11 Motivational Movies That Every Student Must Watch

The top motivational movies like Forrest Gump, Good Will Hunting, Taare Zameen Par, 3 Idiots, and Theory of Everything have always been a powerful source of inspiration for people of all ages, especially students. They serve as great remedies for exam anxiety, ignite dreams, and also provide guidance in uncertain times. The journey of life is like a wonderful mess, especially for us students, as we navigate through various challenges that shape us into more mature individuals. Patience and perseverance are essential tools in overcoming tough times. But sometimes, to make wise decisions like studying abroad, we need an extra push to steer us in the right direction. And there's no better source of inspiration than movies. They serve as guiding lights through the turbulence of studenthood. There are plenty of inspirational movies that encourage us to think outside the box, stir powerful emotions, and challenge us to exceed our limits, fostering personal growth. Without further delay, let's see some of the top motivational movies for students that inspire personal growth.

Table of Contents

• 11 Best Motivational movies for students
• 1. Forrest Gump
• 2. Good Will Hunting
• 3. 3 Idiots
• 4. Taare Zameen Par
• 5. Theory of everything
• 6. Lost in Translation
• 7. The Pursuit of Happyness
• 8. Harry Potter
• 9. Emily in Paris
• 10. The Big Bang Theory
• 11. Freedom Writers
• How to enhance the movie-watching experience and find inspiration for studying abroad?
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

11 Best Motivational Movies for Students

Here is a list of the best motivational movies for students. It includes the best Bollywood motivational movies for students in Hindi and the best English movies for students. These films are filled with inspiring stories and life lessons that every student can learn from.

1. Forrest Gump

"Forrest Gump," adapted from a 1986 novel, reigns as a top motivational movie for students. It depicts the journey of a man with an IQ of 75 who overcomes adversities to achieve remarkable feats, from winning bravery awards to excelling in ping pong and making money by selling shrimp. The film beautifully portrays how patience and resilience can help navigate life's challenges, inspiring viewers to believe in the power of determination. With its timeless message—"Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're gonna get"—it remains a must-watch for every student seeking inspiration and motivation.

Film Origin: USA
Year of Release: 1994
IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
Genre: Drama, Romance
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 2 Hours 22 Minutes

 

Cast:

• Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump
• Robin Wright as Jenny Curran
• Gary Sinise as Lieutenant Dan Taylor

Awards

• Academy Awards (Oscars): Best Picture, Best Director (Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor in a Leading Role (Tom Hanks), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Visual Effects
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director – Motion Picture (Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Tom Hanks)
• BAFTA Awards: Best Film, Best Direction (Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor in a Leading Role (Tom Hanks)
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role (Tom Hanks)
• Directors Guild of America Awards: Outstanding Directing – Feature Film (Robert Zemeckis)
• Writers Guild of America Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay
• American Film Institute Awards: Movie of the Year

2. Good Will Hunting

Most of us might have undiscovered hidden talents, but this movie inspires us to identify them. The story of "Good Will Hunting" movie revolves around the journey of Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with a troubled past who discovers his exceptional mathematical talent with the guidance of Professor Lambeau. Through therapy sessions with psychiatrist Sean Maguire, he will confront his emotional barriers and learn about life and love. The film's touching portrayal of self-realization highlights the challenging yet transformative process of personal growth. It is truly a motivational movie for viewers to confront their vulnerabilities, release limiting beliefs, and embrace the courage to change for the better.

Film Origin: USA
Year of Release: 1997
IMDB Rating: 8.3/10
Genre: Drama
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 2 Hours 06 Minutes

Cast:

• Matt Damon as Will Hunting
• Robin Williams as Sean Maguire
• Ben Affleck as Chuckie Sullivan
• Stellan Skarsgård as Professor Gerald Lambeau

Awards: 

• Academy Awards (Oscars): Best Supporting Actor (Robin Williams)
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Screenplay (Matt Damon and Ben Affleck)
• BAFTA Awards: Best Original Screenplay (Matt Damon and Ben Affleck)
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role (Robin Williams)
• Writers Guild of America Awards: Best Original Screenplay (Matt Damon and Ben Affleck)
• American Film Institute Awards: Movie of the Year

3. 3 Idiots

Another motivational movie to make you realize your potential is "3 Idiots", based on Chetan Bhagat's novel "Five Point Someone,". It is about three youngsters, hailing from different backgrounds, who join an Engineering college in Delhi and end up becoming friends. The film captures the rollercoaster of student life including fun and inspirational lessons you will never forget. Through their journey, the film redefines success, underlining the mantra 'all can be well' when pursuing one's passions. It is one of the student-inspiring movies that uncover your potential, stresses friendship’s value, tackles life challenges, and encourages creative thinking. With laughter, tears, and relatable moments, it speaks to students grappling with finding purpose and overcoming obstacles.

