
Life gets stressful, and it’s nice to relax with a movie. If you’re already feeling down, it’s best to skip sad or heavy dramas and choose something uplifting that will cheer you up.
Feel-good movies come in all sorts of styles. They could be touching animated films, lighthearted romantic comedies, or even beloved classics from our childhoods. Luckily, Netflix has a good selection of these uplifting movies.
Love At First Sight (2023)
Romantic comedies are usually a great choice when you’re looking for a heartwarming story, and Love at First Sight is one of the many feel-good movies Netflix has made.
The movie, inspired by the novel The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, tells the story of Hadley and Oliver, who meet and begin a romance while waiting for – and during – their flight to London. Unfortunately, after they meet, Hadley’s phone dies, and she doesn’t save his number.
When Hadley arrives in London, she embarks on a charming quest, keeping audiences engaged throughout. Haley Lu Richardson is delightful in the role, and her chemistry with Ben Hardy adds a lot of warmth and fun to the story.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)
Many millennials fondly remember watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as kids, but the movies made for that generation of adults hadn’t quite captured the magic—until Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem arrived.
I absolutely loved this movie! The animation was fantastic, and most importantly, it really felt like it understood the original cartoon. They didn’t just look like turtles, they acted like actual teenagers – relatable, funny, and full of energy. It was just a genuinely fun experience from start to finish.
Let me tell you, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem really delivers! Honestly, I had a blast. From the exciting action sequences to the genuinely funny moments, and even the sweet family stuff at its heart, there’s just a lot to enjoy. Plus, the soundtrack is fantastic. It’s one of those movies where you just can’t help but have a good time.
Holidate (2020)
I love a good holiday rom-com, and honestly, they’re usually pretty fun. But Holidate is different – it’s not just about Christmas or New Year’s. The story follows the characters through a whole year of different holidays, which is a really fresh take!
In the movie Holidate, Sloane and Jackson are two people who are always single. They make a pact to be each other’s dates for all the holidays, and unexpectedly start to develop feelings for each other.
Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey have fantastic chemistry together in this romantic comedy. What makes Holidate so enjoyable is that it’s both genuinely funny and sweet, and it’s perfect for watching during any holiday – or just anytime you’re looking for a feel-good movie.
The Mitchells Vs. The Machines (2021)
Sony Pictures Animation has really established itself as a major player in animated movies. Although The Mitchells vs. The Machines didn’t win the award for Best Animated Feature – despite being a strong candidate – it was still a fantastic film, like many of their others.
In The Mitchells vs. The Machines, a family known for their quirks and disagreements unexpectedly becomes humanity’s last hope when robots take over the world.
What really grabbed me about The Mitchells vs. The Machines was the family at its center. Seriously, the way they all interact, especially the dad and his daughter, is so emotionally resonant. It builds to a climax that’s both thrilling and genuinely satisfying – it just works.
Chef (2014)
I think Chef stands out from the other movies on this list. Most of them are either fun for the whole family to watch together, or sweet romantic comedies. But Chef is a really well-regarded comedy-drama that just makes you feel good.
What makes the show Chef so good is its simple but heartwarming story. It follows a famous chef who loses his restaurant job and decides to start a food truck with his son and friends. It’s truly lovely to watch their journey.
Jon Favreau’s film, Chef, was a deeply personal project for him. His enthusiasm shines through in every moment, and audiences can feel how much heart he put into making it.
Always Be My Maybe (2019)
Netflix offers a lot of great romantic comedies, but many consider Always Be My Maybe to be the best. What makes it special is that stars Ali Wong and Randall Park also wrote the movie, resulting in a genuinely charming and enjoyable film.
The movie Always Be My Maybe tells the story of Sasha and Marcus, who were childhood friends and first loves. They drift apart over the years, but reconnect as adults with very different lives – and a renewed connection.
Wong and Park have incredible chemistry, bringing genuine warmth and affection to every moment they share. The movie also includes a delightful cameo by Keanu Reeves, which is a definite crowd-pleaser. Even with so many great scenes, their interaction truly stands out as the best part.
How To Train Your Dragon (2010)
Image courtesy of the Everett Collection
It’s difficult to imagine a more heartwarming animated movie than How to Train Your Dragon. The film was a huge global success and launched a popular franchise that continues to release successful films.
The film follows Hiccup, a teenage outsider in his Viking village, who unexpectedly becomes friends with a dragon – a creature his people believe to be dangerous and are currently fighting against.
The connection between Hiccup and Toothless is truly one of the most heartwarming friendships ever shown in a movie. It’s easy to connect with their bond if you’ve ever felt close to an animal.
The Wild Robot (2024)
The movie The Wild Robot is a heartwarming story about a robot named Roz. After a shipwreck leaves her stranded on a wild island, Roz must learn to survive and adjust to her new life in the wilderness. It’s based on the popular book series of the same name.
During her time there, she makes friends with a fox and lovingly raises an orphaned goose, becoming a mother to him. This heartwarming connection establishes the emotional core of the film, which will move you with both its sadness and ultimately, its joyful conclusion.
Whether you’re feeling happy, sad, or anything in between, The Wild Robot is a fantastic movie to watch. It was nominated for an Oscar and is critically acclaimed, with a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Matilda (1996)
Just like many millennials who loved the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, they also grew up with the story of Matilda. Many of us fondly remember watching Matilda use her special powers to stand up to the unfairness she faced.
The movie Matilda is based on Roald Dahl’s book and tells the story of a remarkably intelligent young girl named Matilda Wormwood. She discovers she has the power to move things with her mind, and uses this ability to stand up to her cruel family and the mean headteacher at her school.
I have to say, even though Matilda’s life sounds really difficult when you hear about it, the movie itself is just so heartwarming! I found myself completely rooting for her to escape her problems and finally find happiness with Miss Honey. It’s a truly lovely story.
Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018)
Look, as a huge movie fan, I gotta say Spider-Man is just the most popular superhero out there. Whenever I’m in the mood for a fun movie, I usually end up watching one of his, even though his stories can get pretty sad sometimes.
The movie Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse tells the story of Miles Morales becoming Spider-Man. It deals with difficult events – we see Peter Parker die and Miles lose his uncle – but ultimately, it’s a hopeful and inspiring film about overcoming hardship.
I absolutely love Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse! Beyond just having a really heartwarming story, the movie is a total treat for the eyes with its amazing animation, and the soundtrack is fantastic. Plus, the characters are so funny and endearing – it just always puts me in a good mood whenever I watch it. It’s a genuinely great time!
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2026-03-19 21:52