MOVIES THAT PROMOTE CHRISTIAN VALUES (assembled by Fred Miller)
This is a personal list of movies that significantly promote Christian values such as forgiveness, understanding, self-giving love, reconciliation, redemption, self-understanding, and character growth. It’s my desire that this list will provide options for Christians in selecting entertainment that will assist their discipleship to Jesus. It is, of course, sometimes necessary to make an evaluation about whether a movie’s offensive elements outweigh any moral values portrayed by the end of the movie (and thus whether it should be on a list like this), and this is a matter of individual judgment, especially regarding R-rated movies. Christian movie review sites (below) provide more extensive discussions of a movie’s moral presentations, as well as descriptions of genre (drama, comedy, action, etc.) and plot. It should be noted that these sites use varying criteria for their “stars” rating, and I have often found “high-star” movies too objectionable, and “low-star” movies worthwhile. I have restricted my descriptions below to one line, but this often fails to capture the value and heart of the movie. For further review and description, see Christian perspective movie review sites such as the following, or a generic site like www.rottentomatoes.com ● http://www.pluggedinonline.com/video/
● http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/movies/reviews/ ● http://www.christiananswers.net/spotlight/
Underlined movies are those I have added to my list over the last year or two, which may be of interest to people who visit this list on a regular basis.
Highly Recommended
A Man Called Peter (1955, PG) – Scotsman Peter Marshall’s preaching and marriage; pastor in D.C. and Senate chaplain [True]
Amazing Grace (2007, PG-13) – Story of William Wilberforce’s campaign against British slave trade as a Christian [True]
Apostle Peter and the Last Supper (2012, G) – A jailed Peter witnesses to his guards, using his experiences with Jesus [True]
Ben Hur (1959, G) – Wealthy Jewish prince seeks revenge during time of Christ; meeting with Jesus changes him [Historical]
Beyond Gates of Splendor (2005, PG-13) – Docudrama of 5 martyred missionaries and their wives; forgiveness [True]
Bonhoeffer (2003) – A German pastor/pacifist stands against Hitler and faces deep moral questions [True]
Chariots of Fire (1981, PG) – British Olympic runner Eric Liddell’s Christian faith and costly commitment to God [True]
Courageous (2011, PG) – Five men face life challenges and pledge to be courageous and godly fathers and husbands.
Cry, The Beloved Country (1995, PG-13) – South Africa struggle for black equality; a father’s love for his children [Historical]
The Encounter (2010, PG-13) – Five travelers encounter Jesus as their host at a late-night diner; each questions, each is loved
End of the Spear (2006, PG-13) Martyred missionary’s wife forgives and loves the tribe that killed her husband; sacrifice [True]
Entertaining Angels (1996, PG-13) – Story of Dorothy Day, her conversion, and her call to care for the poor at great cost [True]
Hiding Place (1975, PG) – Christian women hide Jews, are imprisoned; faith, love for one another and their captors [True]
Hotel Rwanda (2004, PG-13) – Rwandan Hutu & Tutsi hatred, prejudice; sacrifice, mercy, courage to do what’s right. [Historical]
The Hundred Foot Journey (2014, PG) – A French and an Indian restaurant battle racism and culinary styles; friendship
Inn of the Sixth Happiness (1958) – Missionary Gladys Alyward builds trust with Chinese; leads children to safety [Based on True]
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – A man dreams of greatness but gives his life to love people – and doesn’t see his greatness
Joyeux Noel (2006, PG-13) – Finding peace & love between enemies in a WW1 battle on Christmas Day [Historical; subtitles]
Les Miserables (1998, PG-13) – A bitter ex-convict turns to Christ, reforms and loves – though stalked by the law demanding justice
Les Miserables, the Musical (2012, PG-13) – (See above. The story is told mostly through heart-touching song and acting)
Like Dandelion Dust (2009, PG-13) – A former prisoner/alcoholic and his wife want their adopted 6-yr. old birth son back
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005, PG) – C. S. Lewis’ tale of children’s courage, growth, and God’s love
Luther (2003, PG) – Story of Martin Luther’s reformation attempt of the Catholic church; classic debates; love [True]
Magnificent Obsession (1954) – Man studies medicine to help woman he blinded
The Mission (1986, PG) – Two Jesuit priests differ on how to save a South American tribe; pacifism/violence [Historical]
The Nativity Story (2006, PG) – Stirring story of Joseph and Mary and their courageous, righteous actions to birth Jesus. [True]
Of Gods and Men (2010, PG-13) – Trappist monks are threatened by Muslim radicals; wrestle w/ varied responses [True, subtitles]
Passion of the Christ (2004, R) – Story of Christ’s suffering over his last hours; flashbacks to his ministry [True]
Pay it Forward (2000, PG-13) – A boy tries to change the world by doing three good deeds that must be passed on to others
Ragamuffin (2014, PG-13) – Story of Rich Mullin’s conversion & music ministry; wrestles with doubt, alcohol; finds grace [True]
Remember the Titans (2000, PG) – Football team faces racial tensions and overcomes disunity; coaches confront their styles
Romero (1989, PG-13) – A Salvadoran priest reluctantly then courageously resists government corruption and oppression [True]
Shadowlands (1993, PG) – Oxford prof C.S. Lewis marries a dying American woman and discovers love, doubt and faith [True]
Shawshank Redemption (1994, R) – A man is wrongfully sentenced for life; redeems his failures, serves inmates
Sophie Scholl: Final Days (2006, PG-13) – Christian young woman confronts Hitler’s government at great cost [True] [subtitles]
The Sound of Music (1965, G) – Musical about a motherless family, their nanny, their strict father, and escape from Germany
To End All Wars (2001, R) – British prisoners of war in Japan learn to forgive and love their enemies [True]
Unbroken (2014, PG-13) – Story of Olympian and Japanese P.O.W. Louis Zamperini, journey of endurance and faith [True]
A Vow to Cherish (1999, PG) – A Christian man faces the challenges of caring for his wife with Alzheimer’s; sacrificial love
Well Recommended
42 (2012, PG-13) – Story of Jackie Robinson, first black to play baseball in the major leagues; prejudice, kindness, courage [True]
A Family Thing (1995, PG-13) – An older prejudiced “white” man learns his mother was black; meets his family; humor, growth
A Few Good Men (1992, R) – A military murder trial explores loyalty versus ethics
American Violet (2008, PG-13) – A falsely accused black woman fearfully takes on the corrupt law to change the system [True]
Amish Grace (2009, PG) – A gunman kills Amish girls in a schoolhouse; all wrestle with issues of forgiveness [Based on True]
Anne of Green Gables (1985, G) – A hurting and spunky orphan girl finds and gives respect and love in a new town
The Apostle (1997, PG-13) – A successful southern preacher is caught between his call by God and his sins
Avatar (2009, PG-13) – Space travelers divide on humane vs. military tactics with creatures on a beautiful planet who resist them
Because of Winn-Dixie (2005, PG) – A dog breaks down barriers and brings hope, healing & redemption to a Southern town.
