As we know pretty well by now, real life and current affairs can really get you down. For many of us, watching movies is the perfect antidote. However, with so many titles to choose from, it can be hard to know which films will leave your spirits high.
Well, we’re here to help. If you’re stuck inside, feeling trapped in your apartment, and looking for a movie that’s a guarnteed pick-me-up, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the most uplifting movies to stream right now on Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.
Looking for more streaming recommendations? Check out the best films streaming on Netflix right now.
When Loki rains doom upon New York, Earth’s mightiest heroes combine their powers to save the world. Director Joss Whedon laces Marvel’s first team-up movie with his signature banter, setting the tone for a decade of heroic exploits.
Most Uplifting Moment: The Avengers assemble in NYC
Where to stream: Disney+
Two of cinema’s biggest icons navigate a river full of dangerous creatures, treacherous rapids and hostile German soldiers. Come for the riverboat adventure but stay for the crackling chemistry between Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
Most Uplifting Moment: The embrace after shooting the rapids
Where to stream: Amazon Prime
An aimless, overweight young woman changes her life by training for a marathon in this delightful romantic comedy. Jillian Bell’s inspiring body transformation will get you up off the couch, if only to grab another snack.
Most Uplifting Moment: Brittany’s triumphant run
Where to stream: Amazon Prime
Without using any ropes, a death-defying adventurer scales Earth’s tallest cliffs in this jaw-dropping, Oscar-winning documentary. “Free soloist” Alex Honnold demonstrates his will power—and a bit of madness—by attempting the impossible: climbing El Capitan with only his bare hands.
Most Uplifting Moment: Are you kidding? All of it
Where to stream: Disney+, Hulu
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck were underdogs themselves when they penned this story of an unrecognized genius working as a janitor at Harvard. Will’s math prowess might only be topped by his ability to humiliate people who underestimate him.
Most Uplifting Moment: “How do you like them apples?”
Where to stream: Hulu
It’s fitting that the story of a brilliant chef who’s overlooked just for being a rat has become one of Pixar’s most overlooked movies. The film’s enduring mantra (“Anyone can cook”) celebrates the fact that greatness can come from unexpected places.
Most Uplifting Moment: Anton Ego’s final review
Where to stream: Disney+
A timeless cable staple now on streaming, this Stephen King adaptation tells the story of a falsely imprisoned man and the friends and enemies he meets behind bars. It’s a movie full of little victories and one major win.
Most Uplifting Moment: Andy in the rain
Where to stream: Netflix
It’s “no guts, no glory” for a pair of estranged siblings who enter the same MMA tournament. Gavin O’Connor’s bare-knuckled saga stars Joel Edgerton and Tom Hardy as brawling brothers who have to beat their grudges out of one another.
Most Uplifting Moment: The epic final fight
Where to stream: Amazon Prime, Hulu
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