Movies About Loving Yourself

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on the 1982 Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. It stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker who is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary for the murder of his wife and her lover, despite his claims of innocence. Over the following two decades, he befriends a fellow prisoner, Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman), and finds himself protected by the guards after the warden begins using him in his money-laundering operation. The film portrays Andy's desperate struggle for hope, redemption, and freedom as he confronts the cruel realities of prison life. It also explores the power of friendship, as well as the strength of the human spirit. In the end, Andy finds solace and freedom in an unexpected way. The film was a commercial and critical success, and has since become a popular favorite and a modern classic. The Shawshank Redemption was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actor in a Leading Role. It won the Academy Award for Best Writing Adapted Screenplay, and Morgan Freeman

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Sally Field
Rated PG-13

Forrest Gump is a 1994 American comedy-drama film starring Tom Hanks and directed by Robert Zemeckis. The story depicts several decades in the life of Forrest Gump, a slow-witted but kind-hearted man from Alabama who witnesses and, in some cases, influences some of the defining events of the latter half of the 20th century in the United States. The film follows the life of Forrest Gump, a naïve and slow-witted but good-hearted man from Alabama, and his epic journey through life. Forrest's interactions with historical figures and events of the time, including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, the Vietnam War, and the Watergate Scandal, are woven into the plot. Throughout the film, Gump overcomes various obstacles in pursuit of his childhood sweetheart, Jenny Curran, and finds success in the shrimp business. His simple philosophy of life—always “do the right thing”—proves to be an empowering and inspirational message for generations to come.

From Directors: Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano, starring François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot
Rated R

The Intouchables is a 2011 French comedy-drama film directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano. It stars François Cluzet and Omar Sy. The film tells the story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic (Cluzet) and his caretaker (Sy), an ex-convict from the projects of Paris. The pair face numerous obstacles together, both comedic and dramatic, as they learn more about each other and develop a bond that transcends class and culture. The film was a box office success, grossing over $426 million against a budget of 10 million euros. It was also praised by critics for its humor, performances, and direction. The film won multiple awards, including the César Award for Best Actor for Sy, and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 84th Academy Awards.

From Tony Kaye, starring Edward Norton, Edward Furlong, Beverly D'Angelo, Jennifer Lien
Rated R

American History X is a 1998 crime drama directed by Tony Kaye, starring Edward Norton and Edward Furlong. It tells the story of two brothers in Venice, California, Derek Vinyard (Norton) and Danny Vinyard (Furlong). Derek is a former neo-Nazi and skinhead who is serving a three-year prison sentence for voluntary manslaughter. Upon his release, he attempts to reform his younger brother Danny from becoming involved with white supremacist groups. As Derek attempts to steer Danny away from the same destructive path that he himself traveled down, he must confront his own prejudices and realize the consequences of his past actions. Along the way, Derek learns to accept those around him regardless of their race, ethnicity or religion. The film’s powerful message of redemption and tolerance make it a timeless classic.

From Michel Gondry, starring Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Tom Wilkinson, Gerry Robert Byrne
Rated R

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a 2004 science fiction romantic comedy-drama film directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman. The film follows an estranged couple (Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet) who have erased each other from their memories. The story follows their struggle to rekindle their relationship, despite having forgotten each other. Along the way, they explore the nature of memory and the concept of eternal love. The film was praised for its unique and innovative narrative structure, visual style, and performances from Carrey and Winslet. It earned four Academy Award nominations, and won for Best Original Screenplay.

From Directors: Pete Docter, Ronnie Del Carmen, starring Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling
Rated PG

Inside Out is a 2015 American computer-animated comedy-drama film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Pete Docter and co-directed by Ronnie Del Carmen, the film is set in the mind of a young girl named Riley Andersen, where five personified emotions—Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust—try to lead her through life as she and her parents adjust to their new surroundings in San Francisco. The main story arc of the film follows Riley's emotions as they struggle to adjust to her new life, while Joy and Sadness become lost in the long-term memory sector of Riley's mind, leaving Fear, Anger, and Disgust in control of Riley's actions. Along their journey, they discover the power of memories, the importance of communication, and the strength of family and friendship. The film was acclaimed by critics, who praised its concept and emotion, and won two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature, and grossed over $857 million worldwide.