Becket (1964, PG-13) – Corrupt king of England appoints friend Becket as archbishop, but Becket becomes devoted to God [True]
Belle (2014, PG) – A bi-racial girl born to an aristocratic family in 1761 England faces prejudice with courage and self-confidence
Beyond the Gates (2007, R) – A priest courageously seeks to bring love and hope in the midst of genocide in Rwanda
The Bible Collection (1994–9, PG-13) – Historical/biblical videos of “Abraham,” “Jacob,” “Joseph,” “Moses,” “Jeremiah,” etc.
Big Kahuna (2000, R) – Three salesmen (one a young zealous Christian) discuss sales, life & faith – each learning and growing
Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004, PG) – A champion golfer faces his anger and family priorities with integrity [True]
Bolt (2008, PG) – A dog discovers his “superpowers” used on a TV show are not real; identity, questioning love, humor [Animated]
Book of Eli (2010, R) – God tells a man to carry the only Bible on earth to safety amidst enemies; affirms its life-changing power
Brian’s Song (1971, G) – Story of Gale Sayers and Brian Piccolo’s white/black friendship on the Chicago Bears [True]
Buck (2011, PG) – Documentary of man who popularized taming horses without violence, and his applications to family life [True]
Bucket List (2007, PG-13) – Two very different men dying of cancer decide to live life to the fullest together before they die
The Butler (2013, PG-13) – The racial/personal experiences of the head White House butler under 8 presidents [True-based]
Calvary (2014, R) – A good-hearted small town pastor faces inner demons when he is told he will be murdered in a week
Captain Abhu Raed (2008, G) – Elderly lonely janitor in Jordan finds meaning through caring for children at great cost [Subtitles]
Cars (2006, G) – A selfish, prideful racing car gets stuck in a desert town and learns friendship, humility and values (animated)
Changing Lanes (2002, R) – Two lawyers offend each other on a freeway, escalating into anger/revenge; forgiveness, kindness
Charlotte’s Web (2006, G) – A lonely scared pig is befriended by a girl and a spider; self-worth, friendship, God’s creation
Cheaper by the Dozen (2003, PG) – Parents of 12 children adjust to the stresses of family life and learn to sacrifice for their kids
The Chorus (2004, PG-13) – French teacher redeems difficult kids through a choir; lessons in forgiveness & grace. [subtitles]
Cinderella Man (2005, PG-13) – Boxer James Braddock’s life of family, friendship, goodness and faith [True]
The Citizen (2012, PG-13) – A hope-filled Arab immigrant to the U.S. faces prejudice after 9/11, but presses on with kindness
City of Joy (1992, PG-13) – A disillusioned doctor’s values are rekindled in the slums of Calcutta, India
Coach Carter (2005, PG-13) – A coach uses discipline and cooperation to teach an urban H.S. basketball team values [True]
The Color of Freedom (2007, R) – The life of Nelson Mandela told by his 20-year white prison guard; South Africa [True]
The Color Purple (1985, PG-13) – The sins and hardships of several black southern women; many relationships redeemed.
The Conscientious Objector (2004, NR) – A moving documentary of a WW2 soldier who refused to bear arms; rescued 75 [True]
Conviction (2002, R) – A hardened criminal finds peace/Quakers & rehabs to build peace among gangs (strong language) [True]
Copperhead (2013, PG-13) – A NY community and families are split over opposing attitudes about war during the Civil War
Crash (2005, R) – A dozen varied lives interact in L.A., while their prejudices are exposed, resulting in deep crises and healing
Crossed Over (2002, PG-13) – A depressed mother visits ex-murderer Christian Karla Tucker in prison and finds peace. [True]
Cry Freedom (1987, PG) – A black activist and a white newspaper editor risk their lives to fight apartheid in South Africa [True]
C. S. Lewis: Beyond Narnia (2005. PG) – The childhood, conversion, writing, marriage, grief and hope of Lewis [True]
Dead Man Walking (1995, R) – A nun befriends a convicted rapist/murderer; repentance; capital punishment debate [True]
Diary of Anne Frank (1959) – A Jewish girl’s fears, dreams while hid with her family from Nazis for 2 years in an attic [True]
Divergent (2014, PG-13) – A woman in the future faces opposition in a society where people are grouped by personal strengths
The Doctor (1991, PG-13) – An insensitive doctor becomes a patient and learns to care not only for patients but his wife
Dreamer (2006, PG) – A girl and a father pursue a dream of racing a crippled horse; 2nd chances, family love, sacrifice [True]
Edge of America (2004, PG-13) – A black man with scars becomes the coach of a winless American Indian girls basketball team.
The Emperor’s Club (2002, PG-13) – Teacher in an elite boys’ school confronts lying, ethics violations and social privilege
Ender’s Game (2013, PG-13) – Military leaders train preteen video players to fight aliens; one boy with a conscience stands out
Evelyn (2002, PG) – An unemployed, drinking Irish man loses his children to the state/church and fights to get them back [True]
Family Man (2000, PG-13) – A self-absorbed businessman experiences the craziness of marriage and fathering and is changed.
The Fault in Our Stars (2014, PG-13) – Two terminally ill teens with cancer find purpose and love in their friendship
Finding Forrester (2003, PG-13) – Black gang member is tutored by reclusive novelist and both find healing and hope.
