Films about service encompass a broad scope of narratives where the central theme revolves around individuals or groups offering service to others. This can manifest through stories about military service, public service, community support, or service in hospitality and care-giving sectors. These films often explore the complexity of human relationships, the nature of sacrifice, altruism, and the challenges and rewards that come with serving others.
Below is a list of existing films that center around the theme of service in various forms:
“Forrest Gump”, 1994
Director: Robert Zemeckis
This iconic film tells the story of Forrest Gump, a man with a low IQ who unwittingly becomes involved in several key historical events and spends a part of his life in military service during the Vietnam War. His acts of bravery and unassuming demeanor display a unique perspective on service and dedication.
Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Sally Field, Gary Sinise, Mykelti Williamson, Michael Conner Humphreys, Hanna R. Hall, Sam Anderson, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Rebecca Williams;
Production year: 1994;
Genre: drama, comedy, melodrama, history, war;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 142 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,8;
More information about the film “Forrest Gump” on the website imdb.com
“The Blind Side”, 2009
Director: John Lee Hancock
Based on a true story, the film follows Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who is taken in by the Tuohy family. Leigh Anne Tuohy, the matriarch, provides Michael with a stable home and the support he needs to realize his potential, both academically and as a 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
“The Help”, 2011
Director: Tate Taylor
Set in the racially divided America of the 1960s, this film explores the lives of African-American maids working for white families in Jackson, Mississippi. It is a poignant story about the courage to speak out against injustice and the strength of those who serve amidst discrimination.
Starring: Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Bryce Dallas Howard, Octavia Spencer, Jessica Chastain, Ahna O'Reilly, Allison Janney, Sissy Spacek, Cicely Tyson, Mary Steenburgen;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 146 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “The Help” on the website imdb.com
“Saving Private Ryan”, 1998
Director: Steven Spielberg
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this war film centers on the search for Private James Ryan, who is somewhere in war-torn France during World War II. The film portrays a group of soldiers tasked with finding Ryan to deliver the news of his brothers' deaths in combat and ultimately to save him.
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tom Sizemore, Edward Burns, Barry Pepper, Adam Goldberg, Vin Diesel, Giovanni Ribisi, Jeremy Davies, Matt Damon, Ted Danson;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: war, action, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 169 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,6;
More information about the film “Saving Private Ryan” on the website imdb.com
“Gran Torino”, 2008
Director: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this film about a widowed, grumpy Korean War veteran who forms an unlikely bond with his Hmong neighbors. It touches on themes of community service, as the main character stands up to local gangs and works to protect his neighbors.
Starring: Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Christopher Carley, Ahney Her, Brian Haley, Geraldine Hughes, Dreama Walker, Brian Howe, John Carroll Lynch, William Hill;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 116 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Gran Torino” on the website imdb.com
“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”, 2019
Director: Marielle Heller
This biographical drama focuses on the beloved television host Fred Rogers, played by Tom Hanks. The film showcases Rogers' dedication to serving children and families through his calm, empathetic approach to dealing with complex emotions and life's challenges.
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
“Hotel Rwanda”, 2004
Director: Terry George
Based on a true story, this film depicts the heroic acts of Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager who sheltered over a thousand Tutsi refugees during their struggle against the Hutu militia in Rwanda.
Starring: Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Nick Nolte, Cara Seymour, Joaquin Phoenix, Jean Reno, Fana Mokoena, David O'Hara, Tony Kgoroge, Desmond Dube;
Production year: 2004;
Genre: drama, war, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 121 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Hotel Rwanda” on the website imdb.com
“Hacksaw Ridge”, 2016
Director: Mel Gibson
Directed by Mel Gibson, this war film tells the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II and saved 75 men without carrying a weapon.
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, Teresa Palmer, Luke Bracey, Vince Vaughn, Hugo Weaving, Rachel Griffiths, Nathaniel Buzolic, Richard Roxburgh, Firass Dirani;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: biography, war, drama, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 139 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Hacksaw Ridge” on the website imdb.com
“The Pursuit of Happyness”, 2006
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Will Smith stars in this biographical drama that tells the story of Chris Gardner, a single father struggling to provide for his son while pursuing a career as a stockbroker. Amidst financial instability, Chris' commitment to his son and their future is a testament to parental service and dedication.
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
“Sully”, 2016
Director: Clint Eastwood
Tom Hanks portrays Chesley Sullenberger, the pilot who safely landed US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River after a bird strike. The film examines the investigation that followed and highlights Sully's service to his passengers and crew during a critical moment.
Starring: Tom Hanks, Aaron Eckhart, Valerie Mahaffey, Delphi Harrington, Mike O'Malley, Jamey Sheridan, Anna Gunn, Holt McCallany, Ahmed Lucan, Laura Linney;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Sully” on the website imdb.com
In conclusion, films about service meticulously weave narratives that challenge, inspire, and pay tribute to the profound acts of selflessness and dedication demonstrated by individuals across various professions and walks of life. Whether it is the raw emotional vigor depicted in the undying spirit of a soldier in “Saving Private Ryan”, the heartwarming portrayal of educators in “Freedom Writers”, or the harrowing yet heroic sagas embraced in first-responders' stories in “World Trade Center”, these cinematic pieces serve as compelling reminders of the resilience and compassion inherent in the human condition. They are not merely entertainments but powerful testaments to the essence of service, which ultimately transcends the screen and resonates deeply within the ethos of our societies, encouraging us to acknowledge and emulate the virtues of those who commit their lives to the service of others.