From Harold Ramis, starring Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott, Stephen Tobolowsky
Rated PG

Groundhog Day is a 1993 American fantasy-comedy film directed by Harold Ramis. The film stars Bill Murray as Phil Connors, a cynical, unhappy weatherman who gets stuck in a time loop, repeating the same day over and over again. Despite his attempts to change his situation, he remains stuck in this loop, reliving the same events day after day. Through this experience, he begins to realize the importance of living life to its fullest and eventually finds inner peace and happiness. The film also stars Andie MacDowell and Chris Elliott.

From Peter Weir, starring Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles
Rated PG

Dead Poets Society is a 1989 American drama film directed by Peter Weir, written by Tom Schulman, and starring Robin Williams. The story follows an English professor at an elite, all-male prep school who inspires his students through his teachings of literature and passion for life. The students form a secret club, the Dead Poets Society, where they inspire each other to "seize the day" and make their lives extraordinary. The film follows the boys as they struggle with the stringent rules of the school and the expectations of their parents, while coming to terms with the realities of growing up and making choices that will shape their lives. Ultimately, they must decide between conformity and following their own paths.

From Gabriele Muccino, starring Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Jaden Smith, Brian Howe
Rated PG-13

The Pursuit of Happyness is a 2006 American biographical drama film based on the life of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman. Directed by Gabriele Muccino and starring Will Smith, the movie tells the story of Gardner's rise from homelessness to becoming a stockbroker. The movie follows Gardner's struggles with poverty and homelessness as well as his efforts to build a better life for himself and his son. Gardner works hard to secure an internship at a competitive brokerage firm, where he begins to learn the ropes of the stock market. Despite the odds, Gardner succeeds and eventually goes on to become a successful stockbroker and a millionaire. The movie is a heart-warming story of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.

From Cameron Crowe, starring Billy Crudup, Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand
Rated R

Almost Famous is an autobiographical film written and directed by Cameron Crowe, starring Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson, and Patrick Fugit. It follows the story of William Miller, a teenage journalist who is given the chance to write a feature story on the up-and-coming rock band Stillwater. Along the way, he meets a young groupie named Penny Lane who shows him the world of rock-and-roll and helps him find his place within it. As he gets to know the band, he discovers the inner workings of the music industry, and must struggle to maintain his journalistic integrity. The film is a coming-of-age story about a young man's journey to maturity, and his exploration of the music and people that he encounters.

From Stephen Chbosky, starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Paul Rudd
Rated PG-13

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a 2012 coming of age drama film written and directed by Stephen Chbosky. The film stars Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller, and follows the story of a shy and introverted freshman, Charlie (Lerman), who is taken under the wing of a group of seniors. With their guidance, he learns to navigate the challenges of high school, find his place in the world, and face his own inner demons. Along the way, he makes friends with two other students, Sam (Watson), and her stepbrother Patrick (Miller), who help him through his struggles. The film follows Charlie's journey of self-discovery and friendship, as he learns to overcome his fears and discover his true self.

From Richard Curtis, starring Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Lydia Wilson
Rated R

About Time is a 2013 British romantic comedy film written and directed by Richard Curtis. The film stars Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Lydia Wilson and Tom Hollander, and follows a young man with the ability to time travel who attempts to change his past to improve his future. The film follows Tim Lake (Gleeson), a young man from Cornwall who has the ability to time travel. He discovers this ability on his 21st birthday and uses it to get a girlfriend (McAdams). As Tim gets older, he begins to realize the effects of his time travelling and starts to make decisions about the future of his relationships and his family. The film follows Tim as he uses his unique ability to improve his life and the lives of those around him. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about love, family, friendship and the importance of living in the present. Ultimately, Tim discovers that the power of love is far more important than the power of time.

