suanne Spoke, Max Kasch;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: drama, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 106 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,5;

In conclusion, films about achieving dreams have the power to inspire, motivate, and uplift audiences around the world. They remind us of the importance of perseverance, determination, and belief in oneself, no matter the obstacles we may face. Whether it's a story of an underdog overcoming adversity, a musician chasing their passion, or an athlete reaching for glory, these films touch our hearts and remind us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. So the next time you're in need of a dose of inspiration, look no further than a film about achieving dreams to reignite your own aspirations and drive towards success.

Katie Knight
A movie about...