Ever have one of those days when nothing seems to go right? Maybe you’re feeling a little stressed, tired, or just need something to make you smile. That’s where movies come in—they’re like a warm hug for your soul, a reminder that even in the toughest times, there’s joy, laughter, and hope waiting just around the corner.
Over the last decade, filmmakers have gifted us with stories that do exactly that—lift our spirits and leave us with a renewed sense of happiness. From feel-good animations to heartfelt dramas, these movies are guaranteed to put a smile on your face, and maybe even inspire you to see the world a little differently.
So, grab some popcorn, find a cozy spot, and let these 10 amazing movies from the past 10 years brighten your day. You deserve it!
1. Inside Out (2015)
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Imagine if your emotions could talk! That’s exactly what happens in Inside Out, a Pixar movie that takes you inside the mind of an 11-year-old girl named Riley. Her emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—help her navigate life when her family moves to a new city.
This movie teaches us that it’s okay to feel sad sometimes because sadness is just as important as happiness. With colorful characters and an amazing story, Inside Out is not only fun to watch but also makes you think about your own emotions. It’s like going on an adventure inside your brain!
2. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Do you love musicals? Then The Greatest Showman is for you! This movie is based on the life of P.T. Barnum, who created a circus filled with unique and talented people. Starring Hugh Jackman, this movie is all about dreaming big, believing in yourself, and embracing who you are.
The songs in this movie, like “This Is Me” and “A Million Dreams,” will stay in your head for days. It’s a story about celebrating differences and never giving up on your dreams, no matter how big or small they are.
3. Paddington 2 (2017)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Who doesn’t love a cute bear? Paddington is a polite, friendly bear from Peru who lives with the Brown family in London. In Paddington 2, he sets out to buy a special gift for his aunt’s birthday but ends up being framed for a crime he didn’t commit.
This movie is packed with funny moments and heartwarming scenes. Paddington’s kindness and positive attitude remind us that being good to others can make the world a better place. It’s a delightful film that kids and adults can enjoy together.
4. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Do you think only one person can be Spider-Man? Think again! In this animated adventure, Miles Morales, a teenager from Brooklyn, discovers that he’s not the only Spider-Man. He meets other Spider-People from different dimensions, and together, they work to save the world.
This movie isn’t just about superheroes—it’s about believing in yourself. The animation is so cool and different, it feels like you’re watching a comic book come to life. Plus, the action scenes are super exciting!
5. Jojo Rabbit (2019)
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Jojo Rabbit is a unique movie about a boy named Jojo who lives in Germany during World War II. His imaginary friend is none other than Adolf Hitler, but things take a turn when he discovers that his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their house.
This movie is both funny and emotional. It shows how love and kindness are stronger than hate. While the story has a serious background, it’s told in a way that’s light and uplifting. Taika Waititi, who directed the movie, also plays the role of the imaginary Hitler, adding a touch of humor to the story.
6. Soul (2020)
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
What makes life meaningful? Soul dives into this big question. The story follows Joe Gardner, a jazz musician who unexpectedly finds himself in the afterlife after an accident. But he’s not ready to leave Earth yet!
This Pixar movie is both funny and deep. It shows that life isn’t just about big achievements—it’s also about enjoying the little things, like a good meal or a walk in the park. The music is beautiful, and the animation is stunning. It’s a movie that will make you appreciate life in a whole new way.
7. CODA (2021)
Where to Watch: Apple TV+
CODA stands for Child of Deaf Adults, and this movie tells the story of Ruby, a teenager who is the only hearing member of her family. She has a talent for singing but feels torn between her passion and her responsibility to help her family.
This movie is full of heartwarming moments that show the power of family and following your dreams. It’s also a great way to learn about the challenges and beauty of being part of a deaf family. CODA won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2022, and it totally deserves it!
8. Encanto (2021)
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Welcome to the magical world of the Madrigal family! In Encanto, every family member has a special power—except for Mirabel. But when the family’s magic starts to fade, it’s up to Mirabel to save the day.
This Disney movie is full of vibrant colors, catchy songs (like “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”), and important lessons about self-worth and family love. It’s a joyful celebration of being yourself and knowing that you’re enough, even without superpowers.
9. La La Land (2016)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Do you love stories about chasing dreams? La La Land is a musical that follows Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, as they try to make it big in Los Angeles.
With breathtaking cinematography, catchy songs, and an emotional story, this movie captures the highs and lows of following your passion. It’s a celebration of love, art, and the sacrifices people make for their dreams.
10. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Fred Rogers, also known as Mister Rogers, is one of the kindest people to ever grace television. In A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Tom Hanks plays Fred Rogers as he helps a cynical journalist learn the importance of kindness and forgiveness.
This movie is like a warm hug. It reminds us to slow down, be kind, and appreciate the people around us. Tom Hanks’ performance is heartwarming, and the movie will leave you feeling hopeful and peaceful.
Conclusion
These movies from the last 10 years are guaranteed to make you smile, laugh, and maybe even shed a happy tear. Whether you’re in the mood for a fun adventure, a touching story, or a burst of musical energy, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So grab some popcorn, pick a movie from this list, and get ready to feel inspired! And remember, sometimes all it takes is a good movie to turn a bad day into a great one. Which one will you watch first? Let us know!
Looking for more feel-good films? Check out our selection of Thanksgiving movies to enjoy this holiday season.
Mohit Singhania is a passionate film enthusiast and the creator of CinematicJunction.com, a platform dedicated to exploring the world of movies and web series.
With a commitment to delivering original, high-quality content, Mohit combines his love for storytelling with sharp insights into the entertainment industry. When he’s not writing, you can find him binge-watching the latest series or diving deep into the art of filmmaking.
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