Finding Nemo (2003, G) – Animated fish learn parental obedience, freeing your children; a father’s sacrificial love
Fireproof (2008, PG) – A couple separates in anger but the husband is challenged to 40 days of “love dares” to win her back
First Knight (1995, PG-13) – King Arthur’s world of honor and righteousness amidst love and treachery
Forever Strong (2008, PG-13) – A self-absorbed high school rugby player matures at a reform school rugby team; father/son [True]
Fourth Wise Man (1985) – Persian magi seeks the king of Israel, but en route spends life caring for the poor and fulfills Mat. 25:40
Freedom Song (2000, PG-13) – A young black man begins to resist white-only laws in Mississippi; his family and town are torn
Freedom Writers (2007, PG-13) – Young female teacher faces racial gangs, hatred & fears; understanding, reconciliation [True]
Gandhi (1982, PG-13) – Indian lawyer leads revolt against British rule through non-violent protest; courage, love [True]
Gettysburg (1993, PG) – Unglamorized realities of Civil War, including North/South arguments and religious perspectives
Glory (1989, R) – Civil War all‑black troop & white general face prejudice, moral tensions; courage, understanding [based on True]
Gods and Generals (2003, PG-13) – Civil War’s opposing “righteous causes”; human struggles of leaders [prequel to G’burg]
Grace is Gone (2007, PG-13) – A father’s hidden grief over his wife’s military death brings a deeper bond with his two daughters
The Great Debaters (2007, PG) – A 1930s black college debate team faces racism and internal tensions; defeats Harvard [True]
The Green Mile (1999, R) – The relationship between a white guard and an innocent death-row black prisoner with healing powers
Gridiron Gang (2006, PG-13) – A group of juvenile teens from a detention center learn character and values through football [True]
Haven (2001, PG-13) – A woman escorts 1000 Jewish refugees to the U.S. amidst prejudice, resentment and insensitivities
The Help (2010, PG-13) – Black maids are persuaded to tell their experiences in a book and it shakes up their southern town.
Hope Springs (2012, PG-13) – An older couple falls out of love and seeks counseling at a retreat center; insight / humor
Horse Whisperer (1998, PG-13) – A story of emotional healing for a young girl, her horse and her mother; affirmation of marriage
How to Train Your Dragon (2010, PG) – A Viking boy disappoints his father; discovers dragons really aren’t enemies [Animated]
Hunger Games (2012-15, PG-13) – A young woman in the future reluctantly leads a rebellion against an oppressive government
I Am Sam (2001, PG-13) – The challenges a mentally challenged man experiences in lovingly raising a daughter
Invictus (2009, PG-13) – Nelson Mandela, black president of S. Africa, seeks to use the rugby World Cup to heal his nation [True]
Iron-Jawed Angels (2004, PG-13) – Two women lobby and mobilize for the right of women to vote; jailed, tortured (1920). [True]
Johnny (2010, PG) – A doctor loses a son, then later decides to adopt a terminally ill foster son – but his wife resists.
Joshua (2002, G) – A man enters modern town and teaches them to love God & one another – and does miracles. Great parable!
Journey of August King (1996, PG-13) – A simple white widower befriends a runaway woman slave at great cost to his life
Julie and Julia (2009, PG-13) – Julie blogs about making 524 Childs’ recipes in a year; celebrates two loving marriages [True]
K-Pax (2001, PG-13) – A man claiming to be from another galaxy teaches people important lessons about life
Lean on Me (1989, PG‑13) – A New Jersey black high‑school principal gains control, and goes through a change himself
The Least Among You (2008, PG-13) – A young black man with a past reluctantly enrolls at an all-white seminary in 1965 [True]
Letters from Iwo Jima (2006, R) – A respectful look at the motives of Japanese soldiers in the battle of Iwo Jima in WW2. [True]
Lincoln (2012, PG-13) – Lincoln faces challenges to pass the 13th amendment abolishing slavery; justice, maneuvering, marriage
Live and Become (2005, PG-13) – An Ethiopian boy immigrates to Israel in 1984, posing as a Jew; racism [True-based; subtitles]
The Long Walk Home (1990, PG) – A black maid in Alabama and her white homemaker face increasing hostilities; courage
Longford (2006, TV) – Devout Catholic British statesman humbly visits a detestable prisoner amidst social ridicule [True]
Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-5, PG-13) – Men, dwarves, elves and hobbits battle evil in Middle Earth; love, sacrifice, hope
Lovely Still (2008, PG) – An older man and woman awkwardly fall in love, and painfully but sweetly expose a hidden reality
Machine Gun Preacher (2011, R) – Former drug addict comes to Jesus and rescues children from armies in Sudan [True]
Man for All Seasons (1966, G) – Sir Thomas More stands against Henry 8; religious principals, courage, high cost [True]
The Man Without a Face (1993, PG-13) – A boy asks a former professor with a disfigured face and unknown past to tutor him.
Master & Commander (2003, PG-13) – A British warship commander is torn between honoring his crew and his mission
The Miracle Worker (1962) – Helen Keller is blind, deaf and mute from infancy; a tenacious teacher helps her communicate [True]
Molokai: The Story of Father Damien (1999, PG) – Catholic priest ministers to lepers on quarantined island at great cost [True]
More Than Dreams (2007, PG-13) Costly testimonies of 5 Muslims who convert to Jesus through a dream or vision [True]
Mr. Smith Comes to Washington (1939, PG) – A good-hearted, naïve man becomes a U.S. senator and faces state corruption
Munich (2005, R) – Origins of terrorism at Olympics and results; Israeli/Palestinian arguments; forgiveness and peace [True]
Murphy’s Romance (1985, PG-13) – Newly divorced woman/son move to a horse farm and meet the town’s quirky older bachelor
The Music Never Stopped (2011, PG) – Father/son have a rift; 20 yrs later the son has brain damage, music unites them [True]
My Best Enemy (2011, PG-13) – Two German close friends, one Jewish, are divided by the war and a high-level plot to destroy art
My Best Friend (2007, PG-13) – A friendless self-focused man is challenged to find anyone who could become his best friend
My Fair Lady (1964, G) – An unfeeling speech professor turns a common street woman into a poised duchess; musical
My Life (1993, PG-13) – High-achieving man faces death from cancer; makes video for unborn son; heals anger to father/family
My Louisiana Sky (2001, G) – A teen girl with mentally challenged parents faces issues of shame, love, identity & responsibility
My Name is Bill W. (1989, PG) – Story of the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous; nothing worked until “drunks helped drunks”
My Name is Khan (2010, PG-13) – Muslim man w/ Aspergers comes to U.S., finds love, but 9/11 brings chaos. Inspiring. Subtitles
Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010, PG) – Children search for the 7 Lost Lords, and learn character and spiritual lessons
Nightjohn (1996, PG-13) – A black slave who learned to read risks his life to teach an eager young plantation slave girl to read
The Ninth Day (2004, R) – A priest in Dachau is released for 9 days, and resists Nazi propaganda and pressure. [True, subtitles]
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency (2008, PG-13) – A woman in Botswana solves cases with moral sensitivity, humor & courage
Not Easily Broken (2009, PG-13) – A marriage unravels and mends with a pastor’s help; humor; feminism; black culture.
