Movies have the power to make us feel happy, hopeful, and emotional. Some films leave a lasting impact, not just because of the story but because of the way they connect with our emotions. Feel-good movies are the ones that bring a smile, a tear, and a sense of peace to our hearts. They remind us of love, family, friendship, second chances, and the beauty of life. Here are some wonderful feel-good films from different languages that are worth watching.
The Whale (2022)
Language: English
Directed by Darren Aronofsky and based on the play by Samuel D. Hunter, The Whale tells the story of a reclusive, obese English teacher named Charlie. He lives alone and teaches online writing classes with his camera off. Charlie struggles with health issues and deep guilt about leaving his family years ago. When he finds out he may not have long to live, he tries to reconnect with his teenage daughter Ellie, whom he abandoned. The film stars Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink, and Hong Chau. Fraser›s powerful performance earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award. The film is heavy in theme but filled with moments of hope, love, and redemption. It teaches us that it’s never too late to say sorry or to try to fix broken relationships.
Past Lives (2023)
Language: English/Korean
This romantic drama by Celine Song is a deeply emotional film about love, fate, and memories. Inspired by events from Song’s own life, Past Lives tells the story of childhood friends Nora and Hae Sung. As kids in South Korea, they were close friends. But Nora’s family moves to Canada, and they lose touch. Years later, Nora becomes a successful playwright in New York and is married. Hae Sung, still living in Korea, comes to visit her. They spend a week reflecting on their past and wondering what life could have been. The film explores the idea of “In-Yun,” a Korean belief in destiny and past connections. It’s a tender, quiet movie that will leave you thinking about the people who pass through our lives and the paths we choose.
Thiruchitrambalam (2022)
Language: Tamil
Directed by Mithran R. Jawahar, Thiruchitrambalam is a touching and light-hearted story about love, family, and emotional healing. Dhanush plays Jr Pazham, a delivery driver who lives with his strict father and loving grandfather. He still struggles with the loss of his mother and sister. As he deals with his personal and romantic troubles, his best friend Shobana, played beautifully by Nithya Menen, supports him silently. The film shows the beauty of unspoken love, small moments, and healing broken bonds. With simple storytelling, soulful music, and meaningful performances, this film stays with you long after it ends.
Oh My Kadavule (2020)
Language: Tamil
Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, this romantic fantasy comedy offers a delightful and thoughtful take on relationships. Arjun marries his best friend Anu, thinking their friendship will naturally turn into love. But married life isn’t as easy as he expected. As things fall apart, Arjun gets a magical chance to relive parts of his life and make different choices. With strong performances by Ashok Selvan, Ritika Singh, and Vani Bhojan, the film explores what it means to truly understand love and the importance of choosing the right path. With humorous moments and a bit of fantasy, it’s a charming story that leaves you smiling and thinking about second chances.
Love Today (2022)
Language: Tamil
A modern romantic comedy with a unique twist, Love Today was written and directed by Pradeep Ranganathan, who also plays the lead role. The story revolves around a young couple who are asked by the girl’s strict father to exchange phones for a day to prove their honesty. What follows is a roller-coaster of secrets, fights, laughs, and realizations. With Ivana as the female lead and Yogi Babu adding humor, the film reflects how technology and social media can affect trust in relationships. It’s a fun, relatable, and fresh take on modern-day love with a strong emotional core.
Premalu (2024)
Language: Malayalam
Premalu, directed by Girish A. D., is a sweet romantic comedy that became a huge hit in 2024. The story follows Sachin, a young man from Kerala who plans to study in the UK but ends up in Hyderabad for coaching classes. There, he meets Reenu, a cheerful IT professional. As Sachin tries to win her heart, things don’t always go as planned. With fun characters, lively music, and laugh-out-loud moments, Premalu is a feel-good film about young love, friendship, and chasing dreams.
The chemistry between the lead actors
Naslen and Mamitha Baiju makes the movie even more enjoyable.
Manjummel Boys (2024)
Language: Malayalam
While Manjummel Boys is a survival thriller, it’s also a deeply emotional story about friendship and courage. Based on a real incident from 2006, it follows a group of friends from Manjummel near Kochi who go on a vacation to Kodaikanal. When one of them accidentally falls into the dangerous Guna Caves, the rest risk their lives to save him. Directed by Chidambaram, the film has a strong cast and gripping storytelling. The bond among the friends and their determination gives a powerful message about loyalty and bravery. It’s a thrilling yet heartwarming movie that reminds us of the strength of friendship.
Hi Nanna (2023)
Language: Telugu
Directed by Shouryuv, Hi Nanna is a heart-touching romantic drama starring Nani and Mrunal Thakur. The story centers around a single father and his daughter. He begins telling her about her mother, and a beautiful emotional journey unfolds. The film combines themes of love, loss, parenting, and healing. With soft visuals, soulful music by Hesham Abdul Wahab, and moving performances, Hi Nanna is a gentle film that shows the power of storytelling and the love between a parent and child. It’s a warm hug of a movie that makes you emotional in the best way.