Film Origin: Indian
Year of Release: 2009
IMDB Rating: 8.4/10
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Language: Hindi
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 2 Hours 50 Minutes

Cast:

• Aamir Khan as Ranchoddas "Rancho" Shamaldas Chanchad
• R. Madhavan as Farhan Qureshi
• Sharman Joshi as Raju Rastogi
• Kareena Kapoor Khan as Pia Sahastrabuddhe
• Boman Irani as Viru Sahastrabuddhe (Virus)

Awards: 

• Filmfare Awards: Best Film, Best Director (Rajkumar Hirani), Best Actor (Aamir Khan), Best Supporting Actor (Boman Irani), Best Story (Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani)
• IIFA Awards: Best Film, Best Director (Rajkumar Hirani), Best Actor (Aamir Khan), Best Supporting Actor (Boman Irani)
• National Film Awards: Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment
• Star Screen Awards: Best Film, Best Director (Rajkumar Hirani), Best Actor (Aamir Khan), Best Supporting Actor (Boman Irani)

4. Taare Zameen Par

Taare Zameen Par is a globally renowned Indian film centering on Ishaan Awasthi, a teenage boy grappling with dyslexia. Throughout the story, the letters appear to dance in front of this 8-year-old, presenting him with numerous obstacles. Despite his struggles, his parents perceive him as spoiled, prompting them to enroll him in a school hostel. It's here that his artistic talents are discovered by his art teacher, who guides him to realise his true potential. The film's depiction of the challenges faced by a dyslexic child and his journey to success places it at the 4th spot on our list of motivational movies for students.

Film Origin: Indian
Year of Release: 2009
IMDB Rating: 8.4/10
Genre: Drama, Family
Language: Hindi
Streaming Platform: YouTube
Total Duration: 2 Hours 45 Minutes

Cast:

• Darsheel Safary as Ishaan Awasthi
• Aamir Khan as Ram Shankar Nikumbh
• Tisca Chopra as Maya Awasthi
• Vipin Sharma as Nandkishore Awasthi
• Sachet Engineer as Yohaan Awasthi

Awards:

• Filmfare Awards: Best Film (Critics), Best Director (Aamir Khan), Best Actor (Aamir Khan), Best Story (Amole Gupte)
• National Film Awards: Best Film on Family Welfare, Best Lyrics (Prasoon Joshi for the song "Maa")
• Star Screen Awards: Best Film, Best Director (Aamir Khan), Best Story (Amole Gupte)
• Zee Cine Awards: Best Film, Best Director (Aamir Khan), Best Actor (Aamir Khan)

5. Theory of everything

Theory of Everything, an inspirational story of one the greatest scientists in the history of mankind is next on our list. The movie is about the life story of Stephen Hawking, a brilliant mind in cosmology and physics, who overcame all obstacles despite being diagnosed with a degenerative motor neuron disease. From his days as an exceptional student to his groundbreaking contributions to science, his story teaches us that disabilities cannot hinder success if one possesses the determination to overcome them. Despite doctors' predictions, Hawking surpassed expectations, living until the age of 76 and leaving a lasting impact on the world of cosmology and physics. This movie inspires students with special needs, reminding us that there are no limits to what one can achieve with perseverance and resilience.

Film Origin: British
Year of Release: 2014
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Genre: Biography, Drama
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 2 Hours 03 Minutes

Movie Cast:

• Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking
• Felicity Jones as Jane Hawking
• Charlie Cox as Jonathan Hellyer Jones
• David Thewlis as Dennis Sciama
• Emily Watson as Beryl Wilde

Awards:

• Academy Awards (Oscars): Best Actor (Eddie Redmayne), Best Original Score (Jóhann Jóhannsson)
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama (Eddie Redmayne), Best Original Score – Motion Picture (Jóhann Jóhannsson)
• BAFTA Awards: Outstanding British Film, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Eddie Redmayne), Best Adapted Screenplay
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role (Eddie Redmayne)

6. Lost in Translation

Another must-watch motivational movie is "Lost in Translation", which captures the adventure of living in a new city with a different culture and diversity. It showcases how individuals with similar concerns can bond together. Every student who aspires to study abroad worries about adjusting to a new environment and hopes to find a friend in a foreign land with whom they can share their feelings. It beautifully featured the most relevant key themes for anyone going through the college experience, particularly if one has just begun their journey. For first-time college students abroad, I found this movie to be incredibly comforting.