The Notebook (2004, PG-13) – A love story involving clashing social classes; experiences pain and a moving, enduring love
October Baby (2011, PG-13) – A young woman learns of her adoption after a botched abortion & seeks to know who she is [True]
October Sky (1999, PG) – Four boys design rockets to compete in state fair amidst ridicule; father/son healing, pursuing dreams
On the Waterfront (1954, PG) – A priest and young woman persuade a young man in the mob to stand up to their evil and control
Once (2007, R) – A woman reaches out to a street musician to sing music together; learn about true love; forgiveness; marriage
The Painted Veil (2006, PG-13) – A British couple loses love but finds it again amidst a cholera epidemic in China; forgiveness.
Paradise Road (1997, R) – Women from different walks of life endure and mostly survive a WW2 Japanese prison together
Parental Guidance (2012, PG) – A mother who tries to be the perfect parent leaves her kids with her comic parents for 2 days
Patch Adams (1998, PG-13) – A former mental patient becomes a doctor and uses humor and love to heal patients [True]
Peaceful Warrior (2006, PG-13) – A self-centered college gymnast meets a mysterious man whose wisdom changes his life.
The Pianist (2002, R) – A Polish piano player escapes German prisons; receives kindness and is changed
The Power of One (1992) – The life of a wealthy British boy raised in South Africa who resists racism at great cost.
The Prince and the Pauper (2000, PG) – A look-alike prince and a beggar boy change places amidst power, cruelty and comedy
Rabbit-proof Fence (2005, PG) – Three aboriginal girls escape a deportation camp in Australia and walk 1200 miles home. [True]
Radio (2003, PG) – A football coach incorporates a mentally-challenged man in his team against community advice
The Robe (1953) – Roman soldier who crucified Christ is converted and persecuted; old-style acting, but strong message of Jesus
Rookie (2002, G) – A high school coach/teacher is urged by his team to pursue his dream of pitching in the majors [True]
Ruby Bridges (1998, PG-13) – The Christian faith, courage, trials of a black girl integrating a school; racial dynamics [True]
Rudy (1993, PG) – A college student isn’t good enough for the football team, but he supports his team in other ways [True]
Sarah Plain and Tall (1990, G) – A cultured, strong-willed woman becomes wife and mother to a farm family
Saving God (2008, PG-13) – An ex-con returns to his ‘hood to reopen a church and rescue boys from drug-dealing; inspiring
Saving Mr. Banks (2013, PG) The obsessive creator of Mary Poppins challenges Walt Disney’s patience [True]
Saving Sarah Cain (2007, PG) – A city woman reluctantly parents her deceased Amish sister’s five children; values, community
The Scarlet and the Black (1983, PG) – A priest courageously helps POWs escape Nazi occupation in the Vatican [True]
Schindler’s List (1993, R) – A exploitive German businessman risks saving 1100 Polish Jews from death (nudity/violent). [True]
Seabiscuit (2003, PG-13) – A man pursues a dream with a forgotten race horse; overcoming adversity; 2nd chances [True]
Searching for Bobby Fisher (1993, PG) – A boy chess prodigy resists his father’s pressure to become great [True]
The Secret World of Arrietty (2010, G) – A tiny 1-inch fearful girl develops a friendship with a regular-sized boy [animated]
Selma (2014, PG-13) – Traces Martin Luther King, Jr. and marchers through the 3 marches to Selma; courage, peace [True]
Sherlock (2010+; R) – BBC Sherlock Holmes detective series with human angles of dysfunction and growth in relationships
Shine (1996, PG-13) – A brilliant pianist overcomes a controlling father and an emotional/social handicap; human dignity; love
The Short Game (2013, PG) – A moving documentary about 7-year old world golf champions; competition, parental influences
Short Term 12 (2013, R) – A young woman supervises at-risk teens; encounters challenges, love & personal demons; redemptive
Silent Night (2002, PG) – A mother and son “host” 6 bitter German & American soldiers on Christmas Eve; courage, peace [True]
The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn (1999, PG) – A black man’s simple and private life brings suspicion and admiration; healing
Sister Act 1 and 2 (1992/3, PG) – A street-wise black woman poses as a nun; is changed and uses a gospel choir for good
Slumdog Millionaire (2008, R) – A slum-raised boy in India experiences tragedies, grows through them; chooses love, forgiveness
Soldiers of Change (2006, PG-13) – A rich white boy falls in love with a black girl in the 60’s; racial progress; father/son healing
The Soloist (2008, PG-13) – Explores the world of homelessness when a self-centered reporter meets a homeless cellist
Something the Lord Made (2004, PG-13) – A black janitor becomes a self-taught surgeon amidst racial barriers [True]
Soul-Surfer (2011, PG) – A young champion surfer girl loses an arm to a shark and struggles to rebound in life and surfing [True]
Spitfire Grill (1996, PG-13) – Female ex-con settles in town and seeks to redeem her life amidst rejection and fear; growth
Stand and Deliver (1988, PG) – A teacher inspires city youth by helping them take a high-level math test
Still Alice (2014, PG-13) – The journey of a woman who gets Alzheimer’s at 50 and how she and her family cope; honesty, courage
Still Mine (2013, PG-13) An aging couple faces challenges as the wife’s dementia worsens; family dynamics
Super 8 (2011, PG-13) – Six kids witness a puzzling train wreck and turn sleuths in uncovering a secret government operation
Temple Grandin (2010, PG) – Follows the difficult life of an autistic woman in the 50s/60s and her insights into cattle [True]
Tender Mercies (1983, PG) – A former drunk and country singer finds healing through a new wife, step-son and facing his past
The Thing About My Folks (2005, PG-13) – An older man and his son take a road trip to get to know each other; fun, healing, love
To Save a Life (2009, PG-13) A popular party teen boy faces tragedy, reassesses his life, finds Christ, lives out hard choices
Toy Story 1 & 2 (1999, G) – Animated story of love, loyal friendship, and pride turning to humility
