Best Wholesome Movies To Watch That Will Make You Feel Warm

a poster with nimona, princess mononoke and the pursuit of happyness

Sometimes you just need to feel good about living on this rock. On most days, you feel tired, burnt out, drained, and a whole lot more. These are some of the best wholesome movies to watch which feel like a hug. Because everyone needs to feel good every once in a while.

5 Of The Best Wholesome Movies That Feel Like A Hug

Note: Everyone’s emotional capacity is different so I understand if this movie list is not for everyone but they do have happy endings if that is something that could be considered moral redemption.

The Intern

robert de niro
(Image via Warner Bros Pictures)

Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway star in this beautiful little film that features an old man trying to break into a millennial work environment as a hired intern. The dynamic between De Niro and Hathaway carries this whole movie and eventually you will find the reason why De Niro applied to Hathaway’s company. The story is filled with warm conversations, a little dash of heartbreaks and it is only validated by Anne Hathaway’s existential crisis in the middle of the movie.

The Intern is undoubtedly one of the movies I prefer to rewatch from time to time just to see the moral redemption in saving a relationship that you treasure.

Also Read: This Movie is Made for Artists and Photographers

Princess Mononoke

(Image via Toho)

There is something magical about Studio Ghibli’s animation that draws viewers in and keeps them there. They did the same thing with Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo and countless other movies they have made throughout the years. Princess Mononoke follows the story of a curse prince and how his journey to get rid of his curse lets him meet a variety of people and see wonders beyond human comprehension.

The movie also has a strong romantic subplot but it is open to interpretation. That is the best part about it since San and Ashitaka’s relationship is up to how you perceive it. You will find out what I’m talking about when you watch the movie. In addition to beautiful animation and subplots, the movie has many moments which will make you think deeply about the human experience and life in general.

Kung Fu Panda 2

(Image via DreamWorks Animation )

Kung Fu Panda 2 is all about Po journeying into the unknown to find who he is. This movie might feel grim to most people but to me, it represents hope and letting go of the past and forgiving yourself for the mistakes you make. The scene where Po recalls his childhood and who he is makes for beautiful storytelling and drives him to rescue his friends.

It also has a happy ending which perfectly sets up Kung Fu Panda 3. However, Kung Fu Panda 2 is a pleasure to watch and often is the movie I revisit the most in the franchise.

Begin Again

(Image via The Weinstein Company)

Keira Knightly and Mark Ruffalo star in this musical comedy where the former is playing a struggling musician while the latter plays the role of a struggling record label executive. Although, it might not be your typical romantic, Paris in the rain sort of plot, it delivers on the story and the relationship between the two is beautifully portrayed by the actors.

There is a happy ending as well for those who are interested. It is also a music lovers delight and is like a hope for artists who want their work discovered.

Also Read: The Best Comfort Shows to Melt Your Stress Away

The Pursuit Of Happyness

(Image via Sony Pictures)

Will Smith has been through his fair share of drama in the past few years. However, there is no denying that this was one of his best roles. The Pursuit of Happyness offers a satisfying pay-off to the ones who are committed to watch this story of a single dad taking care of his son and finding a way to make ends meet.

The film is honest and melodramatic, the best combination for anyone looking to roll into bed with popcorn and a good movie. It might not be the feel good movie you deserve, but it definitely is the one that you need. It is one of the best wholesome movies of all time.

Honorable Mentions

These are some movies that did not make the final cut but are equally good watches at the end of the day.

  • Howl’s Moving Castle
  • Nimona
  • The Truman Show
  • The Hangover Part II
  • Grown Ups

The Verdict

These are some of the best wholesome movies to watch on a weekend with a warm meal. For a daily dose of Pop Culture, check out this section.

By Addy