Films about kindness often explore themes of compassion, altruism, and the positive impact that acts of goodwill can have on individuals and communities. These stories can serve as powerful reminders of the inherent goodness in people and the profound ways in which a simple act of kindness can change lives. These films span various genres, including drama, comedy, and animation, and often leave audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.
“Pay It Forward”, 2000
Director: Mimi Leder
A young boy, played by Haley Joel Osment, starts a movement based on the idea of doing a favor for three people without accepting anything in return, asking them to pay the kindness forward to three others.
Starring: Kevin Spacey, Helen Hunt, Haley Joel Osment, Jay Mohr, James Caviezel, Jon Bon Jovi, Angie Dickinson, David Ramsey, Gary Werntz, Colleen Flynn;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Pay It Forward” on the website imdb.com
“The Blind Side”, 2009
Director: John Lee Hancock
Based on a true story, this film follows the Tuohy family as they take in a homeless teenager, Michael Oher, and help him overcome his troubled past to become an All-American football player.
Starring: Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Jae Head, Lily Collins, Ray McKinnon, Kim Dickens, Adriane Lenox, Kathy Bates, Catherine Dyer;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: drama, sport, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “The Blind Side” on the website imdb.com
“Amélie”, 2002
Director: Thierry Gardeur
This French film tells the story of Amélie Poulain, a woman who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better while struggling with her own isolation.
Starring: -;
Production year: 2002;
Genre: short film, drama;
Duration: 13 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 0;
“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”, 2019
Director: Marielle Heller
Inspired by the true story of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of the children's show “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,” and his friendship with journalist Tom Junod.
Starring: Matthew Rhys, Tom Hanks, Chris Cooper, Susan Kelechi Watson, Maryann Plunkett, Enrico Colantoni, Wendy Makkena, Tammy Blanchard, Noah Harpster, Carmen Cusack;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: biography, drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 109 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” on the website imdb.com
“Wonder”, 2017
Director: Stephen Chbosky
A heartwarming film about a young boy with Treacher Collins syndrome attending public school for the first time, facing the challenge of being different with graciousness and courage.
Starring: Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson, Izabela Vidovic, Julia Roberts, Noah Jupe, Mandy Patinkin, Daveed Diggs, Sonia Braga, Danielle Rose Russell, Nadji Jeter;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 113 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
“The Pursuit of Happyness”, 2006
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Starring Will Smith, this biographical drama depicts the true story of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who faces numerous challenges as he takes custody of his son and attempts to forge a better life for the two of them.
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
“Schindler's List”, 1993
Director: Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg's epic historical drama recounts the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.
Starring: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Caroline Goodall, Embeth Davidtz, Jonathan Sagall, Malgoscha Gebel, Shmuel Levy, Mark Ivanir, Béatrice Macola;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama, biography, history, war;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 195 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 9;
More information about the film “Schindler's List” on the website imdb.com
These films not only entertain but also spark meaningful conversations about the power of kindness in our lives, demonstrating its transformative effects on both givers and receivers.
In a world often marred by turmoil and disparity, films about kindness serve as beacons of hope, illuminating the inherent goodness that lies within us all. They remind us that acts of compassion and empathy have the power to transcend barriers, heal wounds, and ultimately transform lives. These stories, rich in human emotion and universal truths, not only entertain but also educate, inspiring viewers to reflect on their actions and the ripple effects they have. By showcasing the strength and impact of kindness in various forms—from the grand, life-altering gestures to the quiet, everyday moments—these films encourage a collective introspection about the kind of world we wish to create and inhabit. In doing so, they prove that cinema is not just a mirror to society but a catalyst for change, with the power to cultivate a more empathetic, understanding, and kind-hearted global community.