12 Angry Men (1957) – A dissenting juror in a murder trial challenges racial prejudice of other jurors.
Unconditional (2012, PG-13) – A depressed woman looks for her husband’s killer; encounters people of grace/redemption [True]
An Unfinished Life (2005, PG-13) – A man and his daughter-in-law face bitterness, self-understanding; a farm hand forgives
The Ultimate Gift (2007, PG) – A wealthy man’s dying will teaches his greedy grandson lessons about life; love, friendship
War Horse (2011, PG13) – A boy and his horse are separated throughout WW1; follows their separate journeys and reunion
We Are Marshall (2005, PG) – Football team is killed, town responds with courage and hope
When a Man Loves a Woman (1994, R) – A married couple struggles and overcomes when the wife’s alcoholism is revealed
Where Do We Go Now? (2011, PG13) – Women in a Lebanese village diffuse Christian/Muslim tensions/hatred among the men
Why Did I Get Married Too? (2010, PG-13) – Four couples/friends face marital crises; support, accountability, healing
Wide Awake (1998, PG) – A young boy in a Catholic school loses his grandfather and decides to search for God
With Honors (1994, PG-13) – A high-achieving Harvard student learns valuable lessons from an intellectual homeless man
The Witness (2000, PG‑13) – Amish boy sees murder; cop clashes with the nonviolence of the community in protecting the boy
Recommended
A Better Life (2011, PG-13) – An illegal immigrant and his teen son face financial, relational and gang challenges in LA.
A Love Affair: The Eleanor & Lou Gehrig Story (1978, PG) – Baseball hero’s battle with disease and his loving marriage [True]
A Mile In His Shoes (2011, PG) – A minor league baseball manager hires an autistic farm boy pitcher; understanding, inspiring
According to Greta (2009, PG-13) – A destructive, arrogant, hurting teen girl spends the summer with her caring grandparents
Ace of Hearts (2008, PG) – A police dog is falsely accused of mauling a criminal; dog’s cop finds restoration with wife/daughter
Adjustment Bureau (2011, PG-13) – A man resists “divine plans” to pursue love in a delicate balance of free will and determinism
Amreeka (2009, PG-13) – A mother and teen son flee oppression in Palestine but face cultural challenges in moving to America
Anna and the King (1999, PG-13) – An English woman challenges the pride and traditions of the King of Siam [True-based]
Avengers (2012, PG-13) – Superheros join to save earth, but most overcome internal rivalry and jealousy; friendship
August Rush (2007, PG) – Adventures of an orphaned boy musical prodigy and his longing to know his parents; romance; dreams
Awakenings (1990, PG-13) – A psychiatrist attempts to free patients from their frozen mental & physical conditions [Based on True]
Babette’s Feast (1987, G) – A cook’s simple acts of kindness overcome a town’s factions and anti-religious prejudices [subtitles]
Batman Begins (2005, PG) – How a man turns anger and bitterness into good and not vengeance.
Battle for Terra (2007, PG) – A space ship from Earth in the future wages war against a peaceful planet; sacrifice; animated sci-fi
Beat the Drum (2003, PG-13) – A young orphaned African bush boy’s journey to the city; exposé of AIDS; hope, courage
The Beaver (2011, PG-13) – A man suffering from deep depression uses a puppet to express himself; wife and son find healing
Begin Again (2014, R) – A lonely and hurting woman and man find family healing and purpose through recording fresh music
Being Flynn (2012, R) – The relationship between a homeless father and his adult son working at a shelter
Believe in Me ( 2006, PG) – A man reluctantly coaches a bad girls basketball team; success, child adoption, bonding [True]
Bella (2007, PG-13) – A hurting, caring man befriends a rejected, pregnant woman who wants an abortion; healing, pro-life
The Best of Men (2012, PG-13) – A doctor gives hope and healing to paraplegics through therapy and sports [True]
The Big Year (2011, PG) – Three birders compete to see record birds in a year, learn kindness, friendship and cooperation
The Blind Side (2009, PG-13) – A family takes in a failing, homeless teen (Oher) and helps him in school, life and football [True]
Bliss (2007, PG-13) – A Turkish woman is raped, then sentenced to death by her family. Two men help her find freedom [Subtitles]
The Book That Changed the World (2011, PG) – The people and factors behind the King James Bible [True]
The Book Thief (2013, PG-13) A girl copes with foster parents, hiding a Jew and friendships in Nazi Germany
The Boys are Back (2009, PG-13) – After his wife dies, a man tries to be a good father to his young son and his hostile teen son
Bridge on the River Kwai (1957, PG) – British POW’s in WW2 encounter redemptive values amidst Japanese rule
Broken Hill (2009, PG) – An Australian farm teen forms a prison “choir/orchestra” and finds adventures and growth and love
Bruce Almighty (2003, PG-13) – A man is angry with God’s way of running the world, and God lets him try for a few weeks
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee (2007, R) – Indians (esp. Sitting Bull) struggle to find respect from U.S. government [True]
Camelot (1967, PG) – Musical about a famous love triangle in Middle Ages where goodness is confronted by passions
Camp (2013, PG-13) – A driven businessman agrees to work at a camp for troubled kids, is over his head, and learns to love [True]
Captains Courageous (1937, PG) – A spoiled rich kid is taught lessons in life by spending 3 months on a fishing boat
Cellular (2004, PG-13) – A woman and son are kidnapped and a self-centered young man becomes a reluctant rescuer
Changeling (2008, R) – A woman and pastor take on a corrupt LA police dept. over the false return of her kidnapped son [True]
Charlotte Gray (2001, PG-13) – An ordinary woman makes a hard choice to protect two Jewish children during WW1
Chasing Mavericks (2012, PG) – A young surfer trains to face the “big one” while learning life lessons from a hurting mentor [True]
Chasing 3000 (2007, PG) – Two boys, one with muscular dystrophy, journey to see Roberto Clemente hit his 3000th hit [True]
Chef (2014, R) – A dysfunctional and creative chef finds healing for his family and himself in starting a food truck in LA
Children of Heaven (1997, PG) – In Iran (subtitled) a boy shows great courage to do what is right and to love his sister; inspiring
Chocolat (2000, PG-13) – A rules & traditions church and town are unsettled by a woman and her soul-stirring chocolate
The Christmas Shoes (2002, PG) – Two intertwined families face a workaholic father and a mother’s dying with courage and love
Citizen Kane (1941, PG) – A wealthy newspaper tycoon leads a powerful but self-centered life amidst mystery and pain
City of Ember (2008, PG) – Two youth solve riddles, resist passivity and doom, and lead a city built under the earth to freedom
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009, PG) – A woman’s addiction to shopping creates lies and harms friendships; freedom
Cool Runnings (1993, PG) – A Jamaican bobsled team trains without snow, then enters the Olympics with courage and laughter
The Count of Monte Cristo (2002, PG-13) – A successful man is unjustly imprisoned, faith wavers, seeks revenge; mercy
Dad (1989, PG) – Father and son learn the meaning of love, forgiveness; caring for an aging parent
Dan in Real Life (2007, PG-13) – A widower with three daughters sorts out love and parenting on a fun-filled family reunion trip
Dances With Wolves (1990, PG-13) – An isolated soldier befriends a wild wolf and the Sioux Indians and heals from his past
Dangerous Minds (1995, R) – A female Marine turned English H.S. teacher faces unruly and disrespectful urban students; respect
Dead Poets Society (1989) – Prep school boys are challenged by an English teacher to “seize the day” and not conform
Deep Impact (1998, PG-13) – A Christian president, families and astronauts sacrifice to prevent a comet from hitting earth.