From Jaco Van Dormael, starring Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, Diane Kruger, Linh-Dan Pham
Rated R

Mr. Nobody is a science fiction drama directed by Jaco Van Dormael. The film stars Jared Leto as Nemo Nobody, a 118-year-old man who is the last mortal on Earth. After the entire human race has attained physical immortality, Nemo remains as the last mortal human being. He is caught between the choice of staying in the now or re-imagining his life by making different choices in the past. With the help of his doctor, Nemo embarks on a journey of self-discovery to explore what could have been had he made different choices. Along the way, he discovers the power of love, relationships, and family. Ultimately, Nemo must come to terms with his past and his choices to fully understand his present and future.

From Nick Cassavetes, starring Gena Rowlands, James Garner, Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling
Rated PG-13

The Notebook is a romance drama directed by Nick Cassavetes, based on the novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. It tells the story of Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams), two teenagers from different social classes whose summer romance is cut short when Allie's family moves away. However, when the two reconnect years later, their feelings for each other are rekindled and their love for one another is stronger than ever. Despite the obstacles of age, social status, and the opposition of their families, Noah and Allie's relationship is put to the ultimate test as they struggle to stay together. In the end, they prove that true love can withstand any obstacle.

From Walter Salles, starring Gael García Bernal, Rodrigo de la Serna, Mía Maestro, Mercedes Morán
Rated R

The Motorcycle Diaries, directed by Walter Salles, is a biopic about the early life of revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara. The film follows the story of a young Ernesto, portrayed by Gael Garcia Bernal, and his friend Alberto Granado, portrayed by Rodrigo de la Serna, as they embark on a journey to explore South America. The two travel by motorcycle, encountering the poverty of the continent, and meeting people from all walks of life. Through their travels, Ernesto begins to understand the injustices of the world and is inspired to take action. The film is a deeply moving and informative look at the formative years of one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.

From Richard Linklater, starring Ethan Hawke, Trevor Jack Brooks, Lorelei Linklater, Wiley Wiggins
Rated R

Waking Life is an animated film that follows an unnamed man as he navigates a dream-like state of consciousness. As he encounters various people, he engages in discussions and musings about the nature of existence, free will, and the meaning of life. The film explores themes of identity, free will, and reality, and suggests that the world may be nothing more than a dream. The animation style of the film is unique, as it is created through rotoscoping, a technique in which animators trace over live-action footage.

From Oliver Hirschbiegel, starring Moritz Bleibtreu, Christian Berkel, Oliver Stokowski, Wotan Wilke Möhring
Rated R

The Experiment is a psychological thriller directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel and based on a true story. It stars Moritz Bleibtreu as Tarek Fahd, a cab driver who signs up as a participant in a psychology experiment that takes place in an abandoned prison. Fahd is assigned to the role of a guard, and with the help of the other participants, he's tasked with maintaining order and discipline among a group of prisoners. However, things quickly spiral out of control when the guards start to abuse their power and the prisoners revolt. As tensions rise, Fahd begins to question his own morality and the moral implications of the experiment. In the end, the experiment reveals the dark side of human nature in the face of power and authority.

From Woody Allen, starring Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, Kurt Fuller
Rated PG-13

Midnight in Paris is a 2011 romantic comedy by Woody Allen. The story follows Gil, a successful yet discontented Hollywood screenwriter, who is vacationing in Paris with his fiancée and her family. After a night of drinking, Gil stumbles upon a magical car that transports him back in time to the 1920s. During his adventures in the past, Gil meets a variety of fascinating characters, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. He also strikes up a romance with a mysterious woman named Adriana. As Gil struggles to find a way back to the present, he learns valuable lessons about life and love.

From Spike Lee, starring Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Delroy Lindo, Spike Lee
Rated PG-13

Malcolm X is a biographical drama directed by Spike Lee that follows the life of African-American activist and leader Malcolm X, as portrayed by Denzel Washington. The film charts his rise from a troubled childhood to his days as a leader of the Nation of Islam, and his eventual break with the organization after a pilgrimage to Mecca. Through a combination of speeches, events and flashbacks, the film examines his philosophy, his transformation from street hustler to devoted leader, and his struggle to create a better life for African-Americans in a time of racism and discrimination. The film also looks at Malcolm's assassination and the legacy he left behind.

