The new year is in full swing, but some people might have already left their resolutions behind. Luckily, there are plenty of films that serve as perfect inspiration to motivate audiences to continue to follow their dreams no matter how tough it gets.
These movies often focus on a personal journey that sees the main character try to better themselves in some way, make a significant shift in their life, or perhaps follow the dream that they have always attempted to achieve. They are many feel-good pictures that approach this concept of resolutions from a number of different angles.
Sing (2016)
Sing from Illumination Entertainment was a sleeper hit when it first debuted. A movie about a talent competition, this animated musical sees a group of animals all compete with one another to show off their gifts before working together to produce the show of a lifetime.
It's a heartwarming narrative and one that showcases plenty of personal arcs as these individual characters aim to overcome their fears around performing, seek out the accolades they have always dreamed of, and ultimately allow themselves to realize their full potential. For those afraid to follow their dreams, Sing is definitely an inspirational film.
Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
Not every inspirational release has everything going right all the time. The world of Bridget Jones's Diary is perhaps far more relatable, as the young journalist tries to change her career, move away from bad habits, and find happiness.
Although some of the concepts and themes of the piece may feel a little outdated, the soul of this comedy is still very much present. Audiences continue to aspire to have the same gumption as Bridget who, no matter the drawbacks, manages to fulfill her goals in the most unexpected ways.
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Another British classic that appeals to all ages but especially has something to say to teenagers looking for their next step in life, Bend It Like Beckham is a genuinely heartfelt tale about a young woman who wants to enter the world of professional football.
It's a movie that believes everyone should have the same opportunities regardless of gender, and if someone has talent then they will eventually get noticed, and deservedly so. With brilliant performances and a witty script, there's something a lot deeper to a piece that could have been cheesy and forgettable.
Chef (2014)
Jon Favreau's passion project happened to be Chef, which has since inspired The Chef Show on Netflix. Its story centers on a chef who quits his job and decides to open up a food truck. This road trip is absolutely bursting with enthusiasm for the street food being created.
Loosley based on a real story, a lot of work went into the cooking scenes, which are as mouth-watering as they are accurate to the business. The film carries a great message about taking risks in order to fully meet the expectations that someone has for themselves. It will surely inspire audiences to cook up some fantastic food in 2022 at the very least.
Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
Considered to be one of Eddie Murphy's best roles, Dolemite Is My Name is a true story about perseverance and allowing self-belief to be the driving force behind natural talent. It focuses on a comedian who has much larger aspirations.
With the whole world telling him that he can't make a movie, release a comedy record, or go on a sell-out tour, Rudy Ray Moore (aka Dolemite) defies all those naysayers, thus inspiring anyone with an impossible project in mind to really think outside of the box to find success.
Billy Elliot (2000)
Sometimes there are major obstacles in the way of a dream, especially when it comes to what peers, family members, or colleagues might think of that passion. Billy Elliot is a film all about ignoring the doubters and continuing on, as long as there is happiness fuelling those actions.
While it's a stunningly shot film with fantastic performances, especially from actors who are so early into their careers, Billy Elliot might also inspire the performers amongst the audience to revisit their local dance studio or pick up some forgotten hobbies. There's no telling how those gifts can evolve.
Ratatouille (2007)
Is Ratatouille Pixar's very best film? The animated project certainly makes a convincing argument as viewers are drawn into Remy's enthusiasm for cooking, which is seemingly ridiculous considering he is a rat. But that doesn't stop him from reaching high in his aspirations.
Being a rodent allows him to hide away in Alfredo's hat, proving that being different can actually be very useful. Remy's skills in the kitchen are clear and with one particular scene iconically showing the power of food through a critic, Ratatouille should be a huge driving force for those who want to pick up a whisk or wooden spoon in 2022.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
The fashion industry is a cutthroat business, but that has never stopped thousands of designers, students, sellers, and artists from trying their hand at creating memorable clothing. Fashion is shown from a completely different perspective in The Devil Wears Prada.
Newcomer Andy slowly falls in love with her job, while learning what it means to make sacrifices in pursuit of a dream. This is a film that demonstrates that balance has to be found in life but it also promotes the idea of pursuing something new.
Soul (2020)
Pixar's Soul is all about the purpose of life itself and finding meaning in the hobbies, interests, and achievements within the human lifecycle. The movie is full of bold ideas, and from the animation to the music at the heart of the piece, this huge story has been beautifully executed.
This is a calling card for anyone still looking for a new year's resolution. The thoughtful quotes throughout Soul are sure to spark a new idea, and Joe's personal journey from being a musician to a teacher is one that provides insight into adapting to a situation as it presents itself.
La La Land (2016)
La La Land is a complex film to cover, as it shows both the adulation and pitfalls of following a dream. Love is sacrificed here as two performers must take separate paths in order to discover what truly gives them meaning.
Yet there's also a story about self-acceptance and ambition, which ultimately is resolved through a happy ending of a different kind. This is an ode to Hollywood in every sense and while it's visually gorgeous and boasts a meaningful soundtrack, it's Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling's performances that truly allow these themes to land.