Departures (2008, PG-13) – Japanese man learns the art of preparing the dead for burial; humor, marriage, moving [Subtitles]
Devil’s Arithmetic (1999, PG-13) – A modern apathetic Jewish teen girl is sent to the Holocaust and returns with new values
Door to Door (2002, PG) – Man with cerebral palsy persists in his dream to be a successful door-to-door salesman
Doubt (2008, PG-13) – A humble, caring priest battles the accusations of a sister-principal who charges him with child molestation
Down in the Delta (1998, PG13) – Drug-dependent, poor mother is sent to the south to rehab and learn from a hard-working uncle
Driving Miss Daisy (1989, PG) – Relationship between a crusty Jewish Southern rich woman and her black chauffeur
Dying Young (1991, R) – A young working woman cares for a young rich man battling cancer; chemo effects, complex love
Elephant Man (1980, PG) – A deformed boy’s life, ostracizing, rehabilitation and love in 19th century England [True]
Endgame (2009, PG-13) – Tense negotiations between black and white leaders that eventually ended S. Africa apartheid [True]
Evan Almighty (2007, PG) – God tells a U.S. senator to build an ark in Virginia; family values, faith, comedy
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (2011, PG13) – An anxious boy learns courage from his deceased father’s clues left behind
A Father’s Choice (2000, PG) – After their mother’s murder, two girls go live with their self-absorbed rodeo dad; forgiveness, love
Fiddler on the Roof (1971) – Musical about a Jewish family’s tensions between traditional values and new.
Field of Dreams (1989, PG) – A man builds a baseball park in the middle of nowhere to pursue dream; father-son healing
The Fighter (2010, R) – Two boxing brothers battle drugs, dreams and family dysfunction to find success and healing [True]
Flatliners (1990, R) – Medical students experiment with the borderline of death; value and understanding of all, forgiveness
The Flying Scotsman (2006, PG-13) – Man competes in speed-cycling against odds, with ingenuity and determination [True]
Forever Young (1992, PG) – Man freezes his body and returns to life many years later to second chances and love
Forrest Gump (1994, PG-13) – A mentally challenged man’s innocent view of the world contrasts it’s sinful and selfish values
The Four Feathers (2002, PG-13) – A British soldier seeks redemption after being branded a coward; tensions of God/war/country
Francesco (1989) – The youthful wildness, conversion, forming of his band of brothers, & challenges of Francis of Assisi [True]
Frequency (2000, PG-13) – A despairing adult son faces his hurts about losing his mother and father, amidst sci-fi drama
Friday Night Lights (2004, PG-13) – A football team pursues a state title and learns lessons about priorities, relationships [True]
Flywheel (2003, PG) – A Christian film: An unethical used car salesman grows spiritually as a businessman, husband and father
The Giant Mechanical Man (2012, PG-13) – Two ordinary, lonely people fall gradually in love, complicated by his dual identity
Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story (2009, G) – A black youth overcomes obstacles to become a pediatric surgeon [True]
Gimme Shelter (2013, PG-13) A teen runs away from her abusive mother and seeks acceptance with her father
The Giver (2014, PG-13) Two men seek to return choice and love to a futurist city that has chemically eradicated war and hate
Glory Road (2006, PG) – Black basketball team experiences racial injustice and overcomes
God on Trial (2008, PG-13) – Jews awaiting death in a concentration camp debate God’s love, justice and his covenant with them
God’s Not Dead (2014, PG) – A freshman reluctantly challenges his arrogant atheist college professor about God’s existence
Gone, Baby, Gone (2007, R) – A man is thrust into moral choices as he searches for a kidnapped child (strong language)
Good Will Hunting (1997, R) – Underachieving math whiz is helped to find his potential by new friends; all grow
Goodnight, Mister Tom (1998, PG) – A lonely old man and a war refugee boy from London experience healing together
The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005, G) – A 20-yr old former caddie wins the 1913 U.S. Open against great odds [True]
Green Dragon (2001, PG-13) – Vignettes of Vietnamese refugees in U.S. camp, showing their culture, fears, courage, assimilation
Groundhog Day (1993, PG-13) – A self-centered man humorously gets to live a particular day over and over again – and matures.
Harry Potter series (7) (2001 – 11, PG-13) – Children training at a school for wizards band together to battle evil; build friendships.
Heavens Fall (2006, PG) – Black men are falsely accused of rape in 1931; lawyers, judge wrestle with duty and justice [True]
Helen (2009, R) – A successful career and family woman falls into deep depression that alienates all; stress, love, restoration
Higher Ground(2011, R) – A woman finds faith and a loving church, but later questions it and leaves it. Probing; honest; painful
I Am David (2004, PG) – A 12-year old boy escapes a Communist camp and embarks on a mercy mission to Denmark
I’ll Be There (2003, PG-13) – An alcoholic rock star finds he has a teen daughter; amidst humor, many relationships are restored
The Incredibles (2004, PG) – Family values learned by a “superhero” family. Animated.
The Intouchables (2011, R) – A quadriplegic hires an ex-con as a caretaker; humor, adventures in understanding [True, subtitles]
Invincible (2006, PG) – A down-and-out man tries out for the Philadelphia Eagles football team amidst much skepticism [True]
Island on Bird Street (1997, PG-13) An 11-yr. old boy in Poland survives alone when his family is taken by Nazis [Based on True]
John Rabe (2009, R) – A German businessman defends the plight of Chinese in Nanking from the Japanese invasion [True]
Jungle 2 Jungle (1997, PG) – A businessman brings his 13 year-old tribal son to NYC; culture clashes, humor, romance
Justice (2004, PG13) – A public defender goes independent to resist the plea-bargain “factory” that undercuts justice in the courts
King of Kings (1961, PG) – An engaging telling of the story of Jesus, woven in with historical, political and personal events
The King’s Speech (2010, R) – A common speech therapist seeks to help King George VI conquer a stuttering problem. [True]
The Kite Runner (2007, PG-13) – The story of an Afghan boy whose fears and pride are overcome in adulthood; sacrificial love.