Film Origin: American
Year of Release: 2003
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Genre: Drama, Romance
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 01 Hours 41 Minutes

Cast:

• Bill Murray as Bob Harris
• Scarlett Johansson as Charlotte
• Giovanni Ribisi as John
• Anna Faris as Kelly
• Fumihiro Hayashi as Charlie Brown

Awards:

• Academy Awards (Oscars): Best Original Screenplay (Sofia Coppola)
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Bill Murray)
• BAFTA Awards: Best Original Screenplay (Sofia Coppola)
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role (Bill Murray)

7. The Pursuit of Happyness

Standing at the 7th spot of our motivational movies for students, this biographical American drama "The Pursuit of Happyness” is based on entrepreneur Chris Gardner's journey, highlighting the relentless chase for the American Dream. The movie is about how Chris Gardner, a middle-aged salesman facing tough times transformed from being homeless to owning a brokerage house through sheer determination. The film underscores the power of perseverance and determination, showing that with commitment, one can overcome challenges and achieve success. It serves as a powerful reminder that hard work and determination can turn dreams into reality, inspiring audiences to keep pushing forward despite obstacles.

Film Origin: American
Year of Release: 2006
IMDB Rating: 8.0/10
Genre: Biography, Drama
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 01 Hours 57 Minutes
Cast:

• Will Smith as Chris Gardner
• Jaden Smith as Christopher Gardner Jr.
• Thandie Newton as Linda Gardner
• Brian Howe as Jay Twistle
• James Karen as Martin Frohm

Awards:

• Black Reel Awards: Best Actor (Will Smith), Best Supporting Actress (Jaden Smith)
• BET Awards: Best Actor (Will Smith)
• Capri Awards: Best Actor (Will Smith), Best Breakout Performance (Jaden Smith)
• Image Awards: Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture (Will Smith), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture (Jaden Smith)

8. Harry Potter

Next on the list is, Harry Potter, the movie that inspires us to never give up on our study abroad dreams. The Harry Potter films have sparked a universal longing for our Hogwarts acceptance letters. As we watched the movies, we were mesmerized by the enchanting scenery of the United Kingdom. The UK, known for its outstanding education and diverse student population, has become a source of inspiration for students around the globe to study overseas. The film inspired each of us to study at our dream colleges, aiming to become memorable students, build strong friendships, and learn life's valuable lessons. Many also found a love for reading through the Harry Potter series of books.

Film Origin: British
Year of Release: 2001
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Jio Cinema
Total Duration: multiple seasons

Cast:

• Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter
• Emma Watson as Hermione Granger
• Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley
• Alan Rickman as Severus Snape
• Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall

Awards:

• BAFTA Awards: Outstanding British Film, Production Design, Visual Effects, Makeup & Hair
• MTV Movie Awards: Best Movie, Best Villain, Best Hero
• Teen Choice Awards: Choice Movie – Fantasy, Choice Actor and Actress in a Fantasy Movie, Choice Movie Villain
• Saturn Awards: Best Fantasy Film, Best Actor and Actress in a Fantasy Film, Best Supporting Actor and Actress in a Fantasy Film
• Empire Awards: Best Film, Best British Film

9. Emily in Paris

Another must-see motivational movie is Emily in Paris, a series that reflects the dreams of fashion and brand management students everywhere. It ignites the desire to study in Paris and immerse oneself in the Parisian lifestyle. The blend of creativity, work, and socialising in the Parisian work culture is a desire for many students. For those seeking a globally recognized education and the experience of European work culture, France stands out as the perfect destination for studying abroad.

Film Origin: American
Year of Release: 2020
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Total Duration: Multiple Seasons

Cast:

• Lily Collins as Emily Cooper
• Ashley Park as Mindy Chen
• Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie Grateau
• Lucas Bravo as Gabriel
• Camille Razat as Camille
• Samuel Arnold as Julien
• Bruno Gouery as Luc
• William Abadie as Antoine Lambert

Awards:

• Golden Globe Awards: Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy
• People's Choice Awards: The Comedy Show of 2020
• Critics' Choice Television Awards: Most Bingeworthy Show
• Teen Choice Awards: Choice Comedy TV Show
• Satellite Awards: Best Musical or Comedy Series

10. The Big Bang Theory

If your favorite subject is science and want to explore the mysteries of maths, science, and history, then "The Big Bang Theory" series might have fueled your passion to study science-related courses abroad and maybe even dream of working at Caltech. The show clearly portrays the brilliance of scientists and how their relentless dedication and determination drive them to make groundbreaking discoveries across various scientific fields.