From Directors: Eric Bress, J. Mackye Gruber, starring Ashton Kutcher, Amy Smart, Melora Walters, Elden Henson
Rated R

The Butterfly Effect is a 2004 American psychological thriller film directed by Eric Bress and J. Mackye Gruber. The film follows a young man named Evan (Ashton Kutcher) who discovers that he has the ability to travel back in time to his childhood and change the course of his life. With every change he makes, however, he also causes unforeseen repercussions on his present life and future. As Evan continues to manipulate his past, he finds himself struggling to keep up with the drastic changes that his actions have caused. Eventually, he must put an end to the chain of events he has set in motion before it destroys him and his loved ones.

From Ryan Coogler, starring Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad
Rated PG-13

Creed is a 2015 American sports drama film directed by Ryan Coogler and written by Coogler and Aaron Covington. A spin-off and sequel to the Rocky film series, the film stars Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Johnson, the son of former heavyweight champion Apollo Creed, and Sylvester Stallone as a trainer, Rocky Balboa. Adonis, who is the illegitimate son of Apollo Creed, seeks out Rocky in Philadelphia to become a professional boxer. Rocky reluctantly agrees to mentor Adonis and they form an unlikely bond. Adonis fights to prove himself and face the legacy of his father. Along the way, he also has to deal with a British light heavyweight champion and a grudge match against his father's old rival. The film was met with critical acclaim, with praise going to the performances of Jordan and Stallone. The film was nominated for several awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor.

From John Lee Hancock, starring Quinton Aaron, Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Jae Head
Rated PG-13

The Blind Side is a 2009 American biographical sports drama film directed by John Lee Hancock and based on the 2006 book The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game by Michael Lewis. The film stars Sandra Bullock as Leigh Anne Tuohy and Tim McGraw as Sean Tuohy, a well-to-do couple who take in a homeless African-American teenager, Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), who is played by Quinton Aaron. The movie depicts the story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American teen from a broken home, taken in by the Tuohy family. They offer him not only a safe refuge but also the opportunity to attend a private Christian school and the chance to become an All-American football player. As his family, teachers, and coaches guide him through the process of becoming an elite football player and student, Michael's life changes in ways he never expected. The Blind Side depicts how a family's love and support can transform the life of a young person in need.

From Jonathan Levine, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard
Rated R

50/50 is a 2011 American comedy-drama film directed by Jonathan Levine and starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, and Bryce Dallas Howard. The film is based on a true story about a 27-year-old man, Adam Lerner (Gordon-Levitt), who is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that gives him a 50/50 chance of survival. With his best friend Kyle (Rogen) trying to help him cope and his mother (Howard) being overly supportive, Adam is forced to deal with his mortality and the possibility of an uncertain future. Along the way, he meets a therapist named Katherine (Kendrick), who helps him to understand his illness and teaches him to cope with the inevitable. Adam's journey of self-discovery is accompanied by humorous yet heart-wrenching moments, ultimately resulting in a bittersweet conclusion.

From Richard Curtis, starring Hugh Grant, Martine McCutcheon, Liam Neeson, Laura Linney
Rated R

Love Actually is a 2003 romantic comedy film written and directed by Richard Curtis. The film follows the stories of eight different couples dealing with the ups and downs of love during the Christmas season. The story is linked together by the arrival of a prime minister at 10 Downing Street, played by Hugh Grant, who is dealing with his own romantic dilemma. Along with Grant, the film stars an ensemble cast including Liam Neeson, Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, and Keira Knightley. Love Actually is a heartwarming comedy-drama that explores the many facets of love and its ability to both unite and divide us.

From Rob Reiner, starring Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, Sean Hayes, Beverly Todd
Rated PG-13