Knights of the South Bronx (2006, PG) – An inner city elementary school teacher transforms kids by teaching them chess [True]
The Lady (2011, R) – A woman fights for democracy for Burma, despite 15 years of house arrest; her English husband joins her [True]
Lars and the Real Girl (2007, PG-13) – A socially fearful man is accepted/loved by his church and friends in spite of embarrassment
Last Chance Harvey (2009, PG-13) – A man who has failed in life meets a woman who is afraid of commitment; healing, friendship
The Least of These (2008, TV-14) – A priest with a past seeks to do good as a teacher at a Catholic boy school with mysteries
Legendary (2010, PG-13) – A high school nerd goes out for the wrestling team, which kickstarts multiple family healings
Letters to Father Jacob (2010, PG) – Elderly blind rural priest gives a bitter woman convict a second chance; both help each other
Life Above All (2010, PG-13) – A 12-year old South African girl must care for her AIDS-infected mother and two younger siblings
Life is Beautiful (1998, PG-13) – A jovial Italian Jew’s love for his wife and son shields them from the horrors of Nazism [subtitles]
Lilies of the Field (1963) – Black Baptist unemployed handyman meets German nuns in desert; culture clashes, pride, unity
Lions for Lambs (2007, R) – Drama that shows “war on terror” from angles of military, politics, journalism, academics, youth
Listen to Your Heart (2010, PG-13) – A struggling musician finds love in a privileged deaf girl; parental opposition
Living Proof (2008, PG) – Challenges/perseverance of doctor who developed breast cancer drug herceptin; strong marriage [True]
Lord, Save Us From Your Followers (2008, PG-13) – An engaging documentary challenging Christians to not be judgmental
Losing Isaiah (1995, R) – A black woman seeks to get her abandoned child back from an adoptive white couple
Love Happens (2009, PG-13) – A widower and author/speaker on grief faces his own pain when a woman awakens his heart
Loving the Bad Man (2010, PG-13) – A Christian woman is raped and must deal with Jesus’ call to love her enemy
Mad Hot Ballroom (2005, PG) – Inner city youths take up ballroom dancing competition; laughter, respect, hard work [True]
March of the Penguins (2005, G) – Documentary of Antarctica’s penguins and their sacrificial care for their young.
Martian Child (2007, PG) – A widowed man adopts a difficult, withdrawn, quirky child who says he’s from Mars [Based on True]
Marvin’s Room (1996, PG-13) – Two estranged sisters and a rebellious son find they need each other and find healing
The Matrix Trilogy (1999-03, R) – A brave group of humans resist an alternative computer/virtual reality that seeks to control them.
Memories of Me (1988, PG-13) – A successful surgeon pursues reconciliation with his controlling and humorous actor-dad
The Mighty (1998, PG) – A smart sickly boy and a big strong boy team up to face life’s obstacles as “knights” and do good
Millions (2005, PG) – A boy gets messages from past saints and lives courageously and generously – and it’s contagious
Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – A man who says he’s Santa Claus and loves kids makes people think at Macy’s
Moneyball (2011, PG-13) – Oakland A’s baseball gen. mgr. daringly uses computer analysis to compete with rich teams [True]
Mother Teresa (2003, PG) – She leaves her convent to care for the poorest of the poor in Calcutta because Jesus told her to [True]
Mozart and the Whale – (2005, PG-13) Two autistic adults navigate love in painful, humorous and touching ways. [Based on True]
Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995, PG) – A teacher uses music to reach his students; explores the world of a deaf student
My Big, Fat, Greek Wedding (2002, PG) – A woman receives unconditional love in the context of a humorously endearing culture.
The New World (2006, PG-13) – 1607 Pocahontas and John Smith; understanding different cultures, valuing committed love
Nicholas Nickleby (2002, PG) – A Dickens’ novel set in England exposing social evils overcome by friendship, integrity and love
No Reservations (2007, PG) – A single, in-control woman chef must take in her niece, and work alongside a free-spirit chef
Norma Rae (1979, PG) – A feisty textile worker joins a fight to unionize her company for worker rights [Based on True]
O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, PG-13) – Three southern escaped convicts encounter themselves – and God; comedy
O Jerusalem (2006, R) – An American Arab and Jew go to Israel in 1947 as friends, but in the battle for Jerusalem, are at odds
On a Clear Day (2005, PG-13) – An older man loses his job, trains to swim the English Channel; friends and family find healing
One Night With the King (2006, PG) – Queen Esther’s role of courage and sacrifice for her Jewish people
One True Thing (1998, R) – A woman returns home to care for her dying mother and encounters dysfunctions and healing
The Other Son (2012, PG-13) – Jewish and Palestinian boys are accidentally switched at birth; find out 18 years later [Sub-titles]
Outsourced (2006, PG-13) – A man is reluctantly sent to India to train a product call center; encounters many cultural lessons
The Other Side of the Mountain (1979, PG) – Olympic skier is paralyzed and faces her self-pity and fears [True]
The Other Woman (1995, PG) – A divorced and dying woman is forced to work out differences with her children’s stepmother
Paper Clips (2004, G) – A rural high school class collects 26 million paper clips to call attention to the Holcaust; prejudice [True]
Parent Trap (1998, PG) – Twin girls separated at birth to individual parents meet and conspire to reunite their parents in marriage
Partition (2007, R) – A Hindu man and Muslim woman are drawn together amidst 1947 India/Pakistan ethnic tensions
The Perfect Game (2009, PG) – A ragtag Mexican kids’ baseball team goes all the way to the Little League World Series [True]
Perfect Harmony (1991, PG) – A boy choir and community experience racial conflict and healing; youth choices, courage
Places in the Heart (1984, PG-13) – A widowed woman ‘s struggle amidst economic depression & racism; inspirational
Pride (2007, PG) – A man founds an all-black swim team in the 1970s, facing racism and much skepticism; humor [True]
Pride & Prejudice (2005, PG) – Romance about integrity and character being rewarded more than beauty or personality
Prince Caspian (2008, PG-13) – A young prince escapes indoctrination to find another land that is good and ruled by Aslan.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2005, PG-13) – A man struggles to get by, but protects & cares for his son amidst great suffering
Quartet (2012, PG-13) – Two men/women at a retirement home for musicians humorously face aging/relational problems [True]
Raising Helen (2004, PG-13) – A romantic comedy of a self-centered woman suddenly having to raise two nieces and a nephew.
