With so many courses, assignments, peers, and nights out, you have lots to keep in check while at college. Many students take on part-time jobs, and this further complicates matters. The pressure to succeed, find loyal friends on campus, and perhaps, get that lovely girl or boy is often immense.

That’s why students need frequent reminders that they can make it. Everyone must stop for a while and consider what brings them happiness and joy. And how else can you motivate yourself to never give up except by watching a good old movie or listening to your favorite artist?

Cinematic art has a magical way of making us reflect on our lives. It can impact our decisions and urge us to grab forward when stuck at a crossroads. Here are the best motivational movies for students that will boost your mood and confidence when you are down and doubtful about your abilities.

With Honors (1994)

With a 6.7 IMDb rating, With Honors is a comedy-drama dealing with the meaningful aspects of life. Everything starts at Harvard University when a prospective graduate finishes his thesis. Accidentally, he comes across a homeless person named Simon, who resides on campus. At this point, Monty loses his written thesis, and Simon finds it.

Simon suggests returning the paper page by page if Monty provides the services he requests. “Now, nothing comes free in life and we often have to make compromises to get what we ultimately want” reckons Felicity Polk, a long-term literature professor who also works as a writer at PapersOwl. She adds, “Learning from literature or movie characters is the easiest way to get an invaluable life lesson. This way you don’t have to pay for your own mistakes.” That’s how Monty and his classmates learn worthy lessons and, in the end, graduate life and college with honors. The film is a truly inspiring story for everyone who reckons there’s more to it than just excellent grades.

The Theory of Everything (2014)

Perhaps the best inspirational movie, it depicts the lifespan of the most prominent physicist and cosmologist of this age, Stephen Hawking. Everything turns upside down when he gets diagnosed with a degenerative motor neuron disease while at college.

What is rare about this extraordinary student of astrophysics is that he defied medical predictions and lived for 76 years. Hawking showed the world that people with special needs could also make their dreams come true and change the future for the better. This drama, directed by James Marsh, won many prestigious awards and has a 7.7 rating.

Freedom Writers (2007)

The film tells a wonderful tale following the real-life events witnessed by Erin Gruwell. A progressive teacher, played by Hilary Swank, comes up with unique teaching techniques that inspire 150 troublesome students to excel. The group of underachieving kids from a rundown neighborhood get top academic results thanks to Erin’s passion for her job.

She has to deal with teachers with orthodox views, problematic pupils, and financial problems. However, Erin endures all challenges and sets the careers of her high school class onto a bright path. The moral behind the narration is that your background doesn’t define who you are.

The Pursuit of Happiness (2006)

The movie is an American biopic drama following the hardships of entrepreneur Chris Gardner. Rated 8 by IMDb, it stars Will Smith and his son Jaden in a struggle to climb up the career ladder. The protagonist is an African-American homeless salesperson who risks everything to improve his professional and personal life. He works tirelessly to provide for himself and his little one.

The narrative portrays the American Dream and the urge to beat all odds and attain success. It is motivational because it teaches youngsters they can rise stronger after each consecutive failure. All it takes is to work hard, be persistent, and have the willpower to move forward.

Dead Poets Society (1989)

This Hollywood-produced film is a teen drama starring a super famous actor and comedian, Robin Williams. Set in a conservative but elite boarding school known as Welton Academy back in 1959, the movie is iconic. Williams plays Keating, a teacher struggling to demonstrate that poetry and literature matter and are critical for triumph.

He encourages his learners to ponder their souls and embrace their individuality. The story will teach you that you don’t have to follow a predefined path set by your parents or society. Use your potential to do great things, and always seize the day.

Rated 8.1 by IMDb users, this movie is a must-see for every student fighting to break the glass ceiling.

The Blind Side (2009)

This drama is another powerful English movie written and directed by John Lee Hancock. It is one of the greatest productions that shows human power to love. In this biographical sports film, Sandra Bullock takes the leading role. The plot reveals the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a dysfunctional family at the time.

The wealthy adopters, Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy take him in and treat him with kindness and support. Leigh Anne reveals that Michael is very talented and helps him achieve his potential. As a result, Michael excels in football, and the Tuohy family makes incredible discoveries while fighting obstacles on the way to triumph.

October Sky (1999)

The heartwarming events described in October Sky are a trigger that inspires hope. It is based on the story of a young man from Coalwood, West Virginia. Seeing the first travel of Sputnik 1 in space, he dreams of launching his rocket.

Fathered by a coal miner, Homer Hickam decides to take up rocket science against his dad’s wishes. To realize his ambition, Hickam overcomes endless personal and logistical challenges. Many critics have rated this biographical portrayal as exceptional. So, if you believe you’re predestined for a higher purpose, never let others impact your decisions.

Bottom Line

These motivational movies have inspired millions of college-goers to pursue their dreams. They all teach valuable lessons about never giving up and always doing the right thing. You might get support along the way, but the most effective strategy is not to allow anybody to be the creator of your happiness.

Other motivational movies you can watch include The Life of Pi, Breakfast Club with Matt Damon, Forrest Gump, and The Social Network. Feel free to extend our list by adding your all-time cinematic favorites.

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