Origin: American
Year of Release: 2007
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
Genre: Comedy
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: Multiple Seasons

Main Cast:

• Johnny Galecki as Leonard Hofstadter
• Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper
• Kaley Cuoco as Penny
• Simon Helberg as Howard Wolowitz
• Kunal Nayyar as Rajesh Koothrappali
• Melissa Rauch as Bernadette Rostenkowski
• Mayim Bialik as Amy Farrah Fowler

Awards:

• Primetime Emmy Awards: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Jim Parsons), Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series
• People's Choice Awards: Favorite TV Comedy
• Critics' Choice Television Awards: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Simon Helberg)
• Satellite Awards: Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy

11. Freedom Writers

Freedom Writers is a motivational film depicting a young teacher's efforts to inspire her students to pursue further education despite challenging circumstances. This Hollywood movie highlights the importance of perseverance and tolerance in working towards one's goals. Also, this uplifting movie serves as a beacon of hope for students who may have faced difficulties in high school or struggled with studying early in life, reminding them to keep their ultimate objectives in mind. Also, this movie serves as a reminder to never give up and to strive towards achieving success, no matter the obstacles.

Origin: American 
Year of Release: 2007
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
Language: English
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Total Duration: 01 Hours 57 Minutes
Cast:

• Hilary Swank as Erin Gruwell
• Patrick Dempsey as Scott Casey
• Scott Glenn as Steve Gruwell
• Imelda Staunton as Margaret Campbell
• April L. Hernandez as Eva Benitez
• Mario as Andre Bryant

Awards:

• Teen Choice Awards: Choice Movie – Drama
• Image Awards: Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture (Hilary Swank)
• NAACP Image Awards: Outstanding Motion Picture
• Humanitas Prize: Feature Film Category
• Young Artist Awards: Best Young Ensemble Performance in a Feature Film

Hence, these are the top 11 inspirational movies for students. Watching movies about scientists' journeys, adventures, and stories of successful people in varied areas such as education, music, sports, etc. boosts your morale and helps you find the right motivation in an unimaginable way to progress in your career.

Also, Click here to discover the best movies for learning English.

How to enhance the movie-watching experience?

Elevate your movie-watching experience by creating a cinematic atmosphere at home with comfortable seating and surround sound. For those aspiring to study abroad, watching motivational movies can provide inspiration and courage to pursue academic goals in a foreign land. Selecting films that showcase personal growth and overcoming challenges can fuel your desire for cultural exploration and academic advancement. By immersing yourself in narratives of resilience and success, you can find motivation to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Enhance your viewing experience with snacks and beverages, creating a cozy environment that encourages both entertainment and personal growth.

In short, the aforementioned Motivational Movies for Students are sources of strength and inspiration, guiding them through challenges and nurturing personal growth. Let these cinematic narratives ignite your determination and light the way toward academic success and self-discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. What are the inspirational movies for students in India?

Indian movies, "Taare Zameen Par" and "3 Idiots" stand out as the most inspirational movies for students, offering powerful lessons about overcoming challenges and becoming a better person.

2. What are the top 5 motivational movies for students?

The top 5 motivational movies for students are:

• Taare Zameen Par
• 3 Idiots
• Dead Poets Society
• Good Will Hunting
• The Pursuit of Happyness

3. Which movie motivates you to study?

Movies such as Good Will Hunting, Forrest Gump, and The Pursuit of Happyness are known to motivate students to focus on their studies and pursue successful careers.

4. What movie inspires me?

The movie that inspires me the most is "The Pursuit of Happyness". It resonates deeply with me because it shows that even when things are tough, if you keep trying and never give up, you can achieve your dreams. It makes me want to work hard and never give up on what I want to achieve.

5. Why do people choose to watch inspirational movies?

People watch inspirational movies for a variety of reasons. They provide a much-needed boost of motivation and offer a break from daily routines. These films offer valuable perspectives into how individuals navigate challenging situations, serving as morale boosters and sources of encouragement.