Redemption (2004, PG-13) – “Tookie” Williams, founder of the “Crips” gang, is transformed in prison to peace, nonviolence [True]
Regarding Henry (1991, PG‑13) – An immoral lawyer loses his memory and enables his family to be restored
Reign Over Me (2007, R) – Despite profanity and some sexuality, a powerful movie about male friendship, marriage and healing.
Reservation Road (2007, R) – A hit-and-run driver and the victim’s father battle guilt, fear, anger, revenge; each grows as a person
Return to Paradise (1998, R) – Two friends must decide whether to serve jail time in Malaysia to prevent a friend from hanging
Rust (2010, PG) – A pastor loses faith, returns to his home town, and is gradually reunited with his estranged father and his faith
Savannah (2013, PG-13) – During Civil War a reclusive man with a damaged past hires a freed slave; finds criticism, love
Saving Private Ryan (1998, R) – The atrocities, suffering and heroic/loving sacrifice of war (WW2)
The Scapegoat (2012, PG) – A man is forced to take on the life of his “identical twin” and seeks to undo the evil of the other.
Scarlet Pimpernel (1982 version, PG) – Aristocrat man lives double life as a French revolutionary, rescuing people from tyranny
The Second Chance (2006, PG-13) – Suburban white pastor meets urban black pastor, and both find new understandings
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013, PG) A man faces his fears and comfortable life by taking risks and pursuing love
Secrets of Jonathan Sperry (2008, PG) – Young boys learn lessons about bullies, death, girls and the Bible from an old man
Selma Lord Selma (1999, PG) – A young girl joins her black community and M. L. King in seeking the right for them to vote [True]
Serious Moonlight (2009, R) – A woman desperately tries to save her marriage despite her husband’s affair; a serious comedy
Shrek 1 & 2 (2002-4, PG) – Animated ogres learn love and self-acceptance and humans learn to not be prejudiced
Signs (2002, PG-13) – Widowed and disillusioned Episcopal priest raising his kids encounters aliens; restored faith, family love
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005, PG) – Four best friend teen girls separate one summer and learn life lessons
Smile (2005, PG-13) – A privileged teen goes to China and takes on a mission to find and aid a girl with a disfigured face
The Snow Walker (2003, PG) – A cocky pilot crashes in the Arctic tundra and learns survival and life lessons from an Inuit woman
Spider-Man 2&3 (2004/7, PG-13) – Man wrestles with his calling in life that is costly / Struggles with temptation for power
Superman Returns (2005, PG-13) – Superhero gives his life to help others and pursue justice, amidst personal questioning
Star Wars (PG-13) – Good overcoming evil with the help of spiritual forces; how evil gradually seduces a person; friendship
Straight Story (1999, G) – An elderly man rides his lawnmower 300 miles to make peace with his brother; others healed along way
Sweetland (2007, PG) – An American farmer and a German would-be wife experience judgment and reconciliation, post-WW1
The Tale of Despereaux (2008, G) – A little, brave mouse helps a princess, king, servant girl and a rat learn to care and forgive
The Theory of Everything (2014, PG-13) – Mathematician Stephen Hawkings faces ALS disease in marriage/profession [True]
Things We Lost in the Fire (2007, R) – A distraught widow, her daughter, a heroin addict, & others assist one other toward healing
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962, PG) – A white lawyer defends a black man in the South; father-love; children learn acceptance
Trouble with the Curve (2012, PG-13) – A woman’s hidden love for baseball clashes with her scout-father; relationship healing
The Truman Show (1998, PG) – A man discovers his life is a live TV show the whole world watches; power of media, choice
The Way Back (2010, PG-13) – 7 diverse men escape a Siberian prison and, with a young woman, begin a 4000 mile trek to India
Tyler Perry’s ‘Madea’s Family Reunion’ (2006, PG-13) – Marital abuse, mother/daughter conflict, love, extended family, humor
Tyler Perry’s ‘Meet the Browns’ (2008, PG-13) A black single mom fights urban poverty, then meets her crazy unknown family.
Uncle Nino (2005, PG) – An elderly Italian uncle visits his nephew’s troubled family in America; humor, healing, teen values
Up (2009, PG) – A young boy helps a self-centered, grieving elderly man address his depression after the loss of his wife. Animated
Ushpizin (2004, PG) – Hasidic Jewish couple encounters humorous “tests” from God and learn faith, marital love and hospitality
The Village (2004, PG-13) – An secluded village lives with a secret that starts to unravel and forces honesty and true community
The Visitor (2008, PG-13) – A self-absorbed professor is changed by an illegal alien couple; finds drums and his heart
The Vow (2012, PG-13) – A man’s wife gets amnesia and is mentally stuck in high school; her husband tries to woo or back.
Warm Springs (2005, PG) – Franklin D. Roosevelt’s inspiring battle with polio, marriage, shame and his shattered dreams [True]
We Bought a Zoo (2011, PG) – A widowed father buys a rundown zoo with staff; his kids object; learning, love, cooperation [True]
What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? (1993, PG-13) – A small town young man cares for a mentally disabled brother, obese mother
When the Game Stands Tall (2014, PG) – Values of a high school football coach over a record-setting 115 game win streak [True]
Whiplash (2014, R) – An obsessive drummer competes at a prestigious school under a harsh director; seeks peace and identity
Why Did I Get Married? (2007, PG-13) – Four married couples vacation together and experience various marital crises & healing
Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken (1991, PG) – Orphan girl seeks fame in horse‑diving act; tragedy overcome; friendships [True]
Wildflower (1991, PG-13) – A rural brother and sister reach out to care for an abused epileptic teen; sacrifice, love, doing right(
Winnie Mandela (2011, R) – South Africa’s freedom journey through the experience of Nelson Mandela’s wife; suffering [True]
Wit (2001, PG-13) – A single woman battles cancer in hospital; loneliness, callousness, regrets, empathy, friendship, kindness
Won’t Back Down (2012, PG) – A mother and a teacher try to reform a failing urban school, taking on bureaucracy and unions
The Yellow Handkerchief (2008, PG-13) – An excon gets a ride from a teen couple and both aid the other in pursuing love
Yesterday (2001, R) – A poor African woman raises a daughter and gets AIDS from her husband – lives with courage, forgiveness
Updated 5/27/15