Jani’s top 10 inspirational films

I thought I’d share some of the most inspirational films I could think of – ones to watch and feel motivated and encouraged to get out there, live your truth and change the world!

Here they are, in no particular order….

Freedom Writers

This combines some of my favourite themes:  education, the power of journalling and one woman making a big change!

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Pay it Forward

OK, it’s cheesy, but I just love the idea in this film!  I mean, if we all did this, that would fix just about everything, right?

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The Color Purple

Probably one of my favourite films of all time, based on Alice Walker’s brilliant novel, this film is filled with the promise of hope even after terrible times.

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The Cider House Rules

Another film based on a brilliant book by my favourite author, John Irving.  Like many of his books, it deals with the complexities of ‘doing the right thing’ and the beauty of the human spirit.

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American Beauty

“I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me. But it’s hard to stay mad when there’s so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I’m seeing it all at once and it’s too much. My heart fills up like a balloon that’s about to burst. And then I remember to relax, and not try to hold on to it. And then it flows through me like rain. And I can’t feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life. You have no idea what I’m talking about, I’m sure. Don’t worry, you will someday.”

Enough said, really!

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To Kill a Mockingbird

Another great film based on one of the best novels of all time, and my favourite fictional character ever, Atticus Finch, is played so well by Gregory Peck.

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Thelma and Louise

The theme for me in this film is about taking drastic action to change your lot in life.  OK, probably what these two did doesn’t lead to the best results (it doesn’t!) but this film still lifts and inspires me every time I watch it.

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Fried Green Tomatoes

On a good day, The Art House feels like the Whistlestop Cafe to me!  No doubt when I am old, I shall be regaling somebody with the tales of our shenanigans, just like in this film.

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Schindler’s List

Another film about the huge difference one person can make – love it (probably will never watch it again, though, very harrowing).

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Ladies in Lavender

Dames Judi Dench and Maggie Smith – you know that’s go to be a winner!

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Over to you – what are YOUR favourite inspirational films?  Please share in the comments! 

About arthousesouthampton

The Art House is a not-for-profit café, gallery and arts venue in the centre of Southampton. We are a place you can meet new people, meet up with friends or just come in by yourself. Our licensed café offers delicious organic lunches, Fairtrade tea and homemade cake. We also have a busy programme of events, workshops, and art exhibitions, a clothing and crafts boutique and lots more. Most of our crew are volunteers and you might even want to apply to join them. Come along and enjoy our unique, community run space.
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