Balance And Spirit

12 Films That Warm the Heart

By Joe Marchelewski ⋅ March 10, 2008 ⋅  Email this post ⋅  Print this post ⋅ Subscribe By Email ⋅ Post a comment

Movies are a funny thing, often times we put on a film and hope that we don’t waste the ensuing two hours. When it comes to our frame of mind after watching a film, that’s an even bigger toss up; how will the film make you feel about yourself, your family, the world? Part of personal development, a big part actually, is examining what you take into your heart and mind. The Gospel of Matthew states that the eyes are the window to the soul, what kind of light (or darkness) are we allowing to influence our subconscious?

Movies are a big part of how people form their world view. For example, the kids who attacked the high school in Columbine were big fans of Basketball Diaries and Natural Born Killers, two extremely violent films. These young men consciously acted out scenes from these films, scenes which had been imprinted on their minds. A wise man once said life would be easier if movie music played every time there was an important dramatic moment. Truly, films play a major part in our lives.

The question then is, how do we use films to cultivate our world view into something positive? One way is to watch films that have an endearing message, films that aren’t just gore and sex for the sake of gore and sex, but which uplift our souls and hearts.

Here are a few choices that, when watched, remind us of hope, love, joy and the strength of the human spirit:

Good Will Hunting

A heart warming film that observes the horror one can endure, and the power of overcoming.

Forrest Gump

Voted one of the best movies of all time, this film not only lifts spirits, but it’s a wonderfully made piece of art.

Field of Dreams

A splendid story about the reconciliation between a father and his son. Not just one of the best baseball movies of all time, but a fantastic film with a great cast. Even worn out old men tear up when Kevin Costner meets his father in the film.

Home Alone

A silly child’s film? Yes. A hopeful story of families coming together? Yes. Part of the process of allowing heartwarming films to influence us is to let down our guard and cynicism.

It’s A Wonderful Life

A holiday classic, a cinema classic, a Jimmy Stewart classic, yes this film has it all.

Back to the Future

“Doc!” This trio of films are not only classics and entertaining, but they remind the viewers that growing up can happen outside of time, and the nerdy guy with glasses can get the girl.

Searching for Bobby Fischer

Another movie about fathers and sons, featuring a great cast with some wonderful performances.

Princess Bride

Voted one of the best pirate movies ever. This film is great for couples, children, men, women, young and old. Not just a great story, but a story of redemption and love. Plus, it has Andre the Giant!

Big

Tom Hanks shows up a lot on this list, his films are warm and show the redemptive side of humanity, rather than the alternative.

A League of Their Own

Tom Hanks (again), Rosie O’Donnell, Madonna, Geena Davis, John Lovitz all in a great film about women becoming friends, overcoming obstacles and maturing as people. If you have a little girl who wants to be a pro-athlete someday, this is a must see.

Return to Me

Possibly the most underrated romantic comedy of all time, this film tells the story of a man dealing with the loss of his wife and finding a new love.

Scent of a Woman

Al Pacino gives an Oscar winning performance in a film that tells the story of a man with a heart of stone feeling the joys of friendship